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“A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” The timeless words of Shakespeare remind us that the name of a thing does not change what it is. So it is with the Research In Motion (RIM) Blackberry Curve 3G, an old phone eclipsed in shiny new packaging. Staunch and true as the original Blackberry, the Curve 3G comes with additional few gimmicks and small technological advances as one of the most traditional BlackBerry phone.

The BlackBerry Curve 3G is an entry-level smartphone for the budget-constrained. Its slightly acetic hardware reflects this no-nonsense approach. The Curve 3G is a pocket-sized (106 x 60 x 13.9 mm) and durable phone with an easy to grip surface. Beneath the bland but functional 2.4-inch 320 x 240 display is a full QWERTY keyboard and optical trackpad. While the diminutive QWERTY keyboard remains a perennial favorite, the optical trackpad is fussy and finicky, and varies between complete unresponsiveness and overdone sensitivity. The Curve’s collection of acoustic and music control keys, called Dedicated Media Keys, are conveniently mounted on the right side, and are possibly the best improvement from recent Curve models. Relics from past BlackBerry models are present, including a no-flash 2-megapixel camera with questionable picture and video quality, a slot for a microSD/SDHC card, 3.5mm headphone jack and micro USB charger.

In an effort to provide users with a fast, functional experience, BlackBerry streamlined and simplified the existing software. The phone is agile and small but doesn’t have the multi-tasking abilities or technological advances of bigger name smart phones. The Curve 3G runs on Blackberry OS 5, but is compatible with the forthcoming OS 6. Blackberry pre-installed a few social networking apps but left the remainder to the user’s discretion by including BlackBerry App World, Word Mole and Brick Breaker. The antiquated browser, while unimpressive, does keep up well and has functional Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. Other amenities include a built-in GPS and BlackBerry MediaSync.

Curve 3G Accessories are ubiquitous across the internet and throughout major retailers. Options include lanyards, holder displays, headsets, solar-powered batteries, and a gamut of other electronic amenities, such as Curve 3G chargers. Curve 3G chargers usually run from $8-$20, depending on the whether they plug into an 110v outlet, cigarette lighter, or other output device. Curve 3G cases are offered in many colors and sizes and some can fit well on a belt loop.

The Curve 3G is offered by a variety of service providers, including AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint & Verizon. The cost of the phone typically ranges from $20-$100, while the monthly plan expenses usually run from $20-$70. Some providers offer rebate discounts, and others decrease the price of the phone with an extended contract. Considering the prices of other top smart phones, the Curve 3G and its accompanying plans are very cheap. The BlackBerry Curve 3G is not the epitome of smartphone technology; it is designed for Joe Schmo who likes a new and simple phone that helps people keep in touch with the world.