Basic Tips for Choosing a BlackBerry

 

So, it’s time to upgrade your cell phone.  You’ve done some research, and decided that you want a BlackBerry smart phone.  But with all the options to choose from, which one is right for you?  Here are the main things to consider when choosing a BlackBerry.
Who’s Your Carrier?
If you plan to stick with your current carrier, your choices may be limited to what that carrier offers.  If all your options are open, do some basic research on factors such as a) coverage in the areas where you’ll be most often; b) available plans (minutes, data, text, and cost); and c) terms of contract or service agreement.
Check Your Timing
Before buying a phone, check BlackBerry forums online (such as Crackberry.com) for new product announcements.  A new model with advanced features may be introduced in a few weeks, and you may decide to wait for it.
On the other hand, technology is advancing so quickly that there’s always going to be a new and improved model coming “soon”.  So if the model you want is available, and you don’t really need the new features, go for it.
What Features Do You Want and Need?
There are a number of different features available on different BlackBerry models. What different operating systems are available?  How much training and tech support is available for new users?  Is support available 24/7 by phone or live chat, or do you have to wait for an email exchange?
There are two types of keyboards: QWERTY and SureType.  The QWERTY keyboard is the standard full keyboard (with smaller keys).  With SureType, multiple letters are assigned to each key.
There are also different styles of pointing devices.  Depending on the model, you can choose from a trackball, a trackwheel, or a trackpad.
Other available features include camera, GPS, and WiFi.  Some businesses may not allow cameras.
If you have specific apps in mind, you may want to make sure they will work with the BlackBerry model you choose before finding yourself locked into a multi-year contract with the wrong phone.
Finally, you may have the option of choosing different colors for your blackberry (while some models are only available in black).
Some carriers allow a 30-day trial period, so if you find that you’ve chosen the wrong model, you do have the option of changing models.  However, it’s a lot less bother to choose the right one in the first place, so you don’t have to move information and apps from one phone to another.