RIM launches BlackBerry Tour 'world phone'

The BlackBerry Tour offers CDMA, GSM, Edge and HSDPA connectivity

Research in Motion (RIM) has launched a new model in its BlackBerry range aimed at what the firm calls the "world traveller".

The BlackBerry Tour has CDMA, GSM, Edge and HSDPA connectivity, integrated GPS and a Qwerty keyboard. The 480x360 resolution colour screen is the highest quality of any BlackBerry, according to the company.

"BlackBerry continues to be the top selling smartphone brand in North America, and we are proud to add this powerful new 3G world phone to our successful product portfolio," said RIM president Mike Lazaridis.

"The new BlackBerry Tour will offer a compelling choice for the growing number of wireless customers looking to upgrade their existing cell phone to a smartphone."

The BlackBerry Tour will initially be available in the US and Canada through Verizon and Sprint, but should be rolled out to new territories once service providers have been set up.

RIM is looking to consolidate its position in the growing smartphone market at a time when Apple is trying to make inroads into the business market and Nokia is releasing new smartphone models.

RIM recently signed a deal to put SAP's customer relationship management software on its handsets, and other application link-ups are expected shortly.