RIM developing 2G-only BlackBerry 9000?
updated 08:15 am EDT, Mon May 5, 2008
BlackBerry Niagra Leak
Research in Motion is reportedly developing a close variant of the BlackBerry 9000 that will be scaled down for legacy networks, says BGR. The device codenamed "Niagra" will drop its HSDPA-based 3G Internet access in favor of the EDGE on most current BlackBerries; the design will also be slightly less exotic with a thicker, non-chrome trim and a different back.
RIM is still expected to give the new model most of the remaining features of the full 9000 model, with Wi-Fi and potentially GPS included alongside a full headphone jack. A release date for the simpler BlackBerry isn't available but isn't expected to appear before the 9000; the phone may appear as a T-Mobile device to accommodate the current lack of HSDPA on that network, and may also serve as a lower-cost alternative to the 9000 on some other networks.
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Aug 2007
Code name Viagra...
That's what I first thought the name was since Niagra as in falls is spelled Niagara. Who knows? Maybe this BB will act like Viagra for those that use it. But we'll see how many people start saying this handset is junk because it's not using 3G. Like having 3G is such a big deal for texting. RIM is wise to give users a less expensive alternative solution with probably longer battery life.