Somewhat lost in all the BlackBerry announcements today that focused on the launch of BES 12, the company also began to take pre-orders for the BlackBerry Classic on its ShopBlackBerry website. Initially expected to launch sometime this month, it is now set to begin shipping sometime in mid-December.
BlackBerry Classic is a new smartphone that builds upon the extremely successful and iconic BlackBerry heritage. Our loyal customers asked us for a very specific phone and we answered with BlackBerry Classic: a familiar design inclusive of the beloved classic navigation keys and physical keyboard, with the speed and powerful performance of BlackBerry 10. True to its heritage, the BlackBerry Classic is built for ultimate reliability and durability, with high-quality materials and finishes, designed to provide optimal grip and better protection from impact. The BlackBerry® Classic is built with a purpose – delivering on quality and productivity that fits neatly in your pocket.
BlackBerry has yet to reveal all the specifications about the BlackBerry Classic but a few more details have now emerged. Powered by BlackBerry OS 10.3.1, it will support both LTE ((FD-LTE bands 1, 2/25, 4, 5, 7, 13, 17)) and HSPA+ (HSPA bands 1,2,4,5/6) connectivity. Unfortunately, it will not be compatiable with the Verizon, Sprint, or US Cellular networks. Lest we forget, it also marks the return of the conic BlackBerry button belt that users of older BlackBerry devices will be familiar with.
The BlackBerry Classic will sell for CA$499/US$449. An exact shipment date has not been announced but BlackBerry will make an announcement on December 17. Shipments are likely to follow soon after.
Source : ShopBlackBerry