Reminiscent of the iPhone 3G launch, but still without an actual release date, Vodafone is now taking pre-orders for the BlackBerry Storm 9500.

Presumably it’s expecting a lot of pent-up demand for RIM’s new consumer-friendly handset, but it would be nice to know when exactly it’s arriving here.

What we do know is that, if you want it for free, it will cost you a minimum of £40 per month on an 18-month contract, or £35 per month on a two year contract. All plans seem to come with unlimited texts, but unlimited email and Internet usage appear to only be available on higher tariffs…