OS7 9900/9930 Inability to connect using WiFi-only

[9900reviewer]

The 9900/9930 cannot connect to WiFi without a data-enabled SIM inserted, the handset being connected to a network cellular data provider and then having OS7 through Blackberry Protect authenticate the handset user's Blackberry ID.

While some might consider this a reasonable approach, the limitations are significant

1. It is a reasonable use of a handset for the owner/user to choose to attach the handset to a WiFi network without simultaneously being attached to a cellular data network. (Both Android and iPhone handsets allow this as did BB OS5 & OS6.)

2. The user might be roaming and not want to attach to a cellular data network and incur roaming charges, but might still want to use the handsets formidable power to personal advantage.

3. Why would RIM choose to require a cellular network data connection before authenticating the Blackberry ID? Why would RIM not allow this to be done through a WiFi connection?

The user population can decide. However, if you do not agree with these limitations, there is a separate posting for how to remove OS7 Blackberry Protect from the handset

[Phill_UK]

So how come I'm typing this now whilst connected to wifi, with no SIM inserted, no network data connection (obviously), and no BB ID authentication required...