Brand: Blackberry
RAM / ROM: 3 GB / 32 GB
CPU: Octa-core 2.0 GHz
Camera Back / Front: 12 MP / 8 MP
BlackBerry KEYone is quite unique, and should we say – sophisticated. That's because, and you'll spot it right away – physical keyboard just like in the old days. But this phone isn't old in any way, it features a modern Android operating system, and offers all the usual things. It's for those that are nostalgic and may be used to typing on the old keyboards. Nothing's changed in that department, it's the same QWERTY type you remember, and it will serve you well. But let's see what specs of BlackBerry KEYone have to say in its defense.
Before you decide if this phone just isn't for you, hear what we have to say. Just like BlackBerry DTEK60, this one is intended for business users and offers a smart, secure software to be used. Even if you aren't one of those, it might still serve your needs, so hold on. The design itself is quite high-end, and in some ways reminds us of Sony Xperia XZ. It's the same blocky look, although without sharp edges. On the back – you'll be surprised, it's pretty unique, and you can take a look at one of the pictures we've shown. It's something you either like or you don't, and it's up to you.
But before we go any further, we've got to talk about the keyboard. It's their signature features, and BlackBerry KEYone feature that's very unique and their signature one. if you're tired of typing on the screen, and like a tactile response, this is the way to go. It sports 35 keys, and they're all backlit. That means no sight losing in darkness and easier typing experience. There are also 52 shortcuts and tricks to speed up the experience. In the end, it takes a bit of time to remember how to type fast, but it's like riding a bike.
You do get a word prediction on top of the keyboard, but it doesn't sport punctuation predictions or emoji ones like on Apple iPhone 8 Plus and other iOS devices. Overall, it looks like a good mix of good and the old. At first, people will be confused to see both screen and a keyboard, but over time it will make you stand out, and be quite unique in your friend circle. That's not a bad thing unless you're really shy. Plus you'll be getting something you can't elsewhere – a rubber back that looks just like leather. Ditch those glass and metal combination choices, this might be the way to go.
Other BlackBerry KEYone specs are kinda disappointing. Although the screen is 4.5-inch, it feels bigger because of its width. The display itself is bright and simply great, but there will be some compatibility issues. That's because you're used to watching 16:9 videos and this one is a 3:2. That means black bars and more annoyances. But one thing shines brightly. In our review, its software, Android 7.1.1 with additional, custom apps is great! We're talking BlackBerry Hub for all messaging services and more. You have access to Google Play apps, of course, but with their twist on some of those, or new apps altogether.
BlackBerry KEYone - Specs
Announced Date 2017, February
Release Date 2017, April
Display Features Multi Touch, Corning Gorilla Glass 4
Primary 12 MP, f/2.0, phase detection autofocus, dual-LED (dual tone) flash
Secondary 8 MP, f/2.2, 1.12 µm pixel size, 1080p
Camera Features 1/2.3'' sensor size, 1.55µm pixel size, geo-tagging, touch focus, face detection, HDR, panorama
CPU Octa-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53
Card Type microSD
External up to 256 GB
OS Android 7.1 (Nougat)
Bluetooth 4.2, A2DP, LE, EDR
GPS Yes, with A-GPS, GLONASS, BDS2
SIM Nano-SIM
Sensors Fingerprint (front-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass
Messaging SMS, MMS, Email, Push Email, IM, BBM
BlackBerry KEYone - Videos
BlackBerry KEYone - Price
Blackberry KeyOne Factory Unlocked 4GB/64GB BB100-7 Dual Sim Limited Edition Black - International Stock $656.50
BlackBerry KEYone - Reviews
Preston Ardis
An average smartphone
BlackBerry KEYone definetely has an interesting design with its physical keyboard but i didn't quite like its 4.5" display in terms of size, however, the resolution is great. I would recommend this smartphone for a little less, actually.
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