RIM rebrands itself and unveils BlackBerry Z10 and Q10 devices

The smartphone maker has seen its grip on the smartphone market slip from a dominant 20 per cent in 2008 to just six per cent in 2012.

Apple and Samsung have seen sales of their flagship iPhone and Galaxy S3 devices go through the roof. Apple sold 47.8 million iPhones in the last quarter, and analyst estimates suggest Samsung shipped over 60 million smartphones during the same three month period.

BlackBerry said the device will launch with 110 carriers and partners worldwide. The BB Z10 will be available in the UK from 1 February and price points will vary depending on the network or retailer.

O2, Vodafone, Phones 4u, BT, 3UK and Carphone Warehouse are all expected to offer the BlackBerry Z10 smartphone on fully subsidised, competitive monthly pay contracts.

Price points will vary according to carriers and retail partners, while the device is expected to cost $480 sim-free.

Meanwhile, EE has announced that the Z10 will be available to buy for 49.99 on a 41 per month 24 month 4G package, which will give users 1GB of mobile data, as well as unlimited UK calls and texts. For SMBs, the firm is offering the device for 41.67 on a 30 per month 24 month package, where users will receive 1GB of mobile data, as well as 1,000 UK calls and texts.

Stay tuned for a hands-on and a full review.