BlackBerry 7 OS

RIMs newest line of smartphones runs the BlackBerry 7 OS, an updated operating system with preinstalled applications such as the enhanced BlackBerry Messenger 6.

As with previous BlackBerry generations, the Bold offers battery life superior to many other smartphones on the market, capable of going nearly two days (in testing) without needing a charge. The 9930 boasts up to 6.3 hours GSM talk time (as does the GSM-only 9900) and 6.6 hours Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) talk time.??í

Regular BlackBerry users will find most aspects of the BlackBerry 7 OS instantly familiar, including the consolidated email/messaging.

The 2.8-inch screen offers VGA 640 by 480 resolution.

BlackBerry App World isnt nearly as large as Apples App Store or Googles Android Marketplace. (Under Categories, it lists 5,240 apps and 331 games.) However, those looking to trick out their device with some productivity tools and games could find something useful here.

RIM claims that BlackBerry 7 OS offers a faster browsing experience, and nothing in testing seemed to take away from that assertion.

The new Bold features integrated GPS and BlackBerry Maps, with features such as Get Directions.??í

RIM seems to have improved its smartphones touch capability. The new Bolds screen felt ultra-responsive and accurate to a finger tap, with no need to press hard in order to activate an application or function.

The Bolds 5-megapixel camera (with flash) proved effective, with access to scene modes such as Portrait, Sports and Landscape. For those who take photos of text—corporate spies, this presumably means you—theres also an option for better capturing lettering on white backgrounds.

Brick Breaker, the mainstay of many a BlackBerry, makes an appearance here.

Although BlackBerry devices dont have the iPhone or Androids reputation as a multimedia device, the Bolds music player (familiar to anyone whos used a BlackBerry before, but certainly intuitive to newcomers) is loud and clear.

The Bolds camcorder function captures HD video at 720p.

RIM claims the new Bold, which measures 0.41-inches thick, is the companys thinnest smartphone ever.

The physical QWERTY keyboard proves the strong point of many BlackBerry devices, and the Bold is no different. Despite the letters small size, typing is accurate (thanks in large part to the raised shape of each key).??í

RIM doubtlessly hopes that features like the improved BlackBerry Messenger 6 can hold the line against challengers such as Apples upcoming iMessenger for iOS 5.??í