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Review: BlackBerry Torch 9850

Form Basics Extras Video Wrap-Up Comments 74

Media Camera Photos/Video Browse/Customize Extras

Browser

The Torch 9850's larger display really helps make the browsing performance feel almost on par with what's available from some of the competing platforms. In my tests, the browser was quick to render pages, and web sites were well-formatted for the display. Zoomed all the way out, all text but the largest headlines on web sites were illegible, but at least you could see the entire page for navigation purposes. I still think the Android, iOS, and IE9 browsers are better for mobile devices, but RIM's latest browser has done a lot to close the gap.

Customize

Consumers will have plenty of control over the 9850 Torch. There are enough controls, settings, and toggles to upend the entire appearance and behavior of the phone. The ones that matter most during the first five minutes of ownership — wallpapers, ringtones, alerts, and so on — are easy to adjust.

Those who end up with a 9850 issued by their employer may find that the IT department has locked down tons of features. Such is the life of an office drone and the results of RIM's over-engineering IT controls.

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Related

Video Tour: BlackBerry Torch 9850

Here is a quick look at the Research In Motion BlackBerry Torch 9850 for Sprint. It offers the latest system software from RIM in addition to svelte good looks.

RIM Dinged with Bluetooth-Related Patent Suit

Dec 11, 2012
Wi-LAN has filed a lawsuit against Research In Motion alleging that the BlackBerry maker is infringing on a single patent related to Bluetooth technology. Wi-LAN says a number of RIM's smartphones, such as the Bold, Pearl, Storm, and Torch, infringe on the patent.

NXP Sues RIM Over Patents, Wants Triple Damages

Apr 3, 2012
Research In Motion was hit with a lawsuit by NXP, which alleges that RIM's BlackBerry Torch, Curve, and Bold smartphones infringe on six of its patents. NXP wants sales of the devices halted, and compensatory and triple damages.

Apple, HTC, LG, RIM, Samsung Targeted by Patent Suit

Mar 28, 2012
A company called Graphics Properties Holdings recently filed a lawsuit against Apple, HTC, LG, RIM, Samsung, and Sony, alleging that the companies' products violate its intellectual property. Specifically, the lawsuit covers a patent pertaining to how mobile devices process data and text into pixels on a display.

Verizon Updates BlackBerry 9930 Bold, 9850 Torch

Oct 19, 2011
Verizon Wireless has made operating system updates available to both the Research In Motion BlackBerry 9930 Bold and 9850 Torch. Both are being updated to OS version 7.0.0.374 and include extensive change logs.

BlackBerry Torch 9850

3.7" display 480 x 800 pixels
Snapdragon S2 MSM8655 processor
1,230 mAh battery
Memory Card Slot, Headphone Jack (3.5mm)

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