Orange offers pay-as-you-go BlackBerry service

Orange is offering the BlackBerry Pearl 8120 on a pay-as-you-go tariff

Mobile operator Orange has launched the first UK BlackBerry internet service for pay-as-you-go (PAYG) customers.

As part of the deal, customers will have to buy an exclusive version of the BlackBerry Pearl 8120 in indigo for £145.

After that users will be able to access email, social networks, messaging and the web while on the move through any existing PAYG Animal package, with the inclusion of a rolling £5 monthly subscription charge.

It is unclear how the regular billing will work on a PAYG system, or what data caps or other limitations will apply. Similarly, there does not appear to be any provision for those who may already have a BlackBerry or prefer to buy a different model.

"With nearly two thirds of UK mobile customers now using PAYG, we are really pleased to be bringing one of the most popular email and multimedia devices to the masses as the first operator to offer BlackBerry on PAYG in the UK," said Pippa Dunn, director of PAYG for Orange UK.

The new deal will be available from early next month. It is restricted to the UK and will be subject to PAYG roaming data charges.

In related news, research out this week from BlackBerry maker Research in Motion (RIM) has revealed that a lot of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are turning to smartphones equipped with mobile applications to help keep the business going while on the move.

Many SME managers have to perform a number of different roles, and a range of mobile applications can help keep them on top of business tasks at all times, according to RIM.

The top five most beneficial mobile applications cited were banking facilities, customer relationship management tools or customer databases, conference calling, instant messaging and satellite navigation.

"More and more SMEs are realising that mobile technology is not just about communications and email on the go; it can improve overall business efficiency, " said Rory O'Neill, director of solutions and alliances marketing for RIM in EMEA.

"SMEs are increasingly mobile and the ability to access the information and tools they need, whenever and wherever they are, can result in tangible business benefits."

The growth in demand for mobile applications, combined with the flexibility required by these sorts of smaller businesses, may make Orange's new offer very appealing.