RIM launches 3G version of Pearl

In view of the impending roll-out of 3G networks in India, Research In Motion, maker of Blackberry smart phones,  launched on Thursday a 3G version of its compact phone, Pearl.

RIM's global chief marketing officer, Keith Pardy, told reporters that the new model has got the 'highest screen resolution and fastest' and drew parallels, stating 'it is like a power-packed Ferrari engine put into a small smart phone.'

The new phone comes in two variants -- a 14-key conventional keypad and a 20-key QWERTY keypad.

The company refused to divulge details regarding its pricing or when it would be available on the stores.

Pardy sounded unperturbed by the string of arrivals of Blackberry rip-offs hitting the Indian market.

"They can imitate the hardware part of it, but not our software, service capabilities with applications like the BB messenger and security," he said.