Zinwa Q25 Revives BlackBerry Classic with Modern Features
Zinwa Technologies, a Chinese company, is set to reintroduce the beloved BlackBerry Classic, often referred to as the Q20, through its latest offering, the Zinwa Q25. This updated smartphone, which is slated for a 2025 release, combines nostalgic elements of the original device with contemporary hardware and software enhancements.
Blending Nostalgia with Modern Functionality
The Zinwa Q25 aims to preserve the key design aspects that made the BlackBerry Classic iconic. This includes retaining features such as a 720×720 resolution touchscreen, a physical keyboard, an LED notification light, and a similar external casing. This approach is designed to cater to fans of the original device while also appealing to new users by integrating modern technology.
Enhanced Internal Specifications
Internally, the Zinwa Q25 boasts significant upgrades that bring it in line with today’s smartphone standards. The device will be powered by a MediaTek Helio G99 chipset, which promises robust performance for a variety of applications. Furthermore, it will come equipped with 12GB of LPDDR4x RAM and 256GB of UFS 2.x storage, ensuring ample space for apps, photos, and other media.
Battery life also sees an enhancement, with the Q25 featuring a 3,000mAh battery. In terms of photography capabilities, this updated model includes a 50MP rear-facing camera alongside an 8MP front-facing camera, providing users with improved imaging options compared to the originals.
Software Features
The Zinwa Q25 will operate on Android 13 straight out of the box, although the company has indicated that there are no forthcoming plans to upgrade to Android 14 or subsequent versions. However, Zinwa is committed to delivering regular updates aimed at fixing bugs and introducing minor features, ensuring that users can continue to have a reliable experience with their device.
Connectivity and Additional Features
The Q25 comes with several modern connectivity options. It will be equipped with NFC, USB-C, and a traditional headphone jack. Additionally, the device will support MicroSD card expansion and feature a single SIM slot, and its motherboard’s modem is compatible with all global 4G LTE bands, allowing users to stay connected across various networks worldwide.
In a discussion with the YouTube channel Returning Retro, Zinwa elaborated on the enhancements to the trackpad, stating it will function similarly to that of the original model. Users will be able to switch modes, allowing the trackpad to serve as a cursor or directional pad based on their preferences.
Pricing and Availability
Zinwa Technologies is offering flexibility in purchasing options for the Q25. Consumers can opt for a fully assembled device priced at $400, or choose a more economical conversion kit available for $300 for those who already own a BlackBerry Classic and wish to retrofit it. Both options are anticipated to ship in early August 2025.
Looking Forward
In addition to the Q25, Zinwa has plans to refresh other classic models. The company is reportedly working on updated versions of the BlackBerry KEYone and Passport, potentially named K25 and P26, respectively. This expansion indicates Zinwa’s commitment to revitalize the BlackBerry brand, appealing to both nostalgic users and newcomers alike.
In conclusion, the Zinwa Q25 is positioning itself as a remarkable blend of the classic BlackBerry experience fused with modern technology, ensuring that it meets the needs of today’s smartphone users while honoring the heritage of the BlackBerry line. With its scheduled release on the horizon, both collectors and technology enthusiasts will be keenly observing this revival in the mobile landscape.
