Hot on iPhone's heels: BlackBerry Bold gets FCC approval

RIM BlackBerry Bold

(Credit: RIM)

Amid all the iPhone 3G and App Store talk today, another rising star in the smartphone world got its FCC wings today. Yes, the much-anticipated RIM BlackBerry Bold received FCC approval, bringing it one step closer to a real-world debut. We already know that the Bold is headed for AT&T, but the exact availability date has been in question. Some sources, such as the Boy Genius Report, say it will be released some time in mid-August.

Many are already calling the BlackBerry Bold an iPhone competitor, which frankly bugs me. While I certainly understand the inclination to do so, given that they share similar features, including 3G support, Wi-Fi, and GPS, I think they're intended for two different users. The iPhone 3G is very consumer-centric, while the BlackBerry Bold is largely business focused. But hey, I'll play along. Either way, it's just good news that the Bold finally cleared the FCC and we're all that much closer to getting the BlackBerry Bold into our hands.

[Source: Engadget Mobile]

[beardy55]

Bonnie, your BlackBerry Bold coverage rocks! I'm chomping at the bit over the new Bold, and am very interested in how its "business" focus compares to the iPhone 3G's "consumer" focus. My user profile is sort of a cross between the two. Will both devices let you read and work with MS Office apps? What's the best way to decide which way to go? And is the sexy touch screen Thunder worth waiting for, especially when not first available on AT&T?

[jujibee]

I really just want to know whether Sprint will truly carry the Blackberry Bold or not. Rumors are going that Sprint and Verizon will get it in mid-late September, but what is the truth?! Because quite frankly, I would like to know whether I should drop Sprint and go with AT&T or whether I can wait for Sprint to FINALLY jump on the bandwaggon (late as usual).