RIM’s 2011 BlackBerry pipeline leaked
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Calling all BlackBerry enthusiasts! We’ve got details of the upcoming BlackBerry smartphone range and the BlackBerry 6.1 update, thanks to some leaked specs and a confidential 2011 pipeline document.
Some of the details uncovered so far outline releases for CDMA-based networks, which is a different technology to GSM as used by the networks in the UK, so the UK release dates, as well as the feature sets highlighted below, are currently unconfirmed.
However, it looks like we’re getting a new BlackBerry Torch, Bold and Curve (which isn’t particularly groundbreaking, although the specs are looking great!) but what may not be as expected are TWO new full-touch devices, replacing the love-it-or-hate-it Storm range of yesteryear. Also, we’ve got details of the new features coming with the BlackBerry 6.1 update. Read on for more info!
The handsets
Updating the specs of the Torch
We’re big fans of the first BlackBerry Torch (read Nick’s review here) and it appears that RIM are sticking with the form factor of the original, but giving the BlackBerry Torch 2 a boost in power with a 1.2GHz processor, and a magnetometer giving digital compass capabilities, as well as opening the doors to augmented-reality applications. Just in time for the new features included in the OS update.
New addition to the Bold family
What we’re looking at compared to the current 9780 model is a refresed design, making it the thinnest BlackBerry ever at only 10.5mm, and giving it a really sleek new look with a stainless steel frame.
The most drastic change is that it’s a QWERTY keyboard-equipped device with a touchscreen too. It seems that RIM going back to the Bold’s roots a little, with the curves of the Bold 9000, but it hardly looks old-fashioned.
They have also ramped up the speed with a Qualcomm 1.2GHz processor and there’s HD video recording at 720p thrown in too.
Revamped Curve, codenamed ‘Apollo’
The Curve Apollo appears to be in-line to replace the current premium BlackBerry Curve, with the new revamped design found in the Bold.
It’s sans touscreen, but with BlackBerry OS 6.1 and an upgraded camera, things are looking good for the Curve range.
Still no reports of an entry-level, Curve 8520 replacement so far, but we wouldn’t be surprised if one does crop up in the near future.
- Quad-band GSM/GPRS/EDGE
- Tri-band UMTS/HSPA 7.2Mbps
- Bluetooth 2.1
- Wi-Fi b/g/n
- GPS
- NFC
- 512MB of eMMC, 512MB of RAM
- 5-megapixel camera with flash
- HVGA 480 x 360 display
- 1050 mAh battery
- Tavor MG-1 800MHz CPU
- BlackBerry OS 6.1
- 11mm thin
The Curve Touch: One of two Storm replacements
What we’re looking at here is a CDMA spec sheet for the new Curve Touch, replacing the highly criticised Storm range. Since the release of BlackBerry OS 6 and the success of the Torch, RIM are clearly back in the game for touchscreen devices. Hopefully hopefully the world is ready for full-touchscreen BlackBerry smartphones too.
A more powerful touchscreen smartphone
Again, we’re looking at a CDMA spec sheet here, so the release date and ‘Monaco’ name are subject to change, but it’s definitely interesting. If this model is available alongside the Curve Touch, then it means that business users will have a choice between a more affordable touchscreen BlackBerry and a high-spec device. With a 3.7-inch capacitive touchscreen and 1.2GHz processor, it’s suited for blasting through applications and should feel really nippy. There’s also the same 5MP camera capable of recording 720p HD video found in the other new models detailed already. This is the smartphone RIM are throwing into the ring to compete with the likes of HTC and Apple.
BlackBerry OS 6.1 update
With the new features present in the 2011 BlackBerry smartphone range, naturally the OS needed an upgrade to support these new capabilities. BlackBerry OS 6.0 has proven popular, and things like the revamped interface and contact management tools are clearly a step in the right direction, but now it seems that RIM have been working hard to build upon the platform to bring it up to speed with the range of feature-rich smartphones in the marketplace. Take a look at the run-down of the new features below.
Handheld technologies
Software updates – upgrades in performance and usability
Source: CrackBerry
About the Author
Veecom Systems are a business mobile communications solutions dealer based in Edinburgh, Scotland and have been providing service exclusively to business clients all over the UK since 1986. We specialise in BlackBerry smartphones and offer account management, technical support, tariff analyses, and other help and information.
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