Thoughts on Torch from Nokia user
All my previous smartphone experience has been with S60 on Nokia phones (N82 and X6). Now I'm with a new employer and been issued a Blackberry Torch. I've only had it a week, and am still getting used to the new OS, but so far I've been very pleased with this phone. Since this is an employer-issued device, I'm still running the official v.141 OS build (not sure what they would say to loading a beta version).
Call quality/speaker volume has been excellent. As good as any of my previous Nokia phones.
It has a slight wobble in the slider when closed, but is solid when open. This isn't a problem for me at this point. I really like the feel of the phone (size, weight, balance) when handling it and on phone calls. I also like having the option between on-screen and physical keyboard.
I'm on BES and have had no issues with the data connection dropping, either with the AT&T network or on wifi.
I find the OS to be plenty quick and have not experienced any lag. The touchscreen works great and is quite responsive. I have no problems with the resolution and enjoy the larger screen for reading e-mails and attachments, viewing pics and videos, and browsing the web. I like the web browser and it works fine for my needs.
I haven't had any problem with the screen lock button at the top. I keep the phone in my left front pocket, oriented with the top of the phone facing up, and have yet to have it unlock accidentally in my pocket. Depending on how I grab it, I have accidentally unlocked it when picking it up off the desk, but that isn't a problem since I notice it right away.
The picture quality of the camera is good when I can manage to hold the phone steady. I find that the convenience button on the side requires too much pressure to activate the shutter, and I haven't gotten used to using the on-screen button without getting too much movement. I've had better results with my latest pics, so this should improve with practice.
The main thing I miss from Nokia is Ovi Maps. With this app, I can download all the map files I want onto the phone's memory so there is no need for a data connection when on the road. Nokia also offers free voice-guided navigation on their new phone models. I'm using BB Maps and Google Maps for now, but not quite the same.
Overall I am very happy with this phone and it has provided a great first experience with Blackberry. Maybe not the latest and greatest in technology, but very functional for my needs. I seem to have gotten a trouble-free unit, and hope it stays that way. I don't have many apps loaded yet, so that's the next step.