After launching the keyboard-less Motion smartphone last year, BlackBerry is back with a brand new model this year with the debut of the BlackBerry KEY2, courtesy of global smartphone manufacturer and BlackBerry-brand licensing partner TCL Communication.
Staying true to its signature design ethos, this all-new smartphone bears the ionic physical keyboard, well known from the brand, and loaded with the company's best security and privacy enhancements running on the latest Android 8.1 Oreo operating system, Also, it's the first ever BlackBerry smartphone to feature a 12MP dual-rear camera system.
Boasting a lightweight and clean aluminum frame, with a stunning 4.5-inch touch display made of impact resistant Gorilla Glass, the rear of the device has been updated with a new diamond pattern that adds to the premium design while also adding more grip and comfort. The BlackBerry KEY2 also has an evolved keyboard, which has been increased by 20 percent for a more comfortable and accurate typing experience, and includes new matte key finish and fret design for optimized key spacing.
Other notable details on the device include an in-keyboard fingerprint scanner with updated mechanics for an improved tactile response, along with the introduction of Speed Key, a universal shortcut key that now makes it possible to instantly access the apps, contacts and functions you use most from anywhere on your device at any time.
In terms of its performance, the smartphone is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon processor, offers up to two days of battery life, 6GB of memory in both 64GB and 128GB storage variants -- with both offering expandable storage MicroSD support, fast charging tech with the Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0, and a new Smart Battery Experience that will learn from your daily charging habits and recommend when to charge up so you have enough battery life.
The BlackBerry KEY2 will begin shipping worldwide starting June with a suggested retail price of $649 USD. For more info about the BlackBerry KEY2 and availability, head on over to BlackBerry's website now.
Previously, BlackBerry’s new bezel-less smartphone leaked online.
