Bold 9700 (left) vs. the new BlackBerry Bold Touch (right)
Gotta love it when a plan comes together! Following up on the 2011 BlackBerry Smartphone Roadmap leaks of January, we're starting to see these devices take shape for REALZ in February. We saw the monaco/Storm 3 show up on video yesterday, and now today we're looking at live photos of the BlackBerry Bold Touch, which currently goes by the codename dakota. As you can tell, the newest Bold (pictured above on the right) looks more like the original Bold 9000 from the front than the smaller Bold 9700/9780 we're currently used to. I can't wait to pound out emails and BBMs on the Bold Touch's keyboard... that is the Cadillac of smartphone keyboards right there. As for what the Bold Touch is packing inside, here's the specs as they have been rumored to date:
- Dimensions: 115 x 66 x 10.5mm
- Radio: Quad-band GSM/GPRS/EDGE; Tri Band UMTS
- Display: 2.8" diagonol - VGA 640 x 480, resolution 287dpi
- Camera: 5mp - Flash - Image Stabilization - HD Recording (720p)
- Navigation: Capacitive Touch, Optical Trackpad
- Keypad: Wide QWERTY - Physical Send, End, Escape, Menu, Right Side Convenience Key, Volume Control
- Memory: 8GB - 768MB RAM - up to 32GB MicroSd Card
- WiFi: 2.4 GHZ b/g/n - 5GHz a/n - Mobile Hotspot
- Connectivity: Micro USB - Bluetooth - NFC
- Sensors: Magnetometer - Accelerometer - Proximity
Lots more photos after the break, so check them out! Looks like we'll need to see some new Bold Touch cases for this one too. You don't want to miss the one where you see that the trim around the Bold Touch's keypad LIGHTS UP!!! Who's waiting on this one?? I know I am!
Source: N4BB
More BlackBerry Bold Touch Photos
Reader comments
Live Photos of the BlackBerry Bold Touch (montana) Emerge!
Pages
Yeah !!!! I was about to ditch BlackBerry for good too. I am the proud owner of a Bold 9000. I've had it for 2 and a half years and it looks like new because I preferred replacing the case, the batter and everything that got old because I love the Bold 9000.
I kept waiting and they released the ugly, small and frail looking Bold 9700 and 9780 which was a big NO-NO for me.
I was prepared to buy a new Android phone in the next 2 months because I didn't like anything RIM offered except the Bold 9000 series.
I changed my mind now. Waiting for this phone, I can still hold on to my Bold 9000 for another year. IT's an AMAZING device and it still does EVERYTHING I need.
I didn't need any other phone because this one always did everything the others did, except better.
But these last couple of months more and more apps kept coming out and the phone became slower and slower. Also I really wanted the OS 6.
Anyway, this is the phone I want. It looks like the Bold 9000, a bit thinner but 1mm bigger in hight. It's what I was always dreaming of having :).
Yay!
well am i the only one who thinks bold 9000 and 9900 are gorgeous and the rest is totally not attractive?
what happened to the green on the call button and the red on the power/hangup button?!
i hope at&t gets this phone or i'll break someone's neck.
this phone looks good, just glad they got rid of the turtle shell back.
I am sooo getting the Bold Touch! I'm gonna wait for this one for my next upgrade which is coming up soon. I'm keeping my 9700 as a back up. Please Hurry! I'm getting the Playbook too!
I am sooo getting the Bold Touch! I'm gonna wait for this one for my next upgrade which is coming up soon. I'm keeping my 9700 as a back up. Please Hurry! I'm getting the Playbook too!
I can't wait for this phone. I actually just got rid of my torch - it was way too finicky and the key board was way too small. BlackBerry really needs to stick to their core and focus on what made them popular.
I am so in love already! Me and my 9700 have been inseparable for months now, but as soon as I get my hands on one of these babies my 9700 goes into retirement. Having been an iPhone user before, I'm quite new to the BB world, so I never got to actually use the keyboard of the 9000. But I'm really excited to use this one with the 9000 form factor, must be even better than the 9700 although I'm already very happy with it.
I really can't wait to own one of those :)
1st thing first.... WHEN it will launched :D
I Hope T-Mobie Will Get This Phone If So I Will Have To Get Me One I Miss Uesing My BB
I hope, RIM will finetune the design of the Bold Touch:
- Can they adjust the design more to the phantastic elegance of the new Curve (Apollo/Sedona)
- Can they bring back the red coloured numbers and loudspeaker symbol, as we had it on the Bold 9000
Provided the above, I would switch from my 9700 to this new Bold.
However, MY favourite anyway would be a device with the sleek design of the Apollo/Sedona and with technical specs of a real Bold (high screen resolution, fast CPU, sufficient memory, better camera, etc...).
But perhaps the American colleagues here on the forum do not share the particular "European" taste and style and wont agree?
Dear Blackberry,
PLEASE PLEASE allow for a docking station. This sis the best way to charge the phone!!!
I went from the 8310 Curve to the 9700 Bold and it's been by far my favorite phone. I plan on upgrading this fall and was thinking about the Torch but it looks like I'll be holding out for the Bold Touch. EXCITED!
I just like the idea of a BlackBerry CandyBar including a TouchScreen for Scrolling and Browsing.
Also I'd always want that Retro Bold, but first it was to Expansive and 8900 has better RAM. Now I couldn't wait to switch my 9700 to this Great Device.
I only hope they will change the back of the Phone a bit more like that Good Ol' Bold 9000! That would really make this Montana / Dakota Awesome!
Must say I'm a little worried about Battery life, it's Smaller, while the Screen is Larger and Touch aspect and Processor will Consume (a lot) more.
That 9000 form factor was truly missed. This will be the ultimate business communication device and Droid Pro can take a seat. Will be tapping out emails at a blistering pace, opening apps and navigating through them should be a breeze. T-MO and the new Bold will be an unbeatable combo. I've held off on upgrading my 9700 because this is the device I've been waiting for. Thank you for reading all of our email requests for the return of the "real" Bold RIM. I hope this device is released on T-MO. I'm ready for my upgrade now.
If this is really what comes out, with the same keyboard as my 9000, I'll upgrade. I'll upgrade just for the increase in RAM. It will definitely be nice to not have to replace my trackball. I'm probably oddball that enjoys using the phone with one hand, sipping something/reading something/eating something with other vs. browsing with the other. I'm also anal about keeping the screen clean. I bought a case of Wireless Wipes when they came out.
If you have a touch-screen why do you need answer/end call, menu, or back buttons at all? And there's certainly no need for the trackpad. Use the extra space to get the screen over the 3" threshold.
Because you asked this, I guess you don't have the torch, probably you have an iPhone (boo ha ha).
With the Torch I still use all keys. It is amazing how some things a are better by touch and some by trackpad. Having had the torch and thinking about going to this phone, it's clear to me that a blackberry user is different from iPhone and even Andrioid users. I am willing to give up screen space for the trackpad option. It's likely because I don't play games on my phone much. I did have an iPhone and even on that I didn't play many games so I think it's just what the user wants.
I wonder (hope) if my Tour charging stand will work. I doubt it, but I don't see any charging "prongs" on the back views.
Anyway, my contract is up in March, so if this REALLY hits Q2, I'm a happy boy
The prophecy has been fufilled
The bold 9000 is hands down the best BB. I like this one as well, I wish it had the leather back though. It needs the leather back !
Please tell me Blackberry is going to give Verizon customers a chance! Please!!!!!!!!
Montana = verizon. Dakota = ATT
Waiting indeed for this to pop up,since the first leak...definitely my next blackberry!
Only,I hope that the numbers will be RED,as the headsets Green-Red!
Cheers
ha ha good observation blacksamarai. I think I'll get this one but still like my Torch.
What would really make me think twice about the Torch 2 is if it slid up to reveal a keyboard the 9780.
I think the absolute ideal might be a full screen version of this new bold Touch which slides up to reveal a bold 9000 keyboard. That might just be too big. It's screen versus keyboard at this point. The Torch keyboard just isn't as nice as either of the real bold keyboards.
RIP 9780
Am I the only one that has realized that this form factor is actually a step BACKWARDS for RIM? I can believe there are people with Torch's and Bolds that can say with a straight face that they would want this. Nowadays around this site it seems that everyone is drinking the same RIM koolaid...
I can't decide which phone I should get. I have yet to get my first blackberry device and I'm torn between this and the 9780. This would've gotten my vote hands down if it weren't for the back cover which I find somewhat awkward in terms of aesthetics (just my opinion though!:)) The curved corners also seems a bit dated to me. I'm still undecided about which of the 2 phones to get. The larger keyboard doesn't really matter to me since I have relatively thin thumbs anyway. The lit trackpad is a nice touch though. :D
Maybe but I think this is really RIM saying we are going after people who really communicate on their phones and that really leave the iPhone out of it. iPhone is really only good for people that don't use the phone for communication very often.
If it has front-facing camera and 1600mAh battery (or bigger) then it would be the perfect phone for me.
Hopefully RIM releases this soon. RIM will be under a lot of pressure if they wait until the new iPhone comes out this year.
I want it!!
wait, if these are pictures of montana meaning cdma device. then where is the dakota gsm device pictures? and i think the screen is too small for proper touchscreen use. i agree, they could have raised the screen a little more for more real estate.
These phone is coming out TOO late. Everything this phone does my phones been doing since June. And this phone isn't coming out til later this year. No hdmi, no dlna, no front facing camera, and the screens too small. But wait the killer feature is BBM. LMAO. And to everyone saying "oh this is a great phone" needs to realize that this is going to be an ATT exclusive just like the Torch. It seems like ATT is the only one who cares about RIM.
First you dump on the phone and then you complain that only AT&T gets it. Make up your mind. And you are wrong because there are two version of this phone which means it isn't just going to be AT&T.
You want HDMI coming out of a telephone? Get a life man.
This paired (literally and figuratively) with a playbook is unbeatable. My only complaint is we have neither product right now, but I feel like 2011 is going to be there year where I'll have it all communications wise.
I can't believe they are so dead set against having a touch screen. It still has a physical BB keyboard and adds the functionality and ease of touch. To the people saying" its only 2.8 inch screen why bother?". I believe this is for power communicators who need a keyboard with a screen that is easier to select apps or links in a page faster w touch. If you want a full touch screen wait for the Monaco or get another brand. Just my two pennies.
Its 2011 and RIM is stuck in 03' ....ahh well in five more years they will be where android ..apple and windows are now.
:)
To HTC_Droid_EvO, GO BLOW UP!
HTC_Droid_EvO is a known TROLL.
Anything that he types is just keyboard diarrhea.
:D Just watching Claifornication and old Hank the coolest dude on TV is rockin the old Bold 9000, along with his Porche.
It so funny how Android fan boys think they're cool when they are really actually just big nerds. Hey HTC does mom still make you milk and cookies? LOL!
Hank Moody is the MAN!!!
Awesome, hopefully the speakers, the keyboard feel is just as good... better than the original 9000. the back is okay.
THe resolution looks awesome, but hopefully the battery is just as good.
Best phone ever...now it just has to come out!
This truly puts the BOLD back into the bold series. I am glad the 9700 is no longer the flagship device.
The keyboard, screen size, and bold look started the BOLD franchise, and I am glad they are bringing that all back, RIM listened to its people.
And now, just like the 9000 was a leader of its time, the 10,000? Will be a leader of its time as well. Solid specs, good memory and features, and of course a touchscreen and trackpad to improve the usability of this phone!
I want one too,
I miss the old 9000 keyboard,
this one will be my next BB.
All these leaks and we still know NOTHING about model numbers? Weird....
I will line up for this!
Wow I just came. Srsly, I did.
haha JD -- you should be used to using things under 3 inches...I'd be laughing too!
2.8 inch screen? Excuse me while I go laugh this off.......
Thought I told you to go BLOW UP?!
think they should have got rid of talk and end button for more screen.. I could do with out trackpad to be honest.. maybe return the side scroll for those that needed it.. screen > trackpad
The fact that crackberry.com leaves their last friday post up all weekend, and we don't get a new one till monday monring. I mean come on people I don't wanna read the same blog all f'ing weekend...seriously
Love the look, love that we are seeing the bold 9000 form factor return. But what use is there really to a 2.8" touchscreen?
probably easier for programmers if there is uniform input protocols across all devices. Plus I can see just reaching out and touching stuff on web pages etc.
WHOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!! im in love!!!! why oh why did i get the torch
To JD914.. GO BLOW UP!
I love BB all around. Can't wait to get one of these.
Small screen, low resolution, same old tired form factor,I'm wondering if it also has an underpowered CPU like the Torch?
So far the specs aren't impressive enough to compete with current market devices.
Go back to the drawing board RIM, you didn't try hard enough again. You'll get it right one day.
Latest android phones: crappy or no keyboard,shitty email and calendar integration, no or shitty BBM equivalent, dropped or switching calls when phone gets close to face.
So far your offerings are not good enough to compete with those RIM has to offfer.
Go back to the drawing board Moto and HTC, you didn't try hard enough. I doubt you'll get it right one day, but you might.
Seriously man it's all about what you want from a phone.
BTW I don't bother going to Android central to write this crap because their phones don't remotely interest me. I guess you can't say the same.
This has a resolution with a higher ppi than any phone on the market outside of the iphone. I think you might need to invest in a drawing board and maybe some crayons to go with it.
lol, you talk crap baby.
First of all, when you compare the BB with another device, for example the HTC. You have to know that BB can underpower their CPU, because the system OS 6.0 is much more efficient then Android. And why should RM not underpower their CPU if they don't need the power? Think about the life time for the battery
You can not compare the specs if you dont compare their system as well.
For example: you cannot compare the mac book pro with a acer, but you have to compare it with a lennov.
cant wait until they launch a date of release...im patiently waiting for that!!!! this WILL be my next phone.
If would be better if it had a front face camera....
the best thing about the bold was the battery life, and it looks like the battery for this bold is smaller. this bold might only be available for Verizon or sprint, and a different bold like the 9780 w/ a bigger battery and touchscreen comes out for att and t mobile. i can only hope
Thank you for the entry, a day later I would've gotten me self the Bold 9780. I'll definitely stick with my Bold 9000 till this is released.
Maybe motorola should go back to the razr and put android on it. RIM is going backwards and calling it new.
This phone looks beautiful to me and that includes the very awesome carbon fiber back. I'm loving the direction RIM is taking.
I thought the Montana was a CDMA phone.... Holly Jesus! I think I'm not re-newing my contract with sprint just to get this master piece
Photos simpy don't do this device justice. wait til you get it in our hands. It's fantastic. Super thin, near retina display-like res (by pixel density), touch interface is perfect for this form factor. I'll be trading in my Torch for this as fast as possible. Since Dakota and Montana will cover both CDMA and GSM carriers, I even get to pick who I'll pay my bills to now!
this phone looks hidious and like a brick, especially the back! It seems like RIM went all out with the specs and then went backwards with the design! Very very ugly if u ask me!
meh, remember what people said about the style "ugliest phone on earth,never touch it etc. etc." Then it came out and it was like wow not bad, maybe I won't buy it, but that's not a bad looking phone.
Remember these are crappy photos and it may not have the polish that the final product will.
No CDMA version?!
The Montana is the CDMA version.
I love it. I want it. I will get it. One I thing I noticed was the call to the end button is all one piece. I'm not sure if I care for that as much. It gives it the curve look. Both the 9700 and the 9000 had them split the the blackberry key and back key. But I'm still happy to see what this phone has to offer and it's size looks great. I can't wait for it. Thank you RIM for listening.
I thought that is the direction they were going with the 6.1 devices, but haven't heard anything official yet.
Finally, some actual pictures of the Loch Ness Dakota. Now, I just need to know IF AT&T will be carrying this phone... and when. My old 9000 is running on it's last legs.. I'm tired of the constant battery pulls and cleaning out of files. Hopefully RIM has wised up and designed the new phones to allow apps to be installled on the internal memory and not just on the RAM.
You guys do all know there's the plastic still over the battery cover right ? That gets peeled off after when you buy the phone . Just check to many people complaining about the battery cover
Ugh .. I got rid of my 9000 because it was just TOO BIG. Great phone, probably the best phone as far as reception that I've ever had, but I sold it only 3 months after buying it and went back to my Curve. So, after waiting SO LONG, I guess I'm not going to get this one. I've been waiting for AT&T to offer the 9780 and now they claim they're not going to offer it and waiting for the Dakota, that didn't get released at MWC 2011 (HUGE disappointment) ... I really hate the Torch. So far Blackberry's 2011 "plan" is leaving me quite chilly.
LOL. K. Buy a coat.
How fast is the device processor?
1.2 Ghz
I seriously doubt it.
As much as I like the new specs . I still do not care about adding a touchscreen , it sounds like something pushed to please the touchscreen crowd . If I wanted a touchscreen I would get a touchscreen phone . I liked the 9000's form factor , but now Ive been drawed in to my 9780's look . The curve look just reminds me of all those BB Curves that have been coming out left and right .
This isn't as carazy as it sounds. I won a torch and with it open I find i use both the tackpa and the touchscreen. Especially for zomming in and out, which you are going to do a lot in both email and in the browser (because RIM now has a nice browser) touching the creen is way better than using the menu.
Also launching programs... there are just a lot of instances where touch is really good. I am surprised, however, about how often I do use the trackpad and find that it is the best of the two options.
I had an iPhone and was so frustrated that I dumped it for the bold 9000 and since I've had the torch I sometimes wondered why I loved the bold so much (with its crappy browser) when I had an iPhone. Now I recall it was the wonderful keyboard. Giving up the iPhone's touch screen keys for the real keys of the Bold 9000 was just such a good feeling.
1: different battery-dont see the purpose of another battery and now can't use my seidio from my 9700, not a big deal.
2: only one convenience key again? Didn't they hear enough b****ing and moaning when they torch came out with only one?
Oh well.. I'm still gonna get it.. Along with the playbook!
New battery needed because of how crazy thin this device is.
No wonder Nokia passed on working with RIM, this is just a new version of some tired old BB 9000 (which I admit was a sweet phone in its day) with improvements.
The front of the device looks good but there is something about the battery cover. Maybe in my opinion looks very cheap! compared to the original 9000..
Finally! Let's just call it the 9001! I'm glad they returned to the classic styling of the 9000. I just hope they leave the great speakers in there. Also, it would be good if there was an option to TURN OFF the touchscreen.
sold
This "new" BB looks like every BB out right now and what ever RIM has put out for the last three years. Honestly Kevin, i don't know how you get excited the way you do over a device that's practically obsolete before it hits the shelves.
if you can name 3 things that your device can do that this one can't...then i would say you have a point. there is nothing obsolete about this.
WOW!! Possibly hoping it would be released soon!! probably moving from curve to bold :D
Cheers to all the 9000 users (past and present) that truly appreciate the beauty of such a machine.
I've been thinking of it all night and I cannot wait to get my hands on one.
I predict it to be the best selling Blackberry ever. Let's wait and see.
I like it always wanted to try a bold I just hope all carriers get it, like verizon but not holding my breath. I keep my fingers crossed it's safer lol
9000 Bold form factor....larger soft press keyboard, hopefully it had the dual speakers like the Bold did...I think I got a Don Ready
I love it... it's almost perfect... but I prefer the back cover of my Bold 9000... this Bold Touch has the worst back cover I've ever seen in a BlackBeery!! I WANT THE FULL LEATHER COVER like the great 9000!!! :)
As long as the specs of the gsm version are the same as the leaked specs this will be my next phone for sure!!!
Must have for me to buy are:
Plenty of space for apps.
Open GL support.
why do you people complain of a touchscreen this small you say whats the point well whats the point of others pushing 4g when its really not 4g but you say nothinhg and whats the point of those same others that say we have dualcore in our hh when the os dosent even optimize it and you say nothing at least you can use the touchscreen not a gimmick likje the OTHERS try to sell you
It's the only thing people understand... specs. I'm guessing that those who need to boast about their specs and those that whine about underpowered specs have an inferiority complex of sorts. I also assume that they don't really know what it means to have a device that utilizes it's hardware and software to the fullest.
Montana and Playbook..."Perfect Together". VERIZON PLEASE !!!!!!!!
For the white one ;)
Love the carbon fiber on the back! Looks awesome
What's the point of a touch screen this small? I'd never get this junk.
I guess its rim's answer to the motorola charm
Precision and efficiency. Just because you don't understand something doesn't make it junk, but maybe that idea is too much for you to grasp too...?
Okkk like seriously....
Those that keep hoping that this phone is going to verizon sprint or tmobile....
Get real, like really, we all noe this phone will be available only on AT&T
And those hatin on the bold 9000 form factor, well guess wat, this bold is king compared to watever crappy 9700/9780 you guys have, ur jus hatin that ur phone is jus a cheap ripoff tryin to be king of wat a real top of the line blackberry should be
And to to those that complained that ohhhhh the bold form factor is too big, well I have news for you too... Have you once ever considered that ur HANDS ARE TOO SMALL !!!!!!
This phone will be Epic, it is The Return of The King... May all you people keep hating, cuz in the end I noe the truth, u all want this phone and ur mad that watever phone u have now is cheap and a bad imitation
And for those that totally keep it honest and welcome this phone with open hearts and are itching to be txtin, bbming and takin pics like this is no tomorrow on this new BOLD TOUCH, you people are my brothers and sisters
Add meh BBM: 23008426
You mfer. Rub it in some more why don't you. Ill buy this mfer unlocked!!!!! Why does att not offer uma?
Please check your grammar and spelling. Also please note that this form factor has two code names, one of which is a CMDA version.
Do you really think I care bout grammer, its the effing internet no1 cares, if u could perfectly understand wat I wrote then there's no need to write the so called perfect standard english, are u some neat freak that gets horny on words spelled correctly ???? Exactly stfu
Point is your lack of spelling makes you look like an idiot, thus making whatever you say irrelevant and childish.
the device looks great. i think instead of having the capacitive touch buttons and trackpad, RIM should have left that space for a bigger screen. that's just me though. obviously, there are more phones RIM is coming out with later this year but having a bigger screen on the bold touch would have a been awesome.
I hope this comes to T-Mobile so I can get rid of this LG optimus t. It will probably go to att like the 9000 and that would suck for T-Mobile subscribers. T-Mobile got the 9700 and 9780 so please tmobile release the bold touch. Dear God, please bless the tmobile customers with this super fantastic smartphone. Amen.
Damn, I shouldn't have bought the 9780! Should have waited for this one!!
The best of both worlds!
The only chance i've got of getting one of these beaut's is stealing one (I'm not like that!), or winning one in a competition (I'm not that lucky!)
Any wealthy people feeling generous? (Will beg for BlackBerry!)
If only this was 2009....I would really be all over this just like I was for the 9700 Bold. Sure, the 9700 was quickly replaced by a more reliable device (not a BlackBerry) but sure this would have been great back then. However, I can't help but to think that were I to buy this tomorrow it would be anywhere from eight to twen-three minutes before I found a device to replace it with.
Blackberry porn at it's best!
this really gets me excited, cant wait!
looks nice and looks like its going to last for days on a single charge......this it whats i been waiting for.
I know I'm in the minority here, but I think that something got lost in the design. What made the 9000 so great? The keyboard. What is the holy grail of BB users? Touch + keyboard.
They are accomplishing some of that here, but there is far too much wasted potential screen space for a frame that size. It was ground breaking design in 2008, but for a supposed Q3 2011 release, its a little bloated to me. The 9700 is far sleeker, more compact to me, but hey prove me wrong!
The screen looks near identical in size to the 9700 (the listed size of 2.8 diagonal is basically the same 2.5 screen on the 9700). In fact, even the keyboards look the same size, save for the bottom row.
Ill reserve final judgment till I see them hands-on, but at this point a (hopefully) tmo branded torch2 or monaco is looking at my potential first and second choices.
I agree with you on a point. When I first decided to buy a blackberry, I had the option of the 9000 or 8900. I chose the 8900 because it looked sleek and compact. To me, the 9000 was bulky and unnecessary.
Now, I realize the extra bit of room and the size of the 9000 really is what set the Bold series apart.
I'm liking this phone a lot! I hope it comes out in Q2 as some have mentioned.
Hehe.. I'll buy this beast for sure
I cant wait to replace my 8130 Pearl with this new Bold.
Even though I never owned a Bold 9000 (I currently own a Bold 9700) I'm starting to love the form factor of the Bold Touch and its size. It seems to grow on you.
Also don't get me wrong I love how my 9700 looks, but I'm starting to like this form factor more. I just have to wait and see how it feels in my hand for me to really judge.
i so so so so so so will make this my next phone
i would love to have this form factor without touch screen,
2.8" is too small for touch pleasure.......
small battery ~less juice + new sensors + NFC + touch screen = need to charge daily
....
mite be my next bb
Is it just me or do I fail to see the point of a touch screen on such a small screen?
I guess I fail to see the point, touch screen is useless on such a small screen.
This is what I have been waiting for in a Blackberry... Keys and a touch screen without it being a slider.
This Blackberry should be called the 'Big Bad Bold'. Welcome Back!!
I wish that someone would post pictures with the Bold 9000 and the Bold Touch, so we can really compare.
I second that.
Would love to see a side-by-side of the 9000 and Dakota...
Am I the only one that really liked the faux leather on the back? I miss my sexy 9700, now I'm on Sprint so I have the 9650 which isn't nearly as sexy but works just as good.
The leather on the back should be a must on the Bold series!!! I hope they'll adopt the leather also on this Bold Touch!!
How can you put touch on a screen thats the size of a small oriental woman's finger?
Im calling it and its official....rim is done put a fork in them. These phones are a joke and I have been a fan for years.
This'll be my next berry for sure< cant wait to pair it with my playbook.
DIIIIRTY. I'll be getting one.
This looks good...
Hallelujah brothers and sisters! I live in France, I was one of the first having a BB Bold 9000 (I still have it), upgraded to the Torch but I'll tell you what: I'll be one of the first to get that touchscreen BB Bold. True dat!
Did I miss which carriers will offer this phone? Verizon hopefully!
I have been pretty happy with my Torch and it has exceeded my expectations. But I do miss the keyboard from the Bold 9000 it replaced. It would be difficult choosing between this and a Torch 2. But I like the larger screen on the Torch. And no CPU speed is listed here so the Torch 2 may be more powerful. I think the Torch 2 has a slight lead in this race for me. Now if they could just get Adobe Flash support I would have no need for my Android phone.
This is so great!
I will buy it to be instead of my 9700!
Now THIS is why I've been purposely holding onto my 8310 for so long. Are you listening RIM??? When many devices are heavily launched at the same time with very little change or improvement (aka. every Curve after the 83xx series), you receive customers like me that are willing to wait for a dramatic upgrade. Some customers are willing to hold onto their reliable older devices to wait for something better to come along. Who ever said it's wrong to be patient and frugal?
The only reason why I never grabbed the 9000 was because my contract started just a couple months prior to the 9000 launch. Once I was out of contract last year, the "Bold Touch w/ 9000 form factor" rumors began. So I thought, "Why not just wait it out? Patience can be a good thing when you're a customer that doesn't need to constantly upgrade." I'm glad I did because combining this device, along with a PlayBook purchase, will be one amazing way to communicate to the rest of the world. Front facing camera on a Bold Touch? Sure, if it's on it at launch. Is it a deal breaker if not? No way...that's what my PlayBook will be for. ;-)
CrackBerry Nation, you are witnessing my next BlackBerry SMARTphone (who needs toys when ya got this beauty right here).
that's about to sell like hotcakes
As soon as this is released in the states I'm going to order me one straight to the UK, I can't believe I bought the Torch. (not like it's a bad phone, just would have proffered the Bold Touch) I had a sneaky feeling this was going to be announced a few months later after me buying it.
THE BEST OF THE BEST !!!!! YAHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO !!!!
THE BEST OF THE BEST !!!!! YAHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO !!!!
There's some things I noticed (probably not that important but they caught my eye)
1) It says "Brand" on the back (pretty obvious), so hopefully a official name comes soon
2) The battery door doesn't really look like leather. More like Carbon Fiber, which makes me think it won't fall under "Bold"
3) Last but not least (You Have To Look Hard To See This, Like Really Hard!) If you look at the image of the 2 Devices front the back, you will see on the left side on the "leaked device" convince keys BUT none on the right side, also at the top left it looks like there are 3 of them at the top and 1 in the middle. That does keep the count at "4 side buttons" like most Blackberrys but there all on one side. Is this something New from RIM? I just want everyone to check it out and tell me what you think! Lol
The VZW 9650 back door is plastic as well. They might be moving away from the leatherette back door, but it wont stop me from getting the phone.
I forgot about the 9650. But I really dont see why they changed it to "bold" from "tour". The two series should have remained separate in my eyes. This device is a hybrid like the Torch SOOO, what if it falls under that name? Just a thought of mine lol. Ill be happy when the device comes out but also in not that patient so by the time it happens I will have gotten me a 9780. I still plan on getting this device as well, making me the proud owner of 2 great Blackberrys :)
i love my blackberry and i love the consept of the Bold touch with the keyboard. BUT jeez so much wasted space, they could have lowered the keyboard a bit and put in a bigger screen.
If the keyboard was squeezed lower on the phone it would upset the balance and make it harder to type. The classic 9000 form places the keyboard at a perfect spot for fast, efficient typing.
I'm digging the retro style... it's a very distinctive look considering todays square phones. Plus... that keyboard is going to be totally awesome. Nice, smooth bb 9k action!!! Maybe they should call it the Bold Retro :)
AHHHHHHHHHH ITS AMAZING!!!!!! IVE BEEN FOLLOWING THISS PHONE SINCE NOVEMBER AND IT IS (almost finally) HERE! i recieve emails every time an update on it comes on the web, and i returned my gift iphone 4g to wait for this;). i did have a few questions though. i read http://www.readandbuy.com/blackberry-mobile/blackberry-dakota-mobile-phone and http://www.readandbuy.com/blackberry-mobile/blackberry-bold-touch-mobile... .....they claim that the bb dakota is coming out 3/31/11 and that the bb bold touch is coming out on the 8/31/11- arent they the same phone??? they also say that there is a secondary camera, which, from looking at front pictures could either be a camera or a notification/ proximity sensor. I am not sure how trustworthy readandbuy is, but i usually tune into crackberry, bgr, or n4bb! i also found http://www.blackberrydakota.org/ , which didnt help me at all but gave me an official looking video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kiy5FqCDsKY&feature=player_embedded) which says that there iiis a secondary camera..? any input would be greattttly appreciatedd (: I AM SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO EXCITEED FOR THIS NEW BB!!!!!!!!!!! lol
I miss the leather back door!
PLEASE RIM BRING THE LEATHER BACK TO THE BOLD!! That truely defines the bold!!
lol @ this is a great looking device ,,,its the same device its always been
Damn clone phone ..who would upgrade to the same phone
smh
Hi Troll.
P*ss off, troll!
Oh please. Every HTC phones out there looks all the same. Get real.
Boy you must have one miserable life. I can see from your post that you are the type who cares always about having the latest spec chart topping phone instead of thinking about what the phone is used for.
Miserable because with technology you can never win once you buy a phone it'll be out of date in a week or two.
While I hope RIM gets a solid OS I'm actually glad that are not playing the game a chasing the latest specifications, this gives them time to think about what people really want in a phone. Bringing this back is a good illustration. No not everyone will like it, but if you are a power blackberry user (email, phone and BBM) then this is the phone of your dreams.
Liking it ! I will likely ditch my Torch for this if my carrier is able to cut a deal for this new Bold and package it with the Playbook ! How sweet that will be!
Damn!!
That is my next Blackberry!
Thank God, the King is finally back. What a beautiful piece of dedicated RIM Magic. It looks simply awesome. I wouldn't doubt buying this perfection.
well now i can see my 9700 taking a backseat.
once someone asked why RIM could give the trackpad lighting well its hear.
not a touch screen fan but i think that is gonna change
THANK YOU RIM!!!
AND WE ARE BACK!
VREY NICE. Im ready to pay full price to upgrade to that. I love the torch but the 9000 was the best BB EVER and this looks like its replacement.
Patience, of all the traits I struggle with. This is such a beautiful form factor. The specs are all there. I will make this one of my phones, which to this day have all been blackberry. The funny thing is that at my office everyone has iphones and what ever flavor of android they like. Yet, when I got them all 9630's, issued from the IT department, they hated it. Until they started using them. Now they complain when they don't have them and the android users talk about how they never new they could do the same thing with a blackberry but with 5 times the battery life(as if android did all this first). Now that these new BB's are coming, almost all of them are converting. The rest are just to caught up with touch screens. These phones mark the beginning of RIM's return to the top(I know that sounds so much like a fanboy but I'm OK with that).
How fast is the processor?
i like my Torch but need more volume. Will this thing rock like the 9000? The 9000 had the best speakers and speaker phone ever. lets hope so! Will it be 14.4 ie HSPA+ 4G??
Whoa!, Dakota really looks like the 9000, Its smaller in size
Am gonna Decide between this and the Apollo, I like the Apollo's form factor better than the Dakota :D
Day One purchase FOR SURE.
All these people who are complaining about no front-facing camera should just go get iPhone 4s.
If you need to see someone, get a webcame, or even better, go see them face-to-face.
Whats the point of amazing battery life if your going to burn through it?
Such a sexy phone! Better be available in white though!
my my... I have the curve 3G right now and I'm really loving the new bold. NOT TO MENTION IT HAS A touchscreen toO??!! wow best of both worlds i say~
The only nuisance for me is the smaller LED notification light. I love the size of the 9700 / 9780.
I love my torch, but I think I'm going to get this the day it comes out. This phone is what Blackberry is all about. I do hope the UI for 6.1 is a little fancier. I guess with open GL it should be. The compass is telling me the graphics are a little better.
What is really great about this phone over a Torch is that by using it you are looking right in the face of the IPhone and Droid boys and saying F-U I don't want a copy cat of your form factor. I have in my hand the form factor which is UBER ALLES!!!!!!!!
I'm wondering that if the battery is high capacity or not.
I'm glad I held onto my trusty 9700 instead of getting a 9780...
This will DEFINITELY be my next BlackBerry!
I am all over this! Dream Blackberry right there!
Definitely my next phone. I like the Bold 9700 but I liked the keyboard and size on the 9000 a lot better like a lot of people.
I WANT IT!! Sporting the Torch which I love....I want this puppy so much more!!!
As Kevin well put, this is the Caddy back again! I'm friggen itching for this badboy!! Wow
What I love most on BB smartphones is their keyboard (I don't like touch keyboards), this phone could be the next one.
that's real sharp. i just switched from a storm2 to a 9650 that i picked-up on ebay. now i'm stoked for the bold touch. very cool. the carbon fiber back is also nice.
where are the stereo speakers????? that is one of the biggest things i miss about my 9000. also i liked the look of the red and green call/end buttons and the numbers being red on the old keyboard. just all plain white is not very appealing to me.
there arent speakers? thats a major downside for me :/
Is this 4G?
I'm guessing it will be about $600. I would never pay 4G for a phone. :D
sorry but I got to say it IPHONE KILLER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Just bought a 9700... But the new phone looks superb
I can honestly say that I would not take that phone even if it were free. That is the worst form factor of any BlackBerry I have ever used.
RIM should kill that design one and for all.
I can honestly call BS on that one.
Who wouldn't take a free phone. Hmmm?
Tell you what. If you get one of these for free take it. I'll give you $50 for it, and you can make a quick profit.
You can "call" whatever you want but the fact is you do not know me.
As to the question you posit the answer is me. It is a phone. They are a dime a dozen.
I really hate that form factor and I would simply never use the thing. So yeah, even if it were free, knowing it would be sitting in a drawer collecting dust makes it not worth having at all.
what happened to the red and green color on the make call and end call buttons?
what happened to the red and green color on the make call and end call buttons?
I was wondering that as well, also, why aren't the numbers in red like the original Bold 9000?
its transparent so it can light up (see picture)... but perhaps it can be transparent green / red would be nice.. as well and /or green / red led instead?
I so want this phone. But this time around I'll be holding out for a white one to come out.
The Storm 3 also looks great. Cant wait for these phones to drop.
OMG.....i've a blackberry user all my life and this right here is the reason i'll stay a blackberry user....it brings back the robust look of the 9000.....i'll definitely be picking this one up.....i cant wait for this to launch
I like the specs....but i HATE the form factor....its SO UGLY!!!!
haha you never woned a 9000. This is going to be great. This is what blackberry is all about. period.
this is it! bringing sexy back
Will get this. The right size, ease of touch, professional keyboard....
Oh boy. Just wet myself looking at that keyboard.
Never thought it would happen, but I am considering leaving big red for this bad boy.
My dreams have been answered. This will definitely be my next bb. I've been wanting the same form factor as my old bold 9000. So I will be putting my current white torch on the market. I have an upgrade date of Oct 13, 2011 so I sure hope this one will be available then. If not I Will have to wait.
If Verizon gets this, it WILL be my next phone. Looks great and the specs rock!
So I waited around for a long time, waiting for something like this and then finally got a Torch. Not that I hate it or anything, but this is the BB I wanted since the trackpad and higher memory factor started coming to devices. Touch screen is a bonus of course. Guess I'll have to see when it hits if it's really all it looks like it will be and then break out the wallet.
That trim around the trackpad lighting up looks uber sexy!
Which U.SM carrier is getting this? AT&T again or T-Mobile? I may have missed it but I didn't see any 3g bands specs listed.
Wth is up with that cheap looking back cover? Is that the plastic still on there, or is it just made like that? -here's hoping that is plastic and not design
You need some glasses if you don't see clearly that the plastic is indeed still on
I'm going to keep saying this until the cows come home. If this device had a forward-facing camera and RIM developed a proprietary video chat for BBM while keeping these specs, there would be no further argument for people who say BlackBerry is lagging against its competitors. Even with a single-core processor, with this form factor, I'd pretty much have not a single complaint as I waited for QNX to hit. You have to make screen compromises with a physical keyboard but I'm willing and ready.
If RIM made a proprietary BBM video chat -- which Google is poised to do with gTalk -- that would pretty much make BBM the premier IM service in the world, and would make BlackBerry's the premier communication tool for business with a greater entry into the consumer world. After years of BB fanaticism I moved to a Nexus S because my 9700 grew cumbersome. I'm rushing back home with this Dakota but with the knowledge that it is still lacking in features that premier devices should have in 2011. This is not a future-proofed device but it's good enough for me, for now.
BBM needs to develop a video chat feature. Even if it is WiFi only like Face Time, that would alleviate pressure on Canadian servers and probably make the service smoother until LTE blankets north America.
Come on, RIM. I'm gonna come back home but you have to give me a reason to stay.
Why is a front facing camera such a big deal?
The forward-facing camera is important for two reasons, in my opinion. The first is that it is one means of communication that is very likely going to be a big part of the way we interact in the future. I can tell you that I have personally seen my friends cry because they were able to see their kids faces while talking. Also, I recall sitting in rush hour traffic once, and I found out that my brother was hurt while working. Being able to video chat with him and see his face was a tremendous relief. It's different from simply speaking or texting. Nonverbal communication is a tremendously important facet of human interaction. We speak volumes with our faces. Ever had a misunderstanding due to somebody being sarcastic in a text or email?
The issue here is that the technology isn't really ready for video chat yet. Even over what everyone calls 4G, apps like Tango are frustrating to use. Face Time uses WiFi, and that feels restrictive, but when you want to see the other person's face, nothing beats video chatting. Even if it's just for a moment. We're in an age now where we communicate so intimately. That's the direction we're heading. Video chat is a part of that. Once technology can support it, those who have been calibrating their apps will win out. RIM will ignore this at their own peril.
Secondly, video chat integration is symbolic in that RIM can show they are not behind the times. They are hounded by how they're perceived now. Even with decent specs, people condemn their hardware. They have achieved what I consider perfection in their form factor, yet people want them to change. I say don't change, just add more designs.
This is why video chat is significant. It is not some overhyped fad. It really is important for a number of reasons to both the consumer, business professionals, and to RIM.
Totally disagree. it is an over-hyped fad. I know several people that have iP 4 and they never use the video chat, never. Additionally I've never seen anyone use it in places like starbucks etc. so if you are only using it at home, use a laptop, it's probably 100 times more comfortable than holding the phone in front of your face.
Anyway go back to the first line... they never use it, never.
It's a phone. Hold it to your ear and speak and continue to look at what's going on around you.
People who say that personal electronic devices today are only for calls and email are really beginning to sound like those who felt DOS was fine and Windows was unnecessary. No one is suggesting that video chatting and walking is a good idea, just like no one thinks texting while driving is a good idea. There's a time and place for everything. If your message was sarcastic, sorry to miss the tone.
Great Post!!!
Don't let these short sided yahoo's steer ya wrong. A Video chat client via BBM would be a great idea and very widely used througout the world
We're not short sided or ignorant. We're just stating that it's not a necessity. It won't serve you any good if you can only access it through Wi-Fi.
Happy to see it look more like the best BB ever the 9000. Personally I like the smaller looking 9700 when it comes to look and because I am currently on the 9700. That being said, a new BB that takes the form of the 9000 should make people excited about future devices. The 9000 is the most talked about device ever and I expect a lot of people getting the Dakota, especially with touchscreen, just an added bonus to a classic form factor and the best keyboard ever.
Sweet!
Now my mind is made up... Definitely waiting for this to come out instead of getting the 9780!!! Cannot wait!!!
As for a front facing camera... If I want to see the person I am talking to (or them see me) I will use my computer I don't have that long of conversations to care to see the person while using my phone.
P.S. Love how it is resting on a Mac!!!
I am a Blackberry/MacBook Pro user myself.
My next phone defo! whats up with the back cover? No leather 9000 stuff? DAYUM!
Anyway, cant win all the time..
Hopefully a third party manufacturer will come out with some leather battery covers. I see a huge demand for them.
Looking good, looking good! Always loved the look of the 9000.. This one really looks like it fits the bill. I wanit!:D
Does anyone know if this is the Dakota or Montana?
The Montana & Dakota are the two different names for this design, depending on whether or not you get the GSM or the CDMA version.
Sprint better be rocking this by Q3, I like this look (& so does the wife).
This looks like it is the PERFECT BlackBerry ,,, as if they made it just for me. I love it already.
Can't wait. I'm due for early upgrade in August and Normal upgrade in December, but I'd buy this thing outright if they released it tomorrow. It's going to be a long few months waiting for this. This is what Blackberry should have released instead of the girly little 9780 with the tiny keyboard!
the front looks nice but the back looks kinda awkward and cheap with the plastic battery door and the random edge around the door... i preferred the fake leather doors and less platiscy feel.....
Agree!! PLEASE RIM BRING US THE LEATHER BATTERY DOOR BACK TO THE BATTERY COVER!!!!
Amen!
The leather looked way better than that fake carbon fibre look.
Agreed. The "carbon fiber" looks cheap an gimmicky.
The leatherette battery door is indicative of the Bold line. Keep it.
What's with the codename of Montana in the heading of this blog but in the 3rd sentence it says codename is Dakota? Lol don't mean to seem picky but just an observation.
Two different codenames because the Montana is the CDMA version. Dakota for GSM.
Hey Kevin something for ur next podcast front facing camera on the next Blackberry phones i want u to talk about that
Seriously man, if you are the type that wants a front facing camera don't tell you are NOT getting a playbook. Once you have the playbook you have the front facing camera.Why bother with two?
I really hope Verizon gets this phone <3
and how about front facing camera the new devices should have this too come on rim full video calling on your BB
Does no one care about LTE? If RIM doesn't want to continue loosing market share, this phone needs to have QNX and LTE. RIM is way behind and getting further...
No, they really don't. Let me guess, you have and love an Android?
AT&T won't even start an LTE network until the end of the year, and they're already at speeds that max out a lot of phones hardware as it stands. The Verizon LTE network is still pretty small and won't be sizeable enough until a year or so from now, at which point there will be new phones. Why not skip the LTE radio considering it's limited use and relative expense at this point? As far as I can tell, it's the same reason there's no front facing camera: The amount of use it gets is minimal and it's basically just for show. It's the same reason I don't see any use behing an N Wifi radio. Cellphone hardware isn't even capable of handling G speeds, what good does having N speeds do you?
And as for QNX, they said it's not ready, and we haven't even seen it in the hands of consumers yet, so why should it already be on a phone?
RIM may be "behind" but they're selling more phones than ever and have only lost market share because in the last year the market has literally doubled and the number of competitors has vastly increased.
about the face camera now everyone know bbm is the best right so why not give us a video callin option over wifi as a new bbm feature
i hope so!!! thats a good idea
No I don't have an android. I've used them before, but I prefer Blackberry and have been a blackberry loyal customer for over 5 years. I'm with Verizon who already has a good working LTE network in 38 cities and 60 major airports. Almost all the places I live and work across the country are already covered by VZW LTE.
As for N Wi-Fi, i couldn't care less, but when other phone manufactures are releasing phones with LTE as we speak, it’s a little disappointing that Rim's future phones that won’t even be out for a while don’t have it.
Is it wrong to want more from my favorite smartphone company? Would it be better if I was like you and loved everything they put out even when it is outdated 6 months before launch?
Most of the world won't have LTE for years.
Oh baby! I looks D-luxe! Really nice. I have no idea what ppl are bitching about when it comes to how it looks. It's a beaut!
What's with the fuzzed out "Brand" in the picture of the backs of the phones??? Regardless... Definitely my next BlackBerry!!! Will go great with my PlayBook!!!!
I was thinking the same thing about the blur. Maybe a new name? I too would love to pair this with a Playbook.
It has its plastic protective cover still on .
if you look closely, it looks like the fuzzy word says "brand"
Keyboard plus touchscreen (I know there's a torch but that's a slider) this is perfect
Can't wait to replace my 8900. Lol. Please let this come out by June 2011.
Can't wait to drop my torch nd get the new bold. Looks physically sturdy, nd luxuries.....aka my type ( h )
Looks a bit like the 9000. Super exited!!
omg! that's MY PHONE!
This is the best. Let's do it RIM and release it in May so we can use it with our Playbook.
Is it just me or is that a rehashed Bold 9000 design?
That's kinda the point. The 9000 form factor is what we've been asking for for the last couple years.
No Blackberry has fit better in the hand and been easier to type on than the 9000.
Pages