BlackBerry Storm 2 Will Have WIFI

Bruce Ziebarth, Yahoo! Contributor Network
Apr 25, 2009 "Share your voice on Yahoo! websites. Start Here."

Release of the BlackBerry Storm has been a monetary landfall for Verizon Wireless. BlackBerry Storm's clickable screen and ability to download applications has made it the closest phone to a Apple IPhone. While it did come close, BlackBerry Storm did not offer as much functionality as the Iphone. BlackBerry Storm's critics were quick to point this out. RIM is following another play from the Apple playbook. RIM is set to release a second generation BlackBerry Storm. RIM is endeavoring to move closer to the Apple IPhone.

BlackBerry Storm currently does not offer WiFi. BlackBerry Storm's critics have been quick to point out the BlackBerry Storm's lack of WiFi capability. ITWorld reported "SlashGear is citing an unnamed source...as giving them "their assurances that the BlackBerry Storm 2 would have WiFi" (BlackBerry Storm Gets WiFi, Other Extras, say Sources, 2009). Rumors abounded that Verizon Wireless deliberatly left WiFi out of the original BlackBerry Storm to force users to use pay connection services. Neverless, WiFi's addition to the BlackBerry Storm would bring it closer to the Apple IPhone.

WiFi is not the only addition rumored for the BlackBerry Storm 2. The Boy Genius Report adds several other functions to the rumor mill. The Boy Genius Report reported "now confirmed to us by two independent sources, is the new screen tech involved...it improves the screen enormously and makes typing really pleasureable" (BlackBerry Storm 2 with Wi-Fi and a new screen, 2009). BlackBerry Storm's keyboard has been another source of complaints. Detractors state that the full keyboard is too hard to use. Personally, I have not had any issues using my BlackBerry Storm's keyboard.

These additional features will increase the BlackBerry Storm's functionality. However, the release date may frustrate the thousands of BlackBarry Storm users. Rumors stated that RIM is scheduled to release the BlackBerry Storm 2 in September 2009. This would mean the BlackBerry Storm 2 will be released less than a year after the current BlackBerry Storm. Apple was quick to release a new IPhone after its first offering, however, even Apple waits at least a year between release cycles.

Releasing the BlackBerry Storm2,less than a year after the BlackBerry Storm would be a very short release cycle. But, would a quick release cycle be enough to turn off BlackBerry Storm users? The best way to predict consumer action is to look at history. Apple IPhone released its second generation slightly over a year after its first offering. This short release cycle did not dampen user's excitement. It did produce a large amount of media attention. Media outlets were quick to highlight the short timeframe and its affects on consumers. This media only drove the attention higher. RIM's short release cycle could actually be an attempt to capitalize on this trend.

Published by Bruce Ziebarth

I work full time in the Emergency Management fields as a planner and trainer. I also am pursuing a second career as a freelance writer. View profile

BalckBerry Storm 2 is rumored to include WiFi
Other improvements include a new touchscreen and 5 megapixel camera.

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BlackBerry Storm 2 Will Have WIFI

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