I finally took the plunge and purchased an 8130 over the weekend. It was very simple to setup. I was sending/receiving emails within 15 minutes. In addition, I had no problems pairing my 8130 with my car's HandsFree Link (HFL).

I was on the fence trying to decide between the Curve (8310) and the Pearl (8130). In addition to the carriers, one of my concerns was not having any experience with SureType. In the end, Verizon and the Pearl's size obtained my vote. I have had no issues using SureType.

Overall, I am very pleased. I only have one complaint - the battery cover tends to slide from side to side. Hopefully, some scotch tape will solve this problem.

Mark

Nothing like some good old tape, lol

GL with the new Pearl

Same problem with the battery cover on Sprint. Feels kind of cheap.

Cut a business card in half and place it over then battery and then slide the cover on. It will keep it from moving and get's rid of the "squishy" feeling of the door flexing in as you type!

E-

Thanks! I will definitely try this.

Mark

or get the silicone skin...makes the whole phone feel that much more sturdy.

Consider yourself lucky! I also have the 8130 and coming from the 7130 I needed a pair of pliers to get the battery cover off. So a little wiggle room is much appreciated on the 8130.

Congrats...it's a fun little piece of hardware (mostly). I'm a very recent Verizon Pearl owner as well.

Don't know what you're planning to protect it, but I am using and like very much (this is for pocket carrying, my preference):

- Silicone skin (from Verizon) in black
- BestSkinsEver screen protector (8100 version, but it fits perfectly)

Now when (not if, I know me) I drop my Pearl it will be protected on the back by the skin, and on the screen by the screen protector (much better than the static cling type).

BestSkinsEver is here...

Best Skins Ever Home Page

The Verizon Pearl silicone skin is on their website and in their stores...in case you're interested.

I second that. I bought the black silicone case a few days after my 8130 and I love it. I had the BSE on my 8830 and it was great. I can't wait for the full skins to come out for the 8130.

Jared

Welcome to the Pearl fan club...I'm sure you'll enjoy it as much as I have. One of the best devices out on the market today, for my money. Without question.

And in my area, VZW has the best service as well. I've a feeling that I be a Pearl owner until the next one comes out for Verizon - which likely won't be within the rest of my lifetime.

It's funny you mention this. I saw a picture of a Pearl in a black silicone case this afternoon. It looked great. I visited 2 VZW stores in my area before the game. Unfortunately, neither store had them in stock. So, I will try again tomorrow.

Mark

It is cheap. That's why they offer it for sale as an "accessory" on RIM's website. I guess you can always chose not to buy this exquisite "accessory" if your current "accessory" breaks

I received a call from a friend tonight on my Pearl. He stated that he immediately noticed that I sounded much clearer that in previous conversations. And I was using my land line for those previous calls!

Mark