Introduction

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.

Next >

This article is Copyright 2002-2008 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.