Despite the WSJ giving it a bad review, the new BlackBerry 8800 is evidence that the Waterloo crew is applying some deft strategic thinking to their product lineup. RIM is keeping it simple by focusing on their core customer segment. They know that their popularity springs from corporate clientele, not teeny boppers. They also know that most companies will never shell out $500 for employee phones. And in a deceivingly brilliant move, they knew not including a camera on the 8800 would be an advantage - a solution for the dozens of companies so concerned about espionage and IP leak that they ban camera phones.
RIM realized that it would take over a year and untold millions to produce a fancy phone like Apple's. In contrast, small, shrewd improvements to the BlackBerry would be relatively quick and cost effective (slimmer, better battery, GPS, trackball).
RIM is making a statement - they want to be the enterprise phone of choice. Of course, consumers who enjoy email and superior phone call clarity for 1/5th the price of an iPhone will also gravitate over. The new BlackBerry even sports GPS - a technology accessory that business travelers will embrace. All in all, a great play by RIM to cement their corporate popularity while defending their competitive space.