BlackBerry Curve 8900 review
Network and connections
BlackBerry is launching a new high-quality product on the market, the right compromise between the Bold 9000 and the Storm 9500. The level of technical features is therefore very high, starting with the GSM Quadband network receiver, capable of guaranteeing optimal coverage in any condition. Despite not being UMTS, Internet connection is guaranteed by the EDGE and GPRS protocols, or thanks to Wi-Fi network support for high-speed browsing. The HTML browser opens any type of page without problems. It is also possible to exchange files with other devices, via Bluetooth or the USB 2.0 data cable.
Design and equipment
The lines of the Curve 8900 are extremely refined, to add an extra touch of elegance and sophistication. The chrome frame and the glossy front make it stand out on the office desk, just as the satin-finish back cover is pleasant to the touch. Comfortable and practical to use with one hand, despite the extended QWERTY keyboard; the 13.5 mm thickness and the weight of just 110 grams make it truly portable. The screen is a 2.4-inch TFT and displays up to 65,000 colors. Images are sharp and bright thanks to the high resolution. The sales package includes standard BlackBerry earphones, the handy protective case, and a 1 GB microSD card (only in the Vodafone package).
Main features
The thoroughly Business-oriented nature of the Curve 8900 is visible right from the home menu. A bar on the desktop allows you to select the most frequently used applications, to have everything within reach. The trackball allows you to manage movements and changes within the various folders, or open documents in the most common formats such as Office and PDF. Support for corporate and private E-mail clients is thoroughly efficient, so you can always have your mail with you, with the ability to compose messages to send even while on the move. The communication system between BlackBerry devices allows you to write and communicate via Instant Messaging during meetings, for example. The voice sector is exciting for its quality, from the speakerphone to multiconference support. It is also possible to follow Facebook and personal blog updates directly from the Curve 8900.
Entertainment and multimedia
Despite being a device for professional use, why not equip the Curve 8900 with tools for leisure as well? This is indeed what the designers wanted to do, to offer a complete tool for the most demanding audience. Hence the 3.2 megapixel camera that allows you to take high-quality images. The dedicated functions range from brightness adjustment to autofocus, as well as integrated Zoom and LED Flash. The available memory is 64 MB internal, expandable with microSD cards. It is also possible to listen to plenty of music and play videos in various formats, thanks to the dedicated multimedia player. Also worth mentioning is the presence of the GPS satellite receiver, to always be aware of your exact position. Battery life is of fundamental importance for an efficient work companion. Indeed, it can last up to 15 days on Stand-by.