On my part, it can sometimes be quite challenging to get excited about entry-level to mid-tier smartphones. They usually get hand-me-down parts from their higher end counterparts and that seems like what is happening with the Curve line once again with the next-generation “Apollo” BlackBerry Curve.

Meant to be a follow-up to the already available BlackBery Curve 8520, the Curve “Apollo” offers some significant spec bumps compared to its predecessor. It’s not going to floor anyone with its 512MB of RAM or its Tavor MG-1 800MHz processor, but at least it’s respectable enough for the average business user.

We’re chalking this up to an unsubstantiated rumor for now, but it looks like RIM is ready to roll with Apollo… after it gives it a proper model number. Other specs include quad-band GSM, tri-band UMTS/HSPA 7.2Mbps, Bluetooth 2.1, WiFi-N, GPS, NFC (nice!), 5MP camera, and BlackBerry OS 6.1.

As far as low- to mid-tier smartphones go, the Apollo looks like it could be a very affordable hit with corporate IT departments. Not everyone needs a touchscreen, y’know.