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BlackBerry Bold 9650 Phone (Verizon Wireless)

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Brand: BlackBerry
Category: Wireless

List Price: ~~$599.99~~
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as of 9/5/2010 05:16 PDT details
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Seller: Amazon.com
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

7 reviews
Sales Rank: 220

Color: Black
Media: Wireless Phone
Shipping Weight (lbs): 1.5
Dimensions (in): 0 x 0 x 0

Model: Bold 9650
UPC: 843163060913
ASIN: B003QP4GKG

Release Date: June 11, 2010
Shipping: Eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping
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Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours

Features:

•	BlackBerry smartphone with QWERTY keyboard; dual-network capable for 3G-enabled GSM access when traveling abroad
•	GPS-enabled for turn-by-turn directions; Visual Voice Mail; PC tethering via Mobile Broadband Connect and GlobalAccess Connect
•	3.2-megapixel camera/camcorder; Bluetooth stereo music; microSD memory expansion to 16 GB; access to personal and corporate email
•	Up to 5 hours of talk time, up to 312 hours (13 days) of standby time
•	What's in the Box: handset, rechargeable battery, charger (with international adapter clips), 2 GB microSD card, USB cable, 3.5mm stereo headset, BlackBerry documentation kit

Key Features

Fast 3G connectivity thanks to the reliable Verizon Wireless EV–DO, Rev A network
Global roaming capabilities with data access in more than 220 destinations plus the capability to tether your laptop to your smartphone for Internet access using the Verizon Wireless GlobalAccess Connect service.
BlackBerry OS 5.0 includes typing accuracy and selection improvements, as well as usability and visual enhancements such as inertial scrolling, spin boxes that make it easier to set dates and times, gradient shading on buttons, and more use of animation.
Support for BlackBerry App World featuring a broad and growing catalog of third-party mobile applications developed specifically for BlackBerry smartphones. Categories include travel, productivity, entertainment, games, social networking and sharing, news and weather, and more.
BlackBerry Internet Service offers easy access to up to 10 supported personal and work email accounts and one BlackBerry email account.
Compatible with BlackBerry Enterprise Server for advanced security and IT administration features within IBM Lotus Domino, Microsoft Exchange and Novell GroupWise environments. Customers running BlackBerry Enterprise Server 5.0 will gain the ability to set follow-up flags, manage e-mail folders, access remote files (Windows Shares), forward appointments, view calendar attachments, and more.
View attachments including JPEG, Adobe PDF, and Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
BlackBerry Media Sync is built right into your BlackBerry Desktop Software and lets you sync your desktop iTunes or Windows Media Player music files with your BlackBerry smartphone. If you're a Mac user, just choose the "media" option and you're ready to sync your iTunes music collection from your BlackBerry smartphone onto your Mac.
Integrated GPS for use with the BlackBerry Maps applications as well as other location-based applications and photo geotagging.
VZ Navigator and VZ Navigator Global capable for voice-guided turn-by-turn directions and location services both in the United States and Western Europe.
Memory expansion via microSD card slot with support for optional cards up to 16 GB. A 2 GB card is included with the phone, and it also has an internal 512 MB memory.
Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g) for accessing home and corporate networks as well as hotspots while on the go
Bluetooth 2.1 connectivity with stereo music streaming (A2DP) capabilities as well as hands-free headsets and car kits and tethering with your PC (with optional tethering plan). (Learn more)
Full messaging capabilities including SMS text, MMS picture and IM instant messaging (via popular services)
Large 2.45-inch high-resolution display (480 x 360 resolution at 245 ppi) that displays pictures, videos and Web pages with contrast and detail
3.2-megapixel camera with flash, variable zoom, image stabilization, autofocus and video recording.
Full HTML Web browser, streaming audio and video via RTSP

Vital Statistics
The BlackBerry Bold 9650 weighs 4.8 ounces and measures 4.4 x 2.44 x 0.55 inches. Its 1400 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 5 hours of talk time, and up to 312 hours (13 days) of standby time. It runs on the CDMA 800/1900 frequencies as well as EV–DO, Rev A 3G frequencies. Additionally, this handset offers GSM global roaming capabilities with data access in more than 220 destinations (quad-band GSM 850/900/1800/1900 plus 2100 3G HSPA).

What's in the Box
BlackBerry Bold 9650 handset, rechargeable battery, charger (with international adapter clips), 2 GB microSD card, USB cable, 3.5mm stereo headset, BlackBerry documentation kit, quick start guide, user manual

Verizon Wireless Services

Reliable 3G Network: With support for the EV-DO high-speed data standard, you'll enjoy fast access to the Internet and Verizon Wireless multimedia services (additional charges applicable), with average download speeds ranging from 400 to 700 Kbps and peak rates up to 2 Mbps. (Learn more about where EV-DO coverage is offered.)
Global Roaming Capabilities: With this mobile phone, you can connect to wireless networks from Europe to South America to Asia thanks to its quad-band GSM/EDGE/GPRS connectivity as well as high-speed 3G HSPA compatibility (2100 MHz networks). It comes pre-installed with a SIM card, so customers who plan to travel abroad can activate global service at the time of purchase or by calling Verizon Wireless prior to leaving the U.S. For those who travel abroad frequently, the Verizon Wireless Global Value Plan offers discounted roaming capabilities with data access in more than 185 destinations.
VZ Navigator with Global Capability: With this GPS-enabled phone, you'll be able to access the Verizon Wireless VZ Navigator service (additional charges applicable) for voice-prompted turn-by-turn directions, heads-up alerts, local search of nearly 14 million points of interest in the US (such as landmarks, restaurants and ATMs), and detailed color maps.
Additionally, this phone is compatible with the VZ Navigator Global service, which enables you to find locations and access turn-by-turn directions in North America and Western Europe, including Canada, Mexico, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom (with more being added). Helping to alleviate stress or confusion caused by reading road signs or directions in an unfamiliar language, VZ Navigator Global allows you to choose either English or Spanish as the default language, and miles or kilometers to mark distances. You'll also be able to find restaurants, gas stations, banks/ATMs and other popular spots in these countries using Local Search.
Mobile Broadband Connect: Use your smartphone as a modem for your notebook when you connect the two using a USB cable--or open a Bluetooth connection--enabling you to access the Internet or your company intranet. The Mobile Broadband Connect tethered modem capability is ideal when you're traveling and need to use your notebook to check e-mail, access corporate networks, or download large files like presentations and reports. And with Mobile Broadband Connect, you won't have to buy an extra PC Card or other devices.
GlobalAccess Connect: With this globally connected smartphone, you'll be able to get reliable wireless Internet access for your laptop or netbook when roaming abroad thanks to the GlobalAccess Connect feature through Verizon Wireless. You can get wireless Internet access in more than 200 countries worldwide--and over 110 with 3G speed--enabling you to download and upload critical business data and files and access your company's intranet and applications.
Visual Voice Mail: This innovative service enables you to delete, reply, and forward voice mail messages without having to listen to prior messages or voice instructions. Visual Voice Mail is the ideal tool for the busy mobile professional who may need to prioritize which messages he or she listens to first. Features include on-screen access to voice mail message status, save up to 40 messages for 40 days (or archive permanently), create up to 10 different caller ID-based greetings, and reply via call back, text or even voice mail.
V CAST Music with Rhapsody: Access this exclusive digital music service for RealNetworks and for MTV Networks, which delivers unlimited monthly access to music on up to three Rhapsody-compatible mobile phones and players and online on multiple PCs and Web browsers. For a monthly fee (billed on your Verizon Wireless bill), you can load and reload your subscription songs from your PC to your V CAST Music with Rhapsody phone as often as you want, and take your music on the go.
On PCs running the Windows XP or higher operating system, you can also browse, preview, and purchase music using the V CAST Music with Rhapsody software, which is available as a free download from the V CAST Music with Rhapsody download website. Additional subscription charges applicable.
V CAST Video on Demand: This optional service enables you to watch full-length TV shows plus news, sports, weather, and live entertainment video clips. It features more than 100 full-length programs from leading broadcast and cable networks, ranging from highly-rated drama and comedy series to reality programs and children's programming. V CAST Video on Demand also delivers live sporting events, including NHL hockey games and an upcoming slate of college football games
The service offers unlimited viewing of Basic Videos and the ESPN MVP channel. You can choose from 14 categories, including Entertainment, Kids, Music, Sports, Comedy, News, Pop Culture, Information, Women, Latino, Home & Leisure, Multicultural, Cutting Edge, and Hollywood. Additional subscription charges applicable.

Customer Reviews:

Showing reviews 1-5 of 7

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Awesome phone August 11, 2010
techguru
4 out of 4 found this review helpful

I acquired the Blackberry Bold 9650 as part of my annual phone upgrade. I was able to get a 2 for 1 deal so my wife got one as well. This is the first smart phone for both of us. After having it for a little while I feel I can make an educated review.

My Service is Verizon Wireless. In my area I get excellent coverage with very few dead zones (haven't found any yet). The Verizon 3G is extremely fast and reliable and I have yet to use the wifi as the 3G is as fast or faster than wifi in my area.

The phone is a nice size. My friend has the Curve 8830 and they are almost identical in size. The Bold is slightly longer and slightly thinner than the Curve (were talking fractions here, almost undetectable). First thing one will notice is that this phone feels sturdy. I wouldn't toss it off a roof, but it definately feels very well made. There is also some weight to this phone. I don't know how it compares to other BlackBerry's weight wise, but you definately feel like your holding a phone. The phone is not heavy though and I can hold the phone all day long as it is a very comfortable fit.

For previous BlackBerry owners, the keypad has been redesigned. The keys are slightly larger than those on the Curve. The keys have also been pushed together whereas on the Curve there is some spacing between the keys. This helps to keep the phone narrower and also help keep food / liquid out of the gaps. The keys are easy to push and again feel solid. The keypad for me is easy to type on though you will make a few mistakes. It does take some getting used to the keyboard. The keyboard is the standard QWERTY type so should be familiar to most users. The keyboard is backlit for easy visibility and the phone adjusts the backlight depending on surronding light levels. The track pad is easy to use and is a vast improvement over the trackball on previous models. The trackpad works the same way as a touchpad on a laptop.

The screen is bright and easy to see. I would recommend a screen protector to anyone buying this phone. The screen is also smartly organized with the icon positions. Like the keypad, the screen will automatically adjust its intensity to the surrounding light levels. The screen is level with the case with no where for dirt or lint to get trapped.

The apps and programs for this phone are what make Blackberry number 1. I really enjoy blackberry messenger and app world. The programs are very simple to use and straight forward. I will caution anyone that the Verizon Apps (vcast, vz navigator, etc.) are an extra charge on top of the data plan fees. For those like me that don't want to pay the extra charge a quick search in BB AppWorld will find you as good or better apps to replace the VZW ones. My one complaint is VZW loaded some games onto the phone which are demos and require you to purchase them. If I want to buy a game, a quick search in BB AppWorld will let me pick from a large selection. BlackBerry is mostly for business use, but don't let that fool you. There are plenty of fun apps with more coming out all the time.

I have never had an issue with the battery life. One will find that the smartphones will go through a battery faster than a standard phone. However, if you turn wifi off and make sure you exit all of your apps then battery life isn't an issue. I suspect that people reporting poor battery life either don't know how to turn off their apps properly or are leaving the wifi on.

I have yet to use the wifi feature as VZW 3G is extremely fast in my area. I do my web browsing through the google app and find that a page will load in 10 seconds or less. The web browsers fuction the same as any web browser on your computer. Imputing webaddresses is slightly slower since you wont be able to type as fast but still easy.

The call quality is excellent. People often tell me they forget that I am on a phone. It is by far the clearest phone I have ever owned. Included with the phone are a belt case and earphones. There are also international adaptors for the plug so you can plug your charger into any outlet. The belt case is well made and good for casual wear. I am in public safety and the case is inadequate for my needs so I ordered an OtterBox. The case should hold up for your average person. There is a magnet located inside the case that will automatically put your phone into sleep mode when you insert it. This helps to conserve battery life, yet you can still hear incoming calls.

There are a few negatives to this phone. First is where Research In Motion (RIM) decided to put the mini usb port used for charging. They located it on the right side of the phone about mid way up. This makes it a pain in the butt to type while charging your phone. Charging ports should be on top or bottom of the phone. Also, the convience keys on the side of the phone are a pain in the butt when pulling your phone out of its case. I have disabled them to make it easier for me. The earphones that come with the phone are horrible. They are clear sounding and do have a built in mic so you can use them as a handsfree device. They are also stereo which is good. However, that is the end of their good points. The earphones are extremely uncomfortable to wear. I wore them for about 40 mins and was left with ear pain for about an hour afterwards. The earphones do not allow you to hear in comming calls so if your phone is not on your hip you will miss a call. They are good for occasional use but I would recommend a bluetooth.

Accessories I would recommend for this phone are a car charger, Bluetooth, and an aftermarket case and screen protectors.

5 out of 5 stars

So far, the best BB ever June 30, 2010
Rski (Chicago IL)
0 out of 1 found this review helpful

I think I have had every BB so far between work and personal and this one is by far the best. What is the best, feels the best (quality wise) best speaker, cell phone battery life. Nothing to complain about, it works well. What wy I like to see improved, well the Internet but I know accessing the Internet on a BB sucks so I cannot complain much but boy would it be sweet with a better easier to read browser.

4 out of 5 stars

Better than new curve July 7, 2010
Craig Barker (Rocklin, CA)
3 out of 4 found this review helpful

My old curve gave out, so Verizon swapped it for the new Curve 8530. Wow what a piece of junk that phone is. Fells cheap like a toy, and I had all kinds of problems with bluetooth and battery life and freezing, keys sticking. Do not buy that phone. So I went back before my 30 days and swapped for the Bold 9650.

I really like this phone. It is a bit larger form factor than the new curve, much like the old curve. It feels robust in your hand not cheap like a toy. The keys are bigger, but I still do miss the old curve as the keys were more spread out which is better with my fat fingers. I love the Wi-Fi feature. I keep it off until I need it and then it is easy to fire up when I am ready to use it. Fairly fast connection with it and a great feature to have. I have been getting about 2 days out of the battery which is a bit less than the old curve.

The coverage with Verizon is the same with brown spots here and there, but generally good. This phone is much much faster than my old curve. Start up is quicker and switching between applications is much faster. Basic functionality is also improved. I use the phone for business and so far it is working great. It would be nice if they would make a phone with a slide out keyboard like my daughters LG. When that comes out I will be ready.

3 out of 5 stars

Compared to gold standard Curve, this phone is lacking June 28, 2010
A. Duran (California)
3 out of 4 found this review helpful

I miss my Curve, eventhough this phone is more sleek and has many more options. The extra memory, speed and bells and whistles come at a price. Mainly, this Bold 9650 has crappy battery life (loses charge after about 12 hours with little to no use) and call quality (speaker) is worse. The keyboard is also very easy to mistype characters compared to the Curve.

I have made numerous phone calls with this phone in the past 3 weeks of owning it and I've lost track of how many people tell me that they can't hear me and the sound is poor. I never once had that comment when using the Curve. My wife got the same Bold as a 2 for 1 deal and I often can't understand her on the phone, just sounds muddy and not clear. I hope there is a firmware upgrade that might fix this, otherwise I'm stuck for 2 years with a phone that can't make clear calls.

The good about this phone is the extra memory and speed. I can surf the net, get real websites without too much problem, and stream Pandora. If I fully charge the phone and then start streaming Pandora, the battery lasts about 4 hours.

Bars - well, I had Tmobile before this and sometimes my old Curve would show no bars of signal but I could still make clear calls. With this Bold and Verizon I often have 3 or 4 bars but no signal or dropped calls - perhaps it is interference with other items in the house? I can't figure this one out.

In conclusion, I feel that I would have rather kept my old phone until it died, but unfortunately it was lost. I hope Verizon releases some updates to help make this phone a better product (call quality and battery life are 1st above all other toys).

3 out of 5 stars

I wanted to love this, but came away disappointed July 30, 2010
Fredrik Nyman (Great Falls, VA United States)
2 out of 3 found this review helpful

I have had a Blackberry 8830 (Verizon) for a couple years, and was recently given the 9650 as part of a periodic refresh at work. While I've been mostly happy with the 8830, it is showing its age; compared to the iPhone and various Androids, it feels slow and dated, Verizon's disabling the built-in GPS in the 8830 is aggravating, and the 8830's scroll wheel is mechanical and notoriously trouble-prone.

When I was offered the 9650 as a replacement for the 8830, I was excited. No more crippled GPS (and in fact, the GPS on the 9650 is great -- with A-GPS enabled, it acquires position in seconds). The new optical trackpad is a huge improvement over the 8830's scroll wheel. And it has WiFi, much more memory, a much faster processor (624 MHz vs 223 MHz).

After I got the 9650 on Tuesday, I charged it, and took it home. Wednesday morning I turn it on, except it won't turn on. Turns out the battery is drained. Thinking I hadn't charged the battery long enough, I charged it again. Wednesday afternoon when I left work, it was at 100%. Yesterday morning I once more woke up to find the 9650 completely drained. Actual standby time appears to be much closer to 15 hours than 300 with WiFi enabled, which is pretty awful. Yes, I can disable WiFi, but shouldn't the phone's own power management functions do a much better job? My friends with Droids and iPhones don't seem to be having these issues.

Also disappointing: even though it has a much faster processor, it still feels as slow as the 8830. Booting can take several minutes(!!!) after installing apps. And for some reason, SMS and MMS messages now have a separate inbox you have to navigate to to read; on the 8830 they came in the same inbox as your regular email. This is hopefully configurable, but I haven't figured out how.

Mild annoyance: RIM switched from mini-USB to micro-USB between the 8830 and the 9650 *and* moved the jack position, so you need to put the phone in the holster upside down if you want to charge it while holstered.

Sorry RIM, but no sale. This one is going back.

Showing reviews 1-5 of 7

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