BlackBerry Evolve X

If BlackBerry or a licensee were to revive the Evolve X series, the following detailed enhancements could make it competitive in 2025’s smartphone market, addressing its current limitations while retaining its core strengths:

• 5G Connectivity with mmWave Support: Integrate a modern 5G modem supporting both sub-6 GHz and mmWave bands to ensure faster data speeds and future-proofing, especially in regions like India where 5G adoption is widespread by 2025. This would enable seamless streaming, gaming, and cloud-based productivity, aligning with BlackBerry’s focus on secure communication.
• Upgraded Chipset to Snapdragon 7 Gen 3: Replace the Snapdragon 660 with a Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 (or equivalent), offering a 4nm process, up to 3 GHz clock speeds, and improved AI capabilities. This would provide a 50% performance boost, better power efficiency, and support for modern gaming and multitasking, making the Evolve X a viable mid-range contender.
• Modern Display with 120Hz AMOLED: Upgrade the 5.99-inch IPS LCD to a 6.2-inch AMOLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate and QHD+ resolution (1440 x 3200). This would deliver smoother scrolling, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors, enhancing the media consumption experience while maintaining the 18:9 aspect ratio for a cinematic feel.
• Enhanced Camera System with Night Mode and 4K 60fps: Revamp the camera setup to a triple 50MP (main, f/1.8, OIS) + 13MP (ultra-wide, f/2.2) + 8MP (telephoto, 3x zoom, f/2.4) system, adding computational photography features like night mode, AI scene detection, and 4K video recording at 60fps. This would address the Evolve X’s poor low-light performance and lack of zoom versatility, appealing to photography enthusiasts.
• Latest Android Version with Long-Term Support: Ship with Android 15 and commit to at least 4 years of OS updates and 5 years of security patches. This would ensure compatibility with modern apps, bolster security, and restore user confidence in BlackBerry’s software support, which has been a pain point since Optiemus ceased updates.
• Improved Battery and Charging: Increase the battery capacity to 4500 mAh and support 45W wired fast charging (from 30W) and 15W wireless charging. Additionally, introduce reverse wireless charging (5W) to power accessories like earbuds, enhancing utility for power users who rely on BlackBerry for productivity.
• Advanced Security Features with Biometric Upgrades: Enhance BlackBerry’s DTEK suite with real-time threat detection using AI, and upgrade the fingerprint sensor to an in-display ultrasonic sensor for faster, more accurate unlocking. Add 3D facial recognition with infrared mapping for secure face unlock in all lighting conditions, reinforcing BlackBerry’s security-first ethos.
• Global Availability and Repair Support: Expand availability beyond India to global markets like the US and Europe, ensuring compatibility with regional 5G bands. Establish a robust repair network with official service centers and spare parts availability, addressing the current challenge of sourcing accessories and repairs for the Evolve X.
• Eco-Friendly Design with Modular Components: Incorporate a modular design allowing users to replace the battery, camera module, or display without professional help, extending the device’s lifespan. Use recycled materials for the frame and back panel, aligning with 2025’s sustainability trends and appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.
• Enhanced Audio with Stereo Speakers: Upgrade the dual bottom-firing speakers to a stereo setup (one bottom, one earpiece) with improved Dolby Atmos tuning for a more immersive sound experience. Retain the 3.5mm headphone jack but add support for high-resolution audio (24-bit/192kHz) to cater to audiophiles.