BlackBerry’s first smartphone that runs Google Android hit the streets this month, but it looks like another model could be coming soon. The folks at CrackBerry have received some leaked images showing what the follow-up to the BlackBerry Priv might look like.
And what it looks like… is pretty much a BlackBerry phone. There’s a large touchscreen display and a tiny thumb keyboard below the screen. Unlike the keyboard on the Priv, this one doesn’t go anywhere: it’s always there when you need it… and when you don’t.
The code-name for the BlackBerry Priv was “Venice,” while CrackBerry says this model is called “Vienna” while in development. There’s no word on what it will actually be called when it goes on sale.
There’s also no word on what’s under the hood: while the phone likely runs software similar to what you’d find on the Priv (which means a close-to-stock Android operating system with some extra BlackBerry features including search, communication, and security tools and a custom app switcher), we don’t know anything about the processor, screen resolution, cameras, or other components.
But if BlackBerry follows through with plans to launch this phone, it could pretty much double the number of high-profile Android phones with keyboards on the market.
The Priv so far is the best Android phone I’ve owned. I love that Blackberry is creating devices that people actually want with an OS that has apps that people need. This is a great turnaround story in the making.
Needs to compete with unlocked flagships like the Moto X Pure on price and be unlocked/available to all NA carriers under one model. Sell directly to your consumers Blackberry.
Just don’t charge $800 CAD and I might be able to afford one…offer updates like the Nexus line and more people might want one too.
Until then my Z10 and I get along great. Granted I only paid $50 for it and replaced the screen for $25 more (including tools)…but it’s been a great phone even to this day and it suits me perfectly. Just hope BB 10 doesn’t completely die out. If it does, I’m not sure what I’ll do. Kind of pissed off with BlackBerry these days. They’d have to give longterm OS updates with these phones or I’d most likely go the Nexus route. Been burnt a few times by BlackBerry thus far (OS 7 and Torch days, PlayBook and now it seems BB OS 10) so ya, don’t have a lot of faith in this company anymore.
Since they’ve sold out to Android, I may as well go Nexus and get a much cheaper phone with better specs for much cheaper prices…