RIM BlackBerry 8830 World Edition

Based closely on the BlackBerry 8800, the RIM BlackBerry 8830 World Edition (or alternatively the BlackBerry 8830v) is a dual-mode CDMA/GSM version of this popular messaging device.

Dual-mode GSM/CDMA handsets are very rare, one notable one being the Motorola A840, but the this approach allows subscribers to US CDMA networks (such as Verizon) access to more common GSM networks when roaming abroad. Yes, certain carriers in the US (such as T-Mobile) support GSM in the United States, but this lack of roaming functionality has always put CDMA-only networks at a disadvantage.

This is a dual band 800/1900 MHz CDMA2000 device with support for 1X EVDO high-speed data, plus the BlackBerry 8830 World Edition supports 900/1800 MHz GSM with GPRS data. In contrast, the BlackBerry 8800 is a quad-band GSM device with GPRS and EDGE. The BlackBerry 8830 switches seamlessly between GSM and CDMA (according to Verizon) and subscribers will keep the same phone number where ever they go.

As far as we can tell, the rest of the 8830's specifications are identical to the 8800 - with the familiar messaging systems, personal information management functions, Bluetooth, excellent QVGA screen, expandable memory, media player and GPS support. This last function is another interesting feature in the 8800 series of BlackBerries, but as yet the GPS functionality is limited to a few location-based services.. but then the 8800 has only been around for a couple of months and we still wait to see what other applications can be developed for it.

Special thanks to Mobilegazette.com for this story !