BlackBerry® Storm™

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3.7 ( 29 customer reviews )

Expert Rating: 3.5

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BlackBerry® Storm™ (Verizon Wireless) current promotions

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BlackBerry® Storm™ (Verizon Wireless) Demos, Guides & Tips

BlackBerry® Storm™ (Verizon Wireless) Product Overview

BlackBerry® Storm™ (Verizon Wireless) Detail

RIM packs functionality and entertainment into the BlackBerry® Storm™ 9530, its first touchscreen phone. Like many other touchscreen phones, the Blackberry Storm has an on-board accelerometer to switch from portrait to landscape mode or vice versa, but unlike other touchscreens, the Storm offers SurePress Technology, which alllows you to use the entire screen as one big button, creating an unique, one-of-a-kind interactive user experience. The Storm offers two virtual keyboards -- the Full QWERTY keyboard for long messaging and editing documents and the SureType™ keyboard, as found on the BlackBerry® Pearl™, for sending quick texts. As with all Blackberry devices, The Blackberry Storm features great corporate and web-based email functionality and also comes with the ability to view and edit Microsoft Office documents out of the box. Storage is not a problem, as the Blackberry Storm comes with a 8GB MicroSD memory card and is expandable up to 16GB. Use the extra storage for photos, music, documents, or even videos. Streaming is fast on Verizon's 3G data network and, with Verizon's V CAST Music service, you can download music straight onto your phone. An Enhanced HTML Web Browser and the ability to pan and zoom on web pages make surfing the web intuitive. Preloaded editing Software for Microsoft® Word, Excel® and PowerPoint® Files further enhances the Blackberry Storm's functionality. The Storm's built-in GPS supports VZ Navigator for spoken turn-by-turn directions. Other features include a 3.2 megapixel camera/camcorder with 2x zoom, stereo Bluetooth, and quad-band GSM for use all over the world.

BlackBerry® Storm™ (Verizon Wireless)

3.25 inches SurePress Touchscreen with Accelerometer (480x360, 65K)
3.2 Megapixel Camera/Camcorder
Virtual QWERTY Keypad (in Landscape)
World Phone (Quad Band GSM, Dual-Band CDMA)
MS Office Viewing and Editing Software
V CAST Music with Rhapsody
Visual Voice Mail
Stereo Bluetooth

Included Accessories

Standard Lithium ion battery
3.5mm Stereo Headset
Travel Charger with BlackBerry® International Adapter Clips
USB Cable
Pre-installed 8GB SanDisk microSD™ Memory Card
Pre-installed SIM Card
Documentation Kit
VZAccess Manager™ CD-ROM

Have A Question? Ask A Merchant

just in usa Jun 23rd, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply

hi i wanna ask about blackberry stroum if i buy it from web site it's work in kuwait network .. gsm
-Khaija

Re: just in usa Jun 23rd, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply

Re: just in usa Jun 23rd, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply Unfortunately, the BlackBerry Storm will not work on a GSM network. That smartphone will only work on CDMA networks.
-Joni Blecher
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district manager Jun 23rd, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply

The Blackberry Storm. I have a wing from T-Moble. What is the total cost for this phone..and can it be used with T-Moble?
-Jack

Re: district manager Jun 23rd, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply

Re: district manager Jun 23rd, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply The BlackBerry Storm can't be use with T-Mobile. It currently only works with Verizon Wireless service.
-Joni Blecher
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Phones with out contract Jun 23rd, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply

I just want to know if I can buy just the phone without any contract?
-Cheen ang

Re: Phones with out contract Jun 23rd, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply

Re: Phones with out contract Jun 23rd, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply Yes, you are able to purchase cell phones without contract agreements on LetsTalk.com. However, like going through the carrier store or site, you will end up paying the full retail price for the device.
-Aaron Horowitz
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Alltel-Verizon Integration Jun 24th, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply

I was wondering about the buy out of Alltel by Verizon. Does that mean that current Alltel customers will become Verizon customers? If so, when will this take place?
-josh

Re: Alltel-Verizon Integration Jun 25th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply

Re: Alltel-Verizon Integration Jun 25th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply Great question. Most Alltel Wireless customers will be converted to Verizon Wireless in the upcoming months with no additional effort by the customer. However, as part of the regulatory approval process, a select number of ZIP codes in which both Alltel and Verizon Wireless offer service will not merge carriers. In other words, Alltel customers in those ZIP codes will remain Alltel customers unless they voluntarily change carriers (early termination fees may apply). For those of you that are in integrated ZIP codes, you can choose to keep your Alltel cell phone or purchase a Verizon Wireless device. If you choose to change to Verizon Wireless before the official conversion, you may face early termination fees from Alltel Wireless. Hope this helps.
-Aaron Horowitz
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Where to buy in Qatar? Jun 24th, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply

Where can I buy the Blackberry Storm outside the U.S. and how much will it cost?
-johnny marohombsar jr.

Re: Where to buy in Qatar? Jun 25th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply

Re: Where to buy in Qatar? Jun 25th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply LetsTalk.com ships exclusively within the U.S. For purchasing locations and costs outside of the U.S., I would recommend visiting the BlackBerry website and search for the Thunder (The Storm's international name).
-Aaron Horowitz
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Data Required for Contract Extensions? Jun 25th, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply

I am a current Verizon customer. If I Upgrade w/Contract Extension, do I still need a web and data plan. If so, how much will it cost me for two phones.
-Steve Chin

Re: Data Required for Contract Extensions? Jun 25th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply

Re: Data Required for Contract Extensions? Jun 25th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply Yes, data is now required on all new Verizon Wireless BlackBerry/PDA devices, including those purchased through contract extensions. The logic behind this requirement is to ensure that customers buying these sophisticated devices take advantage of all of the cell phone's features. For specific pricing, please re-visit LetsTalk.com and click on the "Upgrade Your Phone" category under the "Cell Phones" tab.
-Aaron Horowitz
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Storm as VZW Exclusive? Jun 29th, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply

Can the BlackBerry Storm be used with AT&T?
-haspence

Re: Storm as VZW Exclusive? Jun 29th, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply
Re: Storm as VZW Exclusive? Jun 29th, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply Unfortunately, no. This smartphone works on the CDMA network that Verizon Wireless supports. AT&T supports a GSM network. The BlackBerry Storm isn't compatible with AT&T.
-Joni Blecher
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- Re: Re: Storm as VZW Exclusive? Jun 29th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply
  
  Re: Re: Storm as VZW Exclusive? Jun 29th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply The Storm does have GSM capability for international travel, but it is locked to Verizon Wireless.
  -Aaron Horowitz
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ATT Customer Jun 29th, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply

Is the Blackberry Storm exclusive to Verizon Network or can it be used on ATT?
-Gabrielle

Re: ATT Customer Jun 29th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply

Re: ATT Customer Jun 29th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply Yes, the BlackBerry Storm is exclusive to Verizon Wireless.
-Aaron Horowitz
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Verizon Navigation Jul 4th, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply

Does this phone have audible GPS along with moving maps? Do I have to buy extra hardware or software? What? How much?
-Jean Lentz

Re: Verizon Navigation Jul 6th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply

Re: Verizon Navigation Jul 6th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply You need to pay an additional $9.99 per month for a Verizon feature called VZ Navigator. This service offers spoken turn–by–turn directions.
-Aaron Horowitz
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Mrs. Jul 5th, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply

Do I have to pay extra to use the email? Does it only work with Bluetooth?
-Joann

Re: Mrs. Jul 6th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply

Re: Mrs. Jul 6th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply If I understand your question correctly, you access your email without using Bluetooh. For all BlackBerry/PDA cell phones from Verizon Wireless, you are now required to pay either an additional $30 or $45 for monthly data. This includes email, web surfing, etc. The $30/month data plan is for web-based email only (yahoo, gmail, etc.), whereas the $45 data plan includes corporate/exchange email. So to answer your question in other words, you do not pay per email on the Storm. Rather you pay a fixed fee per month with unlimited email access.
-Aaron Horowitz
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Unlocked Storm Jul 7th, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply

I want to buy a blackberry storm unlocked because I live in Venezuela and it's cheaper to buy it here. Is this possible?
-joninka

Re: Unlocked Storm Jul 7th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply

Re: Unlocked Storm Jul 7th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply Within the U.S., the BlackBerry Storm is currently locked to Verizon Wireless. For unlocked Storms, I believe you need to purchase them in countries where there is no carrier exclusively associated with the cell phone.
-Aaron Horowitz
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Blackberry Storm 9500 Jul 8th, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply

I am looking 4 blackberry STORM model, but i am living in INDIA, so i need to have International Warranty with Invoice,Unlock facility with all accessories with shipment in US ORINDIA.Pls, let me know the price, waiting for early reply.
-Bhupendra Sanghavi

Re: Blackberry Storm 9500 Jul 8th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply

Re: Blackberry Storm 9500 Jul 8th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply We do not offer unlocked BlackBerry Storms.
-Aaron Horowitz
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world Phone Jul 11th, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply

Can the Storm be used in Mexico? It doesn't look like it. Do you have any REAL world phones? Can I get an unlocked cell phone?
-L Camp

Re: world Phone Jul 13th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply

Re: world Phone Jul 13th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply Yes. The Storm can be used in Mexico. It is a CDMA/GSM device so there is a pre-installed SIM card for when you choose to use it outside of the U.S. It is a locked device however, so you should make sure you understand Verizon's global rates before using it abroad.
-Aaron Horowitz
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Blackberry Jul 13th, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply

I just purchased an account. Can I just purchase a phone?
-Arlene Hutton

Re: Blackberry Jul 13th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply

Re: Blackberry Jul 13th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply If you are a current Verizon Wireless customer and have more than two months remaining on your 2-year contract, you will only qualify for "phone alone" pricing, which is far more expensive.
-Aaron Horowitz
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World phone Jul 13th, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply

I did not really get an answer to my question. When I look at the service map, nothing for Mexico. Is thia a world phone or not really?
-Leona Camp

Re: World phone Jul 13th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply

Re: World phone Jul 13th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply The BlackBerry Storm is a Quad Band phone which means it is a world phone. You will be able to use it in Mexico, however, you'll need to check with Verizon before leaving on your trip to ensure the service is set up correctly.
-Joni Blecher
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storm Jul 13th, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply

I think the bottom line is that Verizon can't provide an unlocked Storm and I need an unlocked for Mexico. Right? Mexico is right next door. How come it's so difficult?
-Leona Camp

Re: storm Jul 13th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply

Re: storm Jul 13th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply That's correct it isn't an unlocked Storm.
-Joni Blecher
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blackberry Jul 13th, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply

Hi, I currently purchased a blackberry that I am not thrilled with and am still in the "cancellation" stage, and am wanting one with touch. How can I go about doing that?
-lori

Re: blackberry Jul 13th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply

Re: blackberry Jul 13th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply I would contact the company from which you purchased it, follow through with their cancellation and return policy, and then purchase the BlackBerry Storm through LetsTalk.com.
-Aaron Horowitz
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blackberry storm Jul 15th, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply

hi, im looking for the best deal and service plan for this phone. it say's $29.99 with service plan. how long is the plan for ?? and how much is the plan per/month ?? how do i find out. what the plan is for the blackberry storm for $29.99 thanks connie
-connie

Re: blackberry storm Jul 16th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply

Re: blackberry storm Jul 16th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply This current offer is for a 2-yr service plan of $79.99/month or higher. You either need to purchase an additional data plan or purchase a monthly BlackBerry service plan that already includes unlimited data.
-Aaron Horowitz
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Storm Jul 21st, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply

I would love to have a Blackberry Storm. I have the Pearl now. I am a T-Mobile customer and they don't carry the storm. Is there a way to get an unlocked one?
-Brenda

Re: Storm Jul 22nd, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply

Re: Storm Jul 22nd, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply Not that I know of. Sorry.
-Aaron Horowitz
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Blackberry Storm Jul 22nd, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply

I got a blackberry for my bday! However, I have to purchase the service, I also noticed my company receives a discount on Verizon phones and service. Is there a yearly fee or just monthly?
-Lisa

Re: Blackberry Storm Jul 22nd, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply

Re: Blackberry Storm Jul 22nd, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply In terms of corporate discounts on your monthly bills, I would suggest contacting Verizon wireless directly. You generally need to either pay monthly bills with either a 1 year or 2 year contract. If you are currently a Verizon customer, you can replace your current phone with the Storm through your My Verizon account, but you'll have to pay for the additional data service/month, which is now required from Verizon on all BlackBerry devices.
-Aaron Horowitz
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SIM/Memory card Jul 22nd, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply

Does the purchase of this phone include the sim and 8GB memory card?
-michael deanda

Re: SIM/Memory card Jul 22nd, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply

Re: SIM/Memory card Jul 22nd, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply Yes. Both the SIM card for international travel and the 8GB memory card should be pre-installed on the Storm.
-Aaron Horowitz
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storm Jul 22nd, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply

Will i be able to use the phone with my pre-exsisting Verizon account?
-michael deanda

Re: storm Jul 22nd, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply

Re: storm Jul 22nd, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply Yes. If you already have a post-paid contract with Verizon, you should be able to replace your current phone with the Storm either by calling Verizon or logging onto your My Verizon account online. You will just need to provide the Storm's IMEI number (found either on the box or under the battery) upon request. However, if you do not currently have a BlackBerry or PDA device, you will probably be forced to select one of the two BlackBerry Data plans.
-Aaron Horowitz
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Alltel Conversion Aug 22nd, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply

Do I have to wait until Verizon takes over Alltel Oct. 1 in my area to buy a Blackberry Storm if it works in this area?
-Sara Detweiler

Re: Alltel Conversion Aug 25th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply

Re: Alltel Conversion Aug 25th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply If you are out of contract with Alltel and Verizon is offered in your area, you can purchase the Storm today. If Verizon is not currently offered, you will need to wait. Otherwise, you can either extend your contract, if eligible, after October 1st, when you are technically a Verizon customer.
-Aaron Horowitz
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How to use it in Nigeria Aug 24th, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply

I live in Nigeria and would prefer to buy my BlackBerry Storm from your store. What should I do to be able to use it here. I sit to just insert my SIM or is there any protocol?
-Ndeyake

Re: How to use it in Nigeria Aug 25th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply

Re: How to use it in Nigeria Aug 25th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply The BlackBerry Storm that we offer is locked to Verizon Wireless, so you will not be able to use a local Nigerian SIM card in it. You will need to purchase an unlocked Storm which are not offered in official U.S. stores.
-Aaron Horowitz
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blackberry storm without contract Oct 8th, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply

Would I be able to use it with another Sim card of another carrier?
-herbert mcleod

Re: blackberry storm without contract Oct 8th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply

Re: blackberry storm without contract Oct 8th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply No. Unfortunately, Storms officially sold in the U.S. only work internationally on the Verizon SIM. You would need an unlocked version, which are often sold abroad but are far more expensive.
-Aaron Horowitz
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Usage in Bahamas Oct 9th, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply

I admire the phone once i purchase it and have it unlock will it work in the Bahamas with the GSM system that we now use?
-Jessica Robinsn

Re: Usage in Bahamas Oct 12th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply

Re: Usage in Bahamas Oct 12th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply If you're able to unlock the Storm, you should not have issues using it in the Bahamas.
-Aaron Horowitz
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Curious Oct 15th, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply

I would like to know if I can keep my number if I get a phone from this site. I was also wondering what the activation fee would be for 2 phones.
-Charendria Gilmer

Re: Curious Oct 19th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply

Re: Curious Oct 19th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply You can definitely keep your number, just port it during the ordering process. The activation fee would be $70 for two lines.
-Helen Pan
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YouTube Oct 20th, 2009 1 Post(s) Reply

Am I able to access, view, and upload videos to youtube?
-Passionate

Re: YouTube Oct 20th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply

Re: YouTube Oct 20th, 2009 0 Post(s) Reply Yep. You just need to make sure that you save it in the correct format so that the file size is not insanely large.
-Aaron Horowitz
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BlackBerry® Storm™ (Verizon Wireless) Product Features

Cell Phone Design
Phone Style	Candy Bar / Open Face
Phone Size	Large
Phone Thickness	Thin
Dimensions (H x W x D)	4.4 x 2.4 x 0.6 in
Weight (w/standard battery)	5.5 oz
Keyboard Type	Virtual QWERTY / Touchscreen
External LCD	Yes
Touchscreen	Yes
Screen Size	3.25
Display	480 x 360 pixels
Accelerometer	Yes
Multiple Colors Available	No
Mil-Spec/Rugged	No

Music, Camera & Video Features
Music Formats Supported	MP3, AAC, AAC+, eAAC+, WMA, WMA ProPlus
Streaming Music	Yes
Music ID Service	No
Headset Jack Type	3.5mm Plug
Ringtones Included	Polyphonic
Songs as Ringtones	Yes, no file size limitations
FM Radio	No
Camera Resolution	3.2 Megapixel
Camera Zoom Type	Digital
Camera Flash	Yes
Camera Lens Type	CCD
Video Recorder	Yes
Video Formats supported	MPEG4 H.263, MPEG4 Part 2 Simple Profile, H.264, WMV
Video Recording Length	determined by available memory
Video Playback	Yes
Streaming Video	Yes
Video Sharing	No
Mobile TV Technology	N/A

Organization & Tools
Threaded Text Messaging	Yes
Phone Book Capacity	Shared Memory
Multiple Phone Numbers per Contact	Yes
Assign separate Ringtones per Contact	Yes
Contact Manager Software	Yes, Software Included
Messaging	Text, Picture and Video Messaging
Instant Messaging Support	Yes
Email accounts supported	POP3, IMAP, web, Blackberry Internet Service (BIS), Blackberry Enterprise Server (BES)
GMail for Mobile App	Yes
Google Mobile App available?	Yes
Google Maps App available?	Yes
Computer Syncing	Yes, Software Included
USB Cable Syncing	Yes, Cable included
Sync with Microsoft Outlook	Yes, software included
Bluetooth Syncing	Yes
Wireless Contact Backup	Offered by carrier
Voice Recorder	determined by available memory
Calculator	Yes
Calendar	Yes
Alarm Clock	Yes
Notepad	Yes
Turn by Turn Navigation	Blackberry Maps Included/available for download and VZW Navigator available for monthly fee

Cell Phone Specifications
Operating System	Blackberry
Operating System Release Number	4.6
Java-Enabled	No
BREW-Enabled	Yes
Onboard Memory	1 GB
Removable Memory Card - Type	Micro SD Card
Maximum Memory Card Capacity	32GB SDHC
Removable Memory Accessibility	External Slot
Hot Swappable Memory	No
Photo Caller ID	Yes
Push To Talk	No
Speakerphone	Full Duplex
External Volume Control	Yes
Service / Support	1 Year Warranty

Accessibility
Voice-Activated Dialing	Yes
Language Options	Multiple Languages
Hearing Aid Compliance	M3
Adjustable Font Size	Yes
Digital TTY/TTD	Yes

Battery Specifications
Talk Time	Up to 360 Mins
Standby Time	Up to 360 Hrs
Type of Battery	Lithium Ion battery

Connectivity
3G Data Capable	Yes
Wi-Fi	No
Web Browser	Full HTML
GPS	Yes
GPS Type	S-GPS
Bluetooth	Bluetooth® v2.0; mono/stereo headset, handsfree, phone book access profile, and serial port profile supported
Stereo Bluetooth	Yes
USB Cable	Yes
USB Port Type	Micro-USB
IR Port	No

Network Technology
Technology	CDMA/EVDO 850/1900 and GSM/GPRS 900/1800 capable
Voice Frequencies	850/1900
Data Technology	CDMA: 1xRTT, 1EV-DO Rev-O, 1EV-DO Rev-A,
Data Frequencies	850/1900
3G	Yes
UMA	No
Data Throughput Speed	EV-DO Rev A up to 3.1 Mbps

International Features
Can I call people outside the US and Canada?	Yes
International 3G Data Roaming	Yes
International 2G Data Roaming	Yes
Can I make and receive calls outside the US and Canada?	Yes
Can I send and receive text messages from people outside the US and Canada?	Yes
Can I send and receive messages while outside the US and Canada?	Yes
Can I use the email and mobile web features on my phone while outside the US and	No

BlackBerry® Storm™ (Verizon Wireless) Accessories

BlackBerry Multimedia Stereo Headset with Case for Storm 9530

Our Price: $29.99

Micro USB Car Charger

Our Price: $8.99

BlackBerry Compact Wall Charger with International Travel Adapters for Storm 9530

Our Price: $29.99

BlackBerry Storm Car Charger

Our Price: $19.99

View All Accessories »

Recommended Plans	Individual Plans	Family Plans	Upgrade w/ Contract Extension

Plan Name	Verizon Wireless Nationwide Select 900 (Recommended!)	Verizon Wireless Nationwide Basic 450	Verizon Wireless Nationwide Select 450	Verizon Wireless Nationwide Basic 900
Anytime Minutes	900	450	450	900
Nights & Weekends	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited
Included Features	Voice Mail, Call Forwarding, Conference Calling	Call Waiting, Voice Mail, Caller ID, Call Forwarding, Conference Calling	Voice Mail, Call Forwarding, Conference Calling	Call Waiting, Voice Mail, Caller ID, Call Forwarding, Conference Calling
Monthly Fee (for voice minutes)	$79.99	$39.99	$59.99	$59.99
Phone Price	FREE	$149.99	FREE	FREE

Plan Name	Verizon Wireless Nationwide Basic Family Share 1400 (Recommended!)	Verizon Wireless Nationwide Basic Family Share 700	Verizon Wireless Nationwide Select Family Share 700	Verizon Wireless Nationwide Basic Family Share Unlimited
Anytime Minutes	1400	700	700	Unlimited
Nights & Weekends	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited
Included Features	Call Waiting, Voice Mail, Caller ID, Call Forwarding, Conference Calling	Call Waiting, Voice Mail, Caller ID, Conference Calling	Voice Mail, Call Forwarding, Conference Calling	Voice Mail, Call Forwarding, Conference Calling
Monthly Fee (for voice minutes)	$89.99	$69.99	$99.99	$199.98
Additional Line Monthly Fee	$9.99	$9.99	$9.99	$99.99
Phone Price	FREE	FREE	FREE	FREE

Plan Name	Verizon Wireless Nationwide Select 900 contract extension (Recommended!)	Verizon Wireless Nationwide Basic 450 contract extension	Verizon Wireless Nationwide Select 450 contract extension	Verizon Wireless Nationwide Basic 900 contract extension
Anytime Minutes	900	450	450	900
Nights & Weekends	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited
Included Features	Voice Mail, Call Forwarding, Conference Calling	Call Waiting, Voice Mail, Caller ID, Call Forwarding, Conference Calling	Voice Mail, Call Forwarding, Conference Calling	Call Waiting, Voice Mail, Caller ID, Call Forwarding, Conference Calling
Monthly Fee (for voice minutes)	$79.99	$39.99	$59.99	$59.99
Phone Price	FREE	$149.99	$39.99	$39.99

Expert Reviews of BlackBerry® Storm™ (Verizon Wireless)

Expert Rating: 3.5
by Joni Blecher -- November 21st 2008

The first BlackBerry to sport a touchscreen (that’s more of a push-screen) has arrived. That’s right, the BlackBerry Storm. There’s a lot to like about the Storm and with every new form factor there’s also a lot to learn. Read: be prepared to invest a good week to really master the Storm. That said, the Storm is a good looking device and has many features found on the BlackBerry Bold. If you want a slick looking touchscreen smartphone that has a solid media player, great MP3 player with the ability to save songs as ringtones free, and can handle its share of business applications, check it out. Just know this is unlike any other BlackBerry you’ve seen before.

Note: We strongly recommend updating the software as it provides an improved user experience.

Call Quality

Call quality: We found call quality on the BlackBerry Storm relatively clear. For the most part, callers were clear, and it’s easy enough to adjust the cell phone’s volume with the corresponding buttons on the side of the Storm. That said, we did notice that if we kept the Storm close to our face during calls, we would inadvertently touch the screen, here a beep and launch a phone feature such as speaker, or mute. We also appreciated the speakerphone since we were able to speak simultaneously and callers weren’t cut off mid-sentence. Additionally, there was no degradation in call quality when we used a Bluetooth headset, and we could still hear callers clearly in a noisy environment.

Audio quality: The playback of music on the BlackBerry’s speaker is loud. For the most part songs sounded clear through the smartphone’s speaker, but when listening to Jazz songs we did experience some tinny sounds. That said, audio quality is even better using the included 3.5mm stereo earbuds and we found ourselves lowering the volume via the side volume keys. Since the cell phone sports a 3.5mm headset jack, you’ll be able to use your own high-end headset with the Storm to listen to music, however, you won’t be able to conduct calls using one of those headsets. Finally, the BlackBerry Storm supports stereo Bluetooth so if you prefer to go wireless, you can always listen to tunes via an optional Bluetooth-enabled stereo headset, such as the Motorola S9 , which is what we paired with the Storm and audio quality was still impressive.

Ease of Use

Note: Once we installed the software updates we had an improved user experience. As such, we recommend installing the updates.

Menu/phone book: If you love the BlackBerry interface, you’ll be happy to know not much has changed with the overall menu structure on the Storm – but it is a lot snazzier. Corresponding icons resemble a lighted nightclub sign and really pop against the black background. Although, the BlackBerry interface isn’t a lot different, you’ll probably encounter a bit of a learning curve to truly master using it. This is because it’s different. It’s also because the Storm’s display realigns itself every time you turn it. Sometimes it does this fast; sometimes not so much. Since there is so much that you can do with the Storm, if you have too many applications open at once you won’t just be burning through your battery, but the smartphone will become sluggish. The same is true for screen reorientation. Like other touchscreen cell phones on the market, the Storm has an accelerometer. That means when you turn the phone horizontal, the screen turns horizontal.

You can use the BlackBerry Media Sync software to easily sync contacts, calendar, and e-mail between the Storm and your computer. Additionally, you can also view and edit word docs, excel docs, and PowerPoint presentations on the BlackBerry Storm. You can store as many contacts as your available memory will allow. Each entry can hold multiple phone numbers, e-mail addresses, birthday and anniversary information, a picture and a slot for both work and home addresses. You can customize the look of the BlackBerry Storm interface.

The Storm is as much about fun as it is about business. Syncing media – videos, music, and pictures – is infinitely easier thanks to the Roxio Media Manager software for BlackBerry (see Music for more details). The BlackBerry Storm comes with a mini-USB-to-USB cable so that you can connect it directly to your computer. But that’s not all. There’s also a ton of social networking options available such as access to Flickr and FaceBook so you can upload photos directly from your smartphone to your respective accounts. Now for the Internet, it’s the real Internet – not a mobile version. So you can access any page you want on the Internet and zoom and pan for a better viewing/surfing experience.

Messaging: The reason most people buy a BlackBerry is for the messaging, and rightfully so; it really has perfected messaging, and it has a built-in spell checker , which makes composing messages even easier. Even better, it’s extremely easy to set up multiple e-mail accounts (including work e-mail) on this BlackBerry. You can do it during initial setup of the device by following the prompts on the screen. If you already have a BlackBerry e-mail account and are simply changing devices, you can upgrade the information in the BlackBerry Setup menu. Also, if you tend to receive a lot of graphic-intensive e-mails, opt for an unlimited data plan, as downloading graphics can eat up megabytes of data pretty quickly. We’re really happy to report that there are separate folders for text messages and individual e-mail accounts. There’s also support for multiple IM accounts. If you leave an IM account activated, when a new message appears in an existing conversation an icon of an envelope with a star on it will appear in the top section of the screen.

Camera/video: The BlackBerry Storm has a 3.2-megapixel camera and a flash. Overall, picture quality is decent when snapping pics using the Storm. We found colors appeared a bit washed out, but it handles details well. There’s still zoom on this camera, but you’ll need to press the volume keys to zoom in and zoom out on a subject. A nice feature is auto focus . The shutter lag is decent. Once you press the camera button down to capture the photo, that’s when the photo is captured. The screen will go dark when it’s actually taking a picture. Once you snap a picture, you can save it, rename it, save it as a Caller ID photo or wallpaper, delete it or send it. Camera features are a little slim, but you can adjust White Balance, Picture Size, Picture Quality, Color Effects (Normal, Black and White, or Sepia), and GeoTagging.

Additionally, you can view videos on the cell phone and we’re happy to report that you would have no problem watching shows or movies on the Storm – the experience is that good. You can shoot video, as well. You’ll be able to watch videos in the Media folder, but you’ll have to go to Applications to launch the recorder or switch to Video Recorder when the camera is launched. Shooting videos is pretty easy, but the quality isn’t fabulous. While it’s a nice feature to have, you’re probably going to enjoy watching videos you download.

Music: As noted, the BlackBerry Storm has a music player as well. You can listen to songs stored in MP3, AAC (Apple’s audio format) and WMA files (Microsoft’s audio format). There aren’t many music-centric features included in the player, but it has the ones we’ve come to expect: Repeat, Shuffle, and Playlists (you can’t create them on-the-fly). A huge plus is that you can save tunes stored in your cell phone as a ringtone. The Storm comes with 1GB of memory onboard, and an additional external 8GB MicroSD memory card, so you have plenty of room for tons of music and video out-of-the-box.

We still commend RIM for teaming up with Roxio to help you get music, photos, and videos from your computer on your Storm. The software has an extremely intuitive user interface, so you don’t even need to read directions to get started. You can also use this software to turn CDs into MP3s. Another nice feature is that the software won’t allow you to move music that the Storm won’t play back (that is, protected music that you might have purchased at an online store) onto it, so you’ll never have to wonder why a song isn’t playing. Instead, you’ll get a pop-up that says, “There are no media files in this folder that supports filter settings.” If that’s not enough music options, the BlackBerry Storm will also work with Verizon Wireless’ Rhapsody music service.

Connectivity/Bluetooth/World Phone: The BlackBerry Storm is a true world phone. It runs on CDMA networks in the United States and will work on GSM networks with an active SIM card around the globe. As noted earlier, in addition to being able to take calls using a Bluetooth headset the Storm also supports stereo Bluetooth, which we tested using the Motorola S9 . You can use Bluetooth to exchange contact info with other Bluetooth-enabled devices, but you can’t sync much else via Bluetooth.

Design

Look and feel: The first thing you will notice about the BlackBerry Storm is that it’s all screen and only a few keys. That’s because it’s BlackBerry’s first touchscreen smartphone. About that display, it’s large, bright, crisp and visible in direct sunlight – even when viewed through sunglasses. Since you are using your fingers to maneuver through the menu, the screen obviously picks up a ton of fingerprints and face grease. That said, this is a trade-off of having a cell phone with a touchscreen. When you are not using (i.e. touching) the display it turns black. Display aside, the Storm is an attractive cell phone with its black casing outlined with silver trim. It will definitely draw attention from onlookers.

The Storm feels good in the hand and the pocket. The closest comparison to size we can make is that it’s a little bit narrower than the BlackBerry Bold and just as long. When compared to the Apple iPhone, the Storm is a bit wider and thicker, while the iPhone is a bit taller than the Storm. Another nice design feature of the Storm is that there aren’t a ton of keys cluttering the phone’s spine. There are volume keys, a dedicated camera key, the USB port (thankfully, sans cover), and the voice dial key. The MicroSD card is hidden behind the battery cover, but you don’t have to remove the battery to insert the card – Nice. About that battery cover, it has to be one of the easiest covers to remove that we’ve encountered to date. It has two release buttons at the base of the cover; press, hold them down together to unlock and remove the battery cover.

Keypad:The BlackBerry Storm has a few keyboards. It’s got a full QWERTY keyboard that appears when you turn the Storm sideways (either direction is fine) in an application that would require a keyboard, such as the Web, e-mail, IM, or entering contacts. If you don’t want to use a full QWERTY keyboard, there’s always the SureType keypad option that can appear when you turn the Storm vertical. About that touchpad, it’s a bit tricky. You can’t just tap the screen lightly with your fingernail and expect something to happen. You actually have to press down on the screen (yes, the screen moves) similar to how you would press a button on a typical keypad. At first, it’s a bit strange because it’s just not the way you typically think touchscreens work. However, after awhile you can get accustomed to it. That said, the screen is a bit sensitive to the touch and when typing out messages, you’ll probably use the check spelling option about 30 percent of the time.

Battery Life

We wish battery life on the Storm was better. If you use the cell phone frequently to make calls, listen to music, as well as send/receive text messages and e-mail, the Storm will probably last out the day before needing to recharge. However, if you consider the Storm primarily a cell phone and less of a multimedia device, you’ll get about two to three days of battery life from it. We should note that listening to music a lot on the Strom doesn’t have an adverse affect on battery life, but having a bunch of applications running simultaneously does. Not to mention, having many applications running at once on the Storm also takes its toll on the accelerometer feature.

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Most Helpful Customer Reviews of the BlackBerry® Storm™ (Verizon Wireless)

Customer Rating: 4.8
by Khristy -- November 13th 2009 -- Lancaster, SC

It took some getting used to, using the touch screen, but once I played with it enough. I fell in love with it! And it keeps getting better with the upgrades!

Customer Rating: 4
by Meagan Tucker -- November 11th 2009 -- El Dorado, AR

I was very excited about buying the BlackBerry Storm, however after I had the phone for a few days the phone started freezing up and shutting itself off constantly. I was able to find a program to download to help with the situation. The touch screen is nice but if you're looking for a phone that is easy to text with this is not your phone. When touching one part of the screen the mouse clicks on the opposite side of what you're wanting to open. You get signal everywhere and it hasn't dropped a call yet. The battery life is a lot better than my previous phone. In all, this is a good phone to have once you fix all of the initial problems. Also, the unlimited Internet is definitely worth the extra thirty dollars a month.

Customer Rating: 4.5
by Sophia Drane -- October 31st 2009 -- Charlotte, NC

The phone is great, but sort of difficult to navigate. Had to contact customer service on more than one occasion. I am learning and I love the phone for business. I plan to order another for my business partner real soon.

Customer Rating: 5
by jerwon -- October 28th 2009 -- baltimore, MD

All in all its a pretty good phone. It has some minor freezing but still good phone.

Customer Rating: 4.8
by Christian Strohecker -- October 21st 2009 -- Tucson, AZ

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