BlackBerry Priv
BlackBerry Priv

The BlackBerry Priv, launched in November 2015 by BlackBerry Limited, was the company’s first Android smartphone, featuring a 5.4-inch QHD AMOLED display and a slide-out QWERTY keyboard. Priced at $699/£559 at release, it runs Android 5.1.1 Lollipop (upgradable to 6.0.1 Marshmallow), powered by a Snapdragon 808 chipset, 3GB RAM, and a 3410 mAh battery, targeting users who want BlackBerry’s security with Android’s app ecosystem. It includes an 18MP camera with Schneider-Kreuznach optics. In 2025, the Priv is outdated, with no software updates beyond 2017, no 5G, and hardware that struggles with modern demands. Its unique design still appeals to a niche of BlackBerry fans, available used for around $80-$120.

 

Feature

BlackBerry Priv

Release Date

November 2015

Display

5.4" AMOLED, 1440 x 2560, 16:9 aspect ratio, 540 ppi, Gorilla Glass 4

Processor

Qualcomm Snapdragon 808 MSM8992, 1.8 GHz Hexa-core

RAM

3GB

Storage

32GB, microSD support (up to 2TB)

Rear Camera

18MP (f/2.2, OIS, Schneider-Kreuznach optics), LED flash, 4K video

Front Camera

2MP

Battery

3410 mAh, non-removable, 18W fast charging

OS

Android 5.1.1 Lollipop (upgradable to 6.0.1 Marshmallow, no further updates)

Build

Plastic frame, plastic back, no IP rating

Connectivity

4G LTE, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 4.1, USB 2.0, NFC

Price (Launch)

$699 / £559

  • Slide-Out Keyboard: The QWERTY keyboard with touchpad functionality offers tactile typing and navigation, a unique feature for Android devices.
  • Vibrant Display: The 5.4-inch QHD AMOLED screen with 540 ppi delivers sharp, colorful visuals, great for media and productivity.
  • BlackBerry Security: DTEK app and Privacy Shade enhance security, appealing to privacy-conscious users.
  • Good Camera for Its Time: The 18MP camera with Schneider-Kreuznach optics and 4K video recording was impressive in 2015.
  • Android Ecosystem: Access to Google Play Store expanded app availability compared to BlackBerry 10 devices.
  • Outdated Software: Stuck on Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow with no updates since 2017, posing security risks and app compatibility issues.
  • No 5G Support: Limited to 4G LTE, making it slow in 2025’s 5G market.
  • Underpowered Hardware: The Snapdragon 808 and 3GB RAM struggle with modern apps and multitasking.
  • No Water Resistance: Lacks an IP rating, a drawback compared to modern devices.
  • Limited Availability: No longer in production, only available used, with no official repair support.

To make a modern BlackBerry Priv competitive in 2025, the following enhancements could address its shortcomings while preserving its unique 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 Priv meets 2025’s connectivity standards for users who need reliable internet for productivity.
  • Upgraded Chipset to Snapdragon 7 Gen 3: Replace the Snapdragon 808 with a Snapdragon 7 Gen 3, featuring a 4nm process, up to 3 GHz clock speeds, and enhanced AI capabilities. This would provide a 60% performance boost, better power efficiency, and support for modern apps, making the Priv a viable mid-range option.
  • 120Hz AMOLED Display: Upgrade the 5.4-inch AMOLED to a 5.7-inch AMOLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate and QHD+ resolution (1440 x 3200). This would offer smoother scrolling, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors, improving the viewing experience for media and productivity.
  • Enhanced Camera System with Night Mode: Upgrade to a triple 48MP (main, f/1.8, OIS) + 8MP (ultra-wide, f/2.2) + 5MP (telephoto, f/2.4, 3x zoom) setup, adding night mode, AI enhancements, and 4K video at 60fps. This would improve low-light photography and video quality, addressing the Priv’s outdated camera capabilities.
  • Android 15 with Long-Term Support: Ship with Android 15 and commit to 4 years of OS updates and 5 years of security patches. This would ensure compatibility with modern apps, bolster security, and provide access to the latest Android features, addressing the Priv’s software limitations.
  • Improved Battery and Charging: Increase the battery to 4000 mAh, support 45W wired fast charging, and add 15W wireless charging 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: Add IP68 certification for water resistance (up to 1.5m for 30 minutes) and dust protection, addressing the Priv’s lack of ingress protection and enhancing durability for users in varied environments.
  • Advanced Security with Biometric Upgrades: 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-first ethos.
  • Global Availability and Repair Support: Expand availability to global markets, 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 Priv.
  • 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 Priv was a groundbreaking device in 2015, marking BlackBerry’s transition to Android with a slide-out QWERTY keyboard, a vibrant 5.4-inch QHD AMOLED display, and robust security features like DTEK. Its access to the Google Play Store expanded its app ecosystem compared to BlackBerry 10 devices, making it a versatile option for its time. However, in 2025, the Priv is outdated, with its Snapdragon 808 chipset, lack of software updates beyond Android 6.0.1, and no 5G support making it impractical for modern use. The absence of water resistance and limited availability further diminish its appeal. If you’re a BlackBerry fan who values the slide-out keyboard and can find a used Priv for $80-$120, it might suffice for basic tasks like email and messaging. For most users, however, modern 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