Preview: The BlackBerry Priv


We're in the last lap before the release of the buzz-generating #Priv, the world's first secure Android smartphone from BlackBerry.

While we can't release a review of the device, we thought we'd bring you a short collection of new images you haven't seen yet - that are now publicly available - and present it in a preview fashion with all the details you need and want to know.

First, let's talk specs. Here's what you can expect from the device:
  • Processor - Qualcomm Snapdragon 808
  • RAM and Storage - 3GB of RAM, 32GB Expandable Storage (Up To 2TB)
  • Display - 5.4-Inch, 2560x1440, 540ppi OLED
  • Camera - Rear: 18MP, Fast Focus, OIS, 4K video capable | Front: 2MP
  • Battery - 3410 mAh (non-removable)
  • Dimensions - 147 (184 opened) x 77.2 x 9.4 mm
We know that images have been floating around for weeks, and some even longer. If you're hungry for more, we've got you covered. Courtesy of our friend in China, DTBlackBerry, we've got some new images to feast on. Check out the rest of the images below, and some quick pointers / notes:

A New Face For BlackBerry


BlackBerry has really kicked it up in the innovation department since the first line of BlackBerry 10 phones - and the Priv is definitely no exception. Just looking at the device, you can tell a ton of R&D went into making the well-crafted phone.

Of course, this is their first Android smartphone bringing in a new age for the company as it ventures into somewhat new territory - and an incredibly competitive one at that. While QNX and various other divisions continue to push forward behind the scenes, the hardware has largely been the face for the company since its beginning. Make no mistake, this isn't something they're just trying, this is a full-swing initiative for them to get their hardware divisions back on track. Welcome to the new face of BlackBerry.

BIG Competition, BIG Displays


Pictured above, you'll see the Priv beside an iPhone 6 Plus. If you're unaware, the iPhone 6 Plus boasts a 5.5" 1920x1080p LED-Backlight 401ppi display - while the Priv takes the cake at a slightly smaller 5.4" 2560x1440 OLED display with an impressive 540ppi.

This puts Priv in the phablet category, among devices like the Note 5, S6 Edge Plus, Redmi Note and others that have so far dominated sales this year. Competition is tough, though BlackBerry may have a winner here, bringing more unique features than most any smartphone to date.

But, displays aren't everything, and the Priv has one heck of an already saturated market to penetrate. So, how is it being marketed? To both consumers and enterprise users who value and put privacy first. If you haven't had a chance to check out some examples of how BlackBerry will be marketing the device, check out Marty's Twitter, BlackBerry's Instagram, or this video.

Stellar OS + Core Features


The BlackBerry Priv is no simple or ordinary Android phone in any sense of the term. From a hardware injected PIN - to the incredible DTEK security monitoring software, BlackBerry set the Priv up to be the most secure it can possibly be. Adding to a stable OS, the core features of the operating system and UI have been pushed to the limit; substituting stock applications with BlackBerry-made and OS10 inspired features. They even went as far as to integrate better multitasking with active widgets and the open-applications tray has been refined.

Here's 5 of our favourite OS features on the Priv:
  • Touch-Capacitive Keyboard Support
  • DTEK by BlackBerry
  • Edge-Display Features
  • Keyboard Shortcuts + Quick Actions
  • Hub Gesture
If you didn't know, the Priv is rocking Android 5.1.1 (Lollipop) with a modified grsecurity kernel. Expected to recieve security updates on the regular, BlackBerry is really pushing the device in every way. You can check out some of the other awesome apps coming pre-loaded on the Priv right here.

If you'd like to check out the software in better detail, check out this Priv simulator from Canadian carrier Telus.

New Accessories


Along with the Priv, comes new accessories.

Here's what BlackBerry has to bring to keep your device safe and clean:
  • BlackBerry Priv Leather Holster - $59.99 CAD
  • BlackBerry Priv Leather Pocket - $49.99 CAD
  • BlackBerry Priv Leather Smart Flip Case - $69.99 CAD
  • BlackBerry Priv Slide-out Hard Shell - $49.99 CAD
  • BlackBerry Priv Charging Pod W/ 1.2M Cable - $34.99 CAD
Curious what they all look like? Above is the Slide-out Hard Shell case (left) and the Leather Smart Flip case (right) which are both apparently well constructed, and have the function and form you'd expect from BlackBerry. You can check out the other accessories here.

While I'm more of a Leather Pocket guy, the Flip Case looks pretty awesome too - as magnets in the display work with the cover to display important information, like incomming calls and messages.

You can also check out the official Priv store here.

BlackBerry has definitely taken time on the Priv to ensure a well-rounded and unique device. There's no denying that despite it being an Android device, the team took the effort to bridge the gap between OS10 and something new. This means BlackBerry 10 users who are on the fence about the device, know transitioning isn't going to be a challenge.

Source: blackberrycentral
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