A user with the Reddit ID u/coldheartedsigma posted some shocking news on the BlackBerry subreddit, the post was deleted by the user soon after it gained traction. As per the post, a UK startup is developing a QWERTY smartphone based on the iconic BlackBerry Classic. The user was under a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) but posted important details that got BlackBerry enthusiasts abuzz.

The new phone will feature 5G connectivity, an AMOLED screen, a capacitive QWERTY keyboard, and the Android 15 operating system. The phone will also feature 12GB of RAM and storage options of 256GB or 512 GB. Most importantly, the phone will feature generative AI, which makes it stand out from other smartphones in the market.

BlackBerry's patents and better design

The UK-based startup is in talks with Malikie Innovations to obtain the exclusive rights to BlackBerry's patents. It suggests they have something to do with the old QWERTY phone heritage. The firm plans to create several devices with QWERTY keyboards, including a possible slider device, according to the user. An AI-generated image that appeared on the subreddit included the words "BlackBerry Patents," "QWERTY," and "The world's first," but the details were left vague.

The camera hardware is reported to feature a 50MP Sony sensor, a significant upgrade for a phone of this type. The firm is also going to make use of quality materials in its construction, so the phone should feel high-end. Although the initial prototype is reported to employ a MediaTek processor, negotiations are underway to possibly switch to a Snapdragon chipset. What security-minded users will appreciate is that the phone is set to have a custom Android ROM, with data security and user privacy being the priority.

Funding and Market Challenges

The startup appears to have a great strategy, including patents, manufacturing partners, and a prototype video rumored to be a customized BlackBerry Key2. Its success, though, will depend on securing sufficient funds. As u/coldheartedsigma reports, the entrepreneur has already received offers of between £15 million and £20 million for only a 5% stake. Some investors are even considering purchasing the entire firm due to its robust supply chain, valuable concepts, and future strategies.

Despite the positive news, the future of the project is uncertain. The user went on to add, "If they receive their required money, it appears that they are ready to sell it." The devices must undergo rigorous testing, such as FCC, CE, and UKCA. Official public statements have yet to be released, however.

A BlackBerry Rebirth or New Beginning?

The news has BlackBerry enthusiasts thrilled, but others are also not so certain. The user is anonymous; there are no confirmations and no branding, so others are questioning whether they are genuine claims. In addition, the user clarified that it's not a return of BlackBerry directly because the brand has exited the smartphone market. The project, however, is committed to offering a quality QWERTY smartphone experience based on licensed BlackBerry technology but under a new brand name.

If the startup gets the investment it is seeking, it could revive a high-end QWERTY smartphone, and it would be a serious threat to players such as Unihertz. Focusing on best quality, innovative AI features, and BlackBerry-like technology, the phone could appeal to professionals who need to remain productive and to consumers who long for the past. For now, the smartphone world is watching with bated breath, hoping for clear information regarding this colossal project.