blackberry

Where BlackBerry stands today

For years, BlackBerry made some of the most popular cell phones in the world, and though times have changed, the brand is still around if you’re looking for it. Over the last 10 years, BlackBerry launched a new operating system in BlackBerry 10, and also embraced Android as its software of choice when later models came to market.

Some of those devices brought back the iconic physical QWERTY keyboard that had been so synonymous with BlackBerry devices. Touchscreens have been a part of the product design for many years now, but with full screens and slide-out keyboards, functionality started to look and feel a little different.

The classic look also made a comeback in the form of the KeyOne and Key2, putting screen and keyboard all on the same panel. It remains a unique design that has sometimes been imitated, but never quite duplicated.

What devices does BlackBerry have?

BlackBerry smartphones come in different models, some of which may still be legacy models running on BlackBerry 10. Later ones run on Android, and are likely still receiving monthly security updates or even major updates to new versions of the operating system.

The BlackBerry Priv was the first to have a large display with a slide-out keyboard. The KeyOne and Key2 have smaller displays with physical keyboards below, and were the successors to the Priv. These, and other BlackBerry devices, are generally available unlocked and at discounted rates, making them interesting choices where affordability and budget are concerned.

Security has long been one of the pillars for BlackBerry’s business, and that applies to its smartphones. User-friendly security checks and better knowledge over how your apps or data may be exposed are central to helping build greater defenses against cyberattacks.

Using a BlackBerry for work and play

If messaging and email are important, BlackBerry’s physical and onscreen keyboards are up to the task. Neither keyboard type is available on any other device, so the experience always feels unique.

The large screens are always capable of showing any work apps you prefer to use. They can also stream your favourite shows, movies and sporting events like any other capable smartphone can. The Android-based models, in particular, give you access to all the apps you want in the Goole Play Store. It’s a combination that works well with budget in mind.