By Patrick Avenell

SYDNEY, NSW: Research in Motion will be launching the BlackBerry Torch 9800 to the Australian market this afternoon. This new model combines a touchscreen with a slide-out full QWERTY keyboard.

We already know this device has a 5-megapixel camera, OS v6.0, 624 megahertz processor and a 3.2-inch screen.

This device was launched in America in August, exclusively through AT&T. Research in Motion has promised media a hands-on demonstration of the new phone and a discussion with BlackBerry app developers. Unlike Nokia, which promised the earth yesterday but only delivered the dirt, Research in Motion should follow through on these commitments.

With that being the case, check back on to Current.com.au tomorrow for all the details on the new BlackBerry Torch 9800.