BlackBerry RIM Pearl-8130

The BlackBerry RIM Pearl-8130 is the CDMA version of the popular BlackBerry Pearl smartphone. With a design that is perfect for business and multimedia support, the BlackBerry RIM Pearl-8130 is the perfect phone for a variety of individuals. With a stylish exterior and enough features to make even the most advanced tech junkie envious, the BlackBerry RIM Pearl-8130 is a great choice for a variety of people. However, there are a few drawbacks that set this otherwise impressive device back.

The BlackBerry RIM Pearl-8130 was first announced in October 2007 as a CDMA version of their popular device. Being a CDMA phone, the BlackBerry RIM Pearl-8130 cannot be used in many places outside of the United States, so global roaming is a no-go. However, taking advantage of the CDMA network does have the positives of high data speeds. The BlackBerry RIM Pearl-8130 uses the EVDO rev.0 network for high speed 3G data transfer.

Measuring in at approximately four inches by two inches by half an inch and weighing only 96 grams, the BlackBerry RIM Pearl-8130 is a large device – but not very heavy. Perfect for the purse or the sport coat pocket – but not necessarily for a pair of tight fitting jeans.

Unfortunately, the battery life for the BlackBerry RIM Pearl-8130 is poor. Expect to get only three and a half hours of talk time and 216 hours of standby time. Considering some of the other devices in this class of smartphones, the BlackBerry RIM Pearl-8130 performs poorly in the battery life department.

The BlackBerry RIM Pearl-8130 includes a main screen that measures 240 by 260 pixels, but it lacks advanced color support, as it is restricted to 65k colors.

The camera on the BlackBerry RIM Pearl-8130 leaves something to be desired, allowing for only 2.0 megapixels. However, it does provide video support, includes a flash, and has a 5x digital zoom.

As far as multimedia features go, the BlackBerry RIM Pearl-8130 has quite a few positives. Video and audio playback in a huge variety of formats is supported, as is expandable memory thanks to microSD support.

Other features include WAP Internet access, SureType keyboard, Bluetooth support, a huge phone book, an alarm, a calendar, a notepad, a calculator, a to-do list, full voice commands, email support, and GPS support.

Pros

• Loads of features
• GPS
• 3G Support
• Attractive design

Cons

• Poor battery life
• Somewhat expensive
• Phone tends to lock up after extensive use

Overall

The BlackBerry RIM Pearl-8130 is a great phone with a lot of features. However, the short battery life as well as a few problems with freezes and lock-ups makes the BlackBerry RIM Pearl-8130 a problem for some. Overall, if you are looking for a high tech phone and you love the BlackBerry brand, this is the device for you. Otherwise, you may want to check out other devices from companies like Apple, LG, Nokia, or Samsung.