If it isn’t broken then apparently you can fix it. The BlackBerry Bold 9000 is a beautiful device but Research in Motion decided that it wanted to make it even better. Today RIM unveiled the Bold 9700, a smaller more compact phone than its predecessor with a trackpad instead of the pearl-like scroll ball we’ve come to know and sort of love.
The 9700 feels good in the hand and is definitely more refined than the 9000. Our only concern is that the smaller keypad doesn’t seem to offer the same typing experience as the original Bold. We’re also disappointed that the 3.5mm headphone jack is still on the side and not on top. Click on the next page for more pictures, info and a hands-on video.
Specs-wise it’s very similar to its predecessor but there are a few differences including 256MB of internal memory, a 3.2-megapixel camera with auto-focus and according to RIM the battery lasts even longer but we’ll wait until we review it to see if that’s true.
In memory of the faux leather-covered battery on the original Bold, RIM has stuck a bit of leather on the back of the 9700 but we can’t say it’s as attractive as the original – seriously, we’re not joking. Pricing and networks have yet to be announced but we assume it will be free on a monthly contract. It’s due to be released in the UK over the next few weeks.
Here’s our video of the BlackBerry Bold 9700 and Mike Lazaridis.
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