The new Verizon BlackBerry Storm cell phone is the first BlackBerry phone with a touch-screen. This hot smartphone is sure to be on top of everyone's Christmas list this year. Here are the answers to nine of your most frequently asked questions about the Verizon BlackBerry Storm.

1. When Is The BlackBerry Storm 9530 Release Date?

The release of BlackBerry Storm is scheduled for Friday, November 21st.

2. How Much Is Verizon Selling The BlackBerry Storm For?

The estimated price of the BlackBerry Storm is $199.99 after a $50 mail-in rebate, through Verizon Wireless. Verizon customers must sign a new two year agreement plan to get the rebate.

3. BlackBerry Storm Availability - Where Can I Buy BlackBerry Storm?

The Verizon BlackBerry Storm will be available in Verizon Wireless Communications Stores and online at Verizon Wireless dot com. The BlackBerry Storm will also be available at Best Buy. However, Best Buy will not begin to sell the BlackBerry Storm until Sunday, November 23rd. If you are willing to wait the two extra days, Best Buy is planning to give BlackBerry Storm buyers a free Plantronic 360 BT headset! However, the phone must be a new activation and not just a simple upgrade. Unfortunately, at this time, the phone is backordered at Best Buy.

4. Where Can I Find A Verzion BlackBerry Storm User Guide?

The Verizon BlackBerry Storm has an innovative, interactive online user guide that includes fully illustrative step-by-step usage instructions! You can find the BlackBerry Storm user guide at: http://demos.blackberry.com/9530/na/us/gen/

5. Can I Preorder Verizon BlackBerry Storm?

Yes. You can pre-order the new BlackBerry Storm at your local Best Buy store.

6. Can I Purchase An Unlocked BlackBerry Storm?

Yes, but you'll have to pay a premium. Estimates for an unlocked version of the BlackBerry Storm are around $699.99. Why should you buy an unlocked version and pay extra? Both the locked and unlocked BlackBerry storm have the same specifications. If you don't want to be locked into a contract or aren't planning on making many calls, go with the locked version.

7. What are the BlackBerry Storm Specifications?

3.2 Inch Display, 480 X 360 Pixel Resolution - 184 Ppi

3.2 Megapixel Camera

Pressable Screen, With Suretype Keyboard

Full Html Browser

Built In Gps

Video Capture

Voice Dialing

Stereo Bluetooth

Email Client

Vz Navigator

Removable, Replaceable Battery

Expandable Microsd Memory

Tethered Modem Capability

8. BlackBerry Storm Vs Iphone - How Does It Compare?

The Camera:

BlackBerry Storm: 3.2 megapixel. Has video capabilities.

iPhone: 2.0 megapixel. No video capabilities.

The Keyboard:

BlackBerry Storm: clickable touchscreen keyboard. Offers both audible and tactile feedback.

iPhone: no tactile feedback

Sound:

BlackBerry Storm: stereo Bluetooth

iPhone: mono sound

Memory:

BlackBerry Storm: Removable, expandable microSD memory. Expansion capability is 16 gigabytes

iPhone: Non-removable. Maximum capability is 16 gigabytes.

Screen Resolution:

BlackBerry Storm: 480 x 360 pixel resolution - 184 ppi

iPhone: 480 x 320 pixel resolution - 163 ppi

GPS:

BlackBerry Storm: Built in GPS. Turn-by-turn directions

iPhone: Less detailed instructions

Battery: BlackBerry Storm: removable, replaceable battery

iPhone: non-removable battery. iPhone must be returned to Apple to be replaced. 9. BlackBerry Storm Vs Bold - How Does It Compare?

The BlackBerry Storm has the following advantages over the BlackBerry Bold:

Superior Verizon Network

Bigger screen

Cutting edge SurePress Input Method

More MicroSD Memory Capability

VZ Navigator

BlackBerry Maps

Rhapsody V Cast Music