Blackberry just revealed their second android powered smartphone and it is in essence a re-branded Alcatel Idol 4. Specifications wise the new DTEK50 (Blackberry could not have chosen a better name) has a 5.2inch 1080p display, Snapdragon 615 processor, 3GB RAM, 2,610mAh battery, 13MP main camera and 8MP front camera with flash along with android 6.0 Marshmallow. The device will cost $299 when released but that’s not what we are interested in; the key selling points of the device are its security features.
The DTEK part in the smartphone’s name actually refers to the DTEK app and software that Blackberry built into the operating system. The app alerts you of potential security threats and even suggests what measure could be taken to resolve them. Blackberry claims that they have used technology developed on the BB10 platform in their android build to make it more secure. Furthermore, you get Blackberry specific features like the Blackberry Hub. The most important part is that the company has committed to quick security updates but has not specified how long support will be provided.
This is the first time the company has released a smartphone without any physical keyboard but rest assured, they have stated that they have not given up on the physical format. The DTEK50 so far seems like a bit of a gimmick especially because of the re-branding and foggy details on security features and their method of operation.
Silent Circle for example, is one company that makes security focused smartphones which feature more advanced security features but cost significantly more. It is good to see Blackberry take another shot at android and market to consumers with what they have been famous for for years: mobile security. However, only time will tell how successful the new device will be given Blackberry’s poor sales trackrecord.
