Sprint goes global with RIM BlackBerry 8830 World Edition
RIM BlackBerry 8830
(Credit: Sprint)Dangit! I just got back from Italy, and I totally could have used this while I was over there. Though first announced back in April, Sprint has finally released its version of the RIM BlackBerry 8830 World Edition smart phone. Like Verizon's model, the BlackBerry 8830 for Sprint offers dual-mode functionality so you can make calls and receive e-mail around the world; plus, it adds unlocked SIM capabilities, which means you can use SIM cards from other countries. The 8830 switches automatically between CDMA (for the U.S., Canada, and Mexico) and GSM networks to offer seamless international roaming. In all, you get voice coverage in about 170 countries and e-mail coverage in 75 countries. Other goodies include built-in GPS with a BlackBerry maps application, Bluetooth, a media player (no camera, though), a full QWERTY keyboard, expandable media, and a speakerphone. The RIM BlackBerry 8830 is available now online and through Sprint's business channels for $199 with a two-year service agreement and after a mail-in rebate. The carrier's Worldwide BlackBerry plan starts at $69.99 for unlimited BlackBerry e-mail and Web access, while international voice roaming rates range from $0.59 to $4.99 per minute.
Bonnie Cha is a senior editor for CNET, covering smartphones and GPS. When she's not testing the latest gadgets, you can find her chasing after her crazy lab or surfing in the chilly waters of Northern California. E-mail Bonnie. 
1) Is only dual band GSM. Come on guys, how much more difficult would it have been to give us the remaining two bands and make the phone usable in virtually EVERY country in the world? Yes, it is usable in +80%, but why not shoot for 100%? I guess that is what the next model will address.
2) No camera. Not a deal breaker for me. I seldom if ever use the camera on my phone, but it would have been nice to have.
3) No WiFi. Suppose you are in a country where you don't have data functionality via GSM. Wifi would be a nice option to fall-back on.
4) The keys seem a little small to me. I don't have the biggest hands in the world and I even I find the keys to be a little small (or spaced in a way that makes them seem small). If you have big hands, I would advise you to try the product out in the store before purchasing it.
All-in-all, it is a great device for Sprint users...
1) Is only dual band GSM. Come on guys, how much more difficult would it have been to give us the remaining two bands and make the phone usable in virtually EVERY country in the world? Yes, it is usable in +80%, but why not shoot for 100%? I guess that is what the next model will address.
2) No camera. Not a deal breaker for me. I seldom if ever use the camera on my phone, but it would have been nice to have.
3) No WiFi. Suppose you are in a country where you don't have data functionality via GSM. Wifi would be a nice option to fall-back on.
4) The keys seem a little small to me. I don't have the biggest hands in the world and I even I find the keys to be a little small (or spaced in a way that makes them seem small). If you have big hands, I would advise you to try the product out in the store before purchasing it.
All-in-all, it is a great device for Sprint users...