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Released for T-Mobile, the RIM BlackBerry 7100t is the latest in the new 7100-line of devices; offering complete BlackBerry functionality so consumers can wirelessly connect with important communications and information.
Straying from the boxy designs of the past, the 7100t features strong angular lines for a more phone-like appearance. With powerful email functionality, business productivity tools, and the first BlackBerry to include an IM client to support AOL, Yahoo!, and ICQ, the new 7100t taps into a new market; with an aesthetically appealing looks and strength.
Similar to the BlackBerry 7100g, released for Cingular, the 7100t provides a formidable combination of wireless phone and email and data device for users who want an all-in-one handset. The 7100t offers BlackBerry functionality, wirelessly connecting users with important communications and information with features such as speakerphone and Bluetooth technology.
Design
Taking a change from convention, the condensed 7100t measures 119 x 59 x 21 mm and weighs 120 g. Aggressive styling and angular lines give it a more aesthetic appeal; more similar to a phone than a blue box.
The front contains a 240 x 260 px screen capable of displaying 65K colors; rather large compared to other devices on the market. Below the display, a QWERTY keypad is flanked by Send and End, and a Convenience Key used to open a list of useful links or open selected lists. With just 20 keys, each key shares two letters; requiring up to two key presses to choose a letter. However, when combined with RIM's SureType predictive technology, users can text message normally, with one press, as the predictive text guesses what word is being typed.
A Power On / Off button and LED indicator are located on top; notifying users when new information has arrived. While the left side contains a standard 2.5 mm headset jack and USB port allowing data synchronization and battery charging. Meanwhile, on the right side, an End button and navigational trackwheel offers flexible navigation through the menu structure and email messages. On the back, a speakerphone port is located just above the removable battery door.
Out of the box, the RIM BlackBerry 7100t comes with a standard 960 mAh Li-Ion battery, handsfree headset, international travel charger, USB data cable, BlackBerry Desktop software, SIM card, and user manual.
Basic Features
Released for T-Mobile, the BlackBerry 7100t is quad-band GSM (850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 MHz) making it compatible with most GSM networks in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific; provided the device is network unlocked.
Running the BlackBerry OS, advanced security features enable business users to safeguard sensitive corporate data. Featuring password protection and keyboard lock, information located locally, such as messages, address book entries, calendar entries, memos and tasks, can also be encrypted.
Additionally, when paired with BlackBerry's Enterprise Server software, installed on existing corporate servers, the 7100t can be centrally managed and administered by IT departments. And when installed behind firewalls, BlackBerry users can securely access Microsoft Exchange and IBM Lotus Domino ISP email accounts, remote address book look-up, single mailbox integration, attachment viewing, and more.
An additional layer of protection can also be added to emails through using S/MIME (Secure Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions) technology through Enterprise, using public-key cryptography, digital signatures, and writer-to-reader authentication. Furthermore, end-to-end Triple DES and AES encryption guarantees private information stays secure at all points between the server and the 7100t.
Rating the 7100t's 960 Li-Ion battery at 4 hours of talk time, and 8 days (192 hours) of standby, actual times will be slightly less. When handset manufacturers and cell phone carriers list talk time and standby time ratings, they usually include disclaimers about variable performance and often refer to the times they publish as maximum times.
Screen
Including a large 240 x 260 px screen, the BlackBerry 7100t allows users to comfortably read and write emails, surf the web, and text message. Capable of displaying 65K-color, the STN (Super Twisted Nematic) screen, although inferior in technology, consumes less power to prolong battery life.
And since the 7100t is primarily used for business applications rather than programs requiring fast refresh rates, STN is actually more beneficial than the more energy-consuming TFT (Thin Film Transistor) technology.
Audio
Handsfree functionality can be accessed through headphones connected to the 2.5 mm audio jack, a Bluetooth wireless headset, or speakerphone grill situated on the back.
However, the BlackBerry 7100t lacks fun audio features becoming more popular among phones on the market today, Features such as an MP3 player or FM radio, found on some high-end phones are missing. To be expected, the 7100t is targeted more towards business consumers. But through the 32 chords synthesizer, the 7100t is still capable of reproducing harmonious ringtones.
Messaging
With the reduced 20-key QWERTY keypad, many keys contain two letters and a number; such as the '1' key used for letters 'E' and 'R.' Distinguishing between what is meant to be typed depends on the sequence of key presses; matching the combinations to a 35,000 word dictionary. Even though each key represents multiple entry possibilities, the English language has a finite number of acceptable arrangements.
With SureType predictive text technology, 7100t users are able to type as if it were a full QWERTY keyboard; pressing each key only once per letter.
Aside for typing, shortcuts even allows users to perform common tasks such as opening websites and applications. For instance, typing the letters "word\" anywhere can launch Microsoft Word. Similarly, typing "address\" will have the full address entered on-screen. To avoid mistakenly opening shortcuts, only when the special expansion key is typed after a word (by default, backslash) will SureType take effect.
Additionally, with mobile versions of AOL Instant Messenger, Yahoo! Messenger, and ICQ included on the BlackBerry 7100t, users are never far away from their buddy list; keeping in touch with family and friends no matter where they are on the road.
Entertainment
Many common preinstalled PIM (Personal Information Management) tools come bundled on the BlackBerry OS. Through Address Book, users can call, email, SMS, or schedule meetings from one centralized location. Up to eight phone numbers, an email address, and two postal addresses, can be attached to a contact.
Through the Calendar, Day, Week, and Month views show all appointments in one convenient view, while Agenda view shows the schedule in a list. Alarm Clock and Calculator, and Memo Pad and Tasks are other miscellaneous programs to assist users in organizing their busy lives.
Extra software can be added as well. Through J2ME (Java 2 Platform, Micro Edition), consumers can download and install Java games and applications on the 7100t. Being the most popular platform for Java applications, there are an abundance of applications and games already out on the market.
Supporting a broad range of file types, the 7100t can open and view email attachments from Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Corel WordPerfect, Adobe PDF, Zip Archives, HTML, and ASCII documents.
But the 7100t's most attractive feature is its ability to connect with Microsoft Exchange and Lotus Notes servers through Enterprise Server. Managing email accounts from a single location, the 7100t supports email delivery in real time using "push" technology. From the user's desktop, email can be automatically "pushed" to the BlackBerry 7100t without needing to be prompted.
But if users don't work for a company with Enterprise Server installed, they can still check email through the BlackBerry Web Client. Using the web client, email messages can be wirelessly forwarded and retrieved every 3 to 15 minutes from up to 10 POP3 or IMAP4 accounts.
Internet
The BlackBerry 7100t features GPRS Class 8 (4+1) for transfer speeds of up to 40 kbps. Viewing web pages depends on which browser configuration is used. The WAP Browser uses WAP 2.0 to render the WML (Wireless Markup Language) content on the Internet. Using the BlackBerry Browser, users can access the corporate intranet using BlackBerry Enterprise Server supporting HTTP and IPPP protocols. While Internet Browser renders standard HTML pages as if the 7100t was a desktop. Users select the configuration that is optimal for the type of content they are viewing.
Storage
While the BlackBerry 7100t contains 32 MB of flash memory and 4 MB of SRAM, users will need to save memory accordingly. Because if users need more, they'll be out of luck; the 7100t doesn't come with any expandable memory slot.
Connectivity
Featuring Bluetooth connectivity, the BlackBerry 7100t can pair with Bluetooth headsets within a 10 meter radius; the limited range prevents interference between its peripheral devices and those belonging to other people nearby.
Unfortunately, supporting only "Audio" and "Voice" Gateways means that Bluetooth is limited to pairing headsets and handsfree devices. Dial-up connections, OBEX file transfers, and Bluetooth syncing has been restricted, but through the supplied USB data cable, many of the restrictions can be performed.
Conclusion
Primarily targeting business consumers, the previous BlackBerry devices were workhorses and not visually appealing. But with the release of the BlackBerry 7100t, the redesigned shape is more attractive, combining fashion and function.
Appealing to a broader demographic, the restricted Bluetooth connectivity could be a drawback. And the lack of an expansion slot means users may need to flush out old entries and contacts.
With fun features like MP3 players and built-in cameras missing, other multimedia phones may be worth considering for the average consumer.
But the BlackBerry 7100t was meant for work. For consumers whose office uses BlackBerry Enterprise and requires access to the intranet or secure communications, the 7100t is a simple choice. But for those who don't need such powerful email functionality or want more robust multimedia features, the 7100t may not be for them.
Regardless, the 20-key QWERTY keypad with SureType predictive text technology makes typing on a reduced keypad just like using a full-sized keyboard, and comfortably efficient.
With Enterprise Server, sensitive corporate email is secured from prying eyes, while push technology ensures email is sent to the 7100t in real-time. For the constant road warrior who needs email synchronized with the company office, the 7100t may be a no-brainer.
The BlackBerry 7100t's colorful screen, attractive new design, and powerful functionality is expected to be a popular addition to T-Mobile's line-up, both towards business and casual users alike.
Agree or disagree? We'd love to hear your thoughts. Share your experience and leave a comment below. ♦
Categories: Business | Messaging | Trend Setter
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STN
User Reviews
Awful Screen
I had this unit for approximately one week before I sent it back to my corporate rep and requested the 7290 the day before it actually hit the shelves. The only reason being, the SCREEN!
Inside, the screen color was vibrant and perfect, but as soon as you step outside, you couldn't see squat, even in the shade! The phone sounded great, connected great, did email like a true Blackberry champ... but I'm in construction, and am walking job sites quite often... and if I can't see the screen, the phone is useless!
I'm hoping that the word that I heard, that BlackBerry will be using this screen format for all of their future phones, is a falicy... because it wil be a horrible injustice to a good overall product line.
Was this review helpful to you?4 out of 5 people found this review helpful.
Great for Email
I'm new to RIM's BlackBerry, but on the whole, love it. I've had mine for about two weeks now and really enjoy the push technology for e-mail. I can check my e-mail on my cell phone anytime I want.
As for using the phone, I have found that to be very easy, especially if I use the address book. As with any cell phone, if I need to call a number not in the book, I just "dial" it. Receiving a call is also great, I can either answer it or ignore it.
All in all, I will rate the BlackBerry 7100t as a 9.0, with 10.0 being excellant and 1.0 being worst. One more point, watch out for the game on the BlackBerry, "Brick Buster", it is highly addictive.
There are a few things, however, that I don't care for. The first is that the batter is not the best in the world. I know that the BlackBerry has more functions than a plain cell phone, but having to charge it daily sometimes gets to be a pain.
Also, as other's have pointed out, the screen is impossible to see in sunlight. Not major dislikes, I grant you, but still a couple of pains.
Was this review helpful to you?4 out of 5 people found this review helpful.
8.5/10
I've been using the 7100t for about 2 months now and while it did take some getting used to (coming from other BlackBerry devices with the full qwerty keyboards), I'm now fairly happy with the 7100t.
I was a little anxious about going with T-Mobile having been a Verizon customer for years (even before they were Verizon!). I never really had any coverage issues with Verizon as compared to other providers (from what I heard) and didn't want to compromise that by having to switch to T-Mobile. Well, I'm very please to say that my coverage is great. I travel all over the world and when others I'm traveling with aren't getting signals (they have different providers) I am still getting email, phone calls, etc. Of course when you're supposed to be on vacation, perhaps bad coverage could be a good thing... but anyway.
The smart type is very good. However, there are some words (see / are, bit / but, etc) that I always seem to have to pick the other one. It is, however, easy enough to switch back / forth between smart type and double tap. I like how the browser automatically switches to double tap when in a password field -- very helpful.
The screen is very clear but as most have said, in the sunlight it's almost impossible to see. What I am not happy with is the plastic screen. VERY easily scratched so I highly recommend some kind of screen shield. Plenty of options available online where it's a clear plastic cover that protects the screen.
As for the browser, generally I'm pleased. Stopping the loading of all graphics is a big improvement in performance. It is very frustrating though that many java sites won't work. Even sites like Hotmail will not work but I think there are add-in applications available now that address this issue.
Watch out for people selling 7100t cases. Most seem to be cases that "fit" the 7100t, but not made for it. Therefore your "in holster" settings are completely ignored when it's in the case.
My partner has the Treo and we've been doing a side-by-side comparison. I like the 7100t because it uses the push technology for email with the Treo doesn't so you have to manually collect it.
Battery life as many other have mentioned is great. One odd thing I've found is that when I use the wall charger, I can't get the device to charge to 100%. But when using the USB off my laptop I can.
On a scale of 1 to 10 (10 being the best) I would rate the BlackBerry 7100t between 8 and 8.5.
Bluetooth works well, but very limited in functionality. You can answer and hangup calls and call the last number that called you, but that's about it. Due to lack of features like voice dialing on the 7100t you can't do that with your Bluetooth headset. Also, other than the headset I understand there's nothing else you can use. Can't do Bluetooth printing, etc. True? If so, that's something that should be improved.
it would be nice to have some removable memory media like the Treo as well as an MP3 player. There's a ton more applications available for the Treo as well if you're looking to do more than what BlackBerry offers. More applications for the BlackBerry are starting to appear, but a long way off from the Treo. If more does become available for the BlackBerry, it will be even more important to have removable media capability as well.
Was this review helpful to you?4 out of 5 people found this review helpful.
Great All-Around Tool
I've had two Treo's, Samsung's i500 and the i600, Palm's Tungsten W, and more. The 7100t surpasses them all! It's display is outstanding and the Thumb Wheel that Rim incorporates on all of it's devices is a thing of beauty. The speaker phone and voice quality in general is far better than my Samsung i600 (which I will be selling).
Thanks RIM, for a device that works equally well as a phone, PDA, and e-mail tool.
My only reservation was T-Mobile's coverage, but I'm please to report it has improved since I last tried it two (2) years ago.
Was this review helpful to you?4 out of 5 people found this review helpful.
Addition
I agree about the sunlight thing, but I have always had problems looking at any full color screen in direct daylight. I personally think the other statements are a bit exagerated.
You can dial from the main window by simply entering digits, no multiple buttons or screens to get to the phone. Anytime a call comes in, no matter what applications you are in, just hit the "answer" key and you are cooking with gas.
The "." key toggles between audio / mic inputs so no need to fumble through menus. It sounds like you are either new to the Blackberry world or have just not had the time to learn all of the devices intracacies... like I said in the original review, it will take a few days of playing / reading to learn the device and its shortcuts.
Sorry to hear about your negative experience. I have now had mine exclusively for cell and e-mail for months and have never had a second thought about it.
Was this review helpful to you?4 out of 5 people found this review helpful.
Very disappointed
I made the mistake of getting the new BlackBerry 7100 instead of the Treo.
While the BlackBerry's price, size and lightweight are appealing it fails at its most basic function -- i.e. the phone. Call quality, etc. are fine but the user interface seems like was designed by a software engineer not a product designer. Sometimes it takes 2 to 3 steps just to make a call, even answering the phone is not easy! Handling call waiting impossible! The User Manual is useless.
Some reviewers have marveled at the bright, colorful screen -- but fail to tell you that it is impossible to see anything in bright daylight. As somebody pointed out earlier the new BlackBerry's are just marketing gimmicks.
If you plan to use this device primarily as a phone with email and PDA as added benefits I would get something else. The calendar is also cumbersome to navigate. I could go on.
Was this review helpful to you?4 out of 5 people found this review helpful.
First Impressions
Well if any of you out there are like me, you had the color (allegedly) BlackBerry 7200 series device, but disliked the contrast, backlight, and other features. In addition, you gave up some nice cell phone hardware (for me, the Sony Ericsson T610 and T68) to be able to use a single device for PIM, Corporate E-Mail, and a Cell Phone.
When I saw that BlackBerry was coming out with a more cell-phone like device I jumped and signed up for the T-Mobile notification list. Well I got my e-mail last Thursday, drove straight to a T-Mobile direct store, and picked mine up for $299 with a $100 rebate with o activating a new line. (If you have T-Mobile service for more than 11 months with o doing an upgrade you are elligible for the new subscriber cost of the unit)
First impression (out of the box):
- Great Screen: Crystal clear, backlight fantastic with controllable brightness, new fonts for the interface
- Speakerphone is louder than the Nextel model of BlackBerry (and clearer IMO)
- Bluetooth works great, I charged the device fully then turned on BT without charging again in 3 days and still have 70% battery -- huge difference over my T610 / T68 stuff. Also, BT interface supports volume up / down / mute from phone with o touching headset controls, plus you can hear DTMF -- it doesn't only connect to headset after call initiation
- Actually has call / end-call buttons now instead of thumbing menus -- VERY NICE!
- Better selection of Ringtones (polyphonic) including my favorite from the T610 -- the "classic phone"
- I was concerned about the double-tap for word entry and whether the use of their new word recognition software would be effective
- I also had concerns about the keys being so close together
- You can turn off the service light (somthing which saves a considerable amount of battery)
- (Finally) you can use a standard universal car mount
After four full days of use for cell, e-mail and web -- love it.
I got used to the double-tap entry, and the word recognition software is incredible. It is completely different from the old BlackBerry so you have to want to try something new, but you adapt quickly and I think it is awesome. It supports all the programs I have tested so far for the 7200 series of BlackBerry also.
I can crank out e-mails and messages faster now with less "thumb-lock" than with the older BlackBerry and from one hand (even when using the shift key)!
The most significant difference I have found it at night when you can barely read the screen on the 7200 even with the backlight, this unit is reminiscent of a PocketPC screen.
It also uses all the same cables / chargers (home and car) / headsets from the 7200, so the only throw-aways are the desktop cradle and the holster from the 7200 -- the 7100t does not come with a cradle, but it does come with a belt holster, no swivel like like the 7200 though. I figure that is just a matter of time.
Review Summary (scale of 10):
- Cost value: 10 (@ $199 [after rebate] to have the screen of a PDA, battery life and e-mail of a BlackBerry, and BT, SPeakerphone, Polyphonic rings and theme support of a cell phone, its a steal)
- Work Efficiency: 8 (not as easy as a full QWERTY, but you learn fast and for 90% of the words, the auto-complete does the job)
- Battery: 10 (4 days with BT on, regular use for cell and e-mail, and still at 60% -- can't ask for more from anything)
- Features: 9 (explained above -- can't think of anything missing, but nothing is ever feature perfect, right?)
- Useabililty: 8 (same scroll wheel and esc. key on side, navigation is true BlackBerry which has its ups and downs)
- Overall rating: 9
Final Recommendation: If you want a smaller BlackBerry that has cell features, a PDA screen, and all the e-mail capabilities, this is the device.
Warning: Word entry is completely different, so if you don't want to spend a day or two getting into somthing new, I would suggest caution, but go to a store and try it. Unfortunately the manual is needed to get you off the ground but once you do, you are cooking with gas!
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