We never thought we’d see the day when a brand new traditional Blackberry device would cost less than N60,000. But that day is here. At last, RIM has attempted to break into the mid-range market, and about time too.

The Blackberry 8520 is the device through which this transition is taking place, and it has been aptly named Blackberry Lite in certain quarters.

To achieve this low-cost solution, RIM has skimped on features, and you need to be aware before you splurge on the 8520. Here goes:

1. the 8520 lacks 3G, so you are left with GPRS and EDGE for data
2. the camera is only 2 mega-pixel, so don’t nexpect to be able to take pictures you canput to any serious use
3. there’s also no GPS

The QWERTY keyboard is traditional Blackberry and users shouldn’t expect any problems from that direction.

Of course, if you are after much more functionality and value, you can spend about the same to get a Nokia E71, Nokia E75, Samsung Jet, and get 3G, HSDPA, Wi-fi, GPS, much better camera, etc.

But, if your primary needs are corporate PUSH email and image (yes; that’s what most Nigerian BB owners get their devices for) and you don’t want to spend too much, the BB 8520 beckons for you.

But for those who have been craving to join the Blackberry club you can now do so without breaking the bank.