Latest rumors suggest RIM is working on a hybrid touchscreen phone to compete against Google Android and Apple iPhone OS. The new device, expected to debut in Spring later this year, will have the traditional QWERTY keyboard and the display will be touchscreen for quick interaction. This will allow RIM to keep its lead in email and messaging, while still letting users browser the Web using a touchscreen display.

Obviously we know of this hybrid product design from Palm Pre, but the problem with RIM’s new device may be the small display unless they can make the phone a slider. The company should really think about giving a larger display to users to interact with while still having a quality, comfortable keyboard for messaging.

The phone will be based on the company’s earlier Blackberry Bold design.

The rumored WebKit browser may also show up with this device.

Suggested Site: Check out the Blackberry Pearl 9100 from our product provider PureMobile.