How Bold is the BlackBerry?

While I'm not actually a smartphone owner myself (I know, it's hard to believe, isn't it?) I do find myself somewhat excited about the upcoming launch of the BlackBerry Bold. As the latest incarnation in the BlackBerry family, this model looks sleeker, sexier, and has some exciting new features that might not rival the iPhone, per se, but it will pique current BlackBerry users' interests.

For one, it will have integrated WiFi, which is an important features for Canadians. Why? We arguably spend more on data than most other countries do, so to be able to log on to a WiFi network whenever one is nearby and surf without using cellular minutes is a huge advantage. Even in a paid WiFi network, like a coffee shop or certain airports, you might find the pricing to be more affordable.

A nicer, crisper screen, and a revamped interface are two other potentially new features. One advantage that the new breed of touch-screen devices has over the BlackBerry is the fact that the screens are larger, and therefore much easier to use when navigating Web pages or documents. While the screen might not be bigger, better resolution could make a world of difference for some.

This new device launch comes at an opportune time for BlackBerry: just as there are loyal Apple/iPhone followers, so, too are there loyal BlackBerry users waiting for the latest and greatest. The latter group just isn't as vocal! Can the Bold meet their expectations as a valid step-up from the currently available Curve and Pearl? Time will tell.

One thing's for sure: if you're an avid business user that's constantly on-the-go, and who sends tons of e-mails and text-based messages to colleagues, the BlackBerry is likely still your number-one choice. But when it comes to cool, intuitive web browsing, and fun apps, the iPhone may just have RIM beat. Now if only we could combine the best of both worlds...

Stay tuned for more information tomorrow once I've had a closer look at the Bold.

iPhone in Canada This Week - UPDATE!

Will the highly-anticipated iPhone be available in Canada this week? Many are confident that it will be. Although there hasn't been an official announcement from either side, Steve Jobs is gearing up for Apple's Worldwide Developer's Conference today in California, and the rumour mill is buzzing that he'll be launching the next-generation iPhone there. So while consumers around the world are salivating over a new iPhone, us Canucks are tapping our fingers while we patiently wait for the new one, which will actually be our first (to be available legally, at least).

Last month, Rogers Wireless confirmed that it would be bringing the iPhone to Canada "later this year", but did not confirm an exact date. With the impending launch of the next-generation device, which will operate on the faster 3G network (the existing device operates on 2.5G), Canada might finally be ready for take-off.

But more important than the rumoured new features, which include things like tactile feedback and support for a variety of third-party applications, is price plans. Will a new, and more affordable, data plan be offered for iPhone customers? Or will we be plagued with the same hefty data fees that Canadians arguably endure now with other smartphones, like the BlackBerry or Windows Mobile devices? What's more, will there be an uproar from other smartphone makers if the iPhone is given more favourable pricing options?

Rogers was not available for comment, but stay tuned for more information on the iPhone in Canada as it becomes available.

Update: OK, So I was wrong: the iPhone is coming next month, not this week. But many of the anticipated new features have been confirmed, including 3G operation which will afford faster load times and surfing capability.