BlackBerry Curve 9360

Announced earlier this year, the BlackBerry Curve 9360 is an entry level smartphone running on BB 7 OS. The handset retains the candybar QWERTY form factor that RIM is known for, but does this model get it right in other areas, too?

Upside

The compact Curve 9360 is supermodel skinny. At 11mm thick, it's even slimmer than its predecessor, the Curve 3G. Compared to the 4-inch behemoth smartphones out there, this handset's pocket size is a breath of fresh air.

It also now boasts an updated design that we like. For example, its back cover now comes in a glossy plastic finish instead of texturized rubber. The buttons are completely black, which makes the handset look more expensive than it really is.

In reality, the Canada-based company's Curve series of smartphones has always consisted of entry-level models, and the 9360 is no exception. After telco subsidies, the device should be quite affordable.

Downside

Like the Bold 9790, the Curve 9360 comes with a 5-megapixel camera that is only able to record VGA videos. Although this is an improvement over the Curve 3G's 2-megapixel camera, the lack of 720p HD video recording is definitely a downer.

The device is powered by an 800MHz processor, which we're skeptical will be sufficient for a smooth user experience that's seen on the higher-end Bold 9900 and Torch 9810.

Finally, RIM has said that current BB 7 OS devices will not be able to support its next-generation operating system due to hardware restrictions. BB 10 OS is likely to be released early next year, and BB 7 OS users may find themselves stuck with the platform for the duration of their telco contracts.

Outlook

Based on its specs, the Curve 9360 is an entry level smartphone that may appeal to BlackBerry fans, or those looking to upgrade from a feature phone. Although it does not boast high-end features like the Bold 9900, it will probably be an attractive proposition if paired with the right carrier plan.