BlackBerry Key2 launched with improved QWERTY keyboard and dual cameras

New BlackBerry Key2 will cost £579, SIM-free

The new BlackBerry Key2 was unveiled in New York yesterday, the latest smartphone bearing the BlackBerry moniker designed and made by TCL Communications.

Due to leaks ahead of the launch, the Key2 launch held few surprises.

As expected, it comes with a 4.5-inch 1080x1620 display above its "brand new" QWERTY keyboard, which also has an integrated fingerprint scanner, as well as a new 'Speed Key' for quick access to the most-used apps and functions on the device.

BlackBerry says the keyboard is also 20 per cent larger than the keyboard on the KeyOne, and comes with larger, redesigned keys offering a more satisfying click.

TCL has also upgraded the camera, equipping the BlackBerry Key2 with a dual camera setup, comprising a 12MP f/1.8 main lens, and a 12MP secondary lens with f/2.6 aperture, alongside an 8MP front-facing camera. This dual camera system offers the usual portrait-depth mode, as well as the ability to enable two-times optical zoom without losing detail.

The BlackBerry Key2, which boasts a rugged Series-7 aluminium frame and a new diamond-patterned textured rear, also boasts a 3,500mAh battery with support for Quick Charge 3.0, 64GB or 128GB built-in storage, a 3.5mm headphone jack and Android 8.1 Oreo.

Naturally, BlackBerry's usual suite of software enhancements - including the BlackBerry Messaging Hub, DTEK and BBM - all come pre-loaded on top of Google's operating system.

There are some new software features too, including a new intelligent battery feature that learns how you use your device, and a 'private locker' function that will enable you to lock individual apps behind a fingerprint or password.

BlackBerry boasts that the Key2 has also been approved under Google's business-focused Android Enterprise Recommended programme.

Alex Thurber, general manager of Mobility Solutions at BlackBerry, remarked: "BlackBerry phones are the world's most secure Android smartphones. We design them for security from the inside out and we're proud to partner with TCL Communication on the launch of their all-new BlackBerry Key2.

"BlackBerry has been iterating and perfecting our approach to mobile security for decades, and we're excited to have this new genuine, modern BlackBerry smartphone available for our fans around the world to enjoy."

The BlackBerry Key2 will start shipping in the UK this month with a starting price of £579 SIM-free.