New BlackBerry Torch 9800 to Counter iPhone 4 and Google Android

RIM today announced the new BlackBerry Torch, an advanced smartphone sporting the new BlackBerry 6 Operating System. The phone was only unveiled today. Consumers have to wait until August 12. Then it will be available in AT&T retail stores, as well as from the AT&T website. In addition it can be purchased at Best Buy, Wal-Mart and in RadioShack stores.

The BlackBerry Torch 9800 smartphone has a completely new Operating system, that still includes all the features of the earlier OS  distinguishing the BlackBerry brand from it's competition. On the other hand it has a fresh new look, has many features and is easy to use. The messaging capabilities are expanded, while the trackpad and the touch screen are seamlessly integrated. It's now very easy to manage social media contacts and RSS feeds.

“BlackBerry 6 is the outcome of RIM’s ongoing passion to deliver a powerful, simplified and optimized user experience for both touch screen and keyboard fans,” said Mike Lazaridis, president and co-ceo, Research In Motion. “Following extensive research and development to address consumer needs and wants, we are delivering a communications, browsing and multimedia experience that we think users will love, and we are thrilled to debut BlackBerry 6 on the amazing new BlackBerry Torch smartphone.”

Consumers can buy the The BlackBerry Torch 9800 for $199.99 with 2-year service agreement, if a qualifying rate plan is also purchased. The smartphone data plan required, another 15 to 25 bucks a month, is also required.  The cheaper option gives you only 200MB of wireless data transfer, while the $25 variant leaves room for up to 2GB of data transfer. There are special deals for corporate customers available.