MobiPress Electronics and Gadgets Review

RIM have been working hard on an updated version of their incredibly popular Blackberry Bold handset. Originally one of THE stand out mobile devices, can the improvements see off the competition in the form of the iPhone and the host of Android handsets being released.

In terms of the look of the 9700 Bold, physically it is much smaller than its predecessor. Weighing 16 grammes less and also shaving off millimetres in every direction, the handset looks sleek and stylish. Obviously considerations had to be taken so the physical keypad didn't become too cramped, and they seem to have just about got away with this. The screen is 480 x 360 HVGA resolution and measures 2.44". The touchscreen also features a neat light sensor which adjusts the brightness of the screen according to your current surroundings. The optical trackpad located beneath the screen makes navigation of menus extremely easy, which adds to the appeal of this very high spec handset.

The Blackberry 9700 Bold features an improved 3.15 megapixel camera. This device is supported by an LED flash facility for capturing moments in darker conditions. Autofocus and zoom facility are also covered. The integrated media player works very well. MP3, WMA and AAC+ audio files are all catered for, and an external 3.5mm stereo jack allows you to enjoy your music on your own set of headphones. Album art is displayed on the main screen, which is also very good at displaying video playback due to its excellent resolution.

Internally the 9700 Bold has been tweaked. A 624MHz processor makes all aspects of use very quick. The Operating system has been upgraded to, now running on BB OS5.0. To the user this means that the user interface seems to be a much neater and more functional design. A good example of this is that video and music are now located in the same place rather than the user having to find them in totally separate areas of the phone. The main aspect of the Blackberry, which is the messaging facilities, have however not been touched. Sending an e mail is still as easy as ever, and typing of messages is easy due to the new design of the keys. Battery life is one area where there have been huge improvements. With WIFI running constantly you an expect approx one and a half days of normal use.

The above mentioned changes means that using the Blackberry 9700 Bold is a pleasant experience. The gorgeous looks seem to have taken a leaf out of the Blackberry Storms book and the overall reduction in bulk means its going to be much more accessible by the everyday phone user. I certainly think Apple will be looking over their shoulders with the release of this handset.