Press Release

BLACKBERRY INTRODUCES THE FIRST SLIDER PHONE: BLACKBERRY TORCH 9800

 

Phoenix, AZ: October 4, 2010

The Torch is Blackberry’s first slider phone. Sliders, a technology once thought outdated, have been revived to bring this multi-faceted phone to life. The vertical slider incorporates a full blackberry keyboard, as well as a 3.2’’ touch screen display. Yet, this is only the first of a long list of new features the phone incorporates. The phone features an upgraded 5MP autofocus camera with flash and video, the new Blackberry 6 operating system, next generation messaging, 3G Broadband network, and much more.

The Blackberry Torch is to be sold exclusively through AT&T in terms of US carriers, however, international carriers such as Rogers, Telus, Bell and Virgin are all slated to release the Torch in due time. It is still unclear if other networks will acquire a version of the Blackberry slider or if AT&T has locked down this style as they have with the iPhone.

The reason for the exclusivity is because AT&T is largely responsible for the mere existence of the Torch. After extensive research AT&T revealed that there was a vast market of people who felt the need for a keyboard, and with Blackberry often referred to as “Crackberry” it was obvious which manufacturer to combine forces with in order to target the most immense audience. After two years of research and creation, Blackberry and AT&T rolled out a phone that was leaps and bounds above all other phones available.

The Torch, while an original, is still immediately recognizable as a Blackberry. Its design resembles that of the line of Bolds available. Though it’s heavier than other phones at 5.7 ounces; that adds to the appeal providing a sense of luxury in that quality material was used to build this device. The phone itself offers the most of the usual Blackberry buttons, minus the usual left side convenience key of most BB devices. The phone also features the optical track pad rather than the roller ball of older BB devices.

Blackberry has also upgraded to the first proper touch screen rather than the SurePress technology used on their other touch screen phone the Storm. This touch screen masters the techniques seen on other successful touch screens, such as the iPhone, supporting gestures like: pinch, slide, touch, hold and double tap.

The new Torch unleashes a surplus of features that will have any smart phone user giddy with glee. These phones are sure to fly off the shelves.