NEW YORK—Demand is strong at T-Mobile USA Inc. retail stores for the recently launched Research In Motion Ltd. BlackBerry Pearl, according to a national channel check by UBS analyst Maynard Um.
The device, announced Sept. 7, combines productivity functions with multimedia and consumer-oriented style. The Pearl represents RIM’s efforts to grow its user base beyond enterprise and government to the vast consumer market already targeted by competitors, including the Motorola Inc. Q, the Nokia Corp. E62 and other devices. The Pearl has been available at T-Mobile USA since Sept. 12.
Um wrote in a note to investors that strong demand for the Pearl was in evidence both in metropolitan areas as well as less urban areas.
According to Um, RIM’s stock has appreciated recently with news of more carrier launches and an expected new device. Speculation on Web sites has focused on GSM-based operator Cingular Wireless L.L.C. as the next to offer the Pearl. Um also said he expects news on RIM’s strategy for growing its presence in the small- to medium-sized business space.
As for the T-Mobile USA deal, RIM co-chief executive officer Jim Balsillie breezily noted in an interview with RCR Wireless News earlier this month that RIM deals with hundreds of network operators worldwide. He said of T-Mobile USA: “They’re in a hurry, they’re going first, bless ’em.” RIM’s job, he said, is simply to “keep up with demand.” If Um’s survey of T-Mobile USA stores is accurate, Balsillie is correct.
