Blackberry service in China using local sim card.

Question

I have a Bold 9700 (unlocked) which I would like to use in China. I am hearing that it may be tough if not impossible to get a pre paid sim with voice and data capabilities. Is data just blackberry email and messaging or does it include GPS and Internet? Thanks.
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Answer 1

Hey there!
Greetings from China! I've got an unlocked Torch with me that I am using on China Unicom (pre-paid) for almost 2 weeks here now (Beijing). I actually did not procure the SIM myself for it...the hotel did it for me. They said that it actually is tough to get them now due to very recent new rules requiring all kinds of identification and deposits and such. But, the locals still know how to work around that, so someone from my hotel got it for me. I just had it topped up today as I used up all of my minutes...too bad since I'm leaving on Wednesday, but the cost is pretty much nothing. I only got voice and SMS service...didn't need full data services on that device as I also have my VZW Storm 2 with me with full international roaming, so I have it for that stuff. Just be sure to use WiFi whenever you can...the roaming charges are pretty steep. I was in China and Singapore much of August and my VZW bill was about $1,700. Should be less this time since I had the Torch for voice here. In addition to not worrying about purchase (since the hotel took care of that for me), I also didn't worry about configuring -- they did that as well and a friend who speaks Mandarin did my top up for me today. Yes, I am a bit spoiled by all of the help...but it does help a lot.
As for network, if you want data, do stick with China Unicom -- they have 3G while China Mobile only has 2G (EDGE). I can really tell the difference when my Storm grabs China Mobile instead of Unicom. I finally figured out to set my configuration to seek out only 3G and that keeps it on Unicom all the time now.
Sorry I can't be much more help -- I had help myself and that alleviated the burden on me. If you are staying in a 5-star hotel, seek out their assistance for sure. You can try looking at the airport on arrival...I tried but didn't see anything of use (plus was just so tired from the flight that all I wanted was to get to my hotel and crash). I've seen advertisements for a service (I think it's Panda something or other) that talks about pre-ordering a SIM and having it ready at your hotel, plus with easy top up service. I didn't use them and I'm not sure it would have worked with the new rules, but you could also check them out.
Good luck and enjoy China! Be sure to climb the great wall -- you must be a hero!
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