RIM’s Budget BlackBerry Curve 9220 Launched in India

By Tech Wire Asia | 23 April, 2012

RIM’s low end BlackBerry device, BlackBerry Curve 9220, launched at India’s retail stores this April 19, and is aimed at the entry-level market segment. Priced at Rs 10,990 (about US$ 210), the Curve 9220 is aimed to strengthen RIM’s presence in India, which is one of the company’s fast growing markets. Those who buy the Curve 9220 will be entitled to free apps from BlackBerry AppWorld. The free popular apps — available until June 30 — include utilities, games and other miscellaneous software like Pencil Camera, Photo Studio Pro, Horoscope Oracle – Follow Your Lucky Stars, Drive Safely Pro and Ultimate Cricket.

“India is a very important market for RIM and we are extremely proud and excited to officially unveil and launch the new BlackBerry Curve 9220 for the first time here in India,” Carlo Chiarello, RIM Senior Vice President, BlackBerry Smartphone said.

The Curve 9220 is the most affordable device ever launched by RIM in India. Looking at the spec sheet it seems the same as the 8500 family, even though it is not from the same series. The processor is clocked at 800 Mhz, and is coupled with 512MB RAM. Equipped with the longest lasting battery life yet in the BlackBerry Curve (83xx and 93xx) model, it allows users 7 hours of talk time or 28 hours music playback or FM radio listening through headphones. A pool of social messaging apps is bundled with this OS 7 powered device: a dedicated BBM key, Facebook, Twitter for BlackBerry and Social Feeds. There is no 3G, though. Instead of relying on a data plan, RIM expects users to connect mostly via built-in Wi-Fi.

The budget phone is targeting youngsters as RIM Managing Director for India Sunil Dutt says. “The new BlackBerry Curve 9220 offers a unique mobile experience that young Indians will love thanks to its affordable pricing and unmatched messaging and social connectivity features.”