Vodafone UK has this evening (NZ time) begun taking orders for the second-generation BlackBerry Storm.

According to an insider report, a new model BlackBerry Storm is due on September 2, adding the conspicuously absent wi-fi. PLUS: Aussies get a $0 up-front iPhone.

SlashGear cites a source close to discussions who says US carrier Verizon Wireless (part-owned by Vodafone) has given Research in Motion the green-light to release a new version of the Storm, which will add wi-fi support.

RIM was on fire on the Nasdaq Friday, thanks to an overnight announcement that BlackBerry sales have held up through the recession, and stronger than expected guidance for the current quarter. One model, in particular stars.

The company's stock closed up 20.78%

BlackBerry maker Research In Motion is preparing its answer to iPhone's AppStore – the cellphone software download store that Apple CEO Steve Jobs says took $US30 million revenue during August.