Coinciding with RIM’s launch of BlackBerry Bold 9700, its partner in the Indian market, Bharti Airtel too announced the availability of the model on its network.

"Airtel has been a pioneer in providing business solutions to customers and was the first to partner with RIM to launch the BlackBerry solution in 2004. With Airtel''s comprehensive nation-wide coverage, customers can stay connected 24X7. Today, BlackBerry smartphones and services have evolved to attract both business users and consumers and we are proud to introduce the new BlackBerry Bold 9700 smartphone to our customers in India. The cutting edge design and enhanced features set will give users of this ultra-stylish smartphone the benefits of staying connected while on the go,” said Raghunath Mandava CMO Airtel.

"We are pleased to launch the BlackBerry Bold 9700 smartphone with Airtel. The new BlackBerry Bold 9700 builds on the success of the original BlackBerry Bold and offers top-of-the-line functionality, features and performance in a sleek and elegant design that serves a broad range of customer interests,” said Frenny Bawa, Vice President, India, Research In Motion.

The model is priced at Rs 31,990 excluding VAT.