Offering Blackberry in a more svelte package, the RIM 7100 is popping up in the mobile portfolios of UK operators. The latest incarnation is the O2 RIM 7100x, a business-oriented version of the handset featuring RIM’s innovative two-letter-per-button keypad. While the button layout takes practice to get used to, the design squeezes Blackberry push-email functionality into a candybar handset weighing a pocket-friendly 120g. The piano-black 7100x is aimed at the mobile professional, whereas the grey Vodafone 7100v has a consumer look.
Messaging comes first and foremost, with O2 offering corporate users access to the Blackberry Enterprise Server to have their emails “pushed” directly to their phones, without having to download them from their network server. In addition, the Blackberry Internet Service lets you integrate up to ten business and personal web-based email accounts within your handset. PIM organising software and an Internet browser complete the package.
The quad-band phone is GPRS-enabled for getting online across the globe. Bluetooth is on-board for wirelessly connecting to handsets, handsfree car kits and laptops. Equipped with 32MB flash memory and 4MB SRAM, the 7100x offers an estimated battery life of 4 hours talk time and 8 days standby. In contrast to O2’s powerful but portly XDA series, the 7100x is an attractive option for professionals who want a messaging device that can comfortably double as a mobile phone. The O2 7100x is available from free depending on contract, and pricing starts at £99 (inc. VAT) for connection to the Blackberry Enterprise Server.
