Blackberry unveils second Android-powered handset DTEK 50

Struggling smartphone maker Blackberry on Tuesday unveiled its second Android-based smartphone DTEK 50 for $299. The new handset, unlike the Blackberry Priv, features a full-length screen instead of a physical keyboard.

Also read: Shocking! BlackBerry has just rebranded Alcatel's Idol 4 Android phone as the DTEK50

With the launch of this new handset, the company aims to introduce a cheaper Android device to attract more people; something which the Blackberry Priv failed to do due to its staggering $700 price tag. According to the company, the handset is also the thinnest device it has ever manufactured.

While the Balckberry Priv is a commendable device, it could not compete against the popular smartphone brands such as Apple and Samsung who have been dominating the market over the years.

According to the company, this too, will be a highly secure device, which is also expected to be one of its prime selling factors. The company now plans to delve into the Android, as it plans to make the platform more secure.

In terms of specifications, the phone will have a 5.2-inch scratch-resistant FHD screen and will run on the Android 6.0 (Marshmallow). Apart from being a security-ready device, the smartphone will also support flash storage up to 2TB storage for seamless data storage.

Under the hood, the device is powered by a 64-bit Qualcomm Snapdragon 617 octa-core processor and Adreno 405 for uninterrupted performance. Additionally, the phone will equip 3GB RAM and 16GB internal storage.

However, the 2,610mAh battery could have been a bit better, albeit Quick Charge 2.0 support. It retains most exclusive blackberry features such as Hub, DTEK, Password keeper, BBM, and Blackberry Calendar.

There is good news for camera lovers as the phone will pack a powerful 13MP AF-enabled camera at the rear; an 8MP camera at the front will take care of video-calling and selfies.

Though the device will not be available in India during the first wave of sales, it should arrive in the country soon, considering India’s massive smartphone market.

During the launch event, the company also dropped hints regarding more Android device in future. It has been long since the company impressed in terms of manufacturing a good smartphone but this announcement could be a path-changer for the company.