BlackBerry, once the king of secure smartphones, has been quiet for years. But in 2025, the company (through licensing partners) is making a comeback with a new device: the BlackBerry KEY3 5G.
This phone aims to combine modern flagship hardware with BlackBerry’s legendary security and productivity focus.
1. Design & Build
- Classic BlackBerry look with a physical QWERTY keyboard (KEY3 Ultra model).
- Slim all-screen variant also rumored (for those who prefer touch-only).
- Premium materials: aluminum frame + Gorilla Glass Victus 3.
- Water & dust resistance (IP68).
👉 The KEY3 is trying to balance nostalgia (keyboard lovers) with modern design.
2. Display
- KEY3 Ultra:
- 6.9″ AMOLED, 165Hz refresh rate, HDR10+.
- 4K resolution for productivity and media.
- KEY3 Classic:
- 6.5″ AMOLED with integrated touch + keyboard split design.
- Always-on display with BlackBerry’s productivity hub widgets.
3. Cameras
- Quad camera setup:
- 200MP main sensor (OIS, low-light optimized).
- 50MP ultrawide.
- 50MP telephoto (5x optical zoom).
- Depth/macro sensor.
- 64MP front camera (punch-hole).
- AI-enhanced document scanning & business card recognition (a nod to BlackBerry’s enterprise roots).
4. Performance & Battery
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 4.
- RAM/Storage: 12GB–16GB RAM, 256GB–1TB storage.
- Battery: 7100mAh (Ultra) / 5000mAh (Classic).
- Charging:
- 68W wired fast charging.
- 30W wireless charging.
- Reverse wireless charging supported.
👉 BlackBerry is going big on battery life, which was always a key demand from its business audience.
5. Security & Software
- Runs Android 16 with BlackBerry Security Suite.
- Features:
- BlackBerry DTEK+ (real-time privacy monitoring).
- Encrypted messaging hub.
- Secure VPN & firewall baked in.
- 5 years of guaranteed security updates.
- Enterprise-level MDM (Mobile Device Management) support.
👉 Security remains BlackBerry’s biggest selling point.
6. Price & Availability
- BlackBerry KEY3 Ultra 5G: ~$1,199.
- BlackBerry KEY3 Classic (keyboard): ~$999.
- Release: Rolling out globally in Q4 2025.
7. Who Is It For?
- Business professionals who value security & productivity.
- Keyboard enthusiasts who still love physical typing.
- Power users who want huge battery life and enterprise tools.
- Not ideal for those who just want a mainstream flagship (Samsung, Apple, Google still lead in ecosystem & apps).
BlackBerry KEY3 5G vs Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra vs iPhone 16 Pro Max (2025)
| Feature | BlackBerry KEY3 5G (2025) | Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra (2025) | Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.9″ AMOLED, 165Hz, HDR10+ (Ultra) 6.5″ AMOLED + physical keyboard (Classic) | 6.9″ AMOLED, 1–144Hz LTPO, HDR10+, QHD+ | 6.9″ ProMotion OLED, 1–120Hz, HDR10+, 2K |
| Processor | Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 | Apple A18 Pro (3nm) |
| RAM / Storage | 12–16GB RAM 256GB–1TB | 12–16GB RAM 256GB–1TB | 8–12GB RAM 256GB–1TB |
| Battery | 7100mAh (Ultra) / 5000mAh (Classic) | 5500mAh | ~4800mAh |
| Charging | 68W wired 30W wireless Reverse wireless | 65W wired 25W wireless Reverse wireless | 35W wired 20W MagSafe wireless |
| Cameras (Rear) | 200MP main + 50MP ultrawide + 50MP telephoto (5x) + depth/macro | 200MP main + 50MP ultrawide + 50MP periscope (10x) + depth sensor | 48MP main + 48MP ultrawide + 48MP telephoto (5x) |
| Front Camera | 64MP | 40MP | 24MP |
| OS / Software | Android 16 + BlackBerry Security Suite | Android 16 + One UI 7 + Galaxy AI | iOS 19 + Apple Intelligence (AI) |
| Security | BlackBerry DTEK+, VPN, enterprise MDM | Knox Security, Galaxy AI privacy | Face ID, Secure Enclave, Apple Intelligence privacy |
| Keyboard | Yes (Classic model) | No | No |
| Special Features | Physical keyboard option, enterprise-grade encryption, huge battery | S Pen support, Galaxy AI, DeX desktop mode | Apple Intelligence AI, deep ecosystem integration |
| Price (Launch) | $999 (Classic) / $1,199 (Ultra) | ~$1,299 | ~$1,199 |
🔎 Key Takeaways
- BlackBerry KEY3 5G → Best for security, keyboard lovers, and battery life. It’s the productivity-first phone.
- Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra → Best for power users, creators, and multitaskers. It’s the most feature-packed device (S Pen, DeX, AI).
- iPhone 16 Pro Max → Best for those in the Apple ecosystem. Smoothest software + AI integration, but smaller battery and slower charging.
Bottom Line
The New BlackBerry KEY3 5G (2025) is less about competing directly with Samsung or Apple and more about reclaiming its niche:
- Security-first smartphones
- Enterprise productivity
- Physical keyboard option
If you miss the old BlackBerry feel but also want modern flagship specs, this might be the comeback device you’ve been waiting for.
BlackBerry once led the smartphone market with devices known for their physical keyboards and strong security features. In recent times, the company faced challenges as the smartphone industry evolved. Many consumers moved to touchscreens and BlackBerry’s prominence faded. Despite this, the company continues to draw interest with its plans for a comeback. They haven’t released a new device since 2018 but there are hints at a new offering on the horizon.
Recent buzz suggests that a 5G BlackBerry smartphone could soon enter the market. This new device would potentially marry the classic features of a BlackBerry with modern tech advancements. The company aims to target both keyboard enthusiasts and users who prioritize security in their tech. As the tech community watches, the question remains whether this new phone will resonate in a market dominated by other major players.
Key Takeaways
- BlackBerry is working to re-enter the smartphone market.
- A BlackBerry device with 5G capabilities is anticipated.
- The upcoming phone aims to blend traditional BlackBerry features with current technology.
The New BlackBerry Phone Evolution
The evolution of the latest BlackBerry phone reflects significant strides in design, features, and market presence. It shows a commitment to maintaining the iconic elements of the brand while embracing modern technology trends.
Launch and Market Presence
OnwardMobility, the company behind the new BlackBerry, announced the phone with promises of robust security and productivity. The device aims to meet the needs of professionals across North America, Europe, and India. With nostalgia for the BlackBerry brand, the company’s CEO, Peter Franklin, has targeted a 2021 release in these regions.
Design and Features
BlackBerry’s new model has stayed true to its heritage with a physical keyboard. The design pays homage to classic models like the BlackBerry Key2 and the Priv, but now includes modern smartphone features. Details like the camera setup and processor specs cater to current market expectations while the iconic keyboard remains a defining element.
Software and User Experience
Running on the Android Operating System, the new BlackBerry promises a suite of productivity apps and security software. The interface balances the familiar ease of Android with BlackBerry’s traditionally secure environment, allowing users to maintain separate work profiles.
Performance and Connectivity
The phone includes a processor capable of handling day-to-day tasks with ease. It supports 5G connectivity, ensuring that users experience fast internet speeds. With 64GB of internal storage, the device caters well to the storage needs of the average consumer.
Security and Privacy
OnwardMobility emphasizes security with the release, branding the device as ultra-secure. It comes with enhanced security features that build trust and maintain privacy for users. The device is not only secure by design but also through licensed security software.
Pricing and Availability
The new BlackBerry phone’s price reflects its premium features and security measures. It has been made available through various channels in the markets where it launched. Deals and availability vary by region, with specific information disseminated through press releases and breaking news.
Comparisons and Market Position
The smartphone competes directly with industry leaders such as Samsung and Apple. Despite the tough competition, it holds a unique position for consumers seeking a physical keyboard and a focus on privacy.
Brand Loyalty and Consumer Sentiment
Nostalgia for the BlackBerry brand plays a big role in consumer sentiment. Enthusiasts welcome the return of a new device under the beloved name, often expressing their opinions in reviews and tech news coverage.
Media and Public Reception
The launch of the new BlackBerry has garnered attention from both media and public spheres. News outlets highlight its evolution and the ways it differentiates itself within the tech market. Public reception leans positive, particularly among tech gadget aficionados.
Challenges and Opportunities
The company faces the challenge of re-establishing the BlackBerry brand in a market dominated by touchscreen keyboards. However, this also offers the opportunity to cater to a niche audience that values physical keyboards and heightened device security.
Future Prospects and Company Directions
Future models may draw more on BlackBerry’s rich history while incorporating cutting-edge technology. The focus remains on security and productivity, with the resolve to keep evolving in accordance with consumer needs and technological advancements.
