Research In Motion (RIM) has added a new model to its BlackBerry handheld line-up. The BlackBerry Curve is the smallest yet to feature a full qwerty keyboard, but as with most of RIM's other models, does not support 3G networks or a Wi-Fi interface.

The BlackBerry Curve, also known as the 8300, fits between the BlackBerry 8800 and the more phone-like BlackBerry Pearl in size. It also has a mixture of features that might make it appeal to both business and consumer buyers; while it can connect to a BlackBerry Enterprise Server (BES) for push email, it also has a digital camera and enhanced media player for music and video content.

RIM senior product manager Karen Rudnitski said the device had been designed for both business and personal use without compromising on either.

"We're not going to dictate who it's for. There are a lot of enterprise users who will be interested in the Curve for its size, and a camera can be useful for some business applications," she said.

Its small size and low weight (111g) make it easier to slip into a pocket than earlier BlackBerry models, while administrators can always disable features such as the camera and media player via policy settings in BES, Rudnitski added.

The BlackBerry Curve has RIM's BlackBerry Maps navigation tool but no built-in GPS receiver. It is also the first BlackBerry with integrated spell checker for emails. The new device will be available from one or more UK carriers in May.