Introduction

Attempting to attract a larger demographic with a more aesthetically pleasing design, the 7100i leaves behind the familiar square look of past BlackBerrys. Instead it has strong angular lines invoking a modern and professional look.

Additionally, with full-GPS for turn-by-turn instructions, push-to-talk capabilities to communicate off-network in walkie-talkie fashion, and speakerphone, the 7100i is a powerful business device.

Featuring 32 MB of internal memory, Bluetooth wireless connectivity, and BlackBerry functionality and tools, the 7100i is the latest 7100-series to appeal to both business and casual users alike.

Design

Measuring 119 x 59 x 21 mm and weighing 120 g, the BlackBerry 7100i is much easier to carry than the blue boxy BlackBerry of the past. Resembling more of a standard handheld, the angled lines and sleek looks are a definite improvement.

Featuring a large 240 x 260 px screen, the 7100i is capable of displaying 65K colors. Much of the reason RIM was able to condense the bulk was using a reduced size QWERTY keypad. Located below easy-to-use Send, End, and Convenience keys, a 20 button keypad provides quick one-touch typing. Using RIM's SureType predictive technology, consumers can text message as if they were on a full-sized keyboard.

A Trackwheel and Escape Key on the right side provide versatile navigation through the menu structure and email messages. While on the left edge, a Walkie-Talkie Key located next to the USB Port and Headset Jack allows consumers to access Sprint Nextel's nationwide push-to-talk service. The top of the 7100i contains Speakerphone and Power On / Off buttons, and an LED indicator alerting users when new information has arrived.

On the back, a speakerphone grill just above the removable battery door offers convenient handsfree communication.

Out of the box, the RIM BlackBerry 7100i 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.

Next >

This article is Copyright 2002-2012 Mobiledia Corp. and the review in part or in whole may NOT be reproduced in any electronic or printed medium without prior permission from Mobiledia. For information on reproducing any part of this review (or any images) please contact us.