We’ve said our piece about the BlackBerry Torch 9800 released today on AT&T, but there are a lot of reviewers out there with a wide range of reactions. BlackBerry 6 and (to a lesser extent) the Torch 9800 are a big step for RIM, and its critical reception will forecast how well the BlackBerry platform competes with Android and iPhone in direct comparison. In general, reactions ranged from cold to lukewarm. The dedicated BlackBerry fans had all of their expectations met, while those who have spent time on phones with high-res displays and faster processors were more critical.
Take a look at some conclusions for yourself, and you should get a good idea of what to expect once (or if) you lay hands on the BlackBerry Torch 9800.
“The BlackBerry Torch 9800 is far from flawless, but it still brings a lot of new features to the table; in fact, I would say that it’s the variety of improvements (rather than the depth of them individually) that make the BlackBerry 9800 Torch and specifically OS 6 a reasonable success.” – IntoMobile
“While there are notable improvements here and much that is laudable, what we’re ultimately left with is, at its core, more of the same.” – Engadget
“Maybe RIM’s too big, too entrenched to build the kind of phone that’ll make people want a BlackBerry again. But they could’ve at least given the damn thing a better screen.” – Gizmodo
“Between the sliding action of the hardware and the touchscreen experience on BlackBerry 6, the Torch 9800 is not just the best BlackBerry to date, but also the one that is the most fun to use.” – CrackBerry
“Though performance could be better and it could stand for some hardware upgrades, the RIM BlackBerry Torch 9800 and BlackBerry OS 6 offer much-needed improvements to stay in step with the competition, and keep BlackBerry enthusiasts happy.” – CNET
“If you’re an AT&T customer who happens to be a BlackBerry aficionado, the Torch is a no brainer. Go out and get it tomorrow. If you’re an Android or iPhone lover, you’d best check the Torch out before buying.” – Phone Scoop
“BlackBerry 6 is a nice step forward, but I imagine that a revision (hardware and software) will be needed in six months. Future releases aside, if you’re a BlackBerry fan, you should find a lot to like in the Torch 9800.” – PhoneDog
“You’ll get first rate messaging and good call quality with the Torch 9800, but the apps, HD video recording, and thinner form factors available on other devices will be tough competition.” – MobileBurn
“Overall, the Torch and the BlackBerry 6 operating system are good products that improve the BlackBerry experience considerably and bring the device closer to its newer rivals.” – Wall Street Journal
“The device is a real dream to use and feels great in your hand. So far I have found that the pros outweigh the cons and somehow BlackBerry 6 is really breathing a whole new life into this Marvell 624mhz processor.” – BerryReview
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