T-Mobile starting rolling out their 3G network a year ago and today we see the launch of their first 3G BlackBerry device, the Bold 9700. The Bold 9700 has some of the great aspects of the original Bold (624 MHz processor, high resolution screen, great keyboard) and adds a 3.2 megapixel camera and support for T-Mobile's UMA WiFi calling network. It is the best BlackBerry choice for T-Mobile and will sell for $199.
The Bold 9700 display looks fantastic and the keyboard is well designed.
The keyboard is similar to the original Bold, but a bit narrower. It is the same as the Tour model and is quite good.
The keys have angles to help you press them without tapping on two keys at the same time.
The fairly traditional BlackBerry trackball has been replaced with the optical trackpad that is fast and accurate.
There is a 3.2 megapixel camera on the back with a faux leather center so that the Bold feels good in your hand.
The 3.5mm headset jack and microUSB port are on the upper left side.
The Bold is about as compact as I want to see a BlackBerry get and packs in quite a bit for a small form factor.
The display is bright and beautiful on the Bold 9700.
It is nice to see Visual Voice Mail on the BlackBerry 9700.
Thumbnail 1
Thumbnail 2