I finally pulled the trigger and ordered the Blackberry Pearl 8100. I ordered the Samsung Sync for my wife. I’ve gone back and forth trying to decide whether I would get enough use out of the data plan but I think it is something I will use. Cingular does have a 30 day return policy, so if I see right away that it will be a waste I can always return the phone and find something else.

I ordered it late today so it probably won’t be here until Monday even with the free 2-day FedEx shipping. Crap. I really hate waiting on stuff like this when I order online. If I could just go to the local Cingular store I could have it today, but unfortunately to take advantage of my employee discount the purchase must be made online.

Oh, and a heads up for those that are able to take advantage of a Cingular discount through your employer or school. You will have to do so through the Cingular Business site. If you are on a family plan (as we are) you will have to make two separate purchases. There is no way to purchase both phones in one transaction. That is kind of ridiculous.

I hope I don’t have any problems with this but in order for me to get the Blackberry for $99.99 I had to order a new voice plan (450/5000), and a data plan that included text messages. I wasn’t able to just extend my current family plan (like I did when I purchased my wifes new phone) and add a non text message data plan. I spoke with customer service via online chat and they told me that I could just cancel the plan change a few days after I receive the phone and there would be no penalty. Hope he is right. Otherwise I copied the chat conversation just in case I need it.