[zeroboy]

RIM manufactures their smartphones on-site in Waterloo Ontario Canada (I'm sure someone will correct me if I'm wrong). I have a friend and a cousin who work at RIM and working conditions and wages are excellent.

I know for a fact I will never purchase an Apple device again. I don't want blood on my hands. RIM Blackberries may be the only ethical choice.

[brandon]

Good on you for citing ethics, but your point misses the mark.

Modern Blackberries include components from Samsung, Texus Instruments, Marvell, Cyprus, Renesas, Infineon, and dozen of other companies that may or may not be "ethically" manufacturing components.

As far as I'm concerned, there are no "responsibly built" electronics, but maybe I'm picking nits. (Or maybe I'm not picking enough nits! Are we responsibly sourcing our Lithium, Indium, and Tantalum? Seriously, search for "blood tantalum")

[zeroboy]

Just received confirmation that RIM's main manufacturing plant is in Waterloo. They also have a plant in Dallas, Hungary and Mexico.  A person in RIM management has told me the costs on RIM devices are typically higher because they stay away from unfair labor practices.

BTW: Ethics is my point. The fair treatment of ALL human beings should and must trump all other matters.