Verizon Wireless and Research In Motion has launched the BlackBerry 8830 World Edition smart phone, which is designed to provide business travellers data and voice connections in 60 countries.
The new device features seamless international roaming from EVDO to GSM/GPRS networks, as well as integration with BlackBerry internet service and the BlackBerry Enterprise Server, which provides access to corporate data securely, says a spokeswoman.
The 8830 will be available to Verizon Wireless business customers by May 14, and it will be in Verizon stores May 28. It will cost US$399.99, but a US$100 rebate is being offered to drop the price to US$299.99, subject to a two-year agreement. An additional US$100 off the device will be available to customers who sign up for certain voice and data plans at the time of purchase.
Global BlackBerry service is available for US$64.99 a month on top of a voice plan, or for US$69.99 a month without a voice plan. A pay-as-you-go feature allows customers to buy a voice plan and then purchase data capability for US$20 per megabyte, according to a statement issued by the companies.
At 14 mm thick, the 8830 features a new trackball navigation system, a media player, expandable memory, Bluetooth capability and an instant messaging tool, the statement says.
Users who sign up for global BlackBerry service with Verizon Wireless service will receive the Global Support Pack, which includes a SIM card, a user reference guide and access to a global help desk for around-the-clock customer support. A free calling card is also provided in case a user needs to make a support call from a landline phone if the 8830 is lost, broken or stolen.