BlackBerry Priv is already available in the US, but customers interested in the handset can get it from AT&T as well as the company’s website.
At CES 2016, the company’s CEO confirmed that BlackBerry Priv is coming to more carriers in the United States, including Verizon, Sprint, and T-Mobile.
Availability and Carrier Support
T-Mobile has already confirmed that the handset will hit retail in-store and online from January 26th, but there’s no word about the official pricing details for it at the moment. This move is expected to increase the accessibility of the BlackBerry Priv, making it easier for customers to purchase the device through their preferred carrier.
As for Verizon, one of the company’s executives, Jeffrey Nelson, confirmed on Twitter that the Big Red will start selling the BlackBerry Priv by the end of March. It’s a little late compared to other carriers, but not too late. This delay might be due to Verizon’s rigorous testing and certification process to ensure the device meets their network standards.
Sprint has also been mentioned as a future carrier for the BlackBerry Priv, although specific dates and pricing details have yet to be announced. The inclusion of Sprint will further broaden the reach of the Priv, catering to a wider audience who may prefer Sprint’s network and service plans.
Specifications and Features
As for the specifications, the BlackBerry Priv comes with a traditional physical keyboard from BlackBerry, which has been a hallmark of the brand and a favorite among many users who prefer tactile feedback over touchscreen typing. The device offers a 5.4-inch display sporting a resolution of 2560 by 1440 pixels, providing sharp and vibrant visuals that are ideal for both productivity and entertainment.
Under the hood, the BlackBerry Priv is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 808 processor paired with 3GB of RAM, ensuring smooth performance for multitasking and running demanding applications. The 32GB of expandable storage allows users to store a significant amount of data, apps, and media, with the option to increase storage capacity via a microSD card.
Other notable features include an 18MP camera for high-quality photos and videos, which is equipped with advanced optics and software enhancements to deliver excellent image quality even in challenging lighting conditions. The 2MP front-facing camera is suitable for video calls and selfies, although it may not be as impressive as some of the higher-resolution front cameras found on other flagship devices.
The BlackBerry Priv is powered by a 3,410 mAh battery, which provides ample battery life to get through a full day of use without needing to recharge. This is particularly important for business users who rely on their devices for constant communication and productivity throughout the day.
The device ships with Android 5.1.1 Lollipop as its operating system, offering a familiar and user-friendly interface with access to the vast ecosystem of Android apps. BlackBerry has also included its own suite of security features and productivity tools, making the Priv an attractive option for users who prioritize security and efficiency.
The BlackBerry Priv represents a significant step for BlackBerry as it continues to adapt to the evolving smartphone market. By expanding its availability to more carriers and offering a blend of traditional BlackBerry features with modern Android capabilities, the Priv aims to attract both loyal BlackBerry fans and new users looking for a secure and versatile smartphone.
Source: Crackberry, GSMArena
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