Question

I would like to know what RIM stands for. Also, I have been using smartphones, but never a Blackberry.

I am interested in the Blackberry Bold but do not need pushmail. Does that make it pointless to have the Bold?

My other options are the Nokia N97 and HTC Diamond2. What is your opinion of the Bold compared to these two?
Submitted by

Answer

RIM is an abbreviation for Research In Motion, which is the name of the company that makes BlackBerry smartphones. We have the perfect guide for newbies to the BlackBerry software. This will help you get started on the operating system and lets you know what you can do with it. Read our Getting started on a BlackBerry help story here.

Although BlackBerry smartphones are famed for their robust email handling capabilities, the recent crop of devices has proved to be very competent multimedia players as well. So even without pushmail enabled, you still have a capable smartphone with keyboard that's one of the best in the market.

We've reviewed the Nokia N97 and HTC Touch Diamond2 recently. The N97 packs a truckload of features, but we find the keyboard difficult to use and the S60 software dated. The reason for the latter is because there are very compelling alternatives from competing camps the likes of Apple and HTC.

The Touch Diamond2, on the other hand, was awarded our Editors' Choice. We like the TouchFlo 3D interface, stylish design and sharp WVGA display, but were slightly disappointed that it didn't come with a 3.5mm audio jack and turn-by-turn GPS software. It is also slightly expensive. The biggest difference between the Diamond2 and the N97/Bold is the lack of a physical QWERTY keyboard. In addition, the Bold doesn't have a touchscreen unlike the other two.

That said, all three smartphones are capable for different reasons and I strongly recommend that you read our reviews to find out more. I think eventually this boils down to how much of a discount you're able to get from your operator. That may help you reach a decision.