RIM updates BlackBerry Bold

Canadian tech company Research In Motion has updated its BlackBerry bold device in an attempt to combat the updated version of the iPhone, the 3GS model.

The new device, which is expected to hit Australian shelves next month in time for Christmas, is the first in a string of devices targeted towards business executives.

The updates are mostly in the software powering the new device, with the hardware left mostly intact from the last version except for a thinner casing. The company is also using the device to help plug its App marketplace, competing with Apple’s giant App Store.

But some aren’t so sure the strategy will work. Tech analyst Carmi Levy told The Age that RIM has a lot of work to do.

“RIM still isn’t in a position where it has any one device that can be considered an iPhone killer… Apple is in a position of power in this market and you are either aware of their strategy and you counter it in some way, or you find another business to be in.”