Audio
Targeted at busy professionals, not surprisingly the 7100i lacks many
of the fun features like MP3 players or built-in radios. But more importantly,
it includes many product features business users have come to rely on.
Handsfree functionality can be accessed through headphones connected
to the 2.5mm audio jack, or triggered by the Speakerphone Key on the top.
Activating the grill on the back, incoming calls are loud and clear and
outgoing voices are received accurately through the microphone.
Messaging
Since the 7100i has a reduced-sized 20-key QWERTY keypad, predictive
text is used. With each button containing two letters and a number; such
as the '1' key used for letters 'E' and 'R,' distinguishing between the
options depends on matching the sequence of keys pressed to a 35,000 word
dictionary.
Since the English language has a fixed number of acceptable arrangements,
the 7100i can determine which option is intended. RIM's proprietary SureType
technology results in consumers typing as if they were using full-sized
keyboard.
 Shortcuts
are also present to execute frequently used programs by opening websites
and applications. For example, by typing the letters "word\" anywhere, Microsoft
Word can be launched. Similarly, typing "address\" can have the full address
entered on-screen. To avoid accidentally opening shortcuts, a special expansion
key is required after a word (by default, backslash).
The BlackBerry 7100i also has instant messaging platforms. With mobile
versions of AOL Instant Messenger (AIM), Yahoo! Messenger, and ICQ included,
users can communicate in real-time with friends and family.
Entertainment
Bundling common preinstalled applications on the BlackBerry OS such as
Alarm Clock, Calculator, Memo Pad and Tasks, additional programs can be
installed through J2ME (Java 2 Platform, Micro Edition). As the dominant
platform for Java-based software on mobile devices, an abundant supply of
productivity tools and games are available in a wide range of categories;
most for a small fee.
 Storing
up to eight phone numbers, an email address, and two postal addresses, the
Address Book allows consumers to call, email, text message, or schedule
meetings from one central location. Through the Calendar, appointments can
be viewed by the Day, Week, or Month, with an Agenda showing the schedule
in a list view.
But BlackBerrys are known for email, and the 7100i is no different. Packed
with BlackBerry Internet Email, road warriors can have their emails wirelessly
forwarded and retrieved every 3 to 15 minutes from up to 10 POP3 or IMAP4
accounts. For corporate accounts, the 7100i can connect with Microsoft Exchange
and Lotus Notes servers through Enterprise.
The 7100i can open attachments as well. Supporting a wide range of file
types, documents from Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Corel WordPerfect,
Adobe PDF, Zip Archives, HTML, and ASCII files are viewable on the road.
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