vB Easy Archive - New Wi-Fi-Enabled BlackBerry Pearl 8120 Released for AT&T

Pages: 1

New Wi-Fi-Enabled BlackBerry Pearl 8120 Released for AT&T
(Click here to view the original thread with full colors/images)

Posted by: danny.boi

Yahoo Finance Link

"The BlackBerry Pearl 8120 from AT&T delivers the full power of the BlackBerry platform in a sleek and stylish handset that is ideal for both business and personal use," said Mark Guibert, vice president, Corporate Marketing at Research In Motion. "With a range of hardware and software enhancements, including built-in Wi-Fi, the BlackBerry Pearl 8120 is an ideal choice for customers who want a new phone with powerful communications and multimedia features in an incredibly small candy bar design."

The BlackBerry Pearl 8120 also features impressive multimedia capabilities, including a 2-megapixel camera with video recorder(1), an advanced media player, a 3.5-mm stereo headset jack, externally accessible microSD/SDHC memory slot for additional storage and Bluetooth® 2.0 with support for headsets, car kits, stereo headsets and other Bluetooth accessories. The BlackBerry Pearl 8120 also provides support for Wi-Fi 802.11b/g networks, allowing business customers to extend the BlackBerry platform to public hot spots(2), corporate wireless local area networks and home Wi-Fi networks while maintaining their existing BlackBerry security architecture.

The global capabilities of the BlackBerry Pearl 8120 handset from AT&T complement AT&T's industry-best domestic and international wide area wireless data coverage. The BlackBerry Pearl 8120 can keep users who are abroad connected with wireless e-mail, Internet access and other mobile applications through data services in more countries than any other U.S. carrier, with data-roaming in more than 145 countries. Customers can also use the BlackBerry Pearl 8120 to make or receive voice calls in more than 200 countries.

Pricing and Availability

The new BlackBerry Pearl 8120 from AT&T is available for business customers now for as low as $199.99, with a two-year contract, unlimited data plan and $39.99 voice plan. Customers who want personal e-mail access and Web browsing with BlackBerry® Internet Service can choose the BlackBerry Personal Unlimited data plan for as low as $30 a month with a qualified voice contract. Unlimited corporate e-mail and data access via BlackBerry® Enterprise Server are available for as low as $45 a month when a qualified voice plan is also chosen. Customers who travel overseas can select the BlackBerry International Unlimited data plan for as low as $65 a month with a qualified voice plan.

The BlackBerry Pearl 8120 also supports AT&T Mobile Music(TM) subscription services and AT&T unlimited Push to Talk for walkie-talkie-like communications for an additional $9.99 a month with a qualifying voice plan.

The BlackBerry Pearl 8120 handset is powered by AT&T's nationwide(3) EDGE network -- the largest high speed national wireless data network in the U.S. -- with availability in more than 13,000 cities and towns and along almost 40,000 miles of major highways.

Posted by: nm1k0

i think that i may have to pick one of these up.

EDIT: darn i just checked and its not up on my premier yet.

Posted by: Mr. Bond

Did anyone else notice that it's following the same design scheme as the 8100, instead of switching to the newer design found on the 8130's?

Posted by: penpower

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mr. Bond

Did anyone else notice that it's following the same design scheme as the 8100, instead of switching to the newer design found on the 8130's?

Are you referring to the keypad color (white) or the whole design? I found the keypad is a bit of turnoff for many new bb users, I hope they use regular bb keypad color (black) or at least match with rest of the phone.

Posted by: penpower

Quote:

Originally Posted by nm1k0

i think that i may have to pick one of these up.

EDIT: darn i just checked and its not up on my premier yet.

Yeah, still not showing on my premier too. Has anyone seen it yet?

UPDATE1: it is now up on my premier. However, it is listed as $249 with no rebate available. Where is the $199 price with rebate?

link to current rebate form is down, and I highly doubt it that they will update the rebate form just with this new addition since current rebate form is good until april.

UPDATE2: now it is $199 with $50 instant rebate with activation.

Posted by: ivwshane

Can anyone explain the reasoning for wifi on such a small device?

Posted by: nm1k0

its up on mine now too.

hmmmm choices choices choices.

now i need to decide if i should get the pearl and ditch the curve or not.

Posted by: penpower

Quote:

Originally Posted by ivwshane

Can anyone explain the reasoning for wifi on such a small device?

One reason I could think of is UMA, and many new programs are starting utilizing wifi too, such as jivetalk.

Posted by: ivwshane

Quote:

Originally Posted by penpower

One reason I could think of is UMA, and many new programs are starting utilizing wifi too, such as jivetalk.

Who would you use that with and why?

Posted by: Prom1

Quote:

Originally Posted by ivwshane

Can anyone explain the reasoning for wifi on such a small device?

UMA for personal usuage or PBX for corporate usuage.

UMA - you're on your way home - walking/driving - and you're within <300Ft from your WiFi AP. You're within range and within about 1min or less You're securely connected (to the AP & AT&T; like TMobile USA uses) and you're phone call is handed off seemlessly. Internet & Voice calls "MAY", and I do mean MAY, be unlimited! This GIVES you the benefit of saving your daytime minutes, Internet access for apps is somewhat faster, and possibly less overage charges while roaming around the US.

In turn AT&T Can reduce large daytime minute packages ie 1000-3000 daytime minutes are reserved for bigshots & corporate users here in Canada), and if its taken up as a large scale consumer usuage then they can reduce network load for data & voice calls , ensuring less calls are dropped and data speeds increasing and more steady as a stream.

PBX capability - this allows for corporate users, that have an office extension, to be reached at that extension wherever they are (board room, off campus site meetings, shopping with the kids/family but are still on call for emergency or reporting etc). Business users can setup specific Ringtone & visual/vibration alert for the Corporate line when connected to WiFi range (and setup call forwarding to the cellular line when NOT in range), so that a call from an unknown cell line gets a different kind of response from a known extension within the company. HUGE benefit for company's like Motorola, BNSF, United Railway, Boeing, Lockheed, etc, with coporate extensions outside a province/state even though the area code is different (ie I dial ext#: 54862 to reach a person in Management Ops whether I'm in Kansas City TX or Kansas City KS.)

Posted by: skytrack

Wow. Is this the first BlackBerry with OS 4.5 installed?

Update: I just placed my order with Premier. I'll let you guys know when I get it.

Posted by: ivwshane

Quote:

Originally Posted by Prom1

PBX capability - this allows for corporate users, that have an office extension, to be reached at that extension wherever they are (board room, off campus site meetings, shopping with the kids/family but are still on call for emergency or reporting etc). Business users can setup specific Ringtone & visual/vibration alert for the Corporate line when connected to WiFi range (and setup call forwarding to the cellular line when NOT in range), so that a call from an unknown cell line gets a different kind of response from a known extension within the company. HUGE benefit for company's like Motorola, BNSF, United Railway, Boeing, Lockheed, etc, with coporate extensions outside a province/state even though the area code is different (ie I dial ext#: 54862 to reach a person in Management Ops whether I'm in Kansas City TX or Kansas City KS.)

I can see that as a plus for corporate users.

As far as using it as a way to save your minutes, the amount of people that would even know how to setup a system like that is minuscule.

I guess my real question is how does this phone fit in with the direction att is head with it's phones. I thought having a GPS option was more in line with where they are headed.

Posted by: aneftp

Quote:

Originally Posted by ivwshane

No, I do not see ATT taking advantage of any Wi-Fi VOIP like UMA unless they plan on charging $30 extra per line.

I have both ATT and Tmobile and would love a UMA type of connection on ATT but UMA is very flaky on Tmobile. It has not caught on with Tmobile cusomers even with incredible $9.99 family UMA plan.

I'm shocked also. I thought they would have a GPS option on the pearl but maybe, ATT thought the pearl was a little too small to take advantage of GPS functions and people wouldn't want to get a GPS capable phone with such a small screen.

Posted by: nrvna76

any idea how long it usually takes phones to get to the regular website after premier?

Posted by: skytrack

I just got an email from premier saying my 8120 shipped today. Should be here by Monday.. Local stores didn't report having it in stock.

Posted by: phillip_hall

I don't understand the need for GPS on a phone now. With all that is out (TOMTOM, and many cars have it...) Would the wi-fi allow web browsing, that would be my "want" for it. Maybe GPS is more for Biz people...

Posted by: briareus

Quote:

Originally Posted by ivwshane

Can anyone explain the reasoning for wifi on such a small device?

Why is the size of the device relevant? Are you saying that people don't browse the web on the Pearl or use any other data services?

What's the cutoff size-wise where WiFi is applicable, in your opinion??

Quote:

Originally Posted by phillip_hall

I don't understand the need for GPS on a phone now. With all that is out (TOMTOM, and many cars have it...)

Well, then don't get it. Those of us that do understand at least have the option of getting it.

I mean, that may sound harsher than what I intend but when I consider features unnecessary I just don't let them factor in as heavily as the features that do matter to me...

I don't understand lugging around an entirely separate device and all the requisite accessories -- especially when traveling. One of the major points of the BB for me was convergence.

Obviously, YMMV. In any case, at least RIM gives people options. As for the carriers -- that's a different story.

Posted by: j14nelson

I've been dieing for this phone since I heard it was in the making, but I don't have a Premier account. I'd be willing to tip someone if they purchased one for me and sent me it? It wouldnt event affect your contract. I want the outright price, but with the premier discount. Someone please help me out.

Posted by: skytrack

I received my 8120 from Premier today and WOW it is the best Blackberry I have ever used.

First off: the web browser and on-screen fonts are significantly improved over previous versions. Literally its night and day... BB Alpha Sans looks very good.

The wi-fi feature is a huge improvement over EDGE data and makes web browsing significantly faster (google maps, blackberry messenger and others work via the wi-fi connection too.) As an 8310 Curve owner, I think its fair to say the wi-fi inclusion on the Pearl is a better feature than an added GPS chip, but I suppose it depends on whats more important to you.

As for the exact color of the phone, its a very dark blue that could easily be confused as black when not in sunlight.

Factory firmware installed: 4.3.0.91

Let me know if you have any other questions.

Posted by: celtictech

Sounds like the wifi is a great improvement.

Do you know if the service books are installed, like on the curve? If you put a regular sim (without the BB data) into it can you access the medianet browser & MMS?

Posted by: anubis9278

a little confused here....did anyone get a email about a BB 8110 to be release in may? are they seriously going to sell a 8120 by a 8110.

Posted by: j14nelson

What did you pay for the 8120? Its $250 for me, but with an upgrade, or like $427 outright? I'm not due for the upgrade, so $420+, is it even worth it?

Posted by: 7mecca

blue? eh. when is it coming in black?

Posted by: mbranscum

Quote:

Originally Posted by skytrack

the web browser and on-screen fonts are significantly improved over previous versions. Literally its night and day...

Can you post some screen shots showing the improved fonts???

Posted by: redskins22

Quote:

Originally Posted by danny.boi

Yahoo Finance Link

"The BlackBerry Pearl 8120 from AT&T delivers the full power of the BlackBerry platform in a sleek and stylish handset that is ideal for both business and personal use," said Mark Guibert, vice president, Corporate Marketing at Research In Motion. "With a range of hardware and software enhancements, including built-in Wi-Fi, the BlackBerry Pearl 8120 is an ideal choice for customers who want a new phone with powerful communications and multimedia features in an incredibly small candy bar design."

The BlackBerry Pearl 8120 also features impressive multimedia capabilities, including a 2-megapixel camera with video recorder(1), an advanced media player, a 3.5-mm stereo headset jack, externally accessible microSD/SDHC memory slot for additional storage and Bluetooth® 2.0 with support for headsets, car kits, stereo headsets and other Bluetooth accessories. The BlackBerry Pearl 8120 also provides support for Wi-Fi 802.11b/g networks, allowing business customers to extend the BlackBerry platform to public hot spots(2), corporate wireless local area networks and home Wi-Fi networks while maintaining their existing BlackBerry security architecture.

The global capabilities of the BlackBerry Pearl 8120 handset from AT&T complement AT&T's industry-best domestic and international wide area wireless data coverage. The BlackBerry Pearl 8120 can keep users who are abroad connected with wireless e-mail, Internet access and other mobile applications through data services in more countries than any other U.S. carrier, with data-roaming in more than 145 countries. Customers can also use the BlackBerry Pearl 8120 to make or receive voice calls in more than 200 countries.

Pricing and Availability

The new BlackBerry Pearl 8120 from AT&T is available for business customers now for as low as $199.99, with a two-year contract, unlimited data plan and $39.99 voice plan. Customers who want personal e-mail access and Web browsing with BlackBerry® Internet Service can choose the BlackBerry Personal Unlimited data plan for as low as $30 a month with a qualified voice contract. Unlimited corporate e-mail and data access via BlackBerry® Enterprise Server are available for as low as $45 a month when a qualified voice plan is also chosen. Customers who travel overseas can select the BlackBerry International Unlimited data plan for as low as $65 a month with a qualified voice plan.

The BlackBerry Pearl 8120 also supports AT&T Mobile Music(TM) subscription services and AT&T unlimited Push to Talk for walkie-talkie-like communications for an additional $9.99 a month with a qualifying voice plan.

The BlackBerry Pearl 8120 handset is powered by AT&T's nationwide(3) EDGE network -- the largest high speed national wireless data network in the U.S. -- with availability in more than 13,000 cities and towns and along almost 40,000 miles of major highways.

awesome!!

Posted by: bigb252

I'm thinking of getting one. How is the camera? The 1.3mp one was good anyways...

I've never dealt with BB plans, how much would it cost?

Posted by: nrvna76

Wife just got her 8120, Have a question about the WiFi

She had an 8100 with no data just voice, (she likes the software and syncing to work calendar)

But now that she can use the WiFi she wants to. I know that ATT doesnt charge for the WiFi, but what can she do when connected at home and still not get charged any data?

Just trying to avoid a $400 cell phone bill next month.

BTW, the phone was $350+tax no commitment pricing
it is very similar to 8100, card slot on the side is a huge improvement
havent messed with the camera yet, havent had it long enough to speak on battery life, trackball is slightly different I think she will like it better than the 8100, comes with headphones and a carry sleeve thing

Posted by: Michael95GT

Quote:

Originally Posted by anubis9278

a little confused here....did anyone get a email about a BB 8110 to be release in may? are they seriously going to sell a 8120 by a 8110.

I haven't seen an email but I read on another site that the 8110 would be out in May. Same phone but with GPS instead of WiFi. Why can't they just release one with both and be done with it. I considered getting a Pearl(8100) for a weekend/backup but I want my GPS, I use it more on weekends than any other time; so I backed out. I've got no need for WiFi.

Posted by: Michael95GT

Quote:

Originally Posted by celtictech

Do you know if the service books are installed, like on the curve? If you put a regular sim (without the BB data) into it can you access the medianet browser & MMS?

I'm interested in finding this out too.

Posted by: nrvna76

they just havent found a way to fit WiFi and GPS in the Pearl form factor yet

Posted by: bigsho

Quote:

Originally Posted by j14nelson

What did you pay for the 8120? Its $250 for me, but with an upgrade, or like $427 outright? I'm not due for the upgrade, so $420+, is it even worth it?

i just bought one outright off my OLAM on att.com/wireless.

It was $350 total then it said i was eligible for the $50 MIR So $299 net after rebate

Posted by: jja28

This may be a dumb question....but is wi-fi free, as in 100% free when using it?

Does it depend where you're getting your signal from (home router, Starbucks, hospital waiting room, bus, etc)?

Is a data plan required to use wi-fi? For example, can I use wi-fi at home for free (since I'm providing the network connection) or does AT&T cut me off if I don't have a paid for data plan?

Posted by: Michael95GT

Would someone please stick a regular SIM(No BB data) in their 8120 and see if you can send MMS.

I know several people becides me would like to know.

Thanks in advance.

Posted by: bimmerd00d

Quote:

Originally Posted by Michael95GT

Would someone please stick a regular SIM(No BB data) in their 8120 and see if you can send MMS.

I know several people becides me would like to know.

Thanks in advance.

Doesn't work on Sprint/Alltel either. MMS on a Pearl would be a nice addition.

Posted by: dsjr2006

Obviously not since it is a GSM phone not CDMA.

I'm getting one though since my iPhone is toast and I'd rather wait for the next iPhone than pay to replace this one even though I love it.

Posted by: TheFuzz

So, I just ordered two of these puppies! Very excited, one for my wife and one for me!!! I am not getting any blackberry plans though as I ordered them on someone else's upgrade program. How will the lack of blackberry plan affect the usefulness of the device? I know I can not use the push email service of the blackberry, but will I still get all other functionality?

Posted by: mbranscum

Wirelessly posted (Nokia 6620: BlackBerry8310/4.2.2 Profile/MIDP-2.0 Configuration/CLDC-1.1 VendorID/102)

Quote:

Originally Posted by TheFuzz

So, I just ordered two of these puppies! Very excited, one for my wife and one for me!!! I am not getting any blackberry plans though as I ordered them on someone else's upgrade program. How will the lack of blackberry plan affect the usefulness of the device? I know I can not use the push email service of the blackberry, but will I still get all other functionality?

Someone correct me if I'm wrong but I don't believe the wifi will work without a BB plan.

Posted by: TheFuzz

Quote:

Originally Posted by mbranscum

Wirelessly posted (Nokia 6620: BlackBerry8310/4.2.2 Profile/MIDP-2.0 Configuration/CLDC-1.1 VendorID/102)

Someone correct me if I'm wrong but I don't believe the wifi will work without a BB plan.

That would be an odd thing? But, still not a big thing I guess. I have a work blackberry (7100i) so I use that for most everything including email and web. But my wife needs a good reliable phone and one she can text on till her fingers bleed!! So, this is why I got it for her. She doesn't care about any other feature really. As for me, I have my work blackberry for everything except occasional personal calls and texting.

Posted by: PhoneRegular

Anyone found the 8120 is a lot faster at file transfering than older pearls? I sure did. It take 45sec to transfer 650MB file (including a bunch of MP3 and 2 movie clips). I didnt even use the card reader. Simply USB cable connection! beautiful!!

I like to watch movei on my phone during my everyday commute to work. It saved alot of time in the morning to transfer new movies and songs.

Posted by: cop35758

Why is this not available to all customers?

Posted by: cozz36

Quote:

Originally Posted by mbranscum

Wirelessly posted (Nokia 6620: BlackBerry8310/4.2.2 Profile/MIDP-2.0 Configuration/CLDC-1.1 VendorID/102)

Someone correct me if I'm wrong but I don't believe the wifi will work without a BB plan.

I can't say if you're right or wrong, but it sure doesn't seem right. WiFi works from a wireless router so it's just between your phone and router and not your provider. I've got a 8525 that I put an old SIM in just to use the WiFi in it. I've never used it as a phone. If you want to see if the WiFi in the 8120 works without a plan, just stick in an old SIM and try it out...and let us know.