RIM BlackBerry 7290 review

Published on: 19 July, 2005 by Mark Spangler

Business on the go professionals this device is for you. With average data coverage and clear calls anyone can find a good use for the 7290. We can finally thank the folks at RIM for allowing the use of Bluetooth headsets, and groan a little for pulling the built-in speakerphone functionality from the drawing board. Those looking into this for enhanced messaging capabilities only you may have a little too much in your hands (Nokia 6822 may be for you.) For those looking for an exciting multimedia experience with a camera and speakerphone this device may not be for you; check out the Treo 650 with more customizable applications from third party developers. But if you want a robust and business oriented phone that feels as if you are sending and receiving emails directly from your own desktop, this unit is for you.

As always, if you are interested in becoming part of our review team, drop me an email at: kidoborg@phonearena.com

	Carrier	Price Today	Price after rebate
		$0.00	$0.00

Pros

Quality and stronger physical design than competitors
Bluetooth finally available on a BlackBerry
BlackBerry Enterprise Server immediately syncs with office PCs
Push email service compose and send emails in seconds
Stable and responsive processor

Cons

Display resolution is nothing to be proud of
Does not support polyphonic ring tones (no mp3s folks)
Without a built-in speakerphone the 7290 lacks the complete package
Web Browsing capabilities not as enhanced as some competitors

PAppeal

Christian Dior:: 6 of 10; Average

The BlackBerry image is instantly recognizable with professionalism and accomplishment without being too flashy. Unfortunately, this device may be too large to get by the bouncer at the door.