Lots of Press Releases coming out from RIM today, and two of them concern everybody's favorite CDMA carrier Verizon (that'll be a joke for some, true statement for others!).
RED BlackBerry 8830 World Edition
Just in time for Valentine's Day, Verizon is releasing a RED version of their BlackBerry 8830:
The BlackBerry 8830 World Edition in red will be available online Friday at www.verizonwireless.com for $299.99 after a $100 rebate with a new two-year customer agreement. An additional $100 credit toward the purchase of the handset is available for customers who sign up for qualifying voice and data plans at the time of purchase. Verizon Wireless enterprise customers can contact their Verizon Wireless Business Sales Representative at 1-800-VZW-4BIZ to purchase the smartphone. The BlackBerry 8830 World Edition in red will be available in Verizon Wireless Communications Stores on Feb. 8.
BlackBerry Professional Software
Verizon also announced today the availablility of BlackBerry Professional Software, a wireless e-mail and data solution specifically designed for small- and medium-sized businesses. BPS is based on the core functionality of BlackBerry Enterprise Server and gives smaller organizations enterprise-grade security, control and performance for a lot less than the BES:
"Our small business customers now have a mobility solution that allows user-friendly wireless access to e-mail, calendar, Internet, and intranet applications with advanced security," said Rob Miller, vice president - marketing for Verizon Wireless. "BlackBerry Professional Software from Verizon Wireless addresses the needs of small businesses for an in-house solution that is affordable, simple to install and easy to manage."
BlackBerry Professional Software is available from Verizon Wireless for up to five users for $549.99, or $849.00 for up to 10 users. Both options can be expanded to support up to 30 wireless users with the purchase of additional standard Client Access Licenses (CALs) and can easily be upgraded to the BlackBerry Enterprise Server as the organization grows. The software is available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, and Italian. Existing Verizon Wireless customers using BlackBerry Enterprise Server - Small Business Edition can upgrade to BlackBerry Professional Software at no charge by downloading the software. Customers who opt for the BlackBerry Professional Software will want to choose from Verizon Wireless Nationwide Email Calling Plans starting at $79.99 monthly access for 450 voice minutes and an unlimited data allowance for e-mail and Web browsing.
