BlackBerry Classic Returns As Android-Powered Zinwa Q25 Pro For $400

A Chinese company, Zinwa Technologies, is reviving the decade-old BlackBerry Classic Q20 by upgrading its hardware and replacing the original operating system with Android. The updated model, named Zinwa Q25 Pro, is designed to combine the nostalgic appeal of the BlackBerry brand with modern smartphone capabilities.

The revival involves significant hardware changes to ensure compatibility with Android. The device now features a new main board powered by the MediaTek Helio G99 chipset, 12GB of RAM, and up to 256GB of internal storage. The original touchscreen remains, helping the Android interface function smoothly.

The battery has been improved by nearly 15%, and new cameras have been added: a 50MP rear camera and an 8MP front camera. Other modern upgrades include replacing the micro USB port with USB Type-C for faster charging and data transfer, as well as adding 4G LTE support. However, the phone does not support 5G.

One distinctive BlackBerry feature, the capacitive trackpad, is fully functional in the revived version. The Zinwa Q25 Pro runs on a minimal version of Android 13. Zinwa has no confirmed plans for future software updates unless strong consumer interest drives further development. Buyers are advised not to expect long-term support.

If the project proves successful, Zinwa may consider reviving other BlackBerry models, such as the Passport and KeyOne, the latter already known for running Android when it was originally released.

The Zinwa Q25 Pro is priced at $400, while a $320 do-it-yourself (DIY) kit is available for owners who want to upgrade their own BlackBerry Classic. The company also sells individual replacement parts, including camera modules and batteries.

The first 100 units of the Q25 Pro are expected to ship by the end of August, with mass production targeted for mid-September. Zinwa is also engaging with potential customers through a Discord channel, where updates on shipping, development progress, and possible future models are shared.

Filed in Cellphones. Read more about BlackBerry and BlackBerry Classic.