6. Conclusion

If you want a smart phone that also allows you to access your email almost anywhere you go, should you opt for the Blackberry 8800? The answer is an unequivocal yes. RIM has always done a very good job of adhering to users' needs for very easy-to-use push email, which helps to account for the Blackberry's popularity (and also its addictive aspects, as evidenced by those who bring their Blackberries to the dinner table or to bed...)

If you already have an older model that has served you well for a couple of years or longer, is it time to trade it in for the 8800? Prior to my tests, I would have discouraged anyone from paying $500 or more just to get a new-generation device - or even half that amount with rebates - especially since it seemed at first glance that its designers glossed it up to look nice without giving as much thought to new functionality or utilities. But after my tests, I changed my mind.

I was very impressed by the 8800's Bluetooth module, and how easy it was to use the connection to synch up with a Compaq nc8430 laptop. When traveling, you can forget about having to worry about finding - and paying a lot of money - to access a public Wi-Fi hotspot. Of course, the cellular link's data rate is much slower than a Wi-Fi link, but the connection's utility makes up for that.

I was disappointed that I could not get the media player to play my video files - I would have welcomed being able to watch a full-length film with the 8800 during a long train or plane ride. Even so, the nifty GPS features and much-improved Web browser helped to win me over in the end, to recommend trashing your beloved and faithful old-model Blackberry for the new 8800.