The Evolution of the Blackberry

By Rita Lambros-Segur, M.H.

In the world of mobile communication, there are plenty of ways that the public approaches their methods of contact with family, friends, and co-workers. Today, it is now becoming increasingly popular to utilize gadgets and items that go beyond allowing one to make a simple phone call. This is especially seen with the current line of Blackberry products on the market.

While companies race to make the slimmest design, highest-end multimedia capabilities, and present the latest creations, Blackberry technology has a reputation for being one of the best in the business.

The latest technology associated with the Blackberry line of products involves a Research in Motion (RIM) brainchild that pushes the envelope in wireless email capabilities by providing the ability to easily communicate worldwide. A full QWERTY keyboard and trackball navigation located in the center of the device moves beyond the Blackberry Pearl design. One of newest features associated with the Blackberry name is the enhanced built-in GPS technology. Now, driving direction services are offered through TeleNav. A satisfying multimedia player is also included.

Another addition to the many great features a Blackberry delivers is the light sensor-sensitivity that allows automatic screen, keyboard, and trackball adjustment that accommodates varying levels of lighting conditions. This comes in handy when a user wishes to send or receive emails in dark locations. The built-in GPS allows consumers to reach their intended destinations without using a separate device.

Additional features associated with the BlackBerry line of products include an Intel PXA901 312 MHz processor, 64 MB flash memory, and 16 MB SDRAM. Some BlackBerry gadgets can be fully integrated into a company's system through the installation of a BlackBerry Enterprise Server. The new 8800 model has also helped to push the number of BlackBerry subscribers to 8 million.

Brief Evolution of the Blackberry
When the wireless handheld device known as the BlackBerry was released to the public in 1999, consumers were met with a variety of capabilities, including text messaging, Internet faxing, mobile telephone, email, and web browsing. The Canadian company, Research in Motion (also known as RIM) tapped into a market that thrived on innovative communication advancements.

The first Blackberry models presented a small monochrome screen with the 800-series, which worked on a network that only allowed consumers the use of email and WAP (Wireless Application Protocol) services, followed by the capability to engage in AOL instant messaging.
The "Quark" 6000-model line soon trailed, offering a medium 160 x 100 pixel monochrome screen. This would later become the first examples of an integrated Blackberry phone that would showcase integrated two-way radio abilities in the 6510.

With the production of the 7250, the screen provided 240 x 160 pixel color capabilities and now allowed consumers to benefit from Bluetooth technology. The phone would highlight integrated two-way radio power in the 7510 with the introduction of GPS in the 7520. The increase in Blackberry speed became a reality as the "Pearl" 8100 showcased a new trackball interface with a 1.3 MP camera, speakerphone, GPS, Bluetooth, and polyphonic ringtones.

The model also provided an enhanced media player. The latest – "Gamma Ray" 8800 was the first Blackberry to offer screen capabilities of 320 x 240 @ 65K. The 8000-line also produced the 8300 model, which upped the camera potential with 2.0 MP features.

Learn about blackberry's latest perks and software features at: http://www.blackberry-software.biz Blackberry Software.