Vodafone Germany and Research In Motion (RIM) today introduced the BlackBerry 8707v for corporate and individual users in Germany.

In addition to supporting email, phone, text messaging, browser, organizer and corporate data applications, the UMTS-enabled BlackBerry 8707v can be used as a wireless modem to enable mobile users to access the Internet from their laptop.    In addition, UMTS support enables users to simultaneously send and receive email, browse the Internet and use other applications while speaking on the phone, even while the handset is being used as a tethered modem.

"The BlackBerry 8707v elegantly integrates advanced hardware and software technologies in a stylish and lightweight handset that supports UMTS networks and Vodafone Germany already offers UMTS support in 1800 German cities," said Hartmut Kremling, CTO of Vodafone Germany. "The BlackBerry 8707v is the perfect choice for business professionals looking for uncompromised email, browsing and voice performance in an all-in-one device. With the ability to use the handset as a modem for laptops, the BlackBerry 8707v also offers users another great way to stay connected."

The BlackBerry 8707v operates on 2100 MHz UMTS networks and also includes quad-band support on 850/900/1800/1900 MHz GSM/GPRS networks. It features 64 MB flash memory and 16 MB SDRAM. The bright, high-resolution color landscape QVGA (320 x 240) LCD screen delivers vivid graphics and provides ample workspace to view email, web pages, applications and other information.