So I’ve wanted a smartphone for quite some time, and I’ve kind of held off on it because it wasn’t really necessary for me.  However, with new things coming up, the need for a smartphone has once again reared it’s head and I figured I may as well not settle and wait for the one that I want.  So hello there Blackberry Storm 9550!  This is the worthy successor of the original Blackberry Storm 9530, and along with the fact that it’s a Blackberry it’s also got a lot of features that will make it fun and useful. I like the idea of the touchscreen, being able to cart around and display photos as well as a bunch of useful apps… I really can’t wait until I see this phone in action.

I have debated to myself whether or not to get this or an iPhone, but the BB (either this or the Bold 9700) has won out in the end because of it’s business capabilities and it’s overall BB-ness.  Hopefully the Storm will come out for Canada soonish. I’m betting by the end of the month. After which I’ll no longer have to lug around my laptop just to check my e-mail.  I’m excited. I love new toys!

Hi, this is my new favourite gadget that I don’t own and sort of all kinds of want. Let me preface by saying that I did look at the iPhone. I had several chances to play with both an iPhone and an iPod touch. The apple gadgets renewed my cravings for a smart phone, more so because of the interactivity and how easy it was to browse the web and play with the apps. However, there were several concerns I had with the iPhone, namely its keypad. I don’t know what’s wrong with my fingers, but I could not get a good handle on the keyboard. I have long, graceful, artist fingers and I couldn’t manipulate the keypad as easily as I could other devices. This is a problem because the one appeal of a smartphone for me is to be able to instant message, e-mail, and update blog posts. So in this matter, sorry iPhone, it’s not you, it’s me.

I’ve had the opportunity to try out a Blackberry Curve as well. While it’s pretty much a smart phone and will probably do all the things I need it to, there’s a sort of executive dullness about it and trackballs seem too old school, to be honest. That’s why when I heard of a touchscreen Blackberry on the horizon, my ears perked up and I decided to wait to see what RIM had to offer.

Blackberry Storm was officially announced today. I don’t know when they’ll be available up in Canada, but as soon as they are available, I want to get my hands on one and see if it’s more comfortable for me than an iPhone. So the jury is still out, but so far the idea of this touchscreen Blackberry is delicious.

Visit Crackberry for more reviews, previews, and pics of the Storm.