Browser:
The browser has often been a let down on previous Blackberry devices and a lot of people have probably gone elsewhere because of it. But it's 2011 and people no longer want a gimmick app as important as the browser on their phone. The new OS 7 browser is a gargantuan upgrade from OS 6. It's a very slick operation now, and the touchscreen makes browsing the web a pleasure rather than a chore. You actually feel confident about whipping your phone out to google something because you know it's going to work with more conviction. It isn't quite checkmate with the chequered-board problem yet, but it's a lot less noticeable and every phone has this problem in some capacity. A new and relevant feature is the ability to add you own search engines. Now you can do a quick search of Amazon or eBay right in your browser.
The 9900, like past Blackberries, is a well-built device and extremely pleasing on the eye. If Bugatti Veyron made phones then it would be this. It feels great in your hand(s) and typing on the new keyboard is a joy. Since the device is slightly wider–more reminiscent of the Bold 9000–typing with two hands is truly blissful. They keys feel easier to press down too I think and I don't think anyone will be disappointed. Only one convenience key is present on the 9900 but I wouldn't say it's a huge letdown, especially as the device is now a touchscreen and you can 3 rows of 18 convenience keys if you so please. The trackpad is by no means a forgotten hero: you will still use it in combination with the touchscreen, it just depends what mood you're in and what feels good at the time. The trackpad now lights up around the edges, but if you ask me it serves little purpose and other than using your phone in the dark. The top of the device has just one lock/sleep button, which is a little bit more difficult to press, although there's now less chance of the device unlocking and pocket dialling. The left side has the standard headphone jack and micro USB slot, while the right side has up-and-down volume key either side of the mute key. It's below that you will find the lone convenience key. The backdoor is glass with a nice carbon fiber effect patten and beyond that is some rubber that offers some good grip support. Overall a solid device and the metal bezel gives off a sparkling finish.
Battery:
Battery life is a very important necessity for Blackberry users because, as a business phone primarily, people need to be hammering out emails all day long an know that they aren't going to run out of juice at a pivotal moment. RIM (god know why) decided to slim-down the battery of the 9900 in order to create a sleeker, sexier device. For that, the battery had to pack less of a punch at just 1230mah compared to the Bold 9700/9780 which boasted 1500mah under the hood. That lesser battery in a much more powerful device was always going to have an affect. OS 5 & 6 devices could last a couple of days without a charge for some people, but the 9900 isn't quite as effective. My first day with the device saw me take it off charge at 10:30am and by 8:30pm I was down to 5% power—this was with moderate use. They say batteries can take time to settle so I hope this is the case, but we shall see. I hope to see an extended battery from Seidio in the near future.
Bugs:
Bugs I've encountered with OS 7.0.0.317.
P
roblem syncing my Gmail account. The synchronising page will complete address book, but for calendar it will remain at 55% and never move.
Sometimes duplicate albums show up: one album has the music, the other one empty and cannot be deleted.
No comments:
Post a Comment