Blackberry Bold November 19th, 2008 | by Shaun Hall
Full Review - Network, Media and Conclusion
Network The Bold has been touted as the fastest Blackberry to date. Running on the 3G network and a 624-MHz processor, the device allowed us to easily jump from web browser to incoming messages and then to a phone call without skipping a beat. In fact, the phone was so fast that you sometimes need to slow down what you’re doing to avoid mistakes. Mind you, we tested the device in a major metropolitan area – performance may vary by location. Multimedia Multimedia playback is definitely a core feature of the new Bold. Media Sync options allow you to transfer your iTunes music files to your smartphone with ease. And while you may not be able to access YouTube from the Bold, AT&T does offer its own Cellular Video (CV) service. With 3G connectivity, you can enjoy featured content from CNN, The Weather Channel, iFilm, Comedy Central as well as exclusive premium content from HBO. You can also dial up AT&T Mobile Music on-demand, access Napster and eMusic subscription music services, stream music video, and even get the proper titles of your favorite new songs on the radio via the handset’s Music ID song-recognition feature. The sound quality of the speakerphone is like nothing you have ever heard before from a mobile handset as well. Price The Blackberry Bold 9000 retails for $549.99 USD, which is admittedly quite a lot. However, with a new 2-year contract you can purchase one for $399.99 with a $100 mail-in rebate, making it just $299.99. Not only is it a bargain given the quality of the phone, but a price reasonably comparable to that of the iPhone and other high-end smartphone devices. Conclusion In the end, various minor shortcomings aside, the Blackberry Bold is by far the sweetest smartphone RIM has created. If you’re hooked on so-called “crackberries” or just want to upgrade to a mobile phone that offers the best of best worlds (think boardroom meets bad ass), hey… Congratulations – you’ve finally met your match. Pros:
• Sleek design
• Speedy 3G network
• Easy to use WordToGo app
• Robust media offerings
Cons:
• Clunky web browser
• Average photo quality
• High price tag
• Various minor design quirks
by Vincent Colfer on November 8, 2009:
“Today I requested my fourth Blackberry Bold phone through the warranty department. It's a wonderful smartphone with only one major problem. It won't ring. AT&T won't give me a refund and I'm stuck with a two year contract. Please don't buy this phone without...” More...