The BlackBerry 9530 Storm is RIM’s first smartphone to rely on a touchscreen as its primary input method. Unlike the current BlackBerry models, which all use hardware QWERTY keyboards, the BlackBerry 9530 Storm will rely on a software keyboard and minimal hardware buttons; however, it will certainly have RIM’s esteemed messaging credentials.
Based around a touchscreen with integrated haptic feedback, the BlackBerry 9530 Storm has a somewhat unusual set of cellular capabilities. In its Verizon form, it will include not only EV-DO for high-speed CDMA browsing, but GSM/GPRS/EDGE/UMTS for high-speed HSDPA/HSUPA connections. Although unconfirmed, it’s suggested that the GSM bands used will be 900/1800MHz, the CDMA 800/1900MHz and UMTS 2100MHz; in the US, then, the BlackBerry Storm 9530 would be dependent on Verizon’s network, but in Europe and Asia it would still have voice and data access.
The BlackBerry 9530 Storm is also believed to feature a speakerphone, GPS for navigation, and minimal hardware buttons (Send/End/Menu/Back on the front panel). The camera is 3-megapixels, and the CPU expected to be 624MHz; in fact, the BlackBerry Storm could be the fastest BlackBerry to date. However, while it’s possible that RIM will give the BlackBerry Storm 9530 WiFi, it’s uncertain whether Verizon will disable or remove it.
The Verizon retail box for the BlackBerry 9530 Storm is expected to include an 8GB SanDisk microSD memory card, 3.5mm stereo headset, AC travel adaptor and USB cable. A SIM card will be preinstalled, backing up Verizon’s claims that the BlackBerry 9530 Storm is a true international handset.
Pricing for the BlackBerry 9530 Storm is still unknown, but with it set to take the place as Verizon’s flagship handset (and as such rival the Apple iPhone 3G), it could cost as much as $399 with a new two-year contract.
Internal leaks from Verizon confirmed the BlackBerry Storm’s existence on Monday, September 15th, and with in-store staff permitted to discuss the upcoming handset with would-be customers, an official launch can’t be far off. The expectation is that the BlackBerry Storm will be available to order on November 1st, with first deliveries of the handset happening a week after that.
