BlackBerry partner TCL Communication has launched a mid-range Android BlackBerry device with a physical keyboard, called the KeyOne (not the Mercury as it was rumoured).
This is the first smartphone announced under BlackBerry's new brand and device-licensing strategy. TCL unveiled the device at Mobile World Congress, in Barcelona.
In September, BlackBerry decided to outsource the development and design of its smartphones, as it focuses on software and services. In 2015, BlackBerry said it would do away with its own operating system and instead use the Android OS with a BlackBerry skin.
The company's first Android device was the premium slide-up Priv launched in late 2015. Last year, the company released the DTEK50 and DTEK60, aimed at the mid-range market.
The licences, with TCL, BB Merah Putih and Optiemus Infracom, take over responsibility for ongoing device development, marketing and distribution.
The KeyOne will feature the BlackBerry Hub unified messaging inbox, as well as the group of Google-powered apps, preloaded on the smartphone.
One of the main features of the device is the physical keyboard, which BlackBerry devices are known to still include, even though it also features a touch-screen. The keyboard responds to gestures and each key can be programmed to launch different apps.
The device will be made available in April and has a recommended retail price of $549 (R7 200).
Specifications:
Operating system Android 7.1 Nougat
Display 4.5-inch
Processor Qualcomm Snapdragon 625
RAM 3GB
Storage 32GB with microSD
Rear camera 12MP
Front camera 8MP
Battery 3505 mAh
Weight 180g
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