BlackBerrys with slide-out keyboard, swivel keypads reported on way
Amy-Mae Elliott of the oh-so-charmingly named (NOT!!!) UK-based mobile tech site Pocket-Lint cites an analyst research note that a new BlackBerry 9100 device now in the pipeline will offer a heretofore-unseen form factor.
Citing an analyst report from GMP Securities, this BlackBerry 9100 series will apparently offer a slide-out Qwerty keyboard under a large touchscreen display. Elliott views this setup as one that could (give) "the best of both worlds in terms of input methods."
Elliott also cites the analyst note's views that a new BlackBerry Pearl is on the way that will include a "unique" keypad that can swivel 90 degrees to provide a more comfortable typing environment.
No projected ETA on each, but I would guess by May, in time for the Wireless Enterprise Symposium 2008. BlackBerry has a track record of introducing new devices at these confabs.