January 26, 2009 by James Oliver
After Verizon Wireless and RIM (Research in Motion) spent the better part of two years developing it, hopes were high for the Blackberry Storm. Some at both companies even dared to believe that it could compete with the iPhone. Now however, as the new device deals with a reputation that is plummeting rapidly, it seems that was too much to hope for.
The Storm, released towards the end of last year, got off to a good start, selling 500 units in its first month which, although it is nowhere near the figures for the iPhone’s first month would have had RIM execs rubbing their hands with glee. However, soon the phones started coming back to the shops, with many early buyers complaining of a vast array of technical problems and bugs in the device – everything from clunky performance, to issues with the typing software and camera. Software patches have dealt with some of the issues, though the damage to RIM’s reputation is done.
It emerged recently that the device was rushed to market in time for Christmas despite known glitches in the OS. It would appear that decision has returned to haunt RIM, not that they’re prepared to admit it – an RIM spokesperson recently described the Storm as an ‘Overwhelming success.’
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