Sprint finally releases RIM BlackBerry Curve 8350i

Finally: RIM BlackBerry Curve 8350i.

(Credit: Sprint)

First introduced at CTIA Fall 2008, the RIM BlackBerry Curve 8350i is finally available through Sprint. The Curve 8350i can be purchased online and through telesales now for $149.99 with a two-year contract; the smartphone will be in stores starting January 11. This is particularly good news for Nextel Direct Connect users, who haven't seen a new BlackBerry model since the RIM BlackBerry 7100i, which was introduced back in June 2006.

In addition to supporting the iDEN network for use with Direct Connect and Group Connect push-to-talk services, the BlackBerry Curve 8350i also features Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 2.0, and GPS. The smartphone will run the latest BlackBerry OS 4.6 and features DataViz Documents to Go, an improved media player, a 2-megapixel camera with video capabilities, and a microSD expansion slot.

In terms of design, the Curve 8350i is slightly bigger than the other Curve models at 4.4 inches high by 2.4 inches wide by 0.7 inch thick and 4.7 ounces. You do get a full QWERTY keyboard and a 65,000-color, 320x240 pixel resolution display.

Sprint is just putting the finishing touches on review units, so we expect to be get one soon. Stay tuned for the full review.

[Secomav]

It's about time.

[Tree07]

I wonder is there any difference between this curve and the current one for sprint. I mean this one has wi-fi and improved media player. Does that mean that youtube is full screen?

[bigmikeh1965]

I've been using my 8350i for four days now, not bad. i was using the 7520 so that i had full qwerty to make using a remote management tool from rove easier. all the curve reviews pretty much apply. it's iDEN so slightly better than dial up speed for non-wifi transfers. the web rendering works once you get used to it. going from a scroll wheel tabbing through controls to the jog dial and cursor took some getting used to. the keyboard size hasn't impacted me. taking pictures with the camera need steady hand, they needed stability control or something due to form factor. video works out ok though.

[nypdcar1]

UNBOXING http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eajsd_z_nyA

QUICK REVIEW http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8OGZ4qKqQp8

[hyde-e]

I just got the 8350i yesterday. Downloaded the disc and syncronized with computer. I can not open the file that holds all my info, contacts, calender, appointments etc. Do I need Outlook 2007 to be able to open file? Anyone else with this problem. BB support not sure either.