While I am sure that many of you have watched some of the Torch unboxing videos out there over and over, but most of those were the AT&T version. While I have a unlocked AT&T Torch that I am using here in Canada, I decided to pick up a Rogers version as well just so I could see if there were any differences. And most of the differences I did find are minimal, they did make a difference on the “out of box” experience for me.
Loaded OS Version:
My Rogers Torch came loaded with OS 6.0.0.246 which is a dramatic improvement over the 6.0.0.141 that all the AT&T Torch’s launched with. I am almost certain that if the American launch had been with .246 loaded many of the early reviews would have been very different. I have found that the battery life, overall touch responsiveness, and speed of the device has improved 10 fold since .141.
Branding (or lack there of):
As you can see in the video the Rogers version does not have the same branding on the device. And to my own surprise I actually like it better! The best part is that there is no Rogers logo on the bottom lip of the bezel, I had actually thought about removing the AT&T one with a small scraper of some sort. Also the “torch” branding is missing from between the camera and flash. It is replaced by a simple “5.0MP autofocus” badge. The lack of branding is actually fairly common among Canadian carriers.
The Box:
The box that Rogers put out for the Torch is shall we say… UGLY!!! If they are trying to show off the specs and benefits of the device they have failed miserably. However if they are assuming that the reputation of the Blackberry platform is enough to sell the device, good on them for saving some bucks.
Conclusion:
All around the build quality of the Rogers version was superior to the AT&T, as well as the OS was better and the branding was better (in my opinion). The only area that AT&T won out was with their packaging. I will be doing a full review on the Torch and Blackberry 6 so if you have any questions or areas of the device/OS that you would like addressed or showcased please drop a comment or head over to the Nerdberry Forums and post your requests.
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