TORONTO, CANADA - BLACKBERRY maker Research In Motion plans to launch a touch-screen version of the wireless e-mail device in the third quarter as an answer to Apple's iPhone, the Wall Street Journal reported.

The device, known as the Thunder, is to be sold exclusively through Verizon Wireless in the United States and Vodafone PLC abroad, the Journal reported on its website on Thursday, citing people familiar with the matter.

RIM declined to comment on the report, stating that it does not comment on rumours and speculation. Earlier this week, rumoured details of a touch-screen BlackBerry surfaced on the Internet.

In February, RIM co-CEO Jim Balsillie said the company may bring out a touch-screen device if customers want it.

This week, Waterloo, Ontario-based RIM announced its BlackBerry Bold, a sleek smartphone with a keyboard aimed at its core base of business users.

Introducing a touch-screen BlackBerry would put RIM in more direct competition with Apple's popular iPhone. In the past, Mr Balsillie has dismissed concerns that the iPhone could pose a serious competitive threat.

A touch-screen BlackBerry would also build on RIM's continuing push into the broader retail market as it seeks to diversify its client base beyond the executives, lawyers and other professionals who have been its mainstay. -- REUTERS