Roadmap leak reveals BlackBerry Curve Touch, OS 6.1 features
updated 08:30 pm EST, Thu January 27, 2011
Devices said to be headed for CDMA networks
Research In Motion appears to be working on a new touchscreen handset, code-named Malibu, that shares a similar shape with the existing Curve. The mystery device will allegedly arrive with the official name Curve Touch, sources have told CrackBerry. The leaked roadmap, which is tied to CDMA offerings, suggests the smartphone is targeted to ship in the first quarter of 2012.
The company has plenty of time to adjust the specs before the Curve Touch would begin production, though the device is rumored to maintain entry-level hardware such as an 800MHz processor, 3.25-inch display with 480x360 resolution, and a five-megapixel camera that will not support HD video recording.
Aside from the Malibu, the roadmap also includes a CDMA variant of the rumored Bold Touch, which is temporarily labeled the Montana. Other adaptations appear to be the Monaco, which is reportedly the CDMA version of the Storm3 that was detailed in recent leaks, along with the Sedona, which reportedly matches the GSM-based Apollo.
The sources added to BlackBerry OS 6.1 details with new information pointing to "liquid graphics," a feature claimed to improve the user experience, and a revamped browser that takes advantage of faster processors and hardware acceleration. Users will reportedly be able to configure the homescreen with a deeper level of customization, while the universal search is said to be voice activated.
The Montana and Monaco are both placed on the roadmap for a third-quarter introduction, ahead of the Sedona. A release date for the OS 6.1 update remains unclear, however it may ready for one of several mobile expos scheduled this spring.
Curve Touch
