Our sources are confirming that RIM has pulled another eleventh hour model change again. This time it is on the BlackBerry that has been known under the codename Onyx, or 9020, if you prefer.

According to our sources, RIM has changed the model number from the 9700 to the 9020. The specs are still the same, according to our tipsters, who tell us the it will still feature Quad-band GSM/GPRS/EDGE, UMTS/HSDPA, 480x360 resolution, Wi-Fi support with A/B/G, 3.2 megapixel camera with auto focus, and, of course, Bluetooth. It will not feature a touchscreen and will use a QWERTY keyboard instead, with a back that is similar to the Bold and it will be running BlackBerry OS version 5.

While some are speculating that the 9700 could be nothing more than a 9020 with the addition of a touchscreen or a slider, we just don’t think so. We think that it is just the Onyx, and that our sources are correct that RIM has just changed the model number.

Our sources also are saying that RIM already has a deal for it with AT&T in the U.S., and since it has 3G support this would seem to make sense; since according to what we have been hearing, AT&T is said to be pushing for all new devices that are being added to offer 3G support. We think it could likely be the replacement for the Curve 8900 going forward, but it is doubtful that it is a replacement for the Bold 9000, as our sources are confirming.