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Technology Thailand

Where Thais and technology clash

by Jesada Chandraprasert, Thailand

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BlackBerry 8520 Gemini make its entrance in Thailand

Oct 4, 2009 10:36

Yet another entry into Thailand's flowering smartphone market, the BlackBerry 8520 is now officially available for RSVP from AIS. Over the past year, BB has been gaining momentum, especially in urban areas like Bangkok. However, this growth is not entirely in the business sector as many consumers, especially the younger hip crowd, have been gobbling up these once business-oriented devices.

Recognizing this trend, AIS offers tiered service packages varying from 30 baht per day for prepaid customers to the 600 baht unlimited BIS package, to the 1,800 baht full-blown BES package.

AIS currently has three models on sale via its network of shops and service centers, which include the BB Bold, Storm and Curve 8900. Not surprisingly, these devices have been made available at twice the price of what you can normally find on Amazon.com under "international version". However, if you're willing to forego an official warranty, you can head out to MBK and pick up a "privately" imported BB for about half what AIS is asking for.

As with any rule, there are exceptions.

It would appear that AIS is selling the Gemini at a lower profit margin than it does with other models when comparing pricing from western carriers. This could be due to the perception of this model being a poor man's BB. Specifications-wise, the Gemini comes in a close second to the 8900 in the Curve line. As many have said before, the Gemini seems set to replace the aging 8300 series, but that is dependent on carrier plans as many operators are selling this side by side with current 8300 models. Aside from the low low price, what puts this model apart from other units is the introduction of an optical trackpad which replaces the traditional BB trackball.

There are mixed reviews about this feature, but I suspect this will simply come down to user preference. Another first is a dedicated media key which takes you, not surprisingly, to your media collection. Songs, clips and photos can now be accessed at the touch of a single key. But because it's a less expensive device, you'll only be getting a 2-megapixel camera without flash, no GPS, a slower processor, and a 320 x 240-resolution screen. Not surprising considering that it is nearly half the price that AIS is asking for the 8900.

However, looking at gray market prices, the Curve is being sold at about 15,000 baht vs. the 8520's 13,500 baht price. The difference in pricing in western markets is also very minimal, so you'll have to wonder how successful this will be in the grander scheme of things due to the much better-spec'd Curve 8900 being just a bit more to own.

Gray market 8520 units are being sold for about 13,500 baht at the moment, but once AIS starts to deliver its lot, you can expect the pricing to come down substantially. Why would anyone buy it on the gray market just to get it cheaper by 400 baht and not get a warranty, right?

AIS is accepting RSVP for the Gemini until October 20, with a November 1 delivery date. 2,000 baht cash gets you on the list, with the rest payable when picking up your device via CC or cash. As an added incentive, the first 300 people to RSPV one will receive a complimentary set of travel speakers. You can visit the official 8520 site for more details.

As for me, I'm going with the Curve 8900.