GMail + Blackberry

[WLeg]

Does anyone know.....

If I use an old blackberry, GMail, Google Contacts+Calender, and the google mail sync application, so I need the blackberry (either BIS or BES) APN on my Vodafone account ? - Or will it just work with internet access ?

(Just looking for a cheaper way of getting push(ish) email, with calender and contact sync.........We currently use BES, which is an additional £25.00 per handset per month.

 

[Sp!ke]

A blackberry needs a Blackberry account in order to communicate with the RIM network. Without a contract it is junk.

£25 a month is very high. Other telco's offer this for £10 - have you tried renegotiating or thought about switching?

You could also use Symbian, Windows Mobile or heaven forbid an iPhone for this purpose but none of these do email as well as a Blackberry does.

 

[WLeg]

I'm with Vodafone - BIS is £10.00ish - BES is £25.00.

I think the Google email and sync uses Exchange Push technology (ie works over http), so should not need to connect to RIM.

 

[Ted]

You will need bis (or bes) if you want to sync with the BB as you will need an e-mail account from your service provider.
This will also allow you to spoof your legit e-mail address for replies from the BB