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Group MemberI wrote this review when I first got my BlackBerry 8830 about 6 months ago... This is my third BlackBerry. I started almost 5 years ago with the 7510, then after two years I traded up to the 7520. I had virtually no problems with either one. They were both rock-solid, robust business tools, but frankly, both had zero "WOW" factor. When the 7520 developed a software glitch, I couldn't get it resolved after a couple hours' worth of discussions with Sprint/BB Customer Service. It was a minor problem but an irritant to me, so I mentioned that my contract was up, and that my colleagues were all using another carrier. They switched me to a different person who suggested I look at the new 8830. I liked what I saw. The screen is bright and colorful, almost plasma-like. It's very bright and much easier to read than the older models, and photos and attachments (like .pdf and .doc) open easily and are much easier to read.
The TrackBall is a welcome improvement over the roller wheel and select button on the older models. It is located right where it should be for easy, one-handed operation. I got used to it in just a few minutes.
I've gotten used to the full QWERTY keyboard over the years, and even though my two previous BBs were rather larger because of it, the ease of composing and responding to Email were worth the extra bulk. The 8830 is thinner and lighter, and I have no problem with the slightly different keyboard. I'm an old dog and I just don't want to bother with learning a new keyboard. Some of the BB models have the smaller "intuitive" keyboard, but I'm happy with the full QWERTY. The 8830 has speed-dial programming and voice activated dialing, as well as speakerphone capability. Of course it has the PIM tools you expect, including a calendar, a tasks list, a memo pad, an alarm, and a calculator. You can always download more applications. The BlackBerry Desktop software makes it quick and easy to synch the BB to my Outlook Calendar, Tasks and Contact database.
I totally love the fact that you can plug the included USB cable into your laptop, and your BB 8830 becomes a wireless modem. I plugged it into my new Acer Ferrari (an amazing mini-laptop) and although I haven't logged a lot of time on the modem function yet, the Sprint network seems to be quite speedy. It will definitely come in handy when I travel, and now I can forget about getting an "Air Card," which will save me a muncha bunny.
The Bluetooth® works great. I have a Plantronics Voyager 500 headset, which is light and comfortable, and allows me to use both my BB and my office phone. I doubt I'll ever need it, but for you globe-trotters, it has dual network capability, so you can use this one device inside the U.S. and while traveling outside of North America. The phone supports both CDMA and GPRS/GSM networks . Generally, I have little use for GPS capability, but if you're in an unfamiliar area, you can zoom in on neighborhoods and see street layouts, even without the extra-cost BlackBerry maps and other location-based services.
In summary, I guess it's just a matter of preference or being familiar with what you know. My move to the BB 8830 has been great so far. I have yet to run into any problems. I'll be attending the National Association of REALTORS Conference next month, and I'll be able to put the modem function through its paces.
If you're looking for a smart phone that is light, intuitive and easy to use, I can highly recommend the BB 8830. People who aren't familiar with it are impressed, and I must admit, the "WOW" factor gives me a chuckle.
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Group MemberI could have written this review, and as I read it I thought I did! I have a Blackberry Curve (I think that's the 8830) with AT&T. What you have written is my experience exactly with one exception. I had no idea about using this device as a modem! That is way cool!
If you don't mind, can you elaborate on what is necessary to achieve access to the Net? Is it just plug in and go?
Thanks in advance
Garrie O'Neill
Group MemberI get this service through Sprint; don't know who else offers it. You download a software program from their site, then plug your BB into your laptop as if you were synching, and run the software. It connects to the mobile broadband signal and you're hangin' 10! You can't receive calls while you're online so you should check for voicemail when you're done. I've used it on trips and at the airport. Very cool!
Group MemberMy name is Jeff Tipton ABR, CRS, GRI, Associate Broker in Gilbert, Arizona, and I currently have a Verizon Treo Wondows 700w, and I am looking to purchase a Blackberry Pearl in the next week or two.
I am always taking out Buyer's and need a connection to my internet e-mails when I am showing properties. Is this a good phone in your estimation?
Jeff Tipton
RE/MAX Power Realty
Group Member
Jeff,
I've used the 8830 for about a year now switching from a TREO 700P. I've used Palm devices since the Palm III and TREOs since they Verizon began offering them.
I only wish I had switched to a BlackBerry Device before! The screen in bright and clear, texting is easy and my email is delivered to the 8830 quickly. I had reception problems with the TREO to the point that I count not use it at home however, that isn't a probmem with the 8830. I use it everywhere in the house including my office which is in the basement. Still the same provider, Verizon, but much better telephone.
My only complaint is that messages with embedded links to accept or reject BPOs from vendors dont' work. I dont' know if this is function of the vendors message or within the BlackBerry browser. I've spoken with agents using Windows devices and this doesn't seem to be a problem. Daily I lose the opportunity for BPOs because of this problem.
Paul Bowling
Keller Williams Select REALTORS
Annapolis (Anne Arundel County), MD
Group MemberRobert Bass said,
I get this service through Sprint; don't know who else offers it. You download a software program from their site, then plug your BB into your laptop as if you were synching, and run the software. It connects to the mobile broadband signal and you're hangin' 10! You can't receive calls while you're online so you should check for voicemail when you're done. I've used it on trips and at the airport. Very cool!
I have the same service through Verizon however, it is an additonal $15.00 per month in addition to the web access fee. Total is about $59.00 / month which includes web access, email and the use of the 8830 as a wireless modem. This was also offered with the TREO devices through Verizon.
I don't know if it is in the setup or the provider but I CAN receive phone calls while I'm online. I don't know if voice and data will work at the same time but when I take a call it doesn't kick me off the data network. This is a great feature that I use almost daily. Saves $$ in hotels that charge for internet connections (Marriott, Hilton - are you listening).
Paul Bowling
Keller Williams Select REALTORS
Annapolis (Anne Arundel County), MD
Group MemberCouldn't function without it!!!!
Tried two Trio's and a Moto Q...HATED them!
bill
Group MemberI am so impressed with my Blackberry that I can't put ist down.
- My calendar display my appointments at the tip of my fingers in .
- Maintain my contact phone and email lists of clients and others
- Take pictures of my listing before and during the appointment.
- Never missed important emails. Read and send emails anytime.
- Keep up with the lastest news through the internet
- Ability to access FMLS to check status on listed properties.
- Use yellow pages to find businesses.
Use TeleNav Maps to locate properties. Never get lost on your way to show properties or on your way home.
Group MemberI also have the blackberry curve 8830(Sprint), the only problem I am having so far is texting pics as sms. I don't like the fact that you have to send it via email. I know friends that have the 8830 with AT&T are able to use that feature(text photo to phone). Other than that, I'm enjoying my blackberry.
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