[Paragon]

To answer the questions about backups and restoring....SPB and Sprite have versions they say will work between different ROMs, but in reality they have never been 100%. Some say they work, while others report having problems.

When you do a ROM update it hard resets your device. All data is lost. It is by far the best option to just reinstall any applications you need on it. Any tweaks and such won't likely work on a new OS.

If you do not sync to a desktop, then it would be wise to do a PIM backup, or use something like MY Phone to backup all your contacts and so on, then restore them after you have done the update.

For those wondering how the upgrade process works...assuming they do things the same this time as they have always done in the past, you will hear it here first. Someone will very quickly post a link to the download for each carrier as they become available. This download is an RUU and ROM which you download as a single package to your desktop. You then connect your device to your computer and click on the update to run it. It is just a few easy clicks, following your nose. It usually takes 10 minutes or so and you are done. Very easy....not to worry. Some carrier's store locations have been know to do these upgrades for their clients if they feel more confident that way, but it is not necessary.

Dave