BlackBerry Basic Returns As Android-Powered Zinwa Q25 Professional For $400

A Chinese language firm, Zinwa Applied sciences, is reviving the decade-old BlackBerry Basic Q20 by upgrading its {hardware} and changing the unique working system with Android. The up to date mannequin, named Zinwa Q25 Professional, is designed to mix the nostalgic enchantment of the BlackBerry model with fashionable smartphone capabilities.

The revival entails vital {hardware} modifications to make sure compatibility with Android. The machine now includes a new important board powered by the MediaTek Helio G99 chipset, 12GB of RAM, and as much as 256GB of inner storage. The unique touchscreen stays, serving to the Android interface operate easily.

The battery has been improved by practically 15%, and new cameras have been added: a 50MP rear digital camera and an 8MP entrance digital camera. Different fashionable upgrades embody changing the micro USB port with USB Sort-C for sooner charging and information switch, in addition to including 4G LTE help. Nevertheless, the telephone does not help 5G.

One distinctive BlackBerry function, the capacitive trackpad, is absolutely purposeful within the revived model. The Zinwa Q25 Professional runs on a minimal model of Android 13. Zinwa has no confirmed plans for future software program updates except sturdy shopper curiosity drives additional growth. Patrons are suggested to not anticipate long-term help.

If the mission proves profitable, Zinwa could contemplate reviving different BlackBerry fashions, such because the Passport and KeyOne, the latter already identified for operating Android when it was initially launched.

The Zinwa Q25 Professional is priced at $400, whereas a $320 do-it-yourself (DIY) equipment is available for house owners who wish to improve their very own BlackBerry Basic. The corporate additionally sells particular person substitute elements, together with digital camera modules and batteries.

The first 100 items of the Q25 Professional are anticipated to ship by the tip of August, with mass manufacturing focused for mid-September. Zinwa can be participating with potential clients by way of a Discord channel, the place updates on delivery, growth progress, and potential future fashions are shared.

Filed in Cellphones. Learn extra about BlackBerry and BlackBerry Classic.