RIM Coiled for Spring Surprise: Rumor

WATERLOO, Ont. (TheStreet) -- Finally, some signs that the creative sap is running again at Research In Motion(RIMM).

RIM has been fairly criticized for losing a step or two in the mobile phone race as touchscreen models from Apple(AAPL) and Google(GOOG) snapped up the design lead and ran off with the smartphone crowd.

But recent rumors suggest that two new BlackBerries are on the way this spring, and one of the phones may feature a long-awaited, touch-enabled Web-friendly operating system.

Blackberry Storm2

Apparently, RIM staffers are very pleased with the new operating system, says one analyst who was privy to a description of the new user interface and RIM's reaction.

While still the leading smartphone maker in the U.S., RIM has been overshadowed by Apple's iPhone and Google's host of Android phones that feature Apps, built-in social network access, and full Web browsing.

RIM was assailed by critics who say the BlackBerry shop has been lagging behind competitors with outdated software.

The new touchscreen BlackBerry is expected to resemble the typical BlackBerry Bold format with a keypad and a screen sharing one side. The new version will likely replace the conventional screen with a touchscreen and keep the keyboard below.