Connectivity on the Blackberry 9700 Bold
The new BlackBerry 9700 Bold is a bulked up, cleverer business-based smartphone from the masters of that particular genre, RIM. Amongst its new features, which include the new BlackBerry operating system, are many decent additions that will please old fanatics and new customers alike. However, it is the three-pronged approach to connectivity that will make the 9700 a particularly appealing and versatile tool and BlackBerry phones are fast losing their business-only image in favour of a more rounded, marketable feel.
The first interesting aspect of the BlackBerry 9700 Bold connectivity is the 3.5G network compatibility on offer. This includes HSDPA connectivity where available and allows for the fastest mobile internet download and upload speeds of the current generation. 3.5G is used across many of the 9700’s functions, but its main application will be to provide the user with high speed access to the internet wherever they are. 3G networks now cover the vast majority of UK locations, with most operators offering 90% coverage or more and with a drive continuing towards universal 3G coverage within the next two years or so. 3G provides significant speed advantages over the current 2G networks, with web pages loading extremely fast and file downloads shifting up a gear. You should also be able to use a 3G data connection to stream video and music from the internet. It is worth pointing out that using the 3G connection will eat into any agreed mobile data tariff that your network enforces and could cost you extra if not managed properly.
If you want to give the 3.5G connection a rest, then the BlackBerry 9700 Bold connectivity options are fleshed out by the inclusion of Wi-Fi connectivity. The 9700 is compatible with 802.11 b and g wireless networking standards, which means it will be able to connect to the majority of wireless networks that you are likely to encounter on your travels. Wi-Fi hotspots litter the UK in their hundreds of thousands and virtually every home with a broadband internet connection now has a wireless network provided by a router. Most businesses and virtually every train, hotel, pub, bar and café will also grant you access to Wi-Fi, which of course the 9700 will be able to use. This can allow even faster connections than 3G and since it will not take a chunk out of your monthly data allowance it is the perfect way to stay in touch during your lunch break, for quick browsing on the commute or whilst at home.
The final BlackBerry 9700 Bold connectivity option is provided by the built-in GPS receiver. In conjunction with the BlackBerry Maps application, which has detailed mapping for most areas, you can pinpoint your location, plan a route and check up on local services. BlackBerry also encourages users who will require the GPS regularly to download one of the third part mapping applications. There are several professional apps out there that provide advanced features such as 3D mapping, turn by turn navigation, voice instructions and even real-time traffic updates. The GPS can be used in conjunction with these apps to turn the 9700 into a highly competent satnav device that is as functional as standalone GPS units.
All of the BlackBerry 9700 Bold connectivity options are useful to anyone who decides to pick up a 9700 Bold. However, there are obvious benefits for businesses that are intrinsically linked into improved connectivity. The already excellent email functions of BlackBerry handsets are improved by the high speed data connections offered 3.5G or Wi-Fi and the GPS can be used to help track the movement of resources and dispatches, aiding with logistics and improving productivity.
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