Is there a new software upgrade for my 8700c? Currently I'm running the 4.1.0.194

Perhaps ... go look:

http://www.blackberryforums.com/showthread.php?t=1871

Not if you want to use Cingular software, but there are others out there to upgrade to.

Wirelessly posted (8700g: BlackBerry8700/4.1.0 Profile/MIDP-2.0 Configuration/CLDC-1.1 VendorID/100)

Ask yourself two big questions: Is there a problem or missing feature with the software you're running? And more importantly, are you willing to screw up your BlackBerry with unsupported upgrades and possibly have to do a full erase/reinstall?

If you can answer "yes" to both, click the link above from markhutchison, or look for sticky threads from jibi in the themes forum. Most likely if you're looking for an upgrade, it's because you want to be able to use the "today" or "zen" theme, neither of which works with the stock OS. I'm a big fan of both.

Put the Bharti or Telstra software on and have fun.

Yes, ask yourself these questions. After upgrading to other non cingular OS I had some issues that were intermittent but annoying just the same. Examples is I had issues getting my IM to work consistently. Even though my TCP\APN settings were correct, Yak-on nor BB Today would connect. I also lost a somewhat important feature. Having had regular cell phones before my BB I have a lot of phone numbers stored on the SIM. With the other OS I no longer had the ability to view or use the SIM phone book.

I recently downgraded back to the Cingular OS and all is good now. So before I upgrade again, think I will wait for Cingular to offer thier upgrade.