Review: BlackBerry 8520

By Nick Arnold

It could be fair to argue the latest smartphone from Research In Motion is a “jack of all trades, master of none”. Combining nearly all the features required to satisfy the corporate and consumer markets in some way, it will appeal to buyers due to its flexibility rather than its ground-breaking specification.

Camera? Yes, with video recording, but only 2MP and without a flash. Wi-Fi connection? Yes, but no 3G connection and no GPS.

One application which has remained from other BlackBerry smartphones is the media player; now complete with dedicated media keys on top of the device.

With clean and clear images when watching videos or viewing images, and great sound when listening to music files, the 8520’s media player application compares favourably to some of the more entertainment-driven device in the market.

One way RIM has broken the mould when making the 8520 is with the navigation. Gone is the occasionally temperamental roller ball, to be replaced by the new trackpad and all-in-one action button! Once the protective cover is removed (and only then) this new feature works really well is sure to be popular with users due to its ease of use.

While comparisons will be made to the 8310 and 8900 smartphones, notably about the lack of 3G or GPS in-built for a modern device, it is important to remember that this is an entry level device with entry level pricing – if the 8520 had these features we’d just be looking at another Bold… without the entry level pricing.

For more information on this, or any other BlackBerry smartphone, call to office on 0161 355 1717 or request a call back.