BlackBerry has launched the new Classic smartphone, marking a return to the company's signature design featuring a physical keyboard.
The company said design elements aim to improve speed and accuracy of communicating on the device, while mobile security remains a priority across all its platforms. BlackBerry CEO John Chen said: "We listened closely to our customers' feedback to ensure we are delivering the technologies to power them through their day - and that feedback led directly to the development of BlackBerry Classic."
He described the new device as the tool many users of the Bold and Curve models have been waiting for. "It's the secure device that feels familiar in their hands, with the added performance and agility they need to be competitive in today's busy world," added Chen.
In comparison to the Bold 9900 smartphone, BlackBerry said the Classic promises three times faster browsing, 60% more screen space and 50% longer battery life.
Key features
The following have been highlighted as features customers can look forward to:
* Core tech: The device features a 1.5 GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon Processor, 2GB RAM, 16GB of device storage (expandable by up to 128GB).
* Screen and battery: The BlackBerry Classic offers a form factor optimized for power communicators with a 3.5-inch touch screen display, 294 dpi HD resolution and Corning Gorilla Glass 3 for greater durability. The Classic also includes battery optimization software and promises up to 22 hours of power.
* BlackBerry keyboard and trackpad: The qwerty keyboard is "crafted for optimal speed and accuracy", according to the company, giving users the control to communicate quickly and clearly using one hand with a trackpad and classic navigation keys.
* BlackBerry Browser: The company promises a faster browsing experience in comparison to previous models. "That's why HTML5TEST.com rates it amongst the top mobile browsers for web fidelity," the company said.
* New OS: The device comes preloaded with the BlackBerry 10.3.1 operating system, incorporating updated icons and an instant action bar so that each user's most commonly accessed functions are in the center of their screen. Other features include BlackBerry Blend, which brings messaging and content that is on the smartphone to computers and tablets.
Share