I have been using my 8800 which I bought on Amazon as an "upgrade" for $100. I upgraded from a 7700, which I switched over to from the Pearl, becuase I hated that double letter key thing.

I have to say, I am very happy, and have meaningful problem typing vis-a-vis the 7700.

I think the sleekness is a major improvement.

I think the trackball is great.

I would prefer two programmable "hotkeys" instead of one, but one is OK.

I applied a skin from Bestskinsever, and while it takes some doing, it's a great protector and I WISH I had discovered these skins before.

I used the GPS on my last trip and it's great -- appreciate the 30 day free trial. Not sure 'll keep it at $5.95, seeing that I have GPS in my car...but it may come in handy in a taxi and other spots, so I'll have to monitor it.

What do I wish it had:

1) Faster web surfing: EDGE Is slow, although this seems a little faster than the 7700, and I understand the technology exists for fast web surfing; and

2) Camera (not sure why they don't add this simple component).

So, my guess is these things will be out in a year or so, and I'll upgrade my daughter's account, which will be available in 11 months.

It's a feature of the 83XX line. The 88XX's are mainly intended for corporate clients who need a camera-less BB.

What GPS service were you using?

Far as I know (and it aint much) Telenav is the cheapest at 10 bucks a month. I know BBmaps is free but it doesnt give you turn by turn and ive heard bad things about it. So I was just curious.

FWIW, I use TeleNav and have been very happy with it. I have only used it about 5 times but each time it was pretty cool. I like the fact that if I am near a computer I can put an address into MyTeleNav account at TeleNav - Always find your way! and then access it via my 8800. TeleNav provides 3D view, 2D (top-down) view as well as the list of roads, turns, etc. Pretty impressive for what you are getting on a handset.