The BlackBerry Torch 2 is a handsome looking smartphone. The most noticeable change from the original Torch is the more attractive checkered, gun-metal finish that wraps the device. The touchscreen, at 640x480 pixel resolution, is naturally responsive and boasts impressive color vibrancy.
There is no change to the 5 megapixel camera from the original Torch, but the enhanced video capability is welcomed, with continuous autofocus and the ability to record in 1280 x 720p HD. The screen teams up nicely with the slide mechanism, which is both sturdy and relatively smooth. One easy push with the thumb on the phone's body reveals the standard QWERTY keyboard which is still housed within.
Most of the key changes have been made under the cover, and that's a good thing in terms of performance. It has a generous 8 MB of internal memory, which can be further expanded by using an internal SD card. A more robust BlackBerry Protect now comes pre-installed in the new OS 7, and can be set to back up your content as frequently as required. As with the Torch, it's still got Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, proximity and ambient light sensors. It has also been speculated that the phone will soon have a new BB ID, which will allow you to locate your phone should you misplace it.
Overall, the BlackBerry Torch 2 is a more robust phone than earlier versions, and it is pretty much on a par with its counterparts. Although it was expected that this version would be slimmed down, that's not the case - but that doesn't take away from its improved performance. All in all, a good phone, that will ignite a lot of interest from BlackBerry supporters.
Need to Know: BlackBerry Torch 2
1. Enhanced Music Player, with intelligent artist search. (The Good)
2. Powered by the latest BlackBerry software and hardware. (The Good)
3. Pre-loaded compass has a number of glitches. (The Bad)
4. Ho-hum battery life. (The Bad)
What the Critics Are Saying...
- Thea Neuman, BlackBerryRocksThe BlackBerry Torch 9810, which is the successor to the Torch 9800, comes with an improved screen, faster processor and the very latest version of the BlackBerry OS. This is not a huge step up from the original BlackBerry Torch, but HD video capture, the updates in BlackBerry OS and the sharper dis...
- Chandrakant Isi, TechTreeThe 9860 delivers a refreshing UI with the BlackBerry 7 OS. Its 1.2 GHz CPU is more than enough to pull off a good multimedia performance. On the other hand, the lack of scratch-resistant glass, useless GPS, and BIS dependency is annoying. However, the biggest downer is its Rs 30,000+ price tag. All...
- Chris Hall, Pocket-lintThe BlackBerry Torch 9810 feels like an incremental step for RIM. The previous handset had obvious problems, some of which are addressed here, but we also feel that the 9810 is the phone the 9800 should have been. That sets this handset behind the times a little and that's certainly not helped by a...
- Hanleigh Daniels, TechsmartWhile the Torch 9810 is virtually indistinguishable from the outgoing model, its under the hood improvements, such as the improved display resolution, more internal storage space and a speedier CPU, makes for a much shinier Torch that can blind touch-and-type rivals like the Nokia E6.
- Mat Smith, RecombuIt feels like we’re going over old ground, but the BlackBerry Torch 9810 remains a great phone for the fundamentals and email. If that’s what you’re looking for, in a solid, sturdy design, the Torch 9810 is a great choice. Between this and the Bold 9900, it may not be as stylish, but many will like...
Prices (Where to Buy)
Common Questions
We've got you covered! Download a free PDF copy of the BlackBerry Torch 2 user manual here.
BlackBerry backs up the Torch 2 with a 1 Year parts & labour warranty.
If your Torch 2 has problems and is still within its warranty period, you could contact BlackBerry support or the retailer you purchased the phone from. You'll find BlackBerry's contact information here. If your phone is off warranty and needs repair for a physical problem such as a broken screen or bad battery, you should visit an authorized service centre or a local phone repair shop. You can also connect with others in The Informr Community Forum to find and share answers to questions.
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