TCL might introduce a low-cost BlackBerry device that includes the brand’s trademark feature. With a global license at its disposal, the Chinese electronics maker can roll out BlackBerry-branded hardware at any time.
The KEY2 Lite, according to mobile industry insider Evan Blass, is in development. Blass didn’t mention its specifications, but he did say it’ll keep the same form factor as the KEY2. The insider also posted an alleged photo of the KEY2 Lite online to reveal its appearance.
From the limited information gathered so far, we assume it’ll look mostly the same, boasting a full-size physical keyboard up front and a dual-camera setup on the back. The exterior is where you should see a near-identical product right down to the 4.5-inch display.
If anything, you’ll notice a slight difference in color. You’re going to choose between red, blue, and copper accents with a black construction. The KEY2, which debuted in May, sticks with traditional black and silver colors.
Based on its name, expect this to be a watered-down version of the KEY2. So the KEY2 Lite could ship with a Snapdragon 600 series processor, 3GB of memory, 32GB of storage, a lesser camera module, and a smaller battery. The software, though, should still be locked down with security and privacy enhancements.
It would be a welcome addition considering the KEY2 is on the expensive side. Despite its middle-of-the-road specs, the flagship is priced at $649. There could be some appeal for the KEY2 Lite at $349 or so.
The outlook for TCL’s pipeline seems light; therefore, the KEY2 Lite should be on track to launch this summer. TCL could also opt to introduce its latest BlackBerry device closer to the holidays when shopping increases.
