BlackBerry Thunder 9500 is the Apple Killer?

BlackBerry Thunder 9500 is the Apple Killer? Following the previous rumor: BlackBerry with Touchscreen codenamed “AK” (Apple Killer), The rumored handset, known as the RIM BlackBerry 9500 "Thunder" is said to release as a Verizon Wireless/Vodafone exclusive - possibly making up for Verizon's decision to pass on the Apple iPhone (Steve Jobs's first choice for the iPhone's exclusive network operator).

According to BlackBerryThunder.net, The Thunder is BlackBerry’s first ever Touch Screen Device and it will be a piece of mobile perfection for which your precious fingers will be happy they waited. Matching the quality of the robust, yet refined handset will be the power of the leading wireless carriers in America and Europe. The BlackBerry Thunder will be available exclusively on Verizon Wireless in the United States and Vodafone in Europe, providing the perfect storm of Mobile offerings.

According to Boy Genius, the model number is the BlackBerry 9500, it is a full touchscreen BlackBerry — no slide out keyboard — with only 4 physical keys. Those are the send / end phone keys, the BlackBerry menu key, and the back key. The unit will be a hybrid device with CDMA EV-DO Rev. C. There's also a chance that the 4G LTE data-standard will be supported in the BlackBerry Thunder. BlackBerry Thunder 9500 will launch in Q3 2008.