In a nutshell: The BlackBerry Bold is the best BlackBerry
yet, although its size and weight mean that it's for serious users
only. If you're a serious user, you'll love the full keypad, outstanding
email support, high-res display with user-selectable fonts, 3G HSDPA,
1GB of built-in memory, WiFi, satnav and many other features. Best buy:
*Free* with half-price line rental from Mobiles.co.uk
(Clearance) or free from Vodafone
Business Shop.
Review:
September 2008. Updated November 2009.
At last - A 3G BlackBerry! Whilst BlackBerry is
the undisputed king of mobile email, the lack of 3G in its devices
was beginning to look very obvious. Enter the BlackBerry Bold, with
full support for HSDPA-enabled 3G, making fast data transfer a reality.
No more waiting while email attachments are sent!
The BlackBerry 9000 Bold takes the best of everything
that BlackBerry has previously produced, and adds in 3G. It's also
the biggest and heaviest BlackBerry, so is suitable only for heavy
duty users. Weighing 136g, it's very slightly heavier and thicker
than the BlackBerry 8820, which
it replaces. In practice you can't tell the difference in size between
the two devices. Despite its size, it's an attractive design, with
its shiny black and silver finish, and some nice curves to (literally)
take the edge off its bulk. The benefit of having such a large device
is that there's plenty of room for a full QWERTY keypad, so there
are no compromises here when it comes to the ease of text entry.
The keypad combined with the trackball together provide the best
UI that we've seen for serious emailers and texters. We're also
delighted to see that BlackBerry have increased the resolution of
the display from 240 x 320 pixels on previous models to 480 x 360
pixels on the Bold. With a 65,000 colour transmissive TFT LCD and
user-selectable font sizes, this gives the Bold one of the best
displays available, with only the iPhone
offering a higher resolution.
The advanced phone features include a speakerphone
and conference calling. With voice activated dialling and a Bluetooth
headset, it's capable of fully handsfree operation.
Email is BlackBerry's forte, and the Bold fully
supports all email standards:
Push email (messages are delivered automatically
to your smartphone and you can be notified as soon as they arrive)
Works with BlackBerry® Enterprise Server for
Microsoft® Exchange
Works with BlackBerry® Enterprise Server for
IBM® Lotus® Domino®
Works with BlackBerry® Enterprise Server for
Novell® GroupWise®
Integrates with an existing enterprise email
account
Integrates with existing personal email account
Integrates with optional new device account
Web-Based Email Access (AOL Mail, Windows Live
Hotmail, Gmail or Yahoo! Mail)
You can view attachments
in the following formats: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, PDF, WordPerfect,
HTML, zip.) WordToGo and SlideshowToGo let you edit Word and PowerPoint
files. Security is given full attention, with password protection
and a keyboard lock, plus full support for encryption when using
BlackBerry Enterprise Server to access data.
The Bold also incorporates some fun features, in
particular the camera and media player. The camera is rated at just
2 megapixels, so this is no replacement for a digital camera, but
it can take snaps and video clips. The media player offers light
relief between meetings, and can play music and videos. Software
is provided for ripping music off CD's and for synching your phone
with your PC. In common with previous BlackBerries, there's a 3.5mm
headset jack, so you can plug in any third party stereo headphones
- a feature that's still surprisingly rare in the mobile phone world.
GPS navigation is also included, and works with Blackberry Maps.
This is another welcome feature, and can in principle be used as
satnav for a car, but perhaps a more obvious use is navigating around
a city by foot or public transport, as most Bold users probably
already have a proper satnav system in their car.
BlackBerry have also done the right thing when
it comes to memory, equipping the Bold with a full 1 GB of built-in
memory, plus 128 MB of flash memory and the ability to expand this
further by adding a microSD memory card. This gives plenty of space
for storing and working with data, and is what a device of this
power needs.
Connectivity options include WLAN (802.11a/b/g),
as well as Bluetooth 2.0 and USB.
The battery life is not quite as long as the BlackBerry
8820, due partly to the larger screen, and partly to the fact
that it's a 3G phone. However, we don't anticipate that this will
be a major problem, provided that you charge the phone regularly,
and condition the battery properly at the start.
All things considered, we love the BlackBerry Bold.
It was fairly obvious what BlackBerry needed to do to bring their
devices bang up to date (add 3G, a higher resolution screen, more
memory and a faster processor), and they've done precisely that.
The result is a brilliant communications device and all round PDA.
Highly recommended. If you can live without the 3G network and would
like a more compact device, then we would also highly recommend
the BlackBerry 8900. However we
have noted that several of our users have reported the Bold's tendency
to drop the 3G signal. We believe that this is a network issue that
is not present in sim-free handsets, and can possibly be fixed by
updating your sim card or talking to your network.
Features
of the BlackBerry Bold include:
2 megapixel camera with LED flash and video
recording
LCD display: 480 x 360 pixels, 65,000 colours
Media player (Supports MP3, WMA, MIDI, AMR-NB,
AAC/AAC+/eAAC+, 3GP formats plus partial DivX support)
Messaging: SMS, MMS, instant
messaging, push email with attachment viewer
Built-in speakerphone
Voice dialling
Voice memo recorder
MP3 ringtones / 32 voice polyphonic ringtones
GPS with BlackBerry Maps
Personal organiser functions
Vibration alert
Internet: Web browser, RSS feeds, GPRS,
EDGE, HSDPA (3.6 Mbps)
Connectivity: WLAN, Bluetooth 2.0, USB, RIM
wireless modem, 3.5mm stereo headset port
Quadband GSM (1900/1800/900/850 MHz) plus UMTS
(2100/1900/850 MHz)
Talktime: 5 hours
Battery standby: 312 hours
BlackBerry
Bold Consumer Reviews
Love
your mobile? Hate it? Please share your experiences to help other
people choose the phone that's best for them. Please do not review
this phone if you have not used it. This is a review site, not a
forum, so please don't just ask questions. Please do not use swear
words or offensive language, and please, no advertising!
Reviewed by Gugs from UK on 11th
Aug 2009
This is the best phone I have ever owned. Had it for a week so far
on Orange and no problems whatsoever. Flawless! Rating:
Reviewed by Kagan Ergul from Turkey
on 10th Aug 2009
I really cant understand how you people can say this phone is rubbish!!!!
most probably you dont know how to use it... Its the best blackberry
so far.. Rating:
Reviewed by Haz from Uk on 8th
Aug 2009
After years of boredom, with nokias and the rest, I got the BOLD,
and what a bold decision! Love the phone and and everything about
it! Even the charger is Bold, where you dont have to worry about
adapters if you travelling just take the appropriate smart adapter
and your done! If you are unsure, get the phone and be amezed, believe
me you wont regret it! It does exactly what it says BOLD! Brilliant Rating:
Reviewed by Ali from UK on 8th
Aug 2009
Best phone I have ever Had. Get one and c ur life take a turn for
the better! Amazing piece of kit. Rating:
Reviewed by John from UK on 7th
Aug 2009
Just been lumbered with a BB 9000 Bold as a works phone. I like
it so much that I plan on leaving in its box and will carry on using
my trusty Nokia. What a piece of junk. Its awkward, cumbersome and
so user unfriendly, I have a funny feeling it may meet with a mishap
;-) Call me old fashioned, but I just want to punch a load of numbers
in a speak to someone, why make it so complex !!! Anybody want it
? Rating:
Reviewed by lamar from usa on
7th Aug 2009
I love my bb. This is the best thing that has ever Happen to me.
All you haters of the bb, I would like To kno how many times have
you dropped ur phone ha ha Ha ha. If u drop it a lot bad things
will happen.take Care of ur 500 dollar I do. Rating:
Reviewed by Roger from UK on
31st Jul 2009
QUITE SIMPLY, THE BEST PHONE I HAVE EVER HAD!!!!! Rating:
Reviewed by CHRIS G from UK on
30th Jul 2009
As a phone - dreadful. Had it six months and waiting for an exchange.
Phone calls are a nightmare - tricky to explain but imagine a conversation
where you stop mid sentence every few seconds and carry on a few
words later - thats what I hear all the time, as does the person
on the pther end. Plus, it freezes up continually. Waiting for an
exchange. I have had to take out the batt and sim card more times
than anyone reading this has had hot dinners!! Rating:
Reviewed by Karen G from UK on
28th Jul 2009
got this as my upgrade on Vodaphone and not sure I should have bothered,
it's so tempremental, I have never taken the battery out of the
back of a phone so much, it sticks, it turns it's self off, selected
tones change themselves. I really must have got the one made last
on a Friday it's a nightmare Rating:
Reviewed by Robbie Burns from UK on
25th Jul 2009
I recently acquired a new Blackberry 9000 Bold (Vodaphone) for work
purposes. Initially I was seduced by all its geekiness. It's got
push email, a camera that takes video and still pictures, it can
use WiFi, it's GPS enabled so you can see where you are, it's 3G
download capable and it hooks up to the Bluetooth hands free in
the car, the screen looks fantastic. It has everything that your
inner geek could need. But.....I'm coming to the conclusion that
actually it's a bit rubbish. Why? Well all that techno nerdy stuff
sucks the life out of the battery in less than a working day, frankly
that's no good. I have resorted to turning off the WifI and Bluetooth
connections in a vain attempt to extend the battery but the effect
is marginal at best. Not only that but the GPS seems very sulky
indeed and says it cannot see any satellites and asks me to go somewhere
with 'open sky' , even if I'm stood in a field! Maybe I just have
a clunker, perhaps I'm being unfair but none of the nerdy stuff
means anything if the battery is flat. Until this techno beast arrived
I was on an old data only Blackberry and a mobile phone. Charged
up, the that combination would be good to work for at least two
days, sometimes three with light use. It seems we have gone backwards.
It's just a bit rubbish really. Rating:
Reviewed by Gazza from UK on
15th Jul 2009
If you're having isses with the battery running down, turn off bluetooth
and wifi! And don't leave the gps running with either google maps
or blackberry maps, they will suck the juice out of the battery
if left on. Overall internet, txting with BT and Wifi off I can
easily get a few days worth of battery cover without resorting to
a recharge. Using O2 and the coverage is excellent around the UK. Rating:
Reviewed by laszlo shapiro jn. from
new york on 13th Jul 2009
stay out.this phone is even worst than my old bb8900.battery live?10hours.signal
coverage?very bad.freezing issue..get nokia E63 insted. Rating:
Reviewed by Lauren from UK on
12th Jul 2009
i had a blackberry, it was rubbish so i got a e71. they rock! Rating:
Reviewed by Sarah from England on
10th Jul 2009
I'm 17 and this is the best phone I've ever had!! Internet is great..
Battery life is fantastic.. So easy to use to text and send emails..
One word 'AWESOME'!! Definately get this if your blackberry fans
:D Rating:
Reviewed by Annonymous from Jakarta,
Indonesia on 28th Jun 2009
Okay, I've had a bb bold for about 3 months and I am very very happy
with the phone. Internet is great, emailing as well and if you love
chatting, bb bold has it all for you. Ym works great as well. This
phone is the best bb to buy... So far. :) the only prob is the battery
life which is actually understandable since it IS a 3g phone. I
guess it can be fixed in the future but if u just can't be patient
like me, buy a bold! Also I don't know if its just me but the more
time u use ur bb, I noticed the trackball getting quite yellow.
but overall, if you want a blackberry, choose a bold!!! You won't
regret it, I promise! Rating:
Reviewed by chris from australia on
27th Jun 2009
Blackberry bold is the WORST phone i have EVER owned keeps getting
the white screen of death have not been able to get rid of white
screen now for many weeks it is a heap of rubbish Rating:
Reviewed by gary from england on
24th Jun 2009
Had most phones on the market bold is the best yet Rating:
Reviewed by david from trinidad & tobago
on 23rd Jun 2009
the best phone yet. i love it! i can now be in touch with cyberspace,
send texts and listen to good music! Rating:
Reviewed by tim lowe from uk on
20th Jun 2009
100% fantastic Rating:
Reviewed by n from uk on 15th
Jun 2009
had it for 1 wk.... returnd it as battery was no wer as gud to the
nokia e71.... buying a new e71 as i dropd mine into water.stick
to nokia if ur used to them. Rating:
Reviewed by Tareq from Kuwait on
29th May 2009
I enjoy using both of my blackberrys but using the bold is much
better that the curve. Especially for buissnes. Rating:
Reviewed by Ian from uk on 27th
May 2009
I love this phone, it does what it says on the label, was a dream
to set up. I keep my phone in the leather case in my shirt pocket
I set it to auto on at 7 am and auto off at 11pm I get 3-4 days
before having to charge with the wifi and blue tooth turned off,
I get max 2 days if these are switched on. There are new features
such as maps which works well. all in all it was worth the upgrade
from the curve. Rating:
Reviewed by John from Canberra, Australia
on 21st May 2009
Excellent email connectivity on the road which is integral with
our business as mobile field techs. We now pick up and clear jobs
on the fly, customers are amazed at our improved response times.
Bit bulky as a phone but functional. Small looking keys are cleverly
deceptive - really easy to use for a large ham fisted guy like me
to text. WiFi saves mobile data plans when available. In a word
- awesome. Use it what it is designed for - power users - not Utube!
Really good deal on 3 Network - pity they aren't more regional...calls
have had no problems either. Rating:
Reviewed by Paul from UK on 18th
May 2009
Have had 2 Curves previously which were just fantastic, decided
to upgrade, wish I had not done so. Having nothing but trouble trying
to get it to sync with Microsoft Outlook, I have now given up trying,
would seem to be a known problem but not one that is well known
or where a patch is available? Battery life is also poor when compared
to the curve. On a positive the screen is very good, and blackberry
is now getting into apps. It is very good for emailing, made easy
by the keyboard. Rating:
Reviewed by Neil from UK on 17th
May 2009
I was torn between this phone and the curve. Ended up getting this
one and it hasn't let me down! An amazing phone, which is very easy
to use. Email setup was extremely simple as with everything else
on the phone. My only complaint is regarding the battery life -
I have to charge every night, which could get annoying - thats even
when I turn 3g and Wifi off. Another little thing which could grow
more annoying is that the back cover doesn't fit the phone perfectly
- so sometimes when typing it makes a noise. Both of those points
are me just being 'nitpicky'. Ultimately, a great, easy to use phone!
Rating:
Reviewed by Rich from Bournemouth -
UK on 14th May 2009
What can i say, well to begin with this Mobile is without doubt
the best phone i've ever had, nicest screen i've ever seen, easiest
qwerty keyboard i've ever used, enough multi-media devices on the
phone to keep u pleased for ages. Easiest email to set up ever,
3G and Wi-Fi works fantastically well too, battery life very good
too, IF u are sensible and turn off the Wi-Fi and 3G when u aren't
using it, makes the battery life last much longer understandably.
The size, yes the phone is not super small, but it's not that big,
besides what u are carrying is basically a lap-top in your hand,
so all things being considered it's rather tiny really. One down
side of the phone is the camera, but really if i wanted a 5 mega
pixel or above camera i would have bought a decent digital camera,
i wanted a quality smart phone, in which i've got. Will Blackberry
make a phone better than this Blackberry Bold, the answer to that
is obviously YES, BUT NOT FOR A VERY, VERY LONG TIME. Rating:
Reviewed by andy williamson from Wales
UK on 14th May 2009
Have just got this phone and all I can say is wow!! Loved it from
the moment I opened the box. Good screen, easy navigation and excellent
features. I would definitely recommend this to everyone. Rating:
Reviewed by John from England - Bromley
on 12th May 2009
BB Bold, excellant phone, like most new phones it's a computer first
then a phone. Emails arrive faster than my works comp. It's a bit
bulky, but then if I'm out at weekends I take Motorola K1 small
and light and fits in your pocket. During the week my BB Bold does
everything for me, and to overcome the battery life problem I have
a charge at home, in my car and at work so can plug in anytime.
In a nutshell get out and get one now... Rating:
Reviewed by georgie from uk on
11th May 2009
firstly any one who is moaning about this phone must be on a rubbish
network or not using it to its full advantage this is the best phone
for business but also facebook addicts its fast heavy duty cos i
get drunk and drop it still not one problem if u want a fast phone
to get to grips with this is the one the keyboard is sooooo easy
to use roller ball also i was worried about goin wrong but i am
soo suprised after my hell with the nokia n96 ...... bb bolds rule!!!!!!!!!! Rating:
Reviewed by Dario from Oman on
29th Apr 2009
It is the worst investment I have ever made in my life. Blackberry
Bold 9000 is the worst mobile I have ever seem in years. So much
money for the functionality it provides. Difficult to use and no
applications like maps or other stuffs I had for free on my 'stolen'
Nokia E71. Never will recommend somebody to buy BB. Rating:
Reviewed by rob from england on
24th Apr 2009
what can i say about the blackberry bold ? i mean i have had most
phones out there , this is my first blackberry ...one word FANTASTIC.
i would def recommend this phone . briiliant Rating:
Reviewed by Jon from UK on 22nd
Apr 2009
just recieved my new bold today from o2 on a new contract. if you
pester the sales staff on the phone you can get a great deal aswell
- free upfront, 30 quid a month on an 18 month contract with 1200
minutes, 1000 texts and unlimited web and email! i am only worried
about scratching to the silver part of the casing and the screen.
has anyones begun to show any signes of damage prematurely? Rating:
Reviewed by Denim from Uk on
20th Apr 2009
This phone is great by all means. I don't have one but I tested
this out for hours from a friend, and I have Zero problems with
it, this phone is great for emails and web surfing, I wouldn't recommend
this phone for people who is a multimedia addict as this functionality
is short lived. Rating:
Reviewed by john from u.k on
19th Apr 2009
The bb bold is the best phone i have had,works like a dream with
no issues yet on O2. Its an outstanding phone and find it hard to
put it down. Buy It now Rating:
Reviewed by Anthony Stockman from U
K on 7th Apr 2009
I reviewed this nearly a year ago and they have had some software
issues - now resolved. Reliability is now very good. I notice everyone
whinges about battery life, BUT you can dramatically improve this
with a couple of simple tweeks. 1) Go into settings and turn down
the screen brightness from 100 to 10% - YES 10%!! it will still
be plenty bright enough, but makes a significant difference. 2)
Unless you're using it, turn off Bluetooth and WiFi. Just those
simple things will DOUBLE your user time! 3) Buy a spare battery
- I did and get a charging dock from e-bay 12.99 inc postage from
China. all will then be well. Rating:
Reviewed by JT from Venezuela on
3rd Apr 2009
The best phone I´d had so far. Like every blackberry, has some
software glitches. Overall it´s outstanding. A phone one can
use for several years without having to buy the new model. If your
going to buy a phone for work, fin or both I totally recomend this
one. Buy it. Just be aware that one you start using a blackberry
you can become a bb addict. Rating:
Reviewed by mo from uk on 2nd
Apr 2009
I am a new user to the blackberry and by far it has impressed me
very much with the functionality and its capability. One thing I
have to point out though is the blackberry’s music player
it’s amazing I didn’t expect it to be this good especially
when played through the loud speaker. It is so cool to be completely
connected mms sms email Internet trust me when you get the hang
of the blackberry it may take a day or two you wont go back to anything
thing else. However there are a few issues that perhaps blackberry
can iron out one of the problems I have come across so far is that
some time when you receive a call the number only comes up despite
having the contact stored on your phone so you don’t know
who is calling you. The other would be the battery I must admit
I have become an addict and there’s not enough battery power
to quench my thirst so I am carrying around my charger all the time.
I ma with o2 not great for call quality but I havenR 17;t had
any problems with email or the Internet so far. This is by far a
very good phone the only phone to beat this one would be the next
model released by blackberry I do hope that blackberry think of
a way to improve the battery because with a phone that can do so
much not to have enough battery doesn’t do it justice. Despite
all that I have given the phone 5 stars, as there is yet to be a
phone that can do what the blackberry is capable of. Rating:
Reviewed by Aj from UK on 2nd
Apr 2009
I've had the phone for a few months and am very happy with it. Battery
life is ok -- charge up every 2.5 days if not using excessively.
Onece or twice I had to do a hard reboot (take out battery and put
back in), but other than that everything else has been great. The
casing is very well built in my opinion. Keyboard size is perfect
(although I don't have chunky hands). Voice quality is good. Rating:
Reviewed by Tom from USA on 26th
Mar 2009
The "white screen of death" issue happens more often that is understood,
and be advised that at least here in the US ATT is VERY bad about
replacing phones even though it is a known issue. You might want
to ask your carrier how they handle this issue. Rating:
Reviewed by Giles from UK on
24th Mar 2009
JUST HAVE 1 POINT.THE BOLD IS A GREAT PHONE AND EVERYTHING,BUT DO
NOT USE AN ORANGE NETWORK.I USED ORANGE ON MY PREVIOUS PHONE AND
EVERYTHING WHICH IS SAID ABOUT ORANGE ON THIS REVIEW IS TRUE.I AM
NOW USING O2 AND EVERYHTING IS MUCH BETTER. totally recommened the
BOLD. Rating:
Reviewed by Jayant from India on
24th Mar 2009
The Bold is the best Blackberry there is. With great features. The
screen is brilliant, and the sharpest I know. The Storm lacks wi-fi,
the Curve has no 3G. The Bold has it all. Simple as that. Rating:
Reviewed by Ben from UK on 18th
Mar 2009
This is my first BlackBerry and i have been very impressed. Great
phone, loads of features and looks great. I had an i-phone previously
and i would never go back!! Rating:
Reviewed by Darren from United Kingdom
on 17th Mar 2009
This is my first ever Blackberry, I will never go back to anything
else. this phone is amazing it does everything you want and more.
satnav, google apps, facebook, divx player (depends on format) instant
e-mail, sooper quick to type on best keyboard ever, quick responsive
os (not like the windows mobile i had which sucks). the messenger's
BB & live brilliant. love the way it shows ya sms in coversation.
not to mention it can open word docs, excel, and powerpoint, syncs
with outlook contacts and calender perfectly, o yea and make calls,
and a voice dial that actually works better than any iv'e had before.
i could go on all day. the only thing that could be better on this
phone is the camera it's perfectly adequate but i had the SE K850
before and can really notice the difference. although uploading
pics to FB etc is a breeze :-) Seriously recommend this phone!!!! Rating:
Reviewed by Safari Bob from India on
14th Mar 2009
Have now had Blackberry's for more than two years, started with
the 8800 and got that changed to a Bold some months ago. I am travelling
around in the world and the blackberry have more and less replaced
my laptop. Have honestly never had a problem with any of the phones
beside the track ball (pearl) on my 8800 got damaged, otherwise
this I close to be my dream phone, the only thing I am missing is
a good camera with 5MP resolution or above. Have been playing a
bit with the Storm and found the touch screen a bit too slow for
email typing, nothing beats the QWERTY keyboard on the Bold. Great
phone (at least for business). B Rating:
Reviewed by Steve May from New Zealand
on 9th Mar 2009
My 4th Blackberry and this Bold is absolutely faultless as a business
phone. Awesome reception strength anywhere, even in remote places
of the World, great screen and beautiful looking email, it will
be a hard phone to beat. I considered the Storm but I just could
not get on with the touch screen, too many errors when typing, and
I do not have large fingers either. I was way faster on the old
QWERTY. Rating:
Reviewed by Eduardo from Argentina on
9th Mar 2009
The BB Bold is the best BB! And also the best smartphone on the
market. I have also a iPhone 3G, 16Gb...it is a nice toy...or a
great MP3 player, no more than that, very poor battery life. Rating:
Reviewed by Chiswick Singh from UK on
8th Mar 2009
Absolutely classic piece of hardware!!! Rating:
Reviewed by Toria from Oxford, UK on
8th Mar 2009
Booootiful! Just activated mine on Orange and she's gorgeous (I'm
so sad!). It's a lovely handset, the screen quality is fantastic
and it just does everything that it should. It syncs with my Mac
using Pocket Mac (unlike the useless Storm that I'm sending back)
and is just brilliant. No problems with dropped calls or bad signal
but I knew we had good coverage on Orange anyway. The camera may
not be fantastic but it's better than the one on the Storm (and
that's a 3.2 mp camera!) but then this is a PHONE not a camera peeps.
I'd definitely recommend it. Rating:
Reviewed by Mark Buchanan from Jamaica
on 7th Mar 2009
I luv my BB although it does not support flash player. It is a very
unique smartphone. Rating:
Reviewed by Sabre from USA on
3rd Mar 2009
Folks, be WARNED. I’ve had the Bold for four months with AT&T
in the U.S. At least 50% of my calls have dropped and 25% have failed
to connect. After three months of calling AT&T every other day,
I FINALLY got a senior tech tell me that AT&T is having this problem
all over the U.S. The point to problems with the Bold code and its
ability to switch networks. They have no fix or idea when Blackberry
will update the code. SIMPLE RECOMMENDATION – AVOID THE BOLD
until the ‘Beta’ program is over and they release stable
and functional code. [Editor's comment: Sounds like a serious problem
in the US, but I just wanted to point out that this isn't affecting
the UK networks as far as we are aware.] Rating:
Reviewed by Gaz from UK on 28th
Feb 2009
had my Blackberry Bold 9000 for just over a month and I cannot fault
it, best phone I've ever had. Video quality awesome, sound quality
amazing it's got stereo speakers built in! Best phone i've ever
had can't believe I waites so long to get my first Blackberry. Rating:
Reviewed by Richard from United Kingdom
on 28th Feb 2009
I was unsure about all the Blackberry hype and was content with
my O2 Xda`s which I have had every version of last being the orbit
2, but I type a lot in the form of emails and documents while commuting
so was getting tired of not having a keyboard. So I made the leap
to Blackberry I bought the BOLD from CPW because I find certain
devices loose their edge when orange put their own software into
a device, CPW phones are open network devices. I have never been
so HAPPY the BOLD is an outstanding Handset and does exactly what
I need and more. If I was to have a grumble it would be that internet
browsing is not as good as I have seen on an Iphone (my brother
has one) but that's it. By the why Iphone and the Nokia E71 which
are both good rivals to the Bold might boast push email, but NO
ONE can beat RIMs Push Email NO ONE. EMAIL IS BLACKBERRY`S BABY
AND CANNOT BE MATCHED. NUFF SAID. Rating:
Reviewed by daveymac from uk on
25th Feb 2009
got this work of art yesterday its gotta be the ultimate fone on
the market. o2 contact, reception and everything else about it are
superb its my first blackberry and am kicking myself for not using
them right from the off.if your looking for a new fone dont hesitate
go and get a bold u wont be sorry ps stay away from 3rd rate providers
orange vodafone etc. o2 r the best provider out there. no i dont
work for them im an electrician rnjoy ya bold Rating:
Reviewed by Dale Robinson from UK on
22nd Feb 2009
If people have problems with dropped calls and network it is not
the blackberry it is more than likely the fact your sim card is
not a 3g sim card.. I had issues with it at first as my signak went
into SOS i phones o2 who said it was the phone but a little research
and i found its the sim card!! phones up o2 got a free 3g sim card
and phone works perfect!!!! this hone is awesome and beats iphone
anyday. Rating:
Reviewed by Nick Etches from UK on
20th Feb 2009
My first Blackberry (the Bold)the best phone ever,i love it. Had
a problem with 3G but it was due 2 not having a 3G sim. O2 very
helpful with any problems. Email hits my Bold before my laptop,
its incredible. The only downside is Blackberry Bold is NOT compatible
with Parrot handsfree,which i have in 2 vehicles,but the Bold is
worth the inconvenince. I love it. Rating:
Reviewed by Kevin Lendroth from United
States on 13th Feb 2009
Purchased this device when it first came out, and I can hinestly
say it was worth every penny. I have used blackberry's ever since
I started usng cell phones. I had the curve 8300 and then the curve
8310 and now I have the bold. I must say it is the best one of the
bunch. Blackberry really did this one right. From the 3G to the
video player, everything on this phone is great. Everything is user
friendly and easy to use. The processor is outstanding, you can
jump from one thing to the next and not have to worry about lag.
What I also like about the bold is the fact that if you are in a
call and can still use almost everything on the phone, you can read
and send text and emails and surf the web while on a call. And the
word/excell/slide show to go is a great feature for the business
users. I have to say this is the best phone that I have ever owned.
Rating:
Reviewed by badman from UK on
12th Feb 2009
OK been using this device since sept08 and its a wonderful bit of
kit especially as i use it on our corporate e-mail (BES). The video/music
playback is brill and the satnav (Nav4all.com) is truely wonderful
as its FREE and works a treat globally... However there are a few
issues with the hardware, suck as phone randomly turning itself
off, data network is a bit flakely and when dialing numbers sometimes
doesnt connect until after a few tries.... Spoke to Vodaphone and
they were ahppy to ship out a replacement, but still have these
intermitant issues, suppose only a new firmware update will cure
it... Rating:
Reviewed by Dik from Len on 8th
Feb 2009
Beuti Rating:
Reviewed by John from England on
7th Feb 2009
A superb phone. I could write at length about its features and how
it works but the first sentence says it all ! Rating:
Reviewed by Yuri Velasquez from UK on
5th Feb 2009
I had this phone for 5 days as part of an upgrade. If one is a businessman
or politician with loads of scheduled meeting and a necessity to
be in constant e-mail contact. It will suit you. I like photos and
music, so it doesn't suit me. One thing I found annoying when browsing,
was the constant need to keep magnifying a web page. Which became
tricky. My present phone automatically fits the page to the screen.
It is also large and I like to pop a phone into my top pocket. On
the whole I think the phone is overrated. Rating:
Reviewed by ersin from england on
2nd Feb 2009
i think the bold is the better phone i had the storm first and due
to its touch screen the phone has a lot of problems and is not adaptable
or usea friendly the bold on the oher hand is the best blackberry
ever made everything is to detail Rating:
Reviewed by Attiq from Pakistan on
28th Jan 2009
Very good phone and provides all the functionality required for
executive users. However, I think camera improvement is required
and streaming is also not good. Rating:
Reviewed by steve from england on
4th Jan 2009
had my bold for a month on 02, had no problems with connections
etc. Fantastic for emails, screen is really clear, keyboard is so
easy to use, all in all delighted, only complaint is the lack of
flash software available which does restrict some websites Rating:
Reviewed by BRIAN MC from ENGLAND on
1st Jan 2009
Just received mine and what a piece of kit, synced with i tunes,
added a few applications and the build and screen on this handset
are awesome. Sound when playing music is loud and clear and all
in all very very impressed. Got my o2 blackberry bolt on sorted.
Very impressed with my first Blackberry. Rating:
Reviewed by Fi from England on
30th Dec 2008
(Bought beginning of Dec)I have flitted from phone to phone for
a while and have finally found the ideal phone.. It really is amazing,
a great screen; looks sleek and attractive; music and volume great;
such easy access from manouvre to manouvre it just seems to glide.
Qwerty board so easy to use (no more awkward texting).Never mind
all the other things I haven't even mentioned.. It seems to do just
about everything I need, not far off being a lap top in your pocket.
I really couldnt recommend a better phone.. the only down side is
the battery life (but what to expect with so many available things
to do? I cant leave it alone!!)Only other downside is I have had
"white screen" 3 times now,but worst scenario is a replacement of
exactly the same model, as hopefully its just a faulty phone.. I
would really recommend it and dont be scraed of it, so easy to use!!!!! Rating:
Reviewed by john from England on
27th Dec 2008
i cna't find a signal anywhere in my house! so dissappointed! my
service provider confirms i have 100% signal! Rating:
Reviewed by nas_10@hotmail.co.uk from
nigeria on 26th Dec 2008
got sent this phone and a ds with r4 from the uk from my uncle.
its very good. email me at nas_10@hotmail.co.uk for any questions. Rating:
Reviewed by B Patel from UK on
24th Dec 2008
i think the blackberry bold is wonderful, voice activated calling
is a dream especially while you are driving. emails received notification
is a breeze, opens attachments easily whether excel word or images,
it can't handle too large files, i find but it not a great problem.
finding contacts with keyboard is effortless, ask you which number
where there is multinumber entry. Rating:
Reviewed by Danie from Australia on
23rd Dec 2008
Constant dropped calls - max call length about 60 seconds. Randomly
loses the network and returns to 'searching for network' even in
high signal strength areas (as confirmed by the provider). Have
been told the unit may faulty and need to send it in to Optus for
investigation. All the functionality is great, except as a phone. Rating:
Reviewed by this miss from Australia
on 23rd Dec 2008
Very sleek, very reliable. The Blackberry Bold fails to disappoint.
The sound is lovely and real. Rating:
Reviewed by N/A from USA on 22nd
Dec 2008
This phone is amazing! Before the blackberryBOLD I had a iphone.
It is MUCH better then the iphone. There are more feautures to see
and do. Here is my review. KEYS: Great! If you have small, big,
wide, long, thumbs/fingers, don't worry about typing! It's really
smooth and easy touch to type and addictive. CAMERA/VIDEO Quality
is amazing! I've never seen this good quality on any phone. BATTERY:
Yes, the battery isn't the best, but there ARE phones out there
that have worse. Truthyfully, out of all the 5 phones I've had the
battery is really good. MEDIA/SOUND: Amazing also! If you need it
aloud you will get it loud, and I mean loud! TALKING ON PHONE QUALITY:
GREAT. you can hear the person really well. PRICE: A little pricey
but you get your money's worth out of it. worth every single penny
and dollar. INTERNET: Works really well, and is quick. This would
be a good phone for a teenager or adult. My favorite thing is that
you can get Microsoft Word, Excel, and/or Powerpoint, so you can
do your homework if your not by a computer and need one! Rating:
Reviewed by Dale from Wales on
19th Dec 2008
I've been reading through the comments on this page and everybody
seems to be steering away from orange. Well I'd just like to say
I've had my blackberry 9000 for 2 weeks now on orange and everything
is perfect, no drop in connection, internet works fine, e-mail works
fine. Superb servive and phone. 10 out of 10. Rating:
Reviewed by Brian from U.S on
16th Dec 2008
It sucks! Rating:
Reviewed by Jimbo from uk on
11th Dec 2008
Got this phone last night. After O2 finally got the settings sorted
finally can use it for what its suppose to do. One word.......AWESOME.
I cannot fault the phone so far at all, Great screen, good battery,
web is superb great applications. I had a O2 orbit PDA before this
and a samsung G800 both mediocre. Didnt like the keyboard n the
iphone and was concerned about the keyboard on this but have been
blown away. just like typing on a laptop. Cannot fault this phone
hooked up itunes music on it aswell. Rating:
Reviewed by Russell from uk on
9th Dec 2008
HAD THE C902(7/10),C905(8/10),N95(8/10),N96(7/10) THEN I THOUGHT
I WAS SET WHEN I GOT THE STORM(3/10), WELL LETS JUST SAY WHAT APIECE
OF JUNK! HOWEVER I STUMBLED ACCROSS THE BOLD(9/10) ON MY TRAVELLS
THE PHONE MADNESS, AND I HAVE TO SAY ITS AMAZIN IN EVERY WAY! BATTERY
IS GOOD SCREEN EXCELLENT, KEYBOARD AMAZIN QUICK AND EASY, LIGHT
AND THIN> IF YOUR A HEAVY USER LIKE MYSELF GET IT! NOTE REALLY GOOD
FACE BOOK APPLICATION FOR BLACKBERRY MAKES THE PHONE EVEN BETTER Rating:
Reviewed by Steve from UK on
30th Nov 2008
Upgraded to Bold and initially it wouldn't receive 3G at all. Discovered
(on web) others on O2 whose Bolds only worked with a new SIM card.
Got new SIM and this fixed the problem, sort of. I now get white
screen of death about every other day (problem is doesn't self reset
so if I don't notice and take action, ie remove and reinsert the
battery, I stay off line, bad as I'm a doctor on call). Other problem
is a I like to listen to Audible books when "driving" in London
traffic and RIM haven't enabled Audible (digital rights management)
for the Bold yet. Otherwise an excellent phone, good for emails,
loud and clear, easy to use buttons. I'm sticking with it and hoping
for software upgrades soon. Rating:
Reviewed by Al Bolton from UK on
26th Nov 2008
Generally excellent device,though the very poor camera and no flash
support let it down. Rating:
Reviewed by zoe from britain on
24th Nov 2008
dis fone is amazin Rating:
Reviewed by Colin from UK on
23rd Nov 2008
I have had my Bold now for a month and I'm really impressed. I already
had an Iphone which I love, but I wanted a device to tap out fast
email and texts on the go, something you can't really do on Apple's
superb device. Everything about this handset feels quality and expensive,
from the fantastic full keyboard to the magnificent (and I mean
magnificent screen). I have downloaded a few music videos and even
a film to the device and the playback is very impressive. Inside
the phone, I found the operating system very easy to use, much more
user friendly than Nokia N Series devices and with some decent applications.
I wanted to be able to view PDF files on it, so I've downloaded
Beamberry which enables you to do this. I have the phone on Vodafone
and I can honestly say that I have had not one problem with the
3G service. Bad points? Not many, although I do find the PC software
to be a pain at times. Well done Blackberry! Rating:
Reviewed by Kevin from UK on
22nd Nov 2008
Really liked the look of the Storm so got one on Voda at launch,
after lack of signal I sent it back and got a cracking deal with
the Bold via O2 retentions. I find the Bold does everything I need
it to and is the best phone I have ever used when it comes to surfing
the net. Email is as you would expect from any BlackBerry device.
For anyone trying to decide I would say the Storm looks much nicer
and modern but for practical use the Bold wins hands down. One negative
thing is that my handset which is only one week old struggles to
go from 2G to 3G....sometimes I have to pull the battery out and
pop it back in?? Am sur updates will come out in time that will
resolve this. Rating:
Reviewed by steve kilpatrick from scotland
on 19th Nov 2008
My bold is on Orange network In edinburgh it seems to cut out a
lot due to bad signal, My previous nokia no problems. Its good for
getting my emails forwarded and texting. Not good for forwarding
peoples details to others ie "business cards" . Camera is poor but
i new it was not as good as the nokia 95 before i bought it. Key
pad is abit footery to begin with but you get used to it after a
few weeks. Regards steve Rating:
Reviewed by Matt Brown from Uk, Essex
on 16th Nov 2008
I am a proud of the Blackberry Bold (9000) which I purchased on
the 13th November (the day it was finally released on t-mobile).
The phone is as sexy in person as it is in pictures. The size is
quite big but the weight of it makes you not be put off by its size
as its suprisingly light. The features are great as you would expect
from BB and with the addition of wifi, 3g, refined QWERTY keyboard,
high res screen and fantastic multimedia modes you will fall head
over heels in love with this device. The Bold is very similar to
the Storm, which I have had the honor of playing with, and I found
both devices GREAT though my personal preference is the Bold as
I don't think I could consistly use touch screen (I get tired of
using my itouch as it is!). The reason for the long wait for the
phone to be released on t-mobile is simply because t-mobile like
to see what faults may occur on the phone via other service providers
so that they can fix these problems first then make them available
to thier customers. Though this can be extremely annoying when you
have been waiting MONTHS for the Bold (like I have) you have to
appreciate the fact that when you get it you dont have to worry
about having to take it back to the store when the phone wrong in
a matter of days. GREAT PHONE and HIGHLY recommended for anyone
who is a BB fan already or looking to see what all the hype is all
about!!! Rating:
Reviewed by Rudiger from Australia on
14th Nov 2008
The Bold is my 5th Blackberry (nothing wrong, just upgraded each
time). I set these things up for a living and needed to get a bold
as many of my clients have them. I really like the phone, especially
for WiFi. But I have to say I love my Curve.Just certain things
about it really clicked. I will keep the Bold for a week or two
and see if I warm to the interface. Would love to know how to set
the clock to gon on automatically as I dont wear a watch. The hone
itself is stylish and has many great features. Was simple to setup
on my BES and the keyboard is just devine even compared to my Curve
(which I loved). I am on Vodafone in Australia and their service
is good. I am with them as they have great capped plans. As I tell
anyone who contemplates a Blackberry or an iPhone. The higher email
is on your list, the more you lean to a BB. NO ONE does email like
BB. So hoepfully the Bold will pan out, but I am an extreemely heavy
user of all functions, so it will want to pan out well pretty quick. Rating:
Reviewed by Adam Toms from UK on
14th Nov 2008
hello everyone this is the best blackberry i have owned its amazing,
to enhance batery life make sure gps is off, and also press and
hold mute button sets it into standby mode, and i have noticed an
extra day or so battery life, im getting 4days out of it. It's amazing! Rating:
Reviewed by Mark from England on
7th Nov 2008
Hello Guys, Have to warn you away from Orange, Had the phone from
launch, had numerous signal dropping problems, as it was my first
blackberry, they told me that is unique to the Blackberry ( i know
i am an idiot for believing them. Things got worse with the phone,
all Orange would do is give me a curve until it is fixed and then
replace it. That was 4 weeks ago and heard nothing and get fobbed
off on the phone. I have no idea how long Orange can do this to
me. But my point is.. dont buy it from Orange, as other comments
say, i have read there is no problem with Vodaphone network and
the phone really is good apart from this major issue. If anyone
wants details then happy to oblige. Rating:
Reviewed by Ben Derkink from The Netherlands
on 1st Nov 2008
I have the Blackberry 9000 but I have had already twice the Screen
of Death (App Error 205) with the Reset, even after removing the
battery the BB Bold does not boot up anymore. Vodafone has exchanged
the device but the problem reoccured when I am trying to synchronize
the Blackberry with Outlook it starts fine but never ends... The
outlook.pst file is very large 166 Mb, theoretically the 9000 should
be able to handle this but apparently the device goes on tilt and
locks completely up. Does anyone have similar experiences ? Rating:
Reviewed by M19DUT from UK on
29th Oct 2008
Just to echo a few previous comments - Do not go to Orange for this
device. This is my 3rd Blackberry. I have owned the 8707 and 8320
both on Vodafone and now the Bold with Orange. A selection of problems
experienced so far: 1) Constant dropped calls whilst in a perfect
signal area. The worst instance - 12 dropped calls in 9 minutes.
2) Random disconecting from the wireless network - and not reconnecting
until I do it manually. 3) Random hard resetting without any input
from me. Orange have run a diagnostic test on my device and advised
me that it is faulty. But they won't have their stock replenished
until some time in November. The call centre told me it was the
stores responsibility to fix because I didn't take Orange insurance.
The store told me it was the call centres responsibility to fix
as the handset was more than 28 days old. Needless to say the complaint
is ongoing. To sum up - Without these issues (Which appear to be
unique to Orange from discussing with other Bold users) this is
the best BB I have owned and would not hesitate in pointing colleagues
or friends in the direction of Voadafone to buy one. Rating:
Reviewed by Arran from UK on
28th Oct 2008
I got this phone the other day on Vodafone and apart from a few
initial set up problems I am very pleased with the phone. By set
up problems I mean getting the email feature and other applications
working without the phoning customer service was almost impossible.
Like I said, after sorting out the initial problems the phone is
working superbly and I wouldn't contemplate changing it. The phone
and internet are fast, its easy to use and the features are both
endless and superb. All in all a top notch phone, I'd recommend
it to anyone. Rating:
Reviewed by Jon from Bolton UK on
27th Oct 2008
Keyboard and screen brilliant. Everything easy to use. Phone has
dropped out a number of times but mainly due to lack of gprs signal.
Orange enabled everything ok but it took a couple of days. Email
on the go from AOL is excellent, GPS is useful but a little fiddly
at first. Battery doesn't last too long when using the device for
extended periods or showing off but can be charged from USB so no
great problem. Rating:
Reviewed by Paul from England on
23rd Oct 2008
Had this phone for 3 days now and it has crashed 4 or 5 times, the
battery life seems to be quite poor, needing daily charging, i really
want this phone to be good because it looks great and as all the
other comments point out, the keyboard is great for e-mail and text.
I am using the phone with Vodafone so get great coverage for calls,
although it sometimes is slow to connect to WiFi. I think i will
carry on for a few more days. Rating:
Reviewed by Craig from England on
21st Oct 2008
Firstly this phone is locked to vodafone and I have a feeling most
of it's short commings are linked to their braned software. I have
had this phone since Thursday and so far it has dropped more calls
than I can count with it's record being 7 in 1 20 minute call. It
has crashed 6 times requiring the battery to be removed to restart
it finaly completely dieing with the "app error 205" this morning.
Wifi only works with secure networks refusing to connect to open
networs at all. GPS can only be used if you are connected to vodafones
email plan (£15 a month) with no way according to their help desk
to access it any other way. Rating:
Reviewed by BG from Sydney on
16th Oct 2008
This is my third BlackBerry - have had the Bold for five weeks without
issue. Many good refinements to previous model but battery life
could be better. Overall a good improvement and a great asset for
business. Rating:
Reviewed by Howard from Southend-on-Sea
on 14th Oct 2008
I brought the bold the other day from O2, what a fantastic mobile.
The Bold is pretty faultless to be honest as it does everything
i need plus more. Looks distinct and very trendy. Slightly annoying
pairing bluetooth with rival phones trying to send mp3's and pics!
In the end i had to do it via my laptop. Its my first Blackberry
so i spent most of 2 days toying and getting my head round the settings.
Only one minor issue, but not major... i wish the speakers were
slightly more powerful & better quality, at times they seem tinny.
On the whole a very smartphone! No pun intended lol Rating:
Reviewed by Steve from London on
14th Oct 2008
Top tip, if you want a Bold 9000, SIMPLY..... do not go Orange!!!!!!!!!!
nuff said. [Editor's comment: Steve, thanks for your review, but
do you really think it's "nuff said?" I'm sure our readers
would like to know what is wrong with Orange's Bold!] Rating:
Reviewed by david whidden from Fordingbridge.
UK on 12th Oct 2008
Had this a few days now, very pleased with the purchase,i find the
texting so simple and even has spell check, great battery life,
no problems with crashing but have the latest 4.6.0 126 version.Screen
is a good size with excellent colours.takes a few hours to get your
head around the settings ect unless you are ofay with blackberry.
To sum up great mobile device Rating:
Reviewed by Bill Jones from UK on
8th Oct 2008
Great phone. Absolutely fantastic. Reliable - perfect. Great phone.
Who wouldn't want one?! Really?! Email on the go, brilliant, couldn't
do without it. This phone IS GOD! Yeah! That's how good it is, really!
You actually do really want one, I mean, who wouldn't?! Buy it!
Now! Rating:
Reviewed by Daren Jackson from UK on
18th Sep 2008
I was really looking forward to this phone. Had it for two weeks
and then sent it back. The issues I had were: 1)Battery life (having
to charge it daily), 2)Reliability (white screen of death - 4-5
times a day), 3)Email delay (Pop3 emails delayed by 8-24 hours).
As I didnt have a BES server I am sure that I am not being able
to utilise the full potential of the phone but the reliability factor
means there is a definite question mark over userbility. Rating:
Reviewed by Chris from UK on
17th Sep 2008
Mmmm....for starters this my second one in a space of a week due
to problem's with dropping calls. (something to do with it's 3G
connectivity) Also mine has crashed a number of times and Orange
apparently going to end support for Hotmail and the fact there is
no support for 3rd party sites ie Youtube. This is not good so it's
time for me to move on to new pastures. Nice idea but not working
for me... Rating:
Reviewed by Anthony Stockman from UK
on 17th Sep 2008
I've had dozens of phones, but each one always has a snag - even
the Sony Ericsson C902 (fiddly key pad, but otherwise great). this
machine is in a different league.I have it sync'd to Outlook and
it does just about everything from e-mail to pics, music and tea
making. I like the size and the fact that the qwerty keypad makes
texting or e-mail a doddle. (In fact they could even make it bigger
and I'd still like it). Has lots of little features - like 'auto
correct', when you mis-spell or leave out an apostrophy and holding
down a key gives you caps from low case. GPS works really well and
the camera does a useful job for a 2 megapixel. another brilliant
feature is the way it switches off when you slide it into the hard
leather protective holster, but wakes up when someone calls. I can't
comment on reliability. It does appear to have crashed once, which
switching it off and on again put right, but it's only a month old.
Only time will tell. The downside is the battery life is not that
hot, but I am told the battery is faulty and is being replaced at
the time of writing this. The other problem is with Orange - in
that the signal is poor. A mate of mine has a different service
provider and doesn't have connectivity problems. Overall, this phone
is just light years ahead of the opposition. As a business tool,
it has no peers. Rating:
Reviewed by Gee from UK on 16th
Sep 2008
Takes a bit of time to get used to the functions such as the bluetooth
and setting up the ringtones. Setting up and using email is very
very easy. Has an excellent sync system with I Tunes letting you
to add your songs easily. Although it only has a 2mp camera the
picture is I would saw very good quality. Screen is a good size
with excellent colours. Bad points I would say are the size..a touch
too wide, also on Orange connectivity problems on 3G and dropping
calls, silly but annoying things like the voicemail icon staying
on screen. Once syncd with Outlook this is a classy device which
in my opinion walks over the i phone!! Rating:
