Blackberry 8820 arrives…But in the UK?
It’s like the girl that lets you buy her drinks all night, but doesn’t actually want to give you her number. The BlackBerry 8820 is apparently here, but only in the UK? According to a press release, the 8820, packed with all the goodies you’ve expected, including GPS, expandable MicroSD (eventually up to 32GB!!), and the ever-coveted Wi-Fi, is official. However, all links point to the other side of the pond. What gives? We’ll update as soon as we know more! Full press release is after the jump!
[Via Earth Times]
Thanks, MiBlackBerry!
WATERLOO, ONTARIO — 07/17/07 — Editors Note: A photo for this release will be available on the AP/CP picture wire via CCNMatthews.
Research In Motion (RIM) (NASDAQ: RIMM)(TSX: RIM) today announced the BlackBerry® 8820 smartphone. Featuring RIM’s thinnest smartphone design with a full and highly tactile QWERTY(i) keyboard, large and bright display (320 x 240), user-friendly trackball navigation system and best-in-class voice and data functionality, the BlackBerry 8820 also includes built-in GPS (Global Positioning System), RIM’s latest media player enhancements, and a microSD / microSDHC (microSD High Capacity) expandable memory slot that can support current and future generations of microSD memory cards up to 32GB. The BlackBerry 8820 is the first dual-mode BlackBerry handset, combining EDGE/GPRS/GSM cellular and Wi-Fi® connectivity for data access and voice support through UMA (unlicensed mobile access) for fixed-mobile convergence (FMC) service offerings from various wireless carriers around the world.
"The BlackBerry 8820 is an extraordinary business phone for people who really care about mobile communications and productivity. It features all the renowned power and usability of the BlackBerry platform with executive class styling and unprecedented connectivity features, including cellular, Wi-Fi and built-in GPS," said Mike Lazaridis, President and Co-CEO at RIM. "The BlackBerry 8820 complements our carrier partners’ cellular networks with the added ability to stay connected via Wi-Fi at home, through hotspots and corporate campuses."
Wi-Fi Connectivity
The BlackBerry 8820 smartphone supports the 802.11 a/b/g Wi-Fi standards to enable data access over Wi-Fi connections in the enterprise, as well as through public hotspots and wireless home networks. The smartphone works in conjunction with both BlackBerry® Enterprise Server and BlackBerry® Internet Service and can seamlessly switch between cellular networks and a Wi-Fi network to allow users to access email, Instant Messaging, organizer, web browsing and other mobile data applications.
To meet various security requirements, the BlackBerry 8820 is compliant with Wi-Fi security protocols including WEP (Wireless Equivalency Protocol), WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) and WPA2, as well as Cisco Compatible Extensions for simple, secure connectivity with Cisco wireless solutions. For enterprises that require Wi-Fi users to access the corporate network through a VPN (Virtual Private Network), the BlackBerry 8820 includes IPSec-based software that supports the most commonly deployed VPN gateways from vendors including Cisco, Check Point and others.
The BlackBerry 8820 also supports UMA, enabling wireless carriers to offer a fixed-mobile convergence service for both business and home use. With a UMA solution in place, the BlackBerry 8820 can also seamlessly switch voice calls between a wireless carrier’s cellular network and a Wi-Fi network.
The BlackBerry 8820 is a quad-band GSM/GPRS and EDGE-enabled smartphone that provides global wireless voice and data capabilities with best-in-class performance. The BlackBerry 8820 features include:
- World Class Phone - The BlackBerry 8820 is a world-class mobile phone with advanced noise cancellation for enhanced audio performance and easy-to-use phone features including Speaker Independent Voice Recognition for Voice Activated Dialing (VAD), smart dialing, conference calling, speed dialing and call forwarding, as well as dedicated "send", "end" and "mute" keys. It features a high quality, low-distortion speakerphone and Bluetooth® 2.0 for use with hands-free headsets, car kits and other Bluetooth peripherals. Support for polyphonic, mp3 and MIDI ringtones is also included.
- Built-in GPS - Through its built-in GPS, the BlackBerry 8820 can pinpoint its location and provide "out-of-the-box" support for a wide variety of location-based applications and services, including BlackBerry® Maps.
- microSD / microSDHC Expansion Memory - The BlackBerry 8820 includes a microSD expansion memory slot that can support both microSD (up to 2GB) and microSDHC (4GB to 32GB) memory cards. 4GB memory cards are available today, and 8GB cards are expected to be available later this year.
- BlackBerry Services - The BlackBerry 8820 can operate with BlackBerry Internet Service, giving users the ability to manage up to 10 supported personal and corporate email accounts, as well as BlackBerry Enterprise Server, enabling advanced security and IT administration features within IBM® Lotus® Domino®, Microsoft® Exchange and Novell® GroupWise® environments.
- Application Support - The BlackBerry wireless platform gives customers the capability to deploy a variety of applications. Thousands of applications and business solutions from third party software providers can further extend the BlackBerry platform to support business needs such as CRM, sales force automation, field services, business intelligence, supply chain management and continuity of operations, as well as a broad range of industry-specific applications for sectors including health care, law enforcement, government, financial services, insurance, pharmaceutical, professional services, real estate, manufacturing, wholesale and retail.
- Multimedia - The BlackBerry 8820 supports the Bluetooth stereo audio profile (A2DP/AVRCP) and comes with the most recent BlackBerry media player refinements, allowing users to play music and search by simply typing the title, genre, artist or album name. Videos can also be played in full screen mode. The BlackBerry 8820 comes with a new and powerful desktop media manager - the Roxio® Media Manager for BlackBerry® - which was developed with Sonic® and based on the award-winning Roxio Easy Media Creator® 9. The desktop media manager software introduces a new level of simplicity by allowing users to easily search for media files on their computer, view and organize them, create MP3 music files from CDs, add audio tags, create playlists and automatically copy or convert pictures, music and videos for optimal playback on the smartphone.
- Removable Battery - The BlackBerry 8820 comes with an ultra-thin, high-capacity, removable battery that further extends the exceptional battery life for which BlackBerry handsets are known.
- Accessories - The BlackBerry 8820 comes with a complement of accessories in the box, including a headset, travel charger, USB cable and holster. Additional Authentic BlackBerry Accessories, including premium leather holsters and totes, desktop and automotive chargers, Bluetooth® headsets and other peripherals, are available online at www.shopblackberry.com.
For more information about the BlackBerry 8820, please visit: www.blackberry8820.com.
The BlackBerry 8820 will be available from select wireless carriers around the world in the coming weeks. AT&T is scheduled to launch the BlackBerry 8820 in the U.S. later this summer.
(i) Keyboard also available in AZERTY and QWERTZ configurations to support different language groups.
About Research In Motion (RIM)
Research In Motion is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of innovative wireless solutions for the worldwide mobile communications market. Through the development of integrated hardware, software and services that support multiple wireless network standards, RIM provides platforms and solutions for seamless access to time-sensitive information including email, phone, SMS messaging, Internet and intranet-based applications. RIM technology also enables a broad array of third party developers and manufacturers to enhance their products and services with wireless connectivity to data. RIM’s portfolio of award-winning products, services and embedded technologies are used by thousands of organizations around the world and include the BlackBerry® wireless platform, the RIM Wireless Handheld(TM) product line, software development tools, radio-modems and software/hardware licensing agreements. Founded in 1984 and based in Waterloo, Ontario, RIM operates offices in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. RIM is listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market (NASDAQ: RIMM) and the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: RIM). For more information, visit www.rim.com or www.blackberry.com.
Forward-looking statements in this news release are made pursuant to the "safe harbor" provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used herein, words such as "intend" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions made by and information available to Research In Motion Limited. Investors are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, possible product defects and product liability, risks related to international sales and potential foreign currency exchange fluctuations, the initiation or outcome of litigation, acts or potential acts of terrorism, international conflicts, significant fluctuations of quarterly operating results, changes in Canadian and foreign laws and regulations, continued acceptance of RIM’s products, increased levels of competition, technological changes and the successful development of new products, dependence on third-party networks to provide services, dependence on intellectual property rights, and other risks and factors detailed from time to time in RIM’s periodic reports filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, and other regulatory authorities. The Company has no intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
The BlackBerry and RIM families of related marks, images and symbols are the exclusive properties and trademarks of Research In Motion Limited. RIM, Research In Motion and BlackBerry are registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and may be pending or registered in other countries. Ascendent is a registered trademark of Ascendent Systems. Wi-Fi is a registered trademark of the Wi-Fi Alliance. All other brands, product names, company names, trademarks and service marks are the properties of their respective owners. RIM assumes no liability and makes no representation, warranty or guarantee in relation to third party products or services.
Contacts:
Media Contact:
Marisa Conway
Brodeur (for RIM)
(212) 515-1924
Email: mconway@brodeur.com
Investor Contact:
RIM Investor Relations
(519) 888-7465
Email: investor_relations@rim.com
Great news for anyone who wants WiFi, if you live in the UK, that is!!
Could the carriers in the U.S. and Canada have anything to do with this?
In any case it’s great that RIM have launched this model.
I guess those of us in the U.S. and Canada will just have to be “patient and wait.”
CarBob
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unlocked version on eBay here I come!
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I am just so happy but what will I do if this comes out as the 8925 comes out? So many decicions?
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what?!?! I JUST bought a Nokia E65 cause I needed wifi! when can I get one of these? anyone wanna buy a brand new E65?
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What I don’t understand…
I sure hope that RIM provides a better browser with the 8820. The devices may be great email devices, but surfing the web leaves a lot to be desired (and it’s not due to the speed of the networks). Nothing sucks more that visiting web sites, and have the content look like total crap.
… otherwise, what benefit is there to adding wi-fi? UMA? Gimme a break… only geeks and freaks will use that, until the major carriers can understand the value.
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blah: there’s a lot of carriers around the world offering UMA Wi-Fi services; if you live in the US, T-Mobile will happily offer UMA service to you.
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@Cesar… like I said… major carriers (T-Mobile is like a blip compared to VZW or AT&T, both of which have been opposed to offering UMA since it’d cut into their land-line business)
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This is a very interesting turn of events. I was sure the Wi-Fi version would be released on T-Mobile first since they are pushing UMA, but according to the press release; “The BlackBerry 8820 will be available from select wireless carriers around the world in the coming weeks. AT&T is scheduled to launch the BlackBerry 8820 in the U.S. later this summer.” There is NO mention of T-Mobile. Maybe there’s a chance T-Mobile will still get the 8320!
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32gb micro sd capacity blows the ibrike out of the water and wifi UMPGH if thers a play list style software in the media manager APPL just got PWNED
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T-Mobile actually has a larger UMA footprint in the United States, over the other major carriers.
Funny thing is, at&t will get the first WiFiBerry before T-Mobile:
http://biz.yahoo.com/rb/070717/rim_blackberry.html?.v=5
Hopefully it will not lose any more customers
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T-Mobile actually has a larger UMA footprint in the United States, over the other major carriers.
Funny thing is, at&t will get the first WiFiBerry before T-Mobile
Hopefully it will not lose any more customers
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@ Galv - maybe you should upgrade so you can get spell check. We will all chip in!
What is anyone going to do with 32GB on a Blackberry? Plus you get to surf the web on the “something that looks like the Internet” Internet? Ohh and jam tunes hard on that oh so sweet roxio media player? Where can I turn in my iPhone??? Great email - meh everything else
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Nah, AT&T has had it in testing for months. It will replace the 8800 in the coming weeks in the US on our network.
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http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20070717/tc_nm/rim_blackberry_dc_3
Story above talks about how the phone will be coming to AT&T this summer. How did T-Mo miss out on this? It’s the perfect phone for HotSpot@Home!
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Sweet. Where can i get money for my Blackjack and buy this BB?????????????????????????????????????????????????
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Its upsetting that tmo won’t get this until 5,000 years later. They’re becomming as slow to obtain new models as the cdsm carriers. Pity.
@ejay…regarding the 32g, it sure beats the 4g/8g that the iphone is limited to…or the security issues or the inability to be bluetoothed data from other phones, or lack of push email, the crappy camera that doesn’t let you zoom, or, or, or…
Face it no phone is perfect and in spite of your 600 expense yours isn’t immune from imperfections.
Sure we could argue points from the mainstream consumer that relies on a phone for fun and those that use theirs primarily for business. Who cares?
Be a hippie. You like your phone and blackberry users like theirs. The end.
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You could try a pawn shop. I doubt they would give you that much for a blackjack though
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It’s about time the UK got something first! For those of you upset about having to wait to get it in the US - now you know how we feel when a new iPod is released, or iPhone, XBox, PS3 etc etc etc…
Yippee!
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@ eJay stop being a 14m3r an STFU! with this alon rimm has pwn3d apple-core and it’s ijunk.
mor over you should have seen this commingattt boo hoo but I have tmo waaahhh.
Here’s an idea buy the phone outright an ask a friend of family member to call att cusomer service an request the unlock code problem solved.
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There is no mention of the UK in this press release, just AT&T???
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WiFi? No thanks. There is no purpose to have wifi on blackberries when you already have a data plan.
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@Galv - Dood WHAT ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT? I cant understand not one word.
@Erica - Or, or, or that stuff could be fixed in a software update, or, or, or 4GB/8GB is a lot for a phone that has a photos and music and videos, what are you going to put on that pathetic blackberry screen? Its small as hell. Or, or, or the push email that WORKS on my iPhone so go clean up whatever smells like rotten eggs in here…
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@erica - BTW I hope your not Erica Sadun from TUAW.com because I really cant STAND her…
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GREAT!!!!!!! That means that T(rash)-Mobile will be getting this in 2011!! I cannot wait…
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Ejay clearly you have issues.
The post was specifically geared towards blackberry users. Why must you champion the iphone cause on a post that has nothing to do with your phone? Blatent insecurity?
Stop being a kid with your “my daddy can beat yours up” rant. Really, its unbecomming.
And the “it can be updated through firmware” response is tired. The logic behind purchasing a phone that “will be updated at a later date” is beyond me but hey whatever floats your boat.
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