The BlackBerry KEY2 LE launched late in 2018, only in an unlocked variant. But the Android handset is making its way to Verizon Wireless.
TCL, the hardware manufacturer of BlackBerry-branded smartphones, has confirmed that the BlackBerry KEY2 LE will soon arrive on Verizon’s network. This won’t be an unlocked model that can work on Verizon’s network, but a handset that’s actually available on the network. However, it’s not going to be available for all subscribers. Instead, BlackBerry will be providing the handset for Verizon’s small business and Enterprise customers.
TCL, nor Verizon, have confirmed how much the KEY2 LE will cost when it does arrive on Verizon’s network.
The BlackBerry KEY2 LE’s most important feature is the hardware keyboard, which provides a full-range physical keyboard below the display. A fingerprint reader in the spacebar allows for biometric security access, and the Speed Key allows for programmable actions to make launching apps and features easier.
Otherwise, the KEY2 LE features a 4.5-inch display, a Qualcomm Snapdragon 645 processor, 4GB of RAM, and 64GB of built-in storage. There is a microSD card slot, dual SIM support, and a battery that measures in at 3000mAh. On the back, there is a pair of 13-megapixel and 5MP cameras, with an 8MP front-facing camera. The KEY2 LE has a 3.5mm headphone jack and a USB-C port for charging.
It’s a bit disappointing that the BlackBerry KEY2 LE will only be available for business customers, but at least it’s on Verizon at all. That’s good news for TCL and BlackBerry.