The new BlackBerry Storm stands as the first touch screen device for RIM. The mobile phone is the only new device which Verizon Wireless will introduce before the 2008 holiday season. Some consumers like it, others don't feel it challenges the Apple iPhone enough.
By: Jennifer Hong
Published: Dec 1, 2008
Updated: Jul 1, 2009
The new RIM BlackBerry Storm stands as the first touch screen device for Research In Motion Ltd. The mobile phone will be the only handset offered by Verizon Wireless before the 2008 holiday season.
While some consumers like the new device, others don't feel it challenges the Apple Inc's iPhone. The BlackBerry mobile was also released with several bugs that discouraged users. However, the bugs are being fixed this week by Verizon Wireless through a new firmware 4.7.0.75 update.
During its initial launch, the BlackBerry Storm was immediately sold out at many retail locations. There was also a problem with Internet orders. Verizon delayed most orders until December 15 in an effort to fix a security flaw with the phone. The company had to downgrade the operating system which put orders behind schedule.
Consumers who like the new mobile device said it is a good deal at $199. The price comes with a two year contract. Those consumers seem to be more patient than others as Verizon releases a new firmware update to resolve most of the issues.
One of the differences between the Apple 3G iPhone and the new BlackBerry Storm, is the camera. The RIM BlackBerry mobile features a 3.2 megapixel camera with full video capabilities. It has variable zoom, flash, and auto focus. The iPhone does not have video capture.
It is still too early to judge the phone over its early bugs. Even if we learn later that the new BlackBerry mobile isn't an iPhone killer, it certainly has its advantages over the iPhone.
BlackBerry mobile critics feel the phone was rushed out too soon. This is probably true, since the first bug reported was on launch day and Verizon had to downgrade the OS. Other problems are with the touch screen. Users are reporting that the touch screen is inaccurate. The GPS is also causing trouble.
While these problems may seem large to critics, they can easily be fixed with the upcoming firmware. These problems with the phone are not permanent. The Apple iPhone also had its problems with early versions as well.
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