AT&T and Research In Motion (RIM) have launched the BlackBerry (News - Alert) Pearl 8110 smartphone, which includes built-in global positioning system (GPS) support for location-based applications and services.

 

The BlackBerry Pearl 8110 smartphone from AT&T (News - Alert) features BlackBerry e-mail and messaging capabilities, along with RIM's SureType QWERTY keyboard system for easy typing and phone dialing.

 

These features are combined with navigation and mapping applications, including AT&T Navigator, for turn-by-turn voice and on-screen directions with 3-D moving maps that can be used in vehicles or while walking. AT&T Navigator also alerts users through voice and on-screen prompts to traffic slowdowns and incidents along their programmed travel route.

 

The BlackBerry Pearl 8110 also features multimedia capabilities, including an advanced media player that is ideal for users who want easy access to music and videos while on the go. It also includes a 2-megapixel camera that supports video recording.

 

"The BlackBerry Pearl 8110's stylish design and consumer features blend well with the productivity features for managing your day while away from home or the office," said Michael Woodward, vice president for the business voice/data and wireless products division at AT&T’s wireless unit.

 

Woodward added: "Beyond the BlackBerry Pearl 8110's powerful e-mail and messaging capabilities, which keep users on track with important information while mobile, its new built-in GPS capabilities -- coupled with AT&T Navigator -- will keep customers literally on track when they are getting from Point A to Point B."

 

The BlackBerry Pearl 8110 also is the first BlackBerry that enables users to wirelessly download AT&T's popular, and free, YELLOWPAGES.COM Mobile application directly from an icon on the smartphone.

 

"The BlackBerry Pearl 8110 smartphone maintains the exceptional styling and sleek form factor of the BlackBerry Pearl franchise," said Mark Guibert, vice president of corporate marketing at Research In Motion, in a statement.

 

Guibert continued: "It expands functionality with richer multimedia capabilities and built-in GPS while continuing to deliver the full power of the BlackBerry platform. With value-added services, like AT&T Navigator, AT&T Mobile Music and AT&T's global roaming, the BlackBerry Pearl 8110 is an ideal choice for customers who want a new phone that can serve both business and personal needs."

 

Research In Motion is a designer, manufacturer and marketer of wireless solutions for the worldwide mobile communications market. Through the development of integrated hardware, software and services that support multiple wireless network standards, RIM provides platforms and solutions for seamless access to time-sensitive information including e-mail, phone, SMS messaging, Internet and intranet-based applications.