BlackBerry 9720 Comprehensive Review of Features Pricing and Performance

Introduction to BlackBerry 9720

The BlackBerry 9720, released in August 2013, represents one of the final models in BlackBerry's storied history of mobile communication devices. Known for its signature QWERTY keyboard and robust messaging capabilities, the 9720 model sought to cater to users who desired physical keyboards with a touch of smartphone capabilities. Despite its discontinuation, it remains a noteworthy piece in the evolution of mobile phones.

Design and Build

The BlackBerry 9720 features a compact and solid design, with dimensions of 114 x 66 x 12 mm and weighing just 120 grams. Its ergonomic build ensures easy handling and one-handed operation, while its physical QWERTY keyboard distinguishes it from contemporary touchscreen devices. The keyboard offers a tactile typing experience that loyal BlackBerry users appreciate, especially for extensive emailing and messaging.

Display

The device is equipped with a 2.8-inch IPS LCD display, with a resolution of 480 x 360 pixels and a 4:3 aspect ratio, delivering a pixel density of approximately 214 ppi. While not as advanced as modern displays, it offers sufficient clarity for reading messages and browsing basic web content. The touchscreen functionality complements the physical keyboard, offering users a blended navigation experience.

Performance and Operating System

At the heart of the BlackBerry 9720 is an 806 MHz Tavor MG1 processor, running on BlackBerry OS 7.1. This combination, although modest by today's standards, was adequate for typical tasks during its time, such as messaging, calls, and light web browsing. The customized OS supports popular BlackBerry services like BBM and other preloaded applications tailored to business and communication needs.

Memory and Storage

Featuring 512MB of RAM and 512MB of internal storage, the device is geared towards efficiency rather than multitasking. However, its storage capacity is expandable via a dedicated microSDHC slot, allowing for additional space to store media and documents. This flexibility addresses one of the constraints of internal storage, especially valuable for users needing more storage for apps and files.

Camera

The BlackBerry 9720 sports a 5 MP rear camera with an LED flash, capable of capturing images and recording videos at 480p@30fps. While it lacks a front-facing camera, the rear sensor provides adequate quality for casual photography and video check-ins. In an era before ubiquitous mobile photography, this configuration was suitable for the average user's needs.

Connectivity and Networks

Supporting GSM and HSPA network technologies, the BlackBerry 9720 can connect to 2G and 3G bands, ensuring compatibility with numerous global carriers. Although the lack of 4G LTE support limits its speed, its HSPA capability allows for a reasonable data experience for email, social media, and instant messaging applications.

Battery Life

Powered by a removable Li-Ion 1450 mAh battery, the BlackBerry 9720 offers a respectable battery life for its size, with up to 432 hours of standby time, 7 hours of talk time, and 30 hours of music playback. The removable design is a significant advantage, allowing users to replace the battery with ease, extending the device's overall lifespan.

Additional Features

The 9720 includes several noteworthy features, such as a 3.5mm headphone jack, Wi-Fi connectivity with hotspot capability, Bluetooth 2.1, GPS positioning, and an FM radio with RDS. The presence of an accelerometer and proximity sensor, though basic, adds to the device's functional profile. BlackBerry's emphasis on secure communications continues with this model, ensuring user data is protected.

Conclusion

Despite being overshadowed by modern smartphones, the BlackBerry 9720 holds a special place for its unique blend of traditional design philosophy with emerging mobile technologies of its time. Its focus on robust communication capabilities and efficient user interface appeals to a niche audience who value practical messaging tools over high-end specifications. As technology advances continue, devices like the BlackBerry 9720 remind us of the brand's significant impact on mobile communication history.