Vodacom punts Q10

New Q10 contract customers get unlimited BlackBerry Messenger texting and file sharing for 24 months from Vodacom.

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Vodacom says its customers will be the first to get their hands on the new BlackBerry Q10 smartphone, which will be available at Vodacom World and other participating outlets from next Thursday.

Earlier this month, BlackBerry released the first in what is set to be a series of media alerts, highlighting the Q10. The device goes on sale in Canada at the end of this month, and - according to a recent TechCrunch report - is now open for pre-order in the UK.

Based on previous timelines, this indicated SA was set for a mid-May launch. Shortly after the global BlackBerry 10 unveiling, on 30 January, the Z10 launched in Canada on 5 February and hit SA's shores about two weeks later.

The re-designed, re-engineered and re-invented BlackBerry 10 includes features such as the BlackBerry Hub, which brings all conversations together in one place. It also has Balance, which protects information items; the messenger tool; as well as BlackBerry Remember, which organises information from different places on the phone.

Vodacom says the BlackBerry Q10 smartphone combines BlackBerry's best physical keyboard and a touch-screen with the power of the BlackBerry 10 platform to help customers communicate and collaborate faster and more efficiently. "The BlackBerry Q10 includes advanced hardware, communications and multimedia features that let customers confidently stay ahead and take action all day long."

The cellular operator is offering new contract customers unlimited BlackBerry Messenger texting and file sharing for 24 months, up to 6GB, valued at R19 per month. In addition, customers will receive double their data for the first two months of the contract.

The recommended prepaid price is R8 999, although pricing may vary at retail stores, says Vodacom.

Monthly subscription plans: