BlackBerry Pearl with Wi-Fi Coming to T-Mobile USA

T-Mobile USA has just announced plans to offer the RIM BlackBerry Pearl 8120, a consumer-oriented smartphone with Wi-Fi.

BlackBerry Pearl 8120 (view large image)

This follows close on the heels of T-Mobile's launch of the BlackBerry 8820, a similar but larger model that also includes Wi-Fi. Both support this telecom's HotSpot @Home service, which allows users to make unlimited free wireless phone calls over a Wi-Fi connection.  Naturally, they also function as regular phones, too.

Pearl vs. Pearl

The 8120 is an updated version of the very popular original BlackBerry Pearl which T-Mobile has been offering for well over a year.

Like its predecessor, it is smaller than most of RIM's other products, and doesn't include a full QWERTY keyboard. Instead, it uses this company's SureType system, in which each key handles two letters. This has been improved in this latest model, and offers word completion, spell check, and easier editing of misspelled words.

Other improvements include a 2-megapixel camera with video recorder, a externally accessible microSD/SDHC memory card slot, and a 3.5 mm headphone jack.

Pricing and Availability

T-Mobile USA said today that the BlackBerry Pearl 8120 will be available April 14. However, this telecom didn't announce what it will charge for this smartphone.

This device was recently introduced by AT&T. 

Related Articles:

• BlackBerry Pearl 8120 with Wi-Fi Debuts from AT&T
• BlackBerry 8820 Comes to T-Mobile USA