I am considering buying a Blackberry Pearl.

However, I have never used a Blackberry device before. I have been with symbian for a long time. In fact, to be honest I am debating between waiting and getting the N95 when it gets a bit cheaper or getting the Pearl in about a month.

So I am actually looking for some quick info regarding the blackberry and what it is that makes them so popular. But before that I just want to get some facts straight.

Does blackberry pearl support 3rd party software like the symbian OS?
If so how much software is out there for the Pearl and what kind? Games, Office apps, utilities..etc
Is it worth the switch from a symbian os to pearl! Because from my understanding Blackberry is for typically emailing. And the pearl does not have the full fledged keyboard that traditional blackberries do.
Lastly, can the pearl be unlocked or flashed (to brand free) if it is locked?

Thanks for your responses.
Edit/Delete Message

The pearl 8800 will be out in less than a month with a lot of service providers in the states. If you were looking for a full keyboard this one has it. On the other hand it doesn't have a camera. You can buy an unlocked blackberry pearl here

h**p://www.markways.com/catalog/104/BlackBerry/ and get also $15off with coupon "redflagdeals".

For software and games you will have to do your own DD.

thats cool!!!!!

It doesn´t have camera not really cool :(

the Pearl 8100 does.

It doesn´t have camera not really cool :(

The pearl does have a 1.3 MP camera!

yes I mean about 8800 not 8100 in fact i´m a user of a new 8100 since this week ;)
and is really good compared to my k800i:drinkers:

I'm a Blackberry 8100 new owner. :partyman:
It's a bit out of 'NOKIA scheme' but every day impress me how 'friendly' 8100 is.
Very useful the trackball!!!
Now i'm looking for free software.... :ilove:
Best regards, Rocko

yeah me too i´m looking for software like worldmate for Blackberry any ideas?

Blackberry 8100 is a good phone. What kind of software are people looking for for the 8100? I may be of some help.

I bought a T-mobile unlocked BB 8100. It's a nice phone but i find it easier typing e-mail using a full qwerty keyboard. Have the treo 650, nokia E61 & 9500 and old BB 7230. These are all big phones and just decided to get the 8100 because of the size(easier to carry around) and cool looks. There are also not too many software for BB phones, so if you like/need 3rd party software go for the nokia or treo phones. Might sell the pearl soon and get a nokia e61i since it has BB connect(works good with my e61 so i assume it would work for the i model) plus lots of 3rd party software and 2mp camera. Also, when i got my unlocked pearl i cant seem to find the browser and after registering it to my network still dont get any e-mails. Installed opera mini at a secondary browser but it still wont work. Tried upgrading software/firmware but still no browser and e-mail. Hope this helps.

How do I unloack my T-mobile 8100 pearl!! Thank You U will be of great help!!!!

How do I unloack my T-mobile 8100 pearl!! Thank You U will be of great help!!!!

You need to buy code for our BB many sites provide codes for that if need then contact me private.

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