Not really much to write home about here (unless of course someone at home has an 8530) but it looks like the Curve 8530 update we thought was coming from Verizon will indeed be arriving next week. According to our latest intel, OS 5.0.0.508 will be available from Verizon starting Monday 3/22. From the sounds of it, the new software will be ready to go for both OTA and desktop installs. The site listed in the original PDF is now live but the software is still listed as "Coming Soon". Hang in there over the weekend, we'll see for sure come Monday if this holds true or not.

It looks like Verizon will be bringing Curve 8530 users a special treat coming soon. We got our hands on a PDF that shows an update to OS 5.0.0.508 is on the way. No exact date is mentioned for the release, but it should be within the next week or two.  Highlights of the update include:

• Simplified lock-key function
• Overall improvements to battery life
• Improved video streaming
• Improved Voice Activated Dialing function
• Message enhancements
• Bluetooth improvements 

This will be an official Verizon release for 8530 users. The document lists the download site as verizonwireless.com/curve8530support for the upgrade, but the page isn't live just yet. Stay tuned for more details on this one.

The best selling Made Simple Learning Training Center is now available for the Bold 9700 and Curve 8500 series smartphones. The Training Center's include the Made Simple e-book for reading on a PC or Mac, VideosNow, and VideosToGo. VideosNow includes 134 videos for computer viewing, and VideosToGo includes 110 videos for viewing on the go right from your device. Each set will help you learn the ins and outs of your device, taking you through all the applications and settings on your way to becoming a BlackBerry wizard. Each Training Center is available for $29.95. If you purchase before February 28th, you can save 30% but using the coupon code 639A3FC42A. Head to either of the links below (9700 or 8500) and enter the code at checkout in the coupon field.

• Made Simple Learning Training Center for the Bold 9700 >>
• Made Simple Learning Training Center for the Curve 8500 series >>

It looks like two more carriers have jumped in on the trackpad fun. Cincinnati Bell has released the Bold 9700, and Alltel Wireless has launched the Curve 8530. The 9700 will set you back $299.99 even after instant savings and a $100 rebate. A bit pricey with a 2-year contract, but some Cincinnati Bell users may have no other carrier options. Alltel users will have better luck since they can pickup a Curve 8530 for just $49.99 after $100 mail-in rebate. Some good options on both ends, but it looks like Alltel users get the win this time around.

• Check out the Bold 9700 at Cincinnati Bell >>
• Check out the Curve 8530 at Alltel >>

The wait is over. If you're a Sprint customer and have been holding out for the new Curve 8530, the day has come. The device is now officially available on the Sprint website for just $49.99 after rebates (with 2-year contract). This beats out Verizons introductory price of $99, so Sprint customers are in luck. It looks like the only avaiable color is black, so if you're waiting on the insane all-over purple version, you may have to look around a bit. Head over to Sprint.com to get in on the fun.

• Check out the Curve 8530 at Sprint.com >>