TORONTO - Research In Motion Ltd. is set to launch a new BlackBerry smart phone that can access both Wi-Fi and cellular networks.
The new BlackBerry 8820 will be RIM's first dual-mode smart phone -- allowing users to link to a wireless connection while still receiving a phone call from their cellular network -- and its thinnest with a full keyboard.
Waterloo, Ont.-based RIM said Tuesday the new device will be available from select wireless carriers around the world in the coming weeks. AT&T is scheduled to launch the BlackBerry 8820 in the U.S. later this summer.
RIM is one of a number of technology companies coming out with the dual-mode devices. As well, the new BlackBerry is coming out weeks after the much-hyped release in the U.S. of Apple's IPhone, which can handle phone calls, e-mail, web browsing, music and videos.
"The BlackBerry 8820 is an extraordinary business phone for people who really care about mobile communications and productivity,'' said RIM president and co-CEO Mike Lazaridis. "The BlackBerry 8820 complements our carrier partners' cellular networks with the added ability to stay connected via Wi-Fi at home, through hotspots and corporate campuses.''
The new device also features GPS satellite navigation, plays music and videos.
RIM said last month its number of BlackBerry subscribers grew by about 1.2 million during the first quarter to about 9.2 million.
The company's stock has climbed 37 per cent since June 28 when it announced first-quarter earnings grew 73 per cent, blowing past analyst expectations, due to the increased subscribers and sales.
The company's market capitalization recently reached US$42.3 billion, placing it above its much larger competitor, Motorola Inc.
RIM shares (TSX:RIM) rose $4.19 yesterday to close at $240.29 on the Toronto Stock Exchange.
