RIM plans consumer-friendly, 9000-series BlackBerry for 2008

When I hear the word “BlackBerry”, two things come to mind: enterprise-worthy mobile devices and flavored schnapps. Since I’m on the clock, I’ll skip the latter and focus on the former. Apparently, RIM wants to change focus a little too, starting with a new operating system and device family in hopes of taking a bite from Apple.The expected devices are apparently part of an upcoming 9000-series, complete with larger displays, touchscreens, and multimedia features. Will the new offerings be enough to combat the iPhone and a plethora of other touchscreen mobile handsets? Too early to call, but allegedly we’ll find out in the first half of 2008. I can’t wait that long, so I’ve just added the RIM booth on my CES itinerary. Booth 30333 in the South Hall is the place.