Hi. Any advice on a portable/folding external keyboard for my VZW 8830? I've found the "Freedom Universal Keyboard", but reviews indicate it doesn't connect well. I'm not too worried about cost -- just need something that works well.

My right hand is just in too much pain to thumb type anymore.
Thanks!

I haven't seen any really good reviews of any BT keyboards. I suggest searching as reviews have been posted in the past.

Hi. I have searched here, on on the web generally, and in (gasp ) other blackberry forums. But (unless one of our community members can be so kind to spot some) I haven't find much out there. Some references on Amazon to the iGo keyboard, which according to the mfg has been discontinued. Plus I see the one I originally mentioned for sale, but without much commentary.

That's why I hoped I might find someone who has actually used these and could provide some advice.

Thanks,
- Neil

my boss has the Freedom Universal Keyboard and he hates it

Just FYI I have the Freedom Universal and love it. Does it have some issues connecting -- sometimes -- almost always worse if the BB is in a case and/or the keyboard's batteries are old. But this keyboard has saved me from lugging a laptop on several business trips. I also keep it with me at home so that I can address business email in off-hours, when necessary. It has worked fine for me.

And no, I am not affiliated with the company in any way except as a user.

Addendum with regard to standards and expectations: If your expectations are that you are getting a keyboard comparable to a desktop computer, then you will be disappointed. The Freedom Wireless is not that good. If your expectations are that you are getting a keyboard comparable to a laptop keyboard, then you may be mildly disappointed. I think it is a a touch worse than a laptop keyboard. If your expectations are that you want to improve the experience of doing extended emails and memos, IdeaMatrrix notes, etc., on the BB while benefitting from not lugging a laptop, then you should be happy.

Thanks very much for the feedback. I will give it a try.
With some more searching I did find this, which seemed like a candid and balanced review here

I'll report back my experience.
- Neil

I dont know if you have seen this before. I dont have any experience with it, but take a look

ThinkGeek :: Bluetooth Laser Virtual Keyboard

Greetings,

I just bought a Freedom Keyboard (probably the older version) off ebay.

I bought the keyboard primarily for two uses: 1. Bringing to meetings, and 2. Use while traveling. It is not a good "laptop" device. It is best on a flat surface, which means that it would be difficult to use on a commuter train, in a bar, casual meeting etc. Also, the keyboard’s two halves don’t lock firmly into a flat unit unfold that firmly. The keyboard is cramped, but useable. I find it is easier to NOT merge the two halves of the keyboard together (as it gives some additional room).

I also did not like the registration/unlock process; why does the manufacturer require a unique unlock code for a hardware device? In their defense, I did get it in a few minutes. Once installed, the Bluetooth connection seems to be reliable (I have not tested it with a Bluetooth headset). Speaking of Bluetooth, I wish there were some hard-wire connection to use during airplane trips...

As mentioned in other reviews, the iGo keyboard is not very practical (being without dedicated number keys), so this is probably the best keyboard currently available for the BlackBerry’s.

Hi all

I just received the Cool MIR from Man & Machine, but it seems not to work on 4.5 OS

I've sent a mail to the company yesterday, no reply yet.

Any of you has experience with M&M keyboards or the company ?

Thx!

Peter

This device is not BB compatible... Probably isn't that great either, lol.. Cool though...

Doesn't work on BBpearl 8110s period.

Have here. Spent a week trying just about everything, including
talking over the phone with an M&M tech. Their documentaton
says...

> Tested BlackBerrys for CoolMIR Keyboard V4.0:
> Handheld software version in parenthesis.
> BlackBerry6210, 6220, 6230, 6280, 6510, 7100g, 7100r, 7100t,
> 7105t, 7100v, 7100x, 7130e, 7210, 7230, 7250, 7270, 7280, 7290,
> 7510, 7520, 8700c(4.1,4.2.1), 8700g(4.1,4.2.1), 8700r(4.1,4.2.1),
> 8703e(4.1,4.2.1), 8100(4.2.1), 8130(4.3), 8300(4.2.2),
> 8310(4.2.2), 8320(4.2.1), 8800(4.2.1), 8820(4.2.1) and 8830(4.2.1).

and...

> The keyboard may or may not work with BlackBerrys that are not in
> the "Tested BlackBerrys" list above and any future release BlackBerrys
> or handheld software versions.

so they have covered their bases. I have a carefully worded email
in Outlook drafts feeling for a return I suspect they won't do.
My CoolMIR is headed for Amazon if I can't get a refund.