We recently heard about the first BBX powered BlackBerry smartphone, which was rumored to be called the BlackBerry London, although at the time it wasn’t clear whether this would be the device’s actual name or just a codename.
Now according to a recent report from TechCrunch, RIM’s first BBX powered BlackBerry smartphone will be called the BlackBerry Surfboard, and apparently RIM has already filed a trademark for this name.
What we previously heard is that this new BBX BlackBerry device would feature a dual-core TI OMAP 1.5GHz processor, 1GB of RAM, and 16GB of built-in storage, plus a rear-facing 8-megapixel camera and a front-facing 2-megapixel camera.
BBX Operating System: A New Era for BlackBerry
The BBX operating system, which is a combination of BlackBerry’s traditional OS and QNX, is expected to bring a significant transformation to BlackBerry devices. QNX is known for its robust performance in embedded systems and has been used in various industries, including automotive and industrial applications. By integrating QNX with BlackBerry’s existing OS, RIM aims to deliver a more powerful, stable, and versatile platform that can compete with the likes of iOS and Android.
The BlackBerry Surfboard is anticipated to be the flagship device showcasing this new OS. With its high-performance hardware and advanced software, the Surfboard could potentially revive BlackBerry’s position in the highly competitive smartphone market. The dual-core TI OMAP 1.5GHz processor is expected to provide smooth multitasking and efficient power management, while the 1GB of RAM ensures that the device can handle multiple applications simultaneously without lag.
Design and Features: What to Expect
In terms of design, the BlackBerry Surfboard is rumored to feature a sleek and modern look, departing from the traditional BlackBerry design that many users are accustomed to. The device is expected to have a large touchscreen display, which will be a significant shift from the physical keyboards that BlackBerry devices are known for. This change is likely aimed at attracting a broader audience who prefer touchscreen interfaces.
The 16GB of built-in storage will provide ample space for apps, media, and documents, and users can expect additional storage options through cloud services or expandable memory. The rear-facing 8-megapixel camera is expected to deliver high-quality photos and videos, making it a competitive option for photography enthusiasts. The front-facing 2-megapixel camera will cater to the growing demand for video calls and selfies.
Moreover, the BlackBerry Surfboard is expected to come with a range of connectivity options, including 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC. These features will ensure that users can stay connected and enjoy fast internet speeds, seamless file transfers, and convenient mobile payments.
Market Expectations and Potential Impact
The introduction of the BlackBerry Surfboard with the BBX operating system is a strategic move by RIM to regain its foothold in the smartphone market. The company has faced significant challenges in recent years, with declining market share and stiff competition from other smartphone manufacturers. However, the Surfboard’s advanced features and the new BBX OS could potentially attract both existing BlackBerry users and new customers.
Analysts are keenly watching how the market will respond to the BlackBerry Surfboard. If the device lives up to its expectations, it could mark the beginning of a new era for BlackBerry, helping the company to reclaim its position as a leading smartphone manufacturer. The success of the Surfboard will also depend on RIM’s ability to market the device effectively and provide strong support and updates for the BBX OS.
The BlackBerry Surfboard represents a significant step forward for RIM, combining powerful hardware with an innovative operating system. As we await its official release, the tech community is buzzing with anticipation, eager to see if this new device can truly deliver on its promises and revitalize the BlackBerry brand.
Source TechCrunch
Image Credit: The Verge
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