- BlackBerry smartphone with QWERTY keyboard; dual-network capable for 3G-enabled GSM access when traveling abroad
- 3G speeds via Sprint Mobile Broadband Network; Sprint TV enabled; GPS turn-by-turn directions via Sprint Navigation
- 3.2-megapixel camera/camcorder; Bluetooth stereo music; microSD memory expansion to 16 GB; access to personal and corporate email
- Up to 5 hours of talk time, up to 312 hours (13 days) of standby time
- What’s in the Box: handset, rechargeable battery, folding blade micro charger, 2 GB microSD card, SIM card, USB cable, 3.5mm stereo headset, synthetic swivel holster case
Amazon.com Product Description
Powerful and refined, the BlackBerry Bold 9650 smartphone offers high-speed connectivity via Sprint’s dependable 3G network as well as Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g) for connecting to home/business networks and on-the-go hotspots. And whether traveling to Europe or Asia, the Bold 9650 provides globetrotters the freedom of reliable global connectivity to GSM and 3G UMTS networks via Sprint Worldwide international services.
Enjoy fast cellular connectivity with Sprint’s dependable 3G network and global GSM/3G connectivity when traveling abroad. |
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In addition to fast 3G speeds from Sprint’s high-speed EV-DO network, you’ll enjoy GPS navigation capabilities for accessing the optional Sprint Navigation turn-by-turn direction service and Sprint TV’s video-on-demand with full-motion video and vivid sound (see more details on optional services below).
Offering top-of-the-line performance and functionality, it features a sophisticated, high-gloss black finish, chrome highlights and leatherette back. It also includes a distinctive, highly tactile full-QWERTY keyboard for fast and accurate typing, and an innovative touch-sensitive optical trackpad, which makes for a great navigation experience.
Other features include a 3.2-megapixel camera/camcorder, Bluetooth for hands-free devices and stereo music streaming, microSD memory expansion to 16 GB (a 2 GB card is included), support for BlackBerry App World, and up to 5 hours of talk time.
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Key Features
- Fast 3G connectivity thanks to Sprint’s EV-DO, Rev 0 network
- Global roaming with Sprint Worldwide international services (pre-installed SIM card; compatible with 850/900/1800/1900 MHz GSM and 2100 MHz 3G UMTS networks)
- GPS using Sprint Navigation for turn by turn directions, and points of interest searches
- BlackBerry OS 5.0 includes typing accuracy and selection improvements, as well as usability and visual enhancements such as inertial scrolling, spin boxes that make it easier to set dates and times, gradient shading on buttons, and more use of animation.
- Support for BlackBerry App World featuring a broad and growing catalog of third-party mobile applications developed specifically for BlackBerry smartphones. Categories include travel, productivity, entertainment, games, social networking and sharing, news and weather, and more.
- BlackBerry Internet Service offers easy access to up to 10 supported personal and work e-mail accounts and one BlackBerry e-mail account.
- Compatible with BlackBerry Enterprise Server for advanced security and IT administration features within IBM Lotus Domino, Microsoft Exchange and Novell GroupWise environments. Customers running BlackBerry Enterprise Server 5.0 will gain the ability to set follow-up flags, manage e-mail folders, access remote files (Windows Shares), forward appointments, view calendar attachments, and more.
- View attachments including JPEG, Adobe PDF, and Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
- BlackBerry Media Sync is built right into your BlackBerry Desktop Software and lets you sync your desktop iTunes or Windows Media Player music files with your BlackBerry smartphone. If you’re a Mac user, just choose the “media” option and you’re ready to sync your iTunes music collection from your BlackBerry smartphone onto your Mac.
- Memory expansion via microSD card slot with support for optional cards up to 16 GB. A 2 GB card is included with the phone, and it also has an internal 512 MB memory.
- Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g) for accessing home and corporate networks as well as hotspots while on the go
- Bluetooth 2.1 connectivity with stereo music streaming (A2DP) capabilities as well as hands-free headsets and car kits and tethering with your PC (with optional tethering plan). (Learn more)
- Full messaging capabilities including SMS text, MMS picture and IM instant messaging (via popular services)
- Large 2.45-inch high-resolution display (480 x 360 resolution at 245 ppi) that displays pictures, videos and Web pages with contrast and detail
- 3.2-megapixel camera with flash, variable zoom, image stabilization, autofocus and video recording.
- Full HTML Web browser, streaming audio and video via RTSP
Vital Statistics
The BlackBerry Bold 9650 weighs 4.8 ounces and measures 4.4 x 2.44 x 0.55 inches. Its 1400 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 5 hours of talk time, and up to 312 hours (13 days) of standby time. It runs on the 800/1900 CDMA/EV-DO Rev. A frequencies in the United States as well as 850/900/1800/1900 MHz GSM and 2100 MHz 3G UMTS/HSPA networks outside North America.
What’s in the Box
BlackBerry Bold 9650 handset, rechargeable battery, folding blade micro charger, 2 GB microSD card, SIM card, USB cable, 3.5mm stereo headset, synthetic swivel holster case, BlackBerry documentation kit, quick start guide, user manual
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Sprint Services
- Broadband-like 3G network: Supporting the EV-DO Rev. A high-speed data standard, this phone enables you to download and stream high-quality video, straight onto your phone. Where coverage is available, EV-DO Rev. A connectivity provides average download speeds ranging from 400 to 700 Kbps, with peak rates up to 2 Mbps.
- Global roaming: This phone operates on quad-band GSM and 2100 MHz 3G UMTS networks globally where Sprint has international roaming agreements. (Note that this phone is not compatible with GSM networks found in the United States.) A Sprint-provided SIM card is provided pre-installed in the device for customers who wish to utilize Sprint Worldwide international services (special activation required) while traveling abroad. You can make and receive calls as well as access data in over 185 countries.
- Sprint TV enabled: With Sprint TV, you can make your cell phone your always-on source for news, weather, sports and more. This comprehensive video service combines high-quality streaming audio and video from channels including the NFL Network, ABC, The Weather Channel, Fox Sports, E!, CNN, The Discovery Channel, and more.
- GPS capable with Sprint Navigation: This GPS-enabled phone provides optional access to Sprint Navigation for driving directions on your mobile phone–by voice and onscreen. Along the way, turn-by-turn directions will be announced in a clear voice and displayed on your phone. For example, Sprint Navigation will say, “Go 1.2 miles and turn right on Elm Street.” As you approach the turn, you will hear, “Turn right on Elm Street.” Sprint Navigation also provides proactive traffic alerts with one click re-routing. And it’s easy to find restaurants, banks, cafes, hotels and more from over 10 million points of interest across the U.S.
- Stay Sporty with Sprint: With NASCAR Sprint Cup Mobile, instantly connect to the NASCAR information you want, when you want it. Follow NASCAR action from practice to race day with real-time leaderboard and alerts. Get exclusive access to your favorite NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver with real-time driver stats, breaking news and more. Live in-car audio, race radio, NASCAR on SPEED and other audio/video only available on select phones. Visit sprint.com/speed for details.
To access, just text “NASCAR” to 7777 on your Sprint phone or visit the Sprint Digital Lounge to download NASCAR Sprint Cup Mobile (standard text messaging and data rates apply).
This phone also provides access to Sprint Football Live–free for any phone with a data plan. You’ll be able to follow all the live play-by-play action with the Live Game Center for both pro and college football games, as well as stay on top of the pro football draft with a Live Draft Tracker and in-depth analysis and bios on nearly 500 top prospects. Access by texting “FOOTBALL” to 7777 on the handset to download Sprint Football Live from Sprint Digital Lounge (standard text messaging and data rates apply).
BlackBerry Bold 9650 Phone, Black
Got this to replace my Sprint tour that everyone said I sounded muffled on. Nice update from the 9630 Tour. No complaints about the sound (no muffling) and the trackball issues others were having with the Tour are fixed with the new optical trackpad. Also happy to report that the slightly annoying battery cover that was loose on the Tour is fixed on this model. Other than those items, the Bold 9650 has more memory and WiFi now. If you are upgrading from a Tour or buying a case that was for the 9630 Tour, be careful because they moved the charging port up slightly (about 1/8 inch) so your old style case may not allow proper access for the charger. I have a Case-Mate “Barely there” 9630 Tour cover that works on this one fine (only because the openings are pretty big). The phone works fine on the Sprint network and already has a firmware update on the Blackberry site (although I couldn’t figure out what it fixed). Always back up your data with the Blackberry Desktop software before attempting a firmware update just to be safe. I didn’t give it a five because I think Blackberry is lagging behind in web browsers and Apps, but this works well with my work e-mail so I went for this over an Android phone.
Rating: 4 / 5
Quick Daily Usage Summary: Driving and listening to Pandora internet radio streaming CD quality audio >>> Sprint navigation interrupts stream to notify of traffic alert and rerouting options >>> BB message alert from friend >>> AOL instant message >>> Google talk >>> E-mail received of Amazon shipping item >>> Calendar alert showing appointment later that day >>> When parked I send picture to Facebook instantly.
This is probably one of the best all around BlackBerry devices every created. I only upgraded from a 8530 because I needed to have international roaming capabilities. And with Sprint, the phones come natively unlocked and ready to roam on ANY GSM network in the world! (pop-in new SIM card and you’re set)
This phone has ALL the features that its competitors have along with its storied and well developed BB e-mail / messaging system that has over 100 million users worldwide. The fact that it can be bought for less $200 is an excellent value.
If you’re looking for a phone that keeps you organized, connected to all your family and friends, entertained, and more, this is a great phone.
The e-mail, contact lists, and how all messages are combined into shared boxes is efficient and easy to use. The keyboard is responsive and fast…much better than any touchscreen out there. The battery life is phenomenal and turning off the WiFi and Bluetooth radios and closing extra applications extends it even further.
Regarding the cellphone service coverage, Sprint has vastly improved over the last 5 years. My friends and I took our BB phones up and down the East Coast and had excellent service the entire way: e-mailing, chatting, texting, sending pics, receiving pics, facebooking, etc. There were a handful of dead spots, but coverage and reliability was rivaling Verizon Wireless (former VZW subscriber of 10 years!)
Unlimited use of their voice command GPS network (LIVE traffic updates and rerouting!) is truly amazing and at least worth $200 in my opinion. The Sprint TV network is DARN GOOD with various channels that include LIVE ESPN.
The camera actually takes better 3.2MP pictures than the iPhone 3GS with full color and detail…with a LED flash that is blinding! (flashlight mode is possible under the camcorder mode and is hilarious as it literally lights up an entire room)
Also, I’ve been able to stream Pandora internet radio nonstop for hours without barely using the battery.
Minor disadvantages: Yes the screen is small…but I’d rather carry a device that doesn’t impale me while in my pocket. Web browsing is annoying at times, but update coming to the phone will vastly improve experience. Otherwise, most websites load fine.
Sprint’s Family plans are the best currently on the market. To have unlimited mobile to mobile calling (ANY CARRIER!), unlimited texting, unlimited data, for less than $40 per person per month is nearly miraculous. If you don’t want to waste money on flashier smartphones, get this phone. You won’t regret it!
Rating: 5 / 5
I’ve used many blackberries(curve,bold,tour,pearl) for personal and work related functions. I’ve had the 9700 Blackberry Bold on AT&T for work and it is an amazing phone. Very smooth, great signal, and extremely long battery life (2-3 days). This is why I bought the Bold 9650 on Sprint as my personal phone.
It turns out the Sprint Bold 9650 is actually a upgraded of the old Tour model. The hardware is completely different from the GSM BOLD. The battery is half the size compared to the 9700(on AT&T) and the layout and hardware are very different. With CDMA the battery will drain faster, but the 9650 does not last through a day of use and the software crashes periodically especially when using the camera. (google “9650 crash”).
I think other users have resorted to flash the Blackberry OS to non-official version from other carriers to make it more stable.
I do NOT recommend this phone. I hope that Blackberry or Sprint will either improve the battery life and software or kill the cheap Tour models entirely. The real blackberry GSM Bold is much better. Just as a disclaimer I bought my bold directly from Sprint and not from Amazon.
Rating: 2 / 5
I am normally a big fan of Amazon.com, however in this instance I am not. Amazon.com usually does very well with customer service, but when I wanted to exchange my sons cell phone for a different one within 30 days, they said “NO”. This is a practice that is very common with Carriers like Sprint, Verizon, and AT&T. Yet Amazon refused. I made a commitment of 2 Years with 4 phones, unlimited data, and unlimited messaging through them, and they couldn’t even commit to a 30 day satisfaction garuantee? Very disappointed, and not worth the money saved by going through them!
Rating: 1 / 5