Cingular 8525, BlackJack now for sale

by Ryan Block, posted Nov 16th 2006 at 1:17AM

Hey you -- yeah, you. Cingular 8525, you know the one, right? Ok, and the BlackJack? The i607? Right, those two hype HSDPA WinMo handsets are now officially for sale, $400 and $200, respectively, after two year contract (with unlimited data) and rebates. Just save some for the kids, ok? They're tired of getting coal in their stockings because of your sick device addiction.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Filed under: Handsets, HTC, Samsung, ATT, Windows Mobile, GSM, GPRS, EDGE, HSDPA, UMTS

Tags: 8525, blackjack, hermes

Reader Comments (Page 1 of 2)

Neutral

Nick @ Nov 16th 2006 2:06AM

Damn! they are always available online first!! I work at a cingular store, and we aren't getting them for another month or so. The blackjack will be mine though, you bet your butthole

Neutral

DD @ Nov 16th 2006 2:32AM

I was at a Cingular store today that had blackjacks.

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BD @ Nov 16th 2006 3:24AM

I'm viewed this article through my RSS reader on my new Blackjack and typing this on it too ;)

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Wayne @ Nov 16th 2006 8:09AM

Remember kids, buy your new cellphones in store so that you can cancel the data plan after a month and still get the rebates. There is no validation period required on the in-store rebate forms. If you buy online, you are required to wait 3 (or sometimes 6) months for validation of the data plan.

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theburn16 @ Nov 16th 2006 9:25AM

yep, the cingular store i work at has the blackjack...just not the 8525 yet

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Mo B @ Nov 16th 2006 9:41AM

The unlimited data plan is only $20 a month and it comes in very handy. If you have a cheap voice plan, like me, your bill really isn't all that expensive at the end of the month.

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DK @ Nov 16th 2006 9:58AM

The 8525 is available online only. I called multiple stores in NYC and none have it. I also called Cingular's corporate number and learned that the only way to get the 8525 is to order it online (not in stores or over the phone) but if you order online and have a problem you have to mail it back to them and you cannot bring the phone in to a Cingular store. The 8525 will not be available for another week or two in stores. Very frustrating.

Neutral

Tim @ Nov 16th 2006 10:26AM

Just went into the Cingi store and played with the Blackjack for a while. I ALMOST got it, but decided to wait for the 750 to come out. It was NO doubt a sweet phone, and I loved how thin it was.

Neutral

Remy @ Nov 16th 2006 11:48AM

Just got back from my local Cingular (corporate) store. I believe they had three 8525s in stock. Well, they only have two now. :-D

Wow, I've been waiting since July, and now it's sitting on my desk!! Oh happy day!

Neutral

Remmy @ Nov 16th 2006 11:51AM

After calling 4 stores, I have found only one store that has the 8525 in today. All the rest were just now available to order them with a shipment on Friday or Monday.

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Saif @ Nov 16th 2006 11:54AM

Damn, if I had just waited a couple of weeks...not only did I get a Nokia E62, I got it before they dropped the price down to $99 :-P

Oh well. I like the Symbian OS more than WM5 anyway, but man, to have HSDPA...

Come on, Nokia, where's your 3G qwerty smartphone for the U.S.?

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Sean @ Nov 16th 2006 12:08PM

#6 Mo B:

What does your $20 unlimited monthly plan include? I can't seem to find anything other than a $39.99 plan on Cingular's website.

Neutral

Alex @ Nov 16th 2006 12:15PM

I actually called Cingular and was able to have it overnighted to me on a two year commitment (on an add-a-line no less) for LESS THAN $370!

I couldn't believe it! So I wont have it the DAY it comes out ... I'll have it the NEXT day and I wont have to deal with a mail in rebate fuss and I paid less than they advertise it for!

Oh happy day!

Neutral

Rusty Farrell @ Nov 16th 2006 12:48PM

I think post #6 is referring to the MEdia Max 200 Bundle ($19.99). If this is the case, I was told that you could not use this plan with a PDA like the Treo or HTC. This would require the Unlimited Data Access for PDA plan. That would be great if you could use the "Bundle" plan instead.

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theburn16 @ Nov 16th 2006 12:54PM

Rusty Farrell: you are right, you are unable to use regular media packages on pda's and smartphones

Neutral

Justin @ Nov 16th 2006 1:39PM

FYI to all data package questions:

I currently have the 8125 and have the Media Max 1000 Bundle (http://www.cingular.com/cell-phone-service/services/serviceDetails.jsp?LOSGId=&skuId=sku1040035&catId=cat1470005)
which I use for everything (email/text/mms/web browsing). Although Cingy actually wants you to use the more expensive data plans you aren't required to. My only question is did they upgrade the Media bundles as well or only the PDA/Smartphone data packages.

Neutral

austin @ Nov 16th 2006 1:48PM

So let me get this straight, can we or can we not get the unlimited smart phone data plan for $19.99?

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Justin @ Nov 16th 2006 2:03PM

Well folks, I went thru the fun task of chatting with a tech from Cingy online and here is what went down. Save yourselves some loot for the miniSD and Bluetooth headphones!!

organizedchaos
do the media max bundles work on the new 3g network?
Brandon_R: To organizedchaos
Yes those plans do work on the 3g network.
organizedchaos
well i was going to order the new 8525 today and wanted to make sure i don't have to change my data plan
Brandon_R: To organizedchaos
Yes tha plan will work but it is the suggested plan for a high end data device such as that. Some of your websites could be restricted using a media max plan instead of a PDA plan.
Brandon_R: To organizedchaos
The PDA plan is the plan that I would recommend however the media plan will work.
organizedchaos
restricted in what way and could you give me an example of such sites? what is the basis for this recommendation?
Brandon_R: To organizedchaos
There isn't a particular site that would be restricted but the higher end PDA devices often have trouble assessing some sites using a standard media data package when the PDA package provides two APN's in the switch so if the device is having trouble assesing content on one APN then it can be switched to the other APN. The Media Package only offers one APN.organizedchaos
gotcha. was there something about the pda package having one APN behind the cingular firewall and one outside whereas the Media only has the one on the inside?
Brandon_R: To organizedchaos
Correct.

Neutral

theburn16 @ Nov 16th 2006 2:22PM

my store just recieved the 8525...but we only got 1 in

Neutral

Ben @ Nov 16th 2006 3:25PM

This is so bogus! I've called 10+ stores in Atlanta and only one has said they were getting the 8525. So I had them put my number on the call list for when the shipment came in, and they never called. I called back 4 hours later and they had already got the shipment and sold out. Grrr... I've been anxiously awaiting this phone for a month, and been counting down the days this week.... bummer I can't go get it today :(

Neutral

Mike @ Nov 16th 2006 3:25PM

To Remy/Remmy:
Which market are you in?

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Daneil Bier @ Nov 16th 2006 3:31PM

I bought the Samsung Blackjack the moment it was released, although technically Cingular didn't register the order until 12:37 because they didn't like me having a non-street address as the first address line. It's already in the mail and I'll have it next week! God bless the Samsung Blackjack! Ah, to heck with it. God bless smartphones everywhere!

Too much scrubs for me...

Neutral

Michael @ Nov 16th 2006 5:00PM

Alex, I called and they said the same thing and when I questioned them more it turns out it was the 8125. Hope you don't end up with the old phone. They are available through on-line ordering.

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John Michael @ Nov 16th 2006 5:17PM

I ordered my 8525 on cingular.com around 12. Got back on to check the status right after and it said that the phone was back-ordered. Called Cingular to find out how long it takes for New Shipments and they said they didnt know but I should expect it to be anywhere from 7 to 28 days. As if I could wait any longer.

Neutral

John @ Nov 16th 2006 7:06PM

I ordered my 8525 from cingular.com at 2:20 pm (EST) and then called b/c I was concerned that the standard shipping wouldn't get it hear before I left for vacation (on Tuesday). They told me it was no problem and it may even arrive on Saturday. I specifically asked if there was enough on hand to fill my order and the rep told me they had nearly 4000 in stock.

Neutral

Ben @ Nov 16th 2006 7:19PM

After calling 10+ stores in Atlanta, I finally tracked one down near me. I just got back home and am setting it all up now. I got the unlimited data plan and am getting speeds of 700+ k\bit a second on their 3G network. This is my first pda/phone and things seem super snappy. If you had any questions, feel free to email me and I'll answer the best I can. There is a contact form on the website my name is linked to. Use it if you want to contact me.

Neutral

KB @ Nov 16th 2006 9:46PM

Wow!! after reading all of these I was a little discouraged but I went to my local store in Tulsa, Oklahoma and I got 1 of the only 3 in town!! Right after I got mine another guy cruised in and got the other one...guys this is one sweet device and it feels much more solid than the 8125!!! Only downside is it doesn't come with a case and only one battery...I'll probably get an extra because of the 3g drain. Good luck with yours!!

Neutral

Brian (Waco,TX) @ Nov 16th 2006 10:56PM

I called three corp stores in Waco, TX and each only got three 8525's at each store. I was lucky to pick up a unit that was on hold, but guy never came in so lucky for me! Plenty of Blackjacks out there today however.. 8525 was $399(2 year) plus another $50 MIR so total cost was $350! Plus I got a coupon for free car charger from HTC.

Neutral

Remy @ Nov 17th 2006 12:36AM

#21(Mike): Tulsa market. But my sales guy was pulling out his call list as I was leaving, so those two left are probably long gone. In fact, #28(KB) seems to have gotten one of the other two! Congrats KB!

Does anyone know why they're shipping so few phones to the stores, and so late?

Neutral

Alex @ Nov 17th 2006 1:53AM

so basically the smartphone data plan will work but some sites may look funky or not work at all?

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Justin @ Nov 17th 2006 9:27AM

#31 Alex: (and all who need clarification)

The Media Max plans will work just fine on ANY Cingular device (PDA/Smartphone/Run of the Mill). The lone difference is that the PDA plans have two access points that are used for data connection allowing for more of a guaranteed connection where as the Media plans only have one access point. Cingular tried forcing you into the PDA plan for use with smartphones and PDA's so that they can make more money. I have used both and there is no difference, stick with the cheaper Media Max bundles.

Neutral

Remmy @ Nov 17th 2006 11:41AM

@ Mike

I am in the D/FW area. After going to several stores, I was finally able to pick up an 8525 at a store off of S. Hulen in Fort Worth. It was funny, the Sales Manager didn't even know he had three in his back room till I told him that I had another store check his stock. 25 minutes, and an empty wallet later...I am a happy man.

Neutral

Mike @ Nov 17th 2006 11:44AM

Thanks, Remy.

I think it's great that smaller markets are getting the phone on launch, but I'm kinda shocked. I called every Cingular wireless store in metro-San Diego and NOT ONE had received it. Some didn't even know what it was. Oh well. Maybe I should move to the plains...

Neutral

Kramer @ Nov 17th 2006 2:07PM

Number .13 (Alex) Is that $370 price for the 8525? And if so how did you get that extra $30 off and no rebate?

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Rusty @ Nov 17th 2006 5:00PM

I went be my local "C" store and they had several of the 8525. I was dissapointed in the construction of this device. It's rather "plastic" feeling. I was really anticipating something more substantial (metal/alum) as the pictures would indicate. The controls also feel a little cheap. This all certainly holds true when trying a friends XV6700 (Verizon) out.

They would not sell anything but the "PDA" specific plans with a purchase and the rebate only applies to the Unlimited Plan.

It's really funny how informed the Engadget crowd really is. Perhaps the store employees should start frequenting the site and skip the sales meetings. Need I say more...

Neutral

Josh Bishop @ Nov 17th 2006 5:22PM

BlackJack - Dallas - 1.7mbps download - DAMN!!

Neutral

stuart @ Nov 17th 2006 5:47PM

I was in the Cing store at Pacific Place in Seattle yesterday, and they were hoppin'! I picked up a 8525, and watched two Blackjacks go out at the same time. They had apparently sold a lot of both devices already.

I've been waiting for a long time for a new phone -- enduring a slowly-dying MPx220 while waiting for these phones to come out. It's like waking up from a greyscale dream into full-color. :)

Neutral

Steve @ Nov 17th 2006 11:03PM

The data rates that Cingular charge are just shy of highway robbery. You can buy a new PS3 every year for that money! Free the blackjack and the 3G from the shackles of the enterprise! Cingular needs to realize that the market for these phones are for people without expense accounts.

Neutral

jeff @ Nov 18th 2006 7:42PM

On Thursday I ordered the 8500 (no camera option sad to say, due to my company's security restrictions), and yes I was easily able to select the Media Max 200 Bundle ($19.99) via the online webform no problem. Turns out I'm paying the exact same as my previous plan - $29.99 450 anytime minutes w/ rollover, plus the bundle above. Delivery on Monday, can't wait!

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KB @ Nov 19th 2006 3:55PM

I am also interested in linking this 8525 UMTS/HSDPA goodness up to my laptop as a modem as well...does anyone know the settings to do this (step by step)?

Also, will using the 8525 as a bluetooth modem work with the unlimited medianet plan or do you have to subscribe to the more expensive PDA plan?

Thanks!!!

Neutral

DK @ Nov 19th 2006 11:01PM

PTT HACKED! One of the flaws with the 8525 is that there is a PTT button on the left side that is not programable (so it is stuck being used for PTT even though the service isn't available). It can now be changed to bring up voice dialer (or any other program you want to use) thanks to the following website http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=279585 I'm going to try this and the text message thread hack recently posted on engadgetmobile.

Neutral

Jesus @ Nov 21st 2006 8:19AM

I have a brand new BlackJack in my hands. It comes with home charger, car charger, and leather case. Im in southern cali. call if interested $450 straight sale. 909 380-2666

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Brian @ Nov 22nd 2006 12:37PM

So to all my E-mobile buddies... let me get this totally straight, because what i'm hearing from my nashville cingular store is different. We can use the MediaMax plans with the PDA devices? Will i see any loss in speed going this way? And will I still be able to connect through my laptop to my PDA to use the net (like i've done with the rest of my phones?) Is that affected in any way if i go with the PDA only data plan? Thanks!

Neutral

cm @ Nov 23rd 2006 8:49PM

I ordered my 8525 on Monday and it is scheduled to arrive tomorrow. I'm wondering what the difference is between Cings "smartphone unlimited connect w/ xpress mail" and "data connect unlimited" is?

Neutral

hwapper @ Nov 24th 2006 9:46AM

Warning to all, blackjack's Java implementation is crippled. If the app is not signed by cingular, the app will constantly ask for approval to access the network. They've removed the option to ask once per session, and in the configuration, you cannot grant the app never ask permission.

This means gnmail app can't run along with most IM clients.

Neutral

7echno7im @ Nov 26th 2006 3:49PM

I just went to a local Cingular store and they had the SMARTPHONE, keep in mind it is a SMARTPHONE not PDA. They try selling you the "PDA" package for the data plan but it is not required. The rebate for this states "you will recieve 100.00 back (actually in a visa giftcard) if you have a 39.99 or higher plan and ANY unlimited data plan. I have had an audiovox smt5600 for 1 year and have had the unlimited MEdia net bundle and have had no problems what so ever getting to any sites, actually I prefer it because some of the sites have the handy "MEdia net" links at the bottom for viewing on a smartphone. I have even play World of Warcraft using my phone as a modem, although slow, I was able to check the in game mail. With this being said, I feel that the "PDA" plan is for corporate users, the ones who won't try to find a cheaper way, the ones who will say "Ah... pda plan, well thats what I need." I respect everyone in this forum for investigating this matter so deeply and trying to find the way to save you the most money, but at the same time getting the most for it. The BlackJack is just that, a SmartPhone, and for anyone to tell you, that you need the PDA package, tell them to take a look at the license from Microsoft.... Windows Mobile 5.0 SMARTPHONE EDITION. Game on my friends... game on...

Neutral

jerry @ Nov 26th 2006 8:47PM

i'm trying to buy the blackjack on cingular's website and it won't let me select a MEdia bundle or SmartPhone plan at all. also tried wirefly.com but the MEdia bundles (or SmartPhone plans) aren't an option either. how have people been getting the MEdia packages or SmartPhone plans over the PDA plans? and has anyone purchased a blackjack from a 3rd party website, like a wirefly?

Neutral

Kassim R. @ Nov 27th 2006 7:54PM

I played blackjack at the casino a few weeks ago...im not sure if i know what 8525 is. Is that some new card game?

Neutral

steve @ Nov 30th 2006 7:11PM

I'm using Cingular's website, and only PDA plans are considered "Data Plans". The MEdia packages are under "Features:Messaging Packages and MEdia Bundles". Features is a seperate category from Data. Data "Data".

For those of you getting the $100 rebate with the $20 MEdia package, you are either lucky or will be very disappointed when the rebate is refused.

Neutral

ericdoc @ Nov 30th 2006 8:50PM

I bought my phone on Ebay, ($550 with shipping),got the $20 Media Max 200 by changing my account online, and am going to switch SIM cards with my old phone. I will have no additional months added onto my contract, unlimited internet, and only pay an extra $20 a month.

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