BlackBerry has launched KEYone smartphone at MWC 2017 for $549. Touted as the last smartphone designed by the company, the BlackBerry KEYone features a physical keyboard alongside Android 7.1 Nougat. The handset will be available starting the first week of April 2017.
Commenting on the launch, BlackBerry disclosed that the KEYone pairs the best of BlackBerry software and security coupled with the commitment of TCL to deliver premium smartphones which are not only high-quality but also reliable. The long-term partnership with TCL will enable the company to introduce the newly launched KEYone phone to every corner of the world.
Physical Keyboard helps you to scroll easily
The highlight of BlackBerry KEYone is the integration of a smart keyboard with a fingerprint sensor on the spacebar. Moreover, the company has integrated capacitive touch on the entire keyboard for quick scrolling. It is possible to fetch predictions using the keyboard with the ability to assign shortcuts to keys in the form of a press or a long-press.
BlackBerry KEYone designed with durability in mind
On the specifications front, the BlackBerry KEYone flaunts a 4.5-inch FHD IPS display, Snapdragon 625 processor, Adreno 506 graphics, 3GB RAM, 32GB expandable internal storage loaded with the latest release of Android.
With a pixel density of 433PPI, the phone is exclusively designed in an impact-resistant mechanism. Hence, you will be able to make use of the device in any adverse circumstances. Furthermore, the company has infused aluminium frame to ensure ultimate durability. The highlight of the new phone is its ability to extend the storage up to 2TB.
The integration of Android 7.1 Nougat is a huge bonus since you will be able to explore all the essential features of the latest platform. The device also ships with a wide range of productivity and security optimizations such as the DETK security and privacy monitoring app and BlackBerry Hub.
A 3505mAh battery with Boost charging supplies power to the phone
The rear camera is equipped with a 12MP Sony IMX378 sensor, while the front-facing snapper ships with an 8MP wide-angle lens sensor paired with a LED flash module. Powered by a 3505mAh battery, the phone provides support for QuickCharge 3.0 technology coupled with a Boost charging feature. Hence, you will be able to charge 50 percent in 36 minutes. In addition to the 4G LTE, the BlackBerry KEYone provides support for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth in addition to a USB Type-C port.
To recall, the Canada-based company in September 2016 decided to suspend all smartphone design and production related activities. The management team handed over the license to design and manufacture new smartphones under BlackBerry brand to TCL because of their extensive reach across various countries.
