BlackBerry Q5

To make a modern BlackBerry Q5 competitive in 2025, the following enhancements could address its shortcomings while preserving its budget-friendly keyboard design:

• 5G Connectivity with Sub-6 GHz Support: Integrate a 5G modem supporting sub-6 GHz bands for faster data speeds and low-latency communication, ensuring the Q5 meets 2025’s connectivity standards for budget users who need reliable internet for communication.
• Upgraded Chipset to Snapdragon 4 Gen 2: Replace the Snapdragon S4 Plus with a Snapdragon 4 Gen 2, featuring a 4nm process, up to 2.2 GHz clock speeds, and improved efficiency. This would provide a 50% performance boost, better power efficiency, and support for modern apps, making the Q5 a viable budget option.
• 90Hz AMOLED Display: Upgrade the 3.1-inch IPS LCD to a 3.5-inch AMOLED panel with a 90Hz refresh rate and 720 x 720 resolution. This would offer smoother scrolling, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors, improving readability while maintaining a compact form factor for the keyboard.
• Enhanced Camera System with Night Mode: Upgrade to a dual 32MP (main, f/1.8) + 5MP (ultra-wide, f/2.2) setup, adding night mode and 1080p video at 60fps. This would improve low-light photography and video quality, addressing the Q5’s outdated 5MP camera.
• Android 15 with Long-Term Support: Replace BlackBerry 10 with Android 15, committing to 3 years of OS updates and 4 years of security patches. This would ensure compatibility with modern apps, bolster security, and provide access to the Google Play Store, addressing the Q5’s app ecosystem limitations.
• Improved Battery and Charging: Increase the battery to 3000 mAh and support 30W wired fast charging. This would cater to budget users needing all-day battery life and faster charging, improving on the Q5’s 2180 mAh battery.
• IP67 Water and Dust Resistance: Add IP67 certification for water resistance (up to 1m for 30 minutes) and dust protection, enhancing durability for users in varied environments, a feature absent in the original design.
• Advanced Security with Biometric Upgrades: Integrate a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for faster, more accurate unlocking, and include 2D facial recognition for additional security. Add BlackBerry’s DTEK app with AI-driven threat detection, reinforcing BlackBerry’s security-first ethos.
• Global Availability and Repair Support: Expand availability to global markets, ensuring compatibility with regional 5G bands. Establish a repair network with official service centers and spare parts availability, addressing the current challenge of sourcing repairs for the Q5.
• Sustainable Design with Recycled Materials: Use recycled materials for the frame and back, and design the battery to be user-replaceable. This would extend the device’s lifespan and appeal to eco-conscious consumers in 2025.