Discussion points and key features surrounding RIM’s BlackBerry flip phone.

Background Info:

• Originally branded with a device model number of 9100, this has now changed. The BlackBerry “KickStart” is now the 8220 and will feature WiFi, while the BlackBerry “SeaWolf” is the 8210 and will feature GPS. Several new policies in BES 4.1 SP6 refer to the 8220 and 8210 and make reference to the “external display” and “flip”, providing further validation this is the case.
• KickStart and SeaWolf as far as we know are still codenames. KickStart is a pretty cool name - but at this time we have no evidence that it is the go to market name.
• Within the USA, the 8220 should be heading to T-Mobile while the 8210 should makes its way to AT&T
• Target launch price for the KickStart has been rumored to be cheap (as low as $49.95 on T-Mobile with a 2yr contract). Should feature lots of accessories and personalization options. And like the 8320 and 8120, it should support calling via UMA.
• A September Launch has been rumored for T-Mobile

8220 and 8210 Key Features:

• Clamshell / flip phone form factor
• Quad-band radios: GSM/GPRS/EDGE (no 3G)
• 240 x 320 internal LCD (think Curve/8800 display flipped to portrait)
• 160 x 128 external display
• 2 megapixel camera
• 3.5mm headset jack
• externally accessible microSD card slot
• OS version 4.6
• “Next Gen” SureType keyboard
• 8220 will feature WiFi; 8210 will feature GPS

The device in possession features WiFi and the operating system features T-Mobile themes and features (MyFaves), making the unit in the pictures a 8220 KickStart. The OS version is 4.6.0.59 and the Options > About screen is still labeled as BlackBerry 9100. Expect further OS revisions.

Read more