BlackBerry Evolve
BlackBerry Evolve

The BlackBerry Evolve, launched in August 2018 by Optiemus Infracom under the BlackBerry brand, is a premium mid-range smartphone designed for the Indian market, priced at ?24,990 ($360 at the time). It features a 5.99-inch FHD+ 18:9 display, Snapdragon 450 chipset, a dual 13MP + 13MP camera system, and a 4000 mAh battery with wireless charging, targeting users seeking a balance of security and modern design. It lacks a physical keyboard, focusing instead on a full touchscreen experience with BlackBerry’s security features like DTEK. In 2025, the Evolve is outdated, with no software updates beyond Android 8.1 Oreo, no 5G support, and hardware that struggles with modern demands. Its premium build and battery life still appeal to a niche audience, available used for around $80-$120.

 

Feature

BlackBerry Evolve

Release Date

August 2018

Display

5.99" IPS LCD, FHD+ (1080 x 2160), 18:9 aspect ratio, 403 ppi, Gorilla Glass 5

Processor

Qualcomm Snapdragon 450, 14nm, Octa-core (1.8 GHz)

RAM

4GB

Storage

64GB, microSD support (up to 2TB)

Rear Camera

Dual: 13MP (f/2.0, RGB) + 13MP (monochrome, f/2.0), LED flash

Front Camera

16MP, f/2.0, LED flash

Battery

4000 mAh, Quick Charge 3.0, wireless charging

OS

Android 8.1 Oreo (no further updates)

Build

Aluminum frame, plastic back, IP67 water/dust resistant

Connectivity

4G LTE, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C, NFC, 3.5mm headphone jack

Price (Launch)

?24,990 / $360 (India)

  • Premium Build: The aluminum frame and IP67 water resistance provide durability, rare for BlackBerry devices at the time.
  • Large Battery: The 4000 mAh battery with Quick Charge 3.0 and wireless charging ensures long-lasting power.
  • Security Features: BlackBerry’s DTEK app and Privacy Shade offer robust security, ideal for privacy-conscious users.
  • Large Display: The 5.99-inch FHD+ 18:9 IPS LCD is great for media consumption, protected by Gorilla Glass 5.
  • Dual Cameras: The 13MP + 13MP setup with a monochrome sensor improves detail in photos, decent for its time.
  • Outdated Software: Stuck on Android 8.1 Oreo with no updates since 2020, posing security risks and app compatibility issues.
  • Underpowered for 2025: The Snapdragon 450 and 4GB RAM struggle with modern apps and multitasking.
  • No 5G Support: Lacks 5G connectivity, a significant drawback in 2025.
  • Average Camera: The 13MP + 13MP setup lacks low-light performance and modern features like night mode or 4K 60fps.
  • Limited Availability: Exclusive to India and no longer in production, making it hard to find and unsupported for repairs.

To make a modern BlackBerry Evolve competitive in 2025, the following enhancements could address its shortcomings while maintaining its focus on security and design:

  • 5G Connectivity with mmWave Support: Integrate a 5G modem supporting sub-6 GHz and mmWave bands for faster data speeds, low-latency streaming, and secure cloud-based workflows, ensuring the Evolve meets 2025’s connectivity standards for users in India and beyond.
  • Upgraded Chipset to Snapdragon 7 Gen 1: Replace the Snapdragon 450 with a Snapdragon 7 Gen 1, featuring a 4nm process, up to 2.4 GHz clock speeds, and improved AI performance. This would offer a 50% performance boost, better efficiency, and support for modern apps, making the Evolve a strong mid-range contender.
  • 120Hz AMOLED Display: Upgrade the 5.99-inch IPS LCD to a 6.2-inch AMOLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate and FHD+ resolution (1080 x 2400). This would provide smoother animations, richer colors, and better contrast, enhancing the media experience while maintaining the 18:9 aspect ratio.
  • Enhanced Camera System with Night Mode: Upgrade to a triple 48MP (main, f/1.8, OIS) + 8MP (ultra-wide, f/2.2) + 5MP (macro, f/2.4) setup, adding night mode, AI enhancements, and 4K video at 60fps. This would improve low-light photography and video quality, addressing the Evolve’s outdated camera capabilities.
  • Latest Android with Extended Support: Ship with Android 15 and guarantee 4 years of OS updates and 5 years of security patches. This would ensure long-term app compatibility, bolster security, and rebuild trust in BlackBerry’s software support, which has been lacking since Optiemus ceased updates.
  • Improved Battery and Charging: Increase the battery to 4500 mAh, support 45W wired fast charging, and enhance wireless charging to 15W with 5W reverse wireless charging. This would cater to power users needing all-day battery life and versatile charging options for accessories.
  • IP68 Water and Dust Resistance: Upgrade to IP68 certification for better water resistance (up to 1.5m for 30 minutes) and dust protection, building on the Evolve’s IP67 rating and enhancing durability for users in rugged environments.
  • Advanced Security with Biometric Enhancements: Enhance DTEK with AI-driven threat detection and add an in-display ultrasonic fingerprint sensor for faster, more accurate unlocking. Include 3D facial recognition with infrared mapping for secure face unlock in all lighting conditions, reinforcing BlackBerry’s security focus.
  • Global Availability and Repair Network: Expand availability beyond India to global markets like the US and Europe, ensuring compatibility with regional 5G bands. Establish a repair network with official service centers and spare parts availability, addressing the current challenge of sourcing repairs for the Evolve.
  • Sustainable Design with Modular Components: Use recycled materials for the frame and back, and introduce a modular design allowing users to replace the battery, camera, or display without professional help. This would extend the device’s lifespan and appeal to eco-conscious consumers in 2025.

The BlackBerry Evolve was a stylish mid-range smartphone in 2018, offering a large 5.99-inch FHD+ display, IP67 water resistance, and a 4000 mAh battery with wireless charging, a first for BlackBerry devices. Its security features like DTEK and a decent dual-camera system made it a compelling option for privacy-conscious users in India. However, in 2025, the Evolve is outdated, with its Snapdragon 450 chipset, lack of 5G, and stagnant Android 8.1 Oreo software, which hasn’t been updated since 2020. The camera also lacks modern features, and its India-only availability limits its reach. If you’re a BlackBerry fan and can find a used Evolve for $80-$120, it might suffice for basic tasks like email and media consumption. For most users, however, newer mid-range phones like the Samsung Galaxy A55 or Google Pixel 8a offer better performance, 5G support, and long-term software updates, making them far more practical choices in 2025.

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  • Published: 4/16/2025
  • Company: BlackBerry
  • Category: Mobile