Launch report · BlackBerry
BlackBerry Curve 8520: The affordable Curve that put BBM in the hands of millions of teens.
SpecEagle Editorial·Jul 2009·$300·Score 40/100
The Curve 8520 made BlackBerry Messenger affordable, introducing the optical trackpad and becoming hugely popular with teens and budget buyers. Its BBM ubiquity — especially among younger users — was a cultural moment just before WhatsApp and the iPhone reshaped messaging.
Key specs at launch
Display
2.46" LCD
OS
BlackBerry OS 4.6
Memory
256 MB · microSD
Main cam
2 MP
Battery
1,150 mAh
Weight
106 g
What stands out
- Affordable entry to BBM and push email.
- New optical trackpad.
- Light 106 g with a good keyboard.
- microSD + jack.
What to watch
- 2G EDGE only — no 3G.
- Tiny QVGA screen.
- 2 MP fixed-focus camera.
- Slow CPU.
The phone it has to beat
LG Optimus One P500
$200 · score 64/100