Since the switch from the 8700 to the curve 8300 we have seen a substantial decline in device quality. Blackberries are geared more towards consumers, and breaking easily so consumers continue to buy new ones.
They are just not made to last more than 6 months. I have had a 7100, 8700,8300, 8310,9500, 9700... Although the 9700 is a little better quality then the original curve...
I had issue with the storm 3 weeks in with a loose screen..etc...
Adding another delicate piece to the pie with a sliding mechanism will not be pretty. All though i am a complete blackberry fanboy.. I truly believe that Apple maybe the only one to properly pull off the slider to where it will last more then 6 months.
HTC has tried in the past, with there sliders being very very sturdy, in hopes that wear and tear will stop those from falling down...
I have learned my lesson from the Storm and will wait for generation 2 or 3 blackberry model. I had way to many issues.