Check Out The BlackBerry Storm 2Check Out The BlackBerry Storm 2

We've been hearing rumblings about the sequel to the first touch-screen BlackBerry, but haven't seen much until now. The good folks over at CrackBerry got a few spy shots of the elusive Storm 2, which have since been removed. But don't worry, you can still check it out after the jump.

CrackBerry had at least three clear shots of the device that have since been removed by request. They didn't say who asked them to take the images down, but it's a good bet that RIM was trying to plug some leaks. Judging from these pics, and ones recently posted by Engadget, it doesn't look like there will be a dramatic design shift for the Storm 2. The front buttons look smoother and better integrated into the device, and its rumored to have a gesture area like the Palm Pre. Also, the side buttons appear to be smoother.

Of course, what all Storm owners want to know is what's on the inside, and I'm sad to report we don't know much. CrackBerry said this one is a GSM version that has Wi-Fi, but who knows if that will remain if Verizon Wireless ends up releasing this. Earlier speculation suggested the company would be ditching the click-tastic SurePress keyboard, but the spies indicate it's just a tweak, not a wholesale change. I think the Storm's virtual keyboard isn't too bad, but it definitely needs some software updates, as well as a better build quality for a screen that takes such a beating.

Naturally, there's no confirmation on this from RIM, and we have no word on release date, price, or additional features. But I have a soft spot for the Storm, so rest assured that I will be keeping an eye on this.

(Photo Credit: CrackBerry.com)