This is BlackBerry's newest smartphone: the BlackBerry Leap. Sporting a 5-inch 720x1280 IPS LCD display, an 8MP rear camera, and 16GB of storage, the phone offers quality mid-range specs at an affordable $275 off-contract. We've been told the phone's built by Wistron, the manufacturing arm of Taiwan-based Acer. It has a Foxconn feel to it, but this is more the entry-level design language of BlackBerry than simply what Foxconn made for the Z3 (there are some differences in the layout between this and the Z3).
The Leap's full touch design does have some fairly substantial bezels to it, and the 9.5mm thickness isn't the thinnest out there. But, again, we're talking about a sub-$300 phone here, we wouldn't expect the highest of tech here anyway. It sports a microSD card slot (up to 128GB) and a hefty 2800mAh non-removable battery that's good for 25 hours of battery life. That life comes in part due to the dual-core Qualcomm S4 Pro 1.5GHz processor running things.
There's the top-mounted power button, the volume and mute buttons on the right side, micro USB on the bottom, and micro SIM and microSD under a door on the left. The front's a solid sheet of glass with the BlackBerry logo at the bottom and front-facing camera and speaker at the top. The back and sides are rubberized with a grid of nubs all around that give it an absurd level of grip.
This isn't the most impressive BlackBerry ever (that might just be the crazy new curved-screen slider, but it's impressive for what it is. In our brief time with the Leap we saw a phone that was solidly built and nicely responsive. It might be kind of a BlackBerry Z10 at it's heart, but there's nothing wrong with that, especially at that price.
Reader comments
Hands-on with the BlackBerry Leap
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I ordered Leap and its on its way. It will keep me going until Blackberry gets into newer devices.
Cost wise I'm not phased, nor am I put off by it the specs. They are not the Greatest ,but I needed a bigger screen then what my Q10 provided .
This will suffice. :)
Blackberry will get back on the road soon .
As a Z10 owner this appeals to me as a replacement for my Z10 for two basic reasons - more screen and better battery life. But in addition it has a better GPU and camera than the Z10. At just under £200 here in the UK its an attractive proposition.
I'm sold. I'm ready for a Z10 upgrade
i'd like to know how the speaker is on that thing. It looks like it may have potential
This could be the perfect phone for the employees that think the Z30 is too big and drop it every two months. Smaller, cheaper, fine by me! :)
i've to say the LEAP reminds me a little of the XIAOMI MI3. in fact, comparing the specs, the mi3 seems to have a slight edge over the LEAP, with its 12MP rear cam, quad core, denser screen & GUERILLA CORNING Glass.
granted that the specs of the LEAP can't quite overshadow the mi3, i sure hope it has to be more affordable than the mi3
Blackberry focused on a mid-range smartphone at mwc 2015.We should expect more from them.
here is more about it
http://www.smartphone-ix.com/2015/03/blackberrys-newest-smartphone.html
It's expensive for such specs. I still can't afford z30 but I would rather opt for z30 in terms of price and specs. Almost no difference. No real progress BlackBerry.
Also, I wonder if BlackBerry has stopped putting in the Micro HDMI ports for all devices at this point moving forward. I have a Z10 and I like the option to plug my phone to my TV Via Micro HDMI. I'm really considering a beautiful white Z30 now.
This makes me want to get the Z30 in white!
Totally useless effort, why bother with LEAP... wasting focus... focus on unleashing value and creating real value. This is bogus and Chen is not advised properly. He needs to hire smart people.
Non removable baterry .. how sad
Posted via CB10
Wonder of Chen has become arrogant and lost in his celebrity, havent seen any real progress... in the end money is all that matters and stock is at $10, show me $40-60 stock then I will tip my hat. Until then its all talk and BS
Who cares... only a few (smart) ones are buying BlackBerry phones...((5 of people are dumb and they have no interest in BBRY phones
Cool photo, cool phone... But what good is it without decent apps and app support?
Posted via CB10
If it wasn't so damn ugly then perhaps...but even with a skin or case on I have to look at it - eventually. Ewww! Sorry, but even I have standards. A few beers won't fix this...
So this isn't really the replacement for the Z10 or Z30...its just a souped up Z3 or a revisited Z10...which begs for question...why? What is the point of this device?
And when the hell is the Z10 or 30 replacement coming...Honestly if there is nothing by summer, as much as I like BlackBerry...I am seriously considering moving to the Nokia Windows phones!
Cartman says: Screw you guys I'm going home!
I just think blackberry is gaining momentum and more media press of late. They're working on a comeback so riding high I think their mindset is that the Z10+ Z 30 didn't quite get the push and hype and response so Now in their current position- just revamp it and hope that they can get a more positive response with a updated "new" all touch blackberry. I support it and am glad they are pushing more new products. As I tell my network about them. However to us BlackBerry users: it just seems like a old news .
Posted via CB10
INTRODUCING THE BLACKBERRY LEAP
You are a start-up.
The story of your life is about to be written.
Too late.
Posted via CB10
This is a great phone for $ 275.00 blackberry is moving in the right direction...
Posted via the CrackBerry App for Android
Torch lovers and novelty seekers must be thrilled. This is NOT my thing!
Over the years I carried so many BB devices, and in 2009 I got my first iPhone, the 3GS. That introduced me to the world of all-touch and I haven't looked back nor will I. I currently own a Z30 (awa an Android device).
We just widely speculate out the wazoo on these blogs and have no idea what manufacturers' future plans are. But I do know this: If BB decides to appease diehards and go down the "devices with keyboards" road, my Z30 would be my last BB device. I doubt – and hope – they wouldn't make such a polarizing move because I really love that superb device and am looking forward to its next iteration.
I am rocking a Z30 now so I will not be taking the LEAP. The slider is another story and I can't wait to take that on a test drive. Oh My Berry Goodness. OMBG :)
This phone is designed to be a corporate fleet phone. It has no need for the biggest and best specs. It's meant to be a company issued workhorse that will get you through a day's hard used. Hi-spec screens and super-powerful processors eat up battery life without making the phone a more useful tool in a business setting.
Blackberry is focusing on enterprise and this phone is part of that strategy.
Posted via CB10
Posted via CB10
This handset looks tired. Old fashioned and un-stylish.
It's my opinion that BB had a huge surplus of Hardware internals left over from the Q10 & Z10. Since sales of those devices tanked, they needed a way to "ship" the excess hardware inventory and still turn a profit. Thus we now find the same HW specs from the Q10 & Z10 inside the Classic & the Leap. This is NO coincidence. What say you?
This could be a good device for Windows phone users to switch to blackberry. The layout of the phone reminds me of the Lumia phones, especially Lumia 800.
Posted via CB10
This is simply for those who needs a BlackBerry Leap.
Posted via CB10
as my next phone probably I will choose Lumia 640XL instead of BB Leap because of better camera (Zeiss 13 Mpx) and bigger battery (3000mAh) also I like Windows Phone OS. On BB OS I cant connect to the SonicWall VPN server because its not supported :/ on Windows Phone and Android it works without any problems.
That desgin is really beautiful! simple, clean, great! As a 'Z10 v2' it is a great device.
As a die hard Blackberry fan, I have to say I am rather dissapointed with this device as it doesn't make any sort of sense to me why BlackBerry will make a phone like this considering that they had a similar phone in Z3 that was released not too long ago.
I have looked at the slider and those types of devices are not for me, it seems like after my passport i might have to move to samsung or iPhone especially now that the BlackBerry productivity suite will become available for andriod and IOS because they make better and more modern devices, if I can keep my Hub, typing experience, universal search etc then I cannot rationalize why I would stick with BlackBerry's dated hardware and inadequate apps situation.
This is a z10 with a bigger battery
Posted via the CrackBerry App for Android
Why did they even make it? It's a leap backwards. Just make more Z10s.
Posted with my Awesome Z10 via CB10
I think this is the most misguided phone BlackBerry have released for ages.
Putting aside the terrible name, what is the point of this phone? BlackBerry already released a low end/entry level last year. Why do they need another one on the market so soon?
I love my Q10 but I have always wanted the best of both worlds; a large 16:9 screen AND a keypad. But without being any thicker.
I know BlackBerry have pleased their fan base by producing the Classic and that they have to reach as many users as possible and that means producing a range of phones. Having said that this phone offers nothing new except a terrible name and a b and of rubber.
Posted via CB10
Cooooolllll!!!!!!!
Posted via CB10
It's a budget BlackBerry, and it runs QNX at the heart. Those that don't like it, should move on.
Posted with my BlackBerry Q10 using the CrackBerry 10 application
The color of the grey Leap looks cool. I really like the grey/black button stuff going on. I'd love for them to do this color combo in the future on a Passport 2 or Classic 2 or something.
It seems like it should be a phone Marty McFly would use in the DeLorean, like it might be in Back To The Future II. Real spacey and futuristic looking in a way.
My Z10 is better. I will stick to it until something good with the decent price comes out.
Unfortunately the new BlackBerry "Leap" will be a leap in faith. BlackBerry can and must do better than this. The Passport was a risk but look at the user reviews on Amazon and now AT&T. Innovation is the new reality.
Posted via CB10
As John Chen said it's an entry level device. So don't expect a leaping specs. Kind of remindsme it looks like the Z3?
Posted via Q10
Z30 doesn't work in att Lte
Posted via CB10
What the Z10 should be been when it came out.
Posted via CB10
This is going to turn out exactly what happened with q5.
Posted via CB10
It's trying to redo the Heins screw up and charging way to much for the Z10 and Z30 devices, not too many mid range device's have such a big screen and impressive battery life.
Posted via CB10
Nice to see an entry level all touch device as part of BlackBerry's product line. The discussion about its specs will no doubt be lively, but as long as it utilizes all the BB10 has to offer, I think it'll be a hit for the target market. If one wants better specs, buy a Passport. Just thankful that BlackBerry is alive and kicking and still putting out decent hardware.
Posted via CB10
That's a great price for an entry level device, especially built with an awesome OS .
Posted via CB10
Derek, You know you want that Slider : )
I'm sorry. WHY? It makes no sense. Shouldn't they focus on BETTER, HIGHER-SPEC devices?
If it's available when my contracts up ^^ I'd get it just for the battery life over the Z10...
But, the Slider has me intrigued =)
Z10STL100-2/10.3.1.2243
Good phone, good priced!
Sent from my BlackBerry Passport
Good phone good priced? check the new Microsoft Lumia 640XL which gives you 5,7 inch Corning Gorilla Glass 3 1280x720 display, camera 13 Mpx f/2.0 Zeiss Optics, battery 3000 mAh, Windows Phone 8.1 Denim - all just for 180$ good bye Blackberry ;-)
^tsk
Posted via CB10
Would I trade my Z10 in on it?? Nope.
The amount of PPI on that 5 inch display is low.
Would I trade a Z30 in on it?? Hmmm, similar specs so
Nope.
The Leap is a good looking device though.
Caper in Toronto.
What's in the screen in the picture, new active frames look?
Posted from my sexy Z10
Taking a picture of a blackboard
Posted via CB10
Wrong picture in mind. Blackboard shot was BlackBerry facebook
Posted via CB10
There is something strangely appealing about the boxy design. I just imagine how wonderfully grippy it is to hold. Hard angles, but sculpted enough to fit nicely in the hand. Perhaps best of all, the hard angled grippiness should make picking the face-up phone off the desk easily. Charging pod accessory will be a dope addition. It's definitely not for everyone, and a used Z30 is almost entirely a better way to spend your money, but it could be a great cheap phone with a cheap plan on Koodo.
Although the BB Leap is not a phone I would consider for myself as I own a passport, I think it's a decent entry level phone. Is it powered by old components? Yes, but not sure why that bothers so many. Entry level is simply that, it doesn't need to be fancy, or do much. Blackberry software is optimized for it's hardware, so we don't need the same specs as android phones have, in order to run our hardware without hiccups. My HTC One M7 was a great phone, but I still noticed some lag even with 2GB RAM and a modern specced Snapdragon processor. I loved the 1080p screen, and the feel of the phone in general, could run everything I wanted, but it wasn't optimized. The 16 hours battery life with decent use I normally got was proof of that. The phone wasn't much use when I had to hug the wall near the end of the day, and the screen didn't look so great when it wasn't on anyway. My question to everyone here, is do you need all these great and powerful specs for bragging rights, or to play the latest games on your phone? Because whichever of those is your answer, you're not in BlackBerry's target market. The people they are targeting might play the occasional game, but their phone has to last through a day, has to communicate well, has to run the apps that blackberry has developed that will further their career, such as BBM/BBM meetings, use of the HUB, etc. It needs to have good, clear call quality. It's a communications device, not a child's plaything. I think people are forgetting that. Afterall, the iPhone never competed on specs, and it revolutionized the sector, because it offered something unique, their ecosystem. We may not have their ecosystem, or the specs most androids have, but we are most effective at security and communications, which is who BB is targeting with their phones.
Posted via CB10
Well put Sir, well put.
That thing is ugly. The back looks like a device made in 70' in DDR
Posted via CB10
I only have that one issue and it's about having that back speaker. I just a few with having it on the back of the phone, it's just not the same as the z10.
Posted via CB10
I wonder how this would compete against the Moto G or the Moto E?
Posted via CB10
The price point is just perfect. When the BlackBerry z10 came out, I thought it was too over priced. So when is BlackBerry being the Leap to North America?
Posted via CB10
The iPhone does not have leading edge specs but it sells at a premium and people gladly fork over their money for the latest iteration.
This phone is not competing against the Z30. The Z30 is a great phone that didn't sell that is why they are so many still available.
This phone is built to sell in quantities so like the above mentioned iPhone it will not have the latest killer specs. If you want a high-end Blackberry phone the Passport is available for a very good price.
Posted via CB10
Design wise - it's very nice
OS - just fine
Specs - Oh oh
If they believe that BB had a market for executives / businessmen, they should come out with a higher specs phone with better camera, processor, etc... since this market the people had money to spend like Obama. And Android apps are now can be installed easily. Dual core would cripple those apps.
That's really a shame.
TOTALLY agree. This is a huge mistake.
Battery capacity is as big as the Z30's so that's a good news for it's potential users.
PassportSQW100-1/10.3.1.2267
Looks like they are still clearing out component contract commitments from the Z10. This device has the same dual-core Qualcomm S4 Pro 1.5GHz processor and 8MP camera. I believe the memory is the same 2GB chips.
I don't like the phone from the back, no at all. I wish I was total Black on the back.
Haven't been on the site in a while (since ditching my 9900), and i see this?
Wow...
Unless the apps are there, this will be another failed attempt at gaining market share.
Z30 > Leap...everybody else is showing off their brand new, high end phone's and blackberry is talking about the Leap? BlackBerry needs to grow a pair...
Posted via CB10
And you need to educate yourself before you spew your BS.
Posted via CB10
The only thing that sux about z10 is the battery life. Otherwise then this is a great phone no lags and I run 4 apps at the same time pretty much all day. So, it'd take more for me to upgrade. I was thinking about the Passport but don't like the look.
So staying with Z10 for now.
Posted via CB10
How can you guys say it's not a better phone than the Z10 and the Z30 is so much better ?
None of you have tried the phone!
I'm sure once it's released, many will be pleasantly surprised.
No this phone is not earth shattering technology but there's nothing bad about it either.
Posted via CB10
What the hell are BB thinking making another low end BB device. People will only think of Android if they are looking for low end smartphone. Really disappointed about this stupid move.
Posted via CB10 from BB Passport
Believe me cheap people are cheap. There are many other lower priced phone than Android and they sell.
Android is not the only answer out there.
Posted via CB10
Should produce more quad-core devices instead of dual-core.
BB FANS via Q10
Not an exciting phone, but I'm sure it'll have some use.
How Boring is that!! What's with all that bezel, come on Blackberry be more bold in styling...
A passport bezel-look Z3 with Z30 specs.
But...the Z30 is now selling for 300$ off contract..
Posted via CB10
Posted via CB10
BlackBerry OS runs smoothly on low spec devices. But with so low and outdated specs the price is too much to be asked.
Posted via CB10
That's what I thought too for having Z10. But when I started using the Passport, I just realized that 'specs' still matters a lot.
Posted via CB10
I agree with you. The specs really do not matter all that much if at all but sadly putting old out of date specs 3+4yrs out of date and charging expensive prices is insane and people with sadly think what the heck is this company doing (blackberry), that is my opinion and started with blackberry when they first launched.
Posted via CB10
The Z30 is better than the LEAP. I hope I can still get Z30 by the end of the year otherwise I'm out of options unless I consider Android or Windows.
Posted via CB10
The z3 was announced as an under $200 phone and it ended up being around $280 in many markets. This one is going to end up closer to $350 making it a really bad buy in my opinion.
I'm laughing at the consumer users complaining on here. The company has stated over and over and over that focus is on the Enterprise market. You're welcome to spend your money on low cost mediocre phones that appeal to Joe Beancounter in the purchasing department of ACME Inc who buys them in large quantities for the drone employees. They're getting rid of whatever components they have left from whenever so they are going to generate some positive cash flow if lucky. If not, they've already written this stuff down. If they gain traction with niche devices, they can move forward with more niche devices. Think Huawei and ZTE etc for now. The company may still exit hardware and are just talking about hardware while exploring options still including focusing on software cross platform. They're in love with survival, not holding onto past. Blackberry does not want to become the next Palm Inc.
Posted via CB10
Thank you!!
People who don't work for a telecommunications company don't even know how many iPhone 4 or 4s are still being sold till this date not to mention how many S3 either.
It's truly mind boggling how non informed or unconcerned consumers are. The only reason why these phones sell is because they are cheap.
Yes the leap might be pricier but it's still a lower priced phone.
Once it's released, then we can see if we need an octa core, 5 ghz and 8GB of RAM like so many of you think you need!
Just like the all the BlackBerry 10 phones, I'm sure it will have no trouble keeping up with you.
And no AMOLED screens either. Many people prefer natural color over over exaggerated colors ;)
Posted via CB10
So why not just keep building Z10s or Z3s for that market? Your iPhone and Galaxy examples are not new products geared towards corporate buyers, but designs which have been amortized long ago and cost only the bill of materials and a bit more for the assembly to Apple and Samsung. Blackberry has incurred costs for a new design, incurred further costs when they necessarily certified it in various markets and yet ended up with pretty much the same product as the Z10 or Z3.
Pray tell how that makes sense regardless of any (frankly braindead) purchasing decisions that might be prevalent among the corporate buyers.
What he also doesn't realize is that the line between the enterprise and consumer markets is almost gone and Apple and Samsung are eating BlackBerry's lunch on both sides. BYOD is the name of the game, and in that game, Apple and Samsung are doing their best Daniel Plainview imitations.
Good lord, someone with some sense?
Two thumbs up.
Posted via CB10
It's almost like the z30 but a whole lot uglier and more expensive. Great! Why is it that good devices like the passport or classic take almost a year from announcement to be released but crap phones like this or the z3 go from rumor to realease in a flash?
This phone is an upgrade from the z30 just because the clock speed is lower doesn’t mean anything. The battery life on the leap is longer than the z30. Its using a newer processor
Posted via CB10
I guess this is the all touch, no z50
Posted via CB10
Omg!... BlackBerry definetly gonna rock in future days.... Agree!!! Love you a lot BlackBerry!!
Posted via CB10
Way overpriced, for less than US200 should be reasonable.
Posted via the CrackBerry App for Android
Why yet another mid-range to low-end device? We already have 4 devices that fit the bill today: the Z10 (which does now fall in that category), the Z3, the Z30 (which is now in that category), and now the Leap. When are we going to get a PREMIUM all-touch BlackBerry? I am completely baffled by this marketing philosophy that suggests that only real premium BlackBerry users want keyboard devices. That is so wrong!
You aren't informed, which is why it makes no sense to you.
Posted via CB10
Pass, sticking with my Q10 and hoping by end of the year vzw releases the passport
Posted via CB10
This doesn't look like its supposed to be an upgrade for current users. It looks like it's made to entice new entry level users.
Start-ups is mentioned everywhere...
We know you all want upgrades but don't throw hate at everything out of the gate. This isn't for you.
It's like a dude being mad that the latest maxipads won't fit his curves.
Posted via the CrackBerry App for Android
How do you get the icons to look like the ones on the pic?
Posted via CB10
Speaker on the backside... wow, smart.
Posted via CB10
Terrible. Looks like BlackBerry is going to lose a good chunk of it's Z10 and Z30 users to other platforms.
Posted via CB10
Does it have hdmi out like the Z10 and Z30? That's a handy feature.
Posted via CB10
New phone should have new specs!
Posted via CB10
Pass....
BlackBerry hates America!
I think it is high time that blackberry guys start building their basic and mid range devices with at least Snapdragon 400 quad core processors. Who uses dual cores these days. It makes the devices look so old fashioned. Also many users these days change their smartphone almost every two years. And these users will obviously look forward to devices with higher specs and not same specs.
Posted via CB10
Who?
Every Apple is dual core, 1 gig of ram.
Posted via CB10
Yes, and that dual-core SoC is one of the best, and the most advanced, on the market. This dual core is a fifty-cent piece of trash.
Ouch. I've mostly consider Acer to be cheap low quality stuff. If so, then this phone should be even cheaper.
pricing is outrageous and i'll choose the z30 over this any day. what upgrades should z30 users look up to? what upgrades should z10 users look up to? it just basic and kinda expensive. Passport is the ultimate way up. too bad they choose this bad strategy
Seems like a Leap backwards.
I can see to a point why people are complaining about the specs being outdated which I personally think is an over rated issue but that the cost of 3/4 year old tech should also be reflected in the manufacturing cost and therefore the cost should more likely be easily sub 200 by a long way.
I am not sure where blackberry are charging an impossible amount on a device like this when the Z10 and Z30 do a far better job and are costing around the same price.
Blackberry do not make sense and there is no clever accounting here it's just basic capital greed to make as much as possible. I suspect that they probably have assessed the situation and found realistically the sales of the Leap will not be strong enough to support the truer cheaper sales price hence mark the phone up by say 20-40% or so. They are really doing this so wrong if that is the case and should in my opinion give an entry product away as in a lot lot lower cost to help support and booster the blackberry brand use it for good marketing too. Something they are beyond rubbish at.
Sadly Chen probably will not see it this way and I really think they need to re organise and look at the lack of talent in their marketing and cost production control departments! Recruit new talent maybe even look on here I am sure there are a lot of potential hires that will fix blackberries well documented issues.
:-)
Posted via CB10
Okay Harry Potter.
Using the same phone parts, if Apple, Samsung, Xaiomi, build 40 million each , and BlackBerry build 1.5 Million, who gets the volume discount and can reduce the price dramatically of an entry, to mid level phone? Knowing that savings are to be had, who then could add a quad core, higher ppi screen, or other, for the price BlackBerry has to charge to make money and still have a competitive price point?
Posted via CB10
There are still 2014 and 2015 parts that slot in at the same build point and are much better performing and more efficient. Motorola, Sony, and HTC aren't getting the same discounts as Apple, and most are comparable in mobile sales, but they aren't using 2011 SoCs and other clearance bin parts. Motorola sells two models that are all superior in every way to this phone and they cost less.
Nothing impressive so far
Encrypted via my Z10.3.1.1565
I think it looks pretty good. I would buy it over the Z30 just for the looks. I'm not a fan of the silver bezel on the 30 so it's nice to have another option now.....
Posted via CB10
Don't be blinded by the spec wars, BB10/Cascades does not need more than this. If BlackBerry can get Qualcomm to make the S4 Pro on a smaller node, this phone will be a killer phone.
Posted via CB10
The only reason why I'm having a Passport right now is because of its specs...
Posted via CB10
I see from all the comments on here and some people have issues, that no one figured out that this was a upgrade path for the Z3, everyone one assuming other wise. You guys need to chill out before you burst a blood vessel.
Posted via CB10
So they upgrade their latest cheap all touch phone while most of their users ask about Z10 & Z30 replacements ??
Yes
Posted via CB10
OK, BlackBerry I'm convinced... concentrate more on software business...
Posted via CB10
For those asking, CNET posted a video on their youtube channel. And let me say it, it looks like crap pencil/geometry box set we used to take it to school
:-D
Why do you need a high spec phone when Blackberry devices are known for its productivity? Do you need a quad core for calling, texting and emails? The price is questionable but that is Blackberry, then and now, in terms of pricing. And by the way, didn't Blackberry told you that they are going back to its roots, the Enterprise. Securing it through their software. That's their focus at the moment. Not hardware. Now, I rest my case.
Posted via CB10
The issue here is even the Enterprise are looking for devices that are spec'ed well and priced fair. Why else do you think BlackBerry is losing market?
People look at SPECS before all. It's an unfortunate fact. BlackBerry finally has a handle on inventory. There is no reason not to release a true Z10/30 replacement.
Posted by Q5
How can BlackBerry provide you a high spec phone when they are focusing on the software side and not on your dream hardware?
Posted via CB10
Why is there a Leap? what a waste of money...make a blue Z30 and Voilà! Same thing for less money !
Posted via CB10
I don't mind this strategy. There is a target audience and target market.
The fact that they are releasing more S4 phones means that software optimization will continue on every device launched with BB10.
The fact that BB shipped the Passport with the specs it has is testament that they will have a high end offering, but maybe not the one you are looking for.
A full stainless steel style phone of 5" in height, with top end specs is needed ASAP. WITH A PINCH OF WOW AND A DRISSAL OF ' OH YEAH" WHICH SHOULD BE PLACED RIGHT IN FRONT OF ALL APPLE IPHONE CRAP.
Posted via CB10
Just a picture is not going to qualify as hands-on if you ask me.
Posted via my BlackBerry Passport - 10.3.1.2243
If you going to buy this phone you probably
Go for the z30. Leap is lower specs than the z30. And z30 release 2013. Just think about it.
Go for passport
Posted via CB10
Go for Passport? Yes, that makes so much sense, compare a $270 phone to a $600 phone. And the Z30 being sold the way it is at almost no profit isn't going to happen forever so those days are numbered.
This release makes absolutely no sense to me.
Z30, Z10, PB64
Me too. It seems he wants to give the Taiwanese company some business - hopefully it will pay off in the longer term. I hope it does well but there is a huge gap in their product line and no one is addressing that.
I guess BlackBerry management needs an Speakup app.
I have no choice. My Z10 is getting old and I do not want a passport so...
Blackberry is forcing me to buy a Moto X
Why not get the slider? If you want full touch, just don't use the slider part
BlackBerry Q10 SQN100-3
It is not available and no one knows when it will be
Is there confirmation that the keyboard slider, when not in use will have the Virtual keyboard pop up? If so, then that might be fine with me.
Posted by Q5
No slider for me. Sorry. I don't need a thicker phone. The slider is for folks who like keyboards. I'll never use it.
Yeah, I am in the same boat as you. I have no options and my Z10's battery is starting to die. It's been over a year and BlackBerry has yet to provide an upgrade path for me. The Z30 wasn't really an upgrade to the Z10 - it's just a bigger device with a slightly faster CPU. Almost everything else is the same including the camera. Chen says he wants the hardware business to succeed but all he is doing is clobbering sales of existing low-to-mid BlackBerrys, as carriers will simply replace the old with the new.
There is one problem with this phone. It's a BlackBerry. And if any one is playing along at home, you'll know BlackBerry can't give phones away. Another device, another device that will sit on the shelves begging to be taken home. It's kind of like going to the pound and picking up a new puppy. BlackBerry is the brand no one wants, and this is another "Leap" of faith by Chen that is going to fail.
I can't believe you waste your time to write such rubbish. If no one wants it, then why does this site have so many followers? Why are you even here?
It's dumb asses like you that are the problem. Spread your FUD elsewhere.
Posted via CB10
Okay saw the video. Target audience young adults just starting out in their business careers.
Not sure where the Samsung partnership is going but it looks like the high-end BlackBerry devices will have keyboards.
I have to agree with them. Concede the slab to apple and android for now. Once you get back profitable you can make another run at higher-end slabs.
Posted via CB10
Finally something I can buy for my family :D
Posted via CB10
My thoughts also
Posted via CB10
Any info on the PPI?
Same ppi as the one on the z30. I think 297ppi
Posted via CB10
294 to be exact.
Posted via CB10
Yeah looks like..
So the strategy here is to lose existing Z10 and Z30 customers to other Platforms because BlackBerry continues to not provide a sufficient Full Touch replacement.
They released the Passport, they can also release a Full Touch.
Posted by Q5
Bingo. My thought exactly.
Save a penny, lose a dollar.
Adios.
Posted via CB10
Yes, it's BlackBerrys strategy to screw everyone over. You all need to read every article about BlackBerry since Chen took over and stop crying and posting stupid s**t based on ignorance of the company's plight and it's current focus to be making money instead of dropping revenue. There are reasons they are making these phones, instead of your 20 core ,solid glass and Gold, 1 billion Ghz, hologram phone with one year, but removable battery .
If it makes no sense to you, then maybe you should follow the news to understand why, before posting your dopey views that have no business being here because you and your opinions are part of BlackBerrys image problem. While you are at it, make sure you don't immunize your kids because Jenny McArthy says it's bad.
Posted via CB10
Sticking with z10. However, I will be waiting for a worthy successor. I don't if and when that time will come.
I'm certain that the time, money and resources spent on these little projects could have been better spent.
Posted via CB10
Boring!!!!
Posted via CB10
Sticking with my Z30.
Posted via BlackBerry Z30
BlackBerry definetly gonna rock in future days...Love You BlackBerry!!!
Posted via CB10
That's a pimp phone
Posted via CB10
Really?! I'm a Z10 user who has been waiting for an upgrade of the Z30 and they come up with this! Geez, what a huge let down.
Sporting a White Zed Ten
This release has to be just to get rid of some inventory. Should be cheap like everyone here is saying. No way this should be the same price as Z30. You can get a Z30 now for like $250 unlocked. Waiting for the next high end full touch. Unless my Z10 gets damaged. Hehehe.
Sent from the best touch keyboard, the Z.
Is it less wide than the Z30 ? Hard to use one handed unlike the Z10.
Posted via CB10
It's less than z30 and z10 ! No HDMI Port !
Posted via CB10
Its less than new Moto E (~180$)
I mean the size, less wider maybe is more correct ? :)
Posted via CB10
Slimport. You need to read.
Posted via CB10
I dunno how great your experieneces are with those mhl adapters but I much prefer the micro hdmi usb combo
Posted via the CrackBerry App for Android
No HDMI port!!?? Are u killing me !!
Z10 forever. Sorry Chen but it's a very bad move
Posted via CB10
SlimPort...
Posted via the CrackBerry App
Yeah the problem is the processor. They could have come with a new generation processor even if it was a mid range one... the battery consumption would have been lower.
Posted via CB10
BB should reduce the price of the Z30 and come out with the Z50+, since the Z30 is almost 2 yrs. old, and they need a premium touch phone for the market.
The z30 isn't a cheap phone to make, which is why they will phase it out for this model.
Well, Z30 is far from 2 years old. But it's true it's very close to Z10 specs. And even Z10 wasn't built with latest internals.
I don't like the name "leap" what happened to the blackberry visa that was in the making. Sounds business like.
Posted via CB10
I don't see any reason to buy this over z30. Nothing has improved over the z10. Z10 is better for this. I am waiting for the slider. Still the specs haven't been shown
Posted via BlackBerry z10
Still wondering why
Posted via CB10
To get rid of old parts. That's why.
Is BlackBerry ever going to put a removable battery in a phone again?
Posted via CB10
Where it's being sold may answer all the questions that has many confused.
Posted via CB10
You would say that the BlackBerry management team and development team did some research and would have made a long term strategy??
Posted via CB10
Why are they still put same HW in new phones? ...
Well, there is something wrong with a Z10 at heart that goes for over $100 more than what you can get a new Z10 for. Snapdragon S4 in 2015? Please....
I bet there will be an immediate discount to 220-240 when it starts selling... Was the (black) passport ever sold for its original price?
Posted via the CrackBerry App for Android
Why would BlackBerry release this yesterday's phone is beyond me. Low end specs, no special features (like pkb), and especially puzzling when there's a Z30 around that costs the same.
What's the point, BlackBerry?
Posted via CB10
My guess is that the z30 does not cost the same in Production..
Posted via the CrackBerry App for Android
Should be $100 cheaper.
It's missing specs and is cheaper quality than Z30. You can go buy the Z30 for the same price!
Posted via CB10
About $50 or so would be okay, get it into the same ballpark as devices like the Moto G.
You won't be able to buy a z30 once they have finished running down the stock.
+100
Posted via CB10 from BB Passport
Boo!
Posted via CB10
I don't get the purpose of this phone.
Is this going to compete against the other entry level phone for the same market...ie the Z3.
They should be keeping those product ranges compact and be replacing older models not adding to the already long list.
This is where BlackBerry shoots themselves in the foot when they have major software releases like 10.3.1 and a whole wash of phone models to apply them too...Z30 and Q10 users know this all too well anger this update.
Zwiped from my Zed, Awaiting 10.3.1...
S4 Pro, so same as Z30?! If so then thank God. If they use that S4 plus again.... So basically a cheap Z30. Pricing still has me concerned.
Posted via CB10
More like Snapdragon S4 Plus, not Pro. Maybe BlackBerry ordered too many this SoC and had to use it to cut down the inventory loss. Should've used at least Snapdragon 400 for Leap and Snapdragon 600 for Classic IMHO. Z30 is definitely a far better deal, given the same price tag and far superior specs and technology.
Posted via CB10
The S4 is actually a better processor than the S400 in many ways despite it being older.
It's actually not better in any ways. It's on a larger process node, it doesn't have hardware encryption standard, it has a subpar GPU, it doesn't have LTE built in the chip (it's a pop LTE SoC), and the list goes on. The SD 410 is an even bigger gulf, since it uses ARMv8 instruction set.
Z30 has really nice GPU. A lot better than Z10.
Totally over price for the specs. Lumia 640 et 640 XL, are way more attractive with better specs and cheaper. We are not in 2012 anymore Blackberry!!!! At least use the new entry processor snapdragon 615 like the lumia. I don't see the point between this device against the Z3 or Z30.
The 640 XL is even LTE-dual sim. What a joke Blackberry!!!
Totally useless
The Lumia 640 is also using a donkey year old S400. They should have used the S410 instead.
yes maybe but still it is better than s4. this processor is from 2012
Actually, it was from 2011, but that's just splitting hairs. Regardless, it's old junk.
Microsoft is selling all their phones at loss it's not even a secret.
Posted via CB10
"BlackBerry and dual core" together can kiss my ass now!!!!
Z30 running 10.3.1.2243
LOL
Get the slider then,... :-)
• "Oh Classic, you are the fairest here so true. But Passport is a thousand times more powerful than you..." (no offense, Classic is a great device, when it's charged) •
Well I guess you should buy an Apple...
Oh wait a minute, dual core, 1 gig of ram, a battery the same as a Z10 in the iPhone 6, no SD card, closed ecosystem that thinks it's s@*t don't stink, screen resolution less than most mid range phones, no NFC sharing, only purchase ability, overpriced, i tunes. You will pay the highest price possible for the phone with the least of everything, and you get to be excited for that?
Posted via CB10
That "dual core" goes toe to toe with the best quad and octa-core SoC's in the business and thrashes most of them. The screens and cameras on the iPhone are always in the conversation of "best," and the ecosystem is better than any other. The battery life on the iPhone 6 is much better than the Z10, even with the same battery size. Their customer service is top notch and they have physical stores where you can walk in and swap out defective devices. BlackBerry could definitely take cues from Apple in a lot of areas, especially customer service, since Apple doesn't employ crooks like Digital River.
Oh, and let's not forget that Apple sells in a month what most OEMs sell in a year, and it's hard to argue with that many satisfied customers.
Looks like a nice low- to mid-range device.
Posted via CB10
Where's the hands on? Lol
Pasaporte Pilipinas | SQW100-1/10.3.1.2480
Glad it wasn't just me.
Posted via CB10
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dDHS64t8xVc
Now do I trade my Z30 for this or no? The answer is no. Z30 has better specs and it has the exact same off-contract price-point.
So now should Z10 users upgrade to the leap? Again, no... The Z30 route is a no-brainer which is a total shame. A 1.5 year old device is better specs and better off-contract pricing than this phone. I don't get it.
I wish it had even ONE spec higher than the Z30 to justify Z10 users to get it as an upgrade instead of the old Z30's. It's supposed to be a mid-tier phone but still, it's specs are from 2013, coulda used 2014 specs and still kept the price range where it's at.
---
Leap: $275 off-contract -- 2800 mAH // Dual Core 1.5GHz Qualcomm S4 Pro
Z30: $290 off-contract --- 2880 mAH // Dual Core 1.7GHz Qualcomm Pro
---
Now why would anyone buy the Leap over the extremely outdated Z30? This move makes zero sense. It's $15 cheaper for a .2GHz lower processor and an 80 mAH lower battery. BlackBerry needed to come in at sub $200 on this device..
S4 Pro is better than S4 Plus. If this device has Pro like article says, then great is is what Z30 has, if it is Plus then It is Z10 has and no bueno!
Posted via CB10
I'd assume it's the Pro, but even so, it's .2GHz lower clock speed than the Z30 with the same type of processor. So why would anyone ever go with the Leap over the Z30 when it has better specs hands-down and it's the same price?
Realistically it is not intended as an upgrade for the z30, it is meant to be a replacement in the range for z10 and z30 for somebody coming fresh to bb10.
The issue here is Android users are used to higher specs at a better price. Personally this is going to be a hard sell to people. 3 year old specs should cost about $149, max $200. And I am sure the $275 price tag is in USA dollars. Which means in Canada and the UK its going to cost much higher than $300.
At the very least they could have made this device look better and no so bulky. Should have looked similar to the Z30 for example.
Exactly what I was trying to get at, +1
@Skeevecr, I get that this isn't intended as an upgrade to the Z30. That's not my point. My point is that their pricepoint and the phone + specs just don't fit..
Just curious, hope you guys on "specs steroids" are not using BB devices which purportedly are inferior to Android devices. That would be quite laughable to know that you guys haven't made wise buying decisions. SMH.
If the phone does what it's intended to do, then BlackBerry's goal/objective would have been met. Those who will buy it, will. Enough said.
I'm sorry but when a company like BlackBerry does a complete 180 and starts relying on an Android Runtime instead of their own ecosystem, then specs become insanely important, like it or not. So while BB10 doesn't specifically need crazy specs to work well, the android apps do.
I'm sick of people giving BlackBerry an excuse for low specs, the ONLY reason they got so accustom to doing it on legacy was because they were selling mass quantity so if they were able to save $.30 by putting in less RAM, it would equate to a HUGE savings.
BlackBerry's new business model relying on essentially an Android emulation on top of BB10 needs great specs not just for show.. it needs them to actually be FUNCTIONAL. If BlackBerry managed to get away without going the android apps route than we wouldn't care much about specs, but guess what? That's not the case.
Posted via CB10
As a businessman and professional, my Z30 and Passport has always met my very demanding business needs. I very consciously chose to buy Passport over iPhone 6 or Samsung just because I am content that the BB10 meets my goals. Simply put, the phone works very well for any ordinary layman.
Likewise, those who will buy Leap will do so because the phone will meet whatever their objectives or needs are. Understandably the Leap isn't for you and I respect that but don't assume for one moment that John Chen and co didn't try to do their homework before putting out this phone.
Maybe we all should cool our jets and wait to see the outcome.
dont assume its the Pro, from what i can read from Blackberry's website its a "Qualcomm MSM 8960 1.5 GHz" which is the Plus Version.
Which means its the same processors as thê ahem.... Q5 - Q10 - Classic - Z10 (+ Leap)
i guess things don't change at Blackberry.
Personally for me, my Q5 never lags and have no problem with it buuut when it comes to upgrading and your like but its been 2 years now and I'm "upgrading" to basically the same phone except it looks a little different. which to me seems wrong. There should be at least a small increment in the specs. even if its from say 1.5Ghz to 1.7ghz
+10
It's actually S4 Plus, the same one found in Q5, Q10, and Z10 (all that have LTE).
Not really impressed by this. But judging from how they made this (outsourced to Taiwan instead of manufacturing it in-house) made BlackBerry able to sell this 'cheaper' than they used to. But unfortunately, not so much.
This one targeted at new user or consumers that haven't been following BlackBerry recently. They will buy this since the specs are 'nice' enough according to the price tag.
But for #TeamBlackBerry they know which one to choose. The Z30 all the way.
Would rather pick Z30 plus shopblackberry selling it sometimes for less than $250 plus free headache of dealing with DigitalRiver.
Yeah, exactly. The Leap at this pricepoint makes absolutely NO sense. They REALLY needed to release it sub $250 and allowed it to drop down to $200 fairly quickly.
This would be a great phone option if it was around $200. I don't understand you BlackBerry..
This is once again a testament BlackBerry has absolutely no clue on how to price its devices. Who ever is giving the company advice on device prices, is doing the company a disservice. BlackBerry is not at the point where it can charge this much for such a lack luster spec'ed device.
The way they see it, they are targeting the business world who would pay a premium for example for the security from the ground up. The problem is, a very large percentage of their sales right now are regular consumers. This phone could appeal to regular consumers too if it was a tad bit cheaper.
They are trying to move back to their routes, but they are trying too quickly. You can't charge business pricing for phones when less than a year ago, you were going all in on the consumer market.
So is their pricing unbelievable unreasonable? No, not for the target market that they are directing the phone toward. It's still not at that sweet spot though, they need to appeal to current Z10 consumers as well as businesses. And closer to $230 or less would fit that better. $275 is just absurd.
This is entry price, sure in two months will cost $200
Carlos
Finally someone gets it.
/from my brand new BBz30!
Well that's great but reality is that once BlackBerry finishes with Z30 stock, they are done. They have been selling this phone at a massive loss. That disaster will hopefully never be repeated again. Like it or not, if you spend 300 dollars, then 300 dollars is what happens will get in a phone.
Posted via CB10
Had they actually spent a dime on marketing the z30 when it released, and ensured a launch across as many carriers as possible rather than piecemeal exclusivity crap, it would have been very successful.
Posted via CB10
Totally agree! The Z30 is the worst best kept BlackBerry secret. And its only when the company started selling it around the $250 mark that people started realizing how much of a premium device it was.
Look! It's Zedzilla 30!
They were in no position to market the phone. They were in crisis management mode. I don't think we have to rehash this topic again.
Like it or not, even with marketing, the Z30 would have suffered the same fate as the Z10. All touch slabs are a highly competitive market and BB10 wasn't mature enough as a platform. Doesn't mean it wasn't a good product but there was no compelling reason for Joe Public to buy it. Things have changed over the last 1.5 years and BB10 has matured and certainly has some clear strengths (ie differentiators). It still needs a few more software advances to push it into a leading position and one where Joe Public would overlook perceptions and the more modest App offerings. Things are moving forward and BlackBerry is buying time by focusing on their qwerty offerings and the value slab market.
Marketing BlackBerry is tricky given existing perceptions. BlackBerry has to rebuild the brand name before traditional marketing approaches will work again. That is the path they are currently on.
Posted via CB10
Sorry but I beg to differ.
z30 launched during crisis time - Yes.
I'm not saying a billion dollar campaign, but something would have helped. At the time it was launched, the hangover effect of the z10 was dying, and people were itching for better batteries, larger screens. Exactly what the 30 has.
By delaying any type of slab device, BB is not just admitting defeat for that form factor, they are alienating any z10 and z30 users. I've purchased both of these and have no desire to step back in time and buy a leap or the brick that is the passport. Joe public are people like myself; we want a device that has a good (relevant, spec wise) camera, a good size screen while still fitting in a pocket, and ecosystem of apps for daily activities (i.e. News, Banking, Entertainment, Games, Tools).
While arguably the ecosystem is as good as it has ever been with the Amazon deal, there's nothing in the current line of devices that meets the other criteria.
And the idea that BB is buying time is laughable. Sitting still and buying time is what sinks a business. Do you honestly think that the R&D departments at Google, MS and Apple are sitting idly by?
If you want to replace your Z30 or Z10 then you have to bloody well wait. Your luxury of 20/20 hindsight vision about marketing the Z30 is wrong . That is money that would have been wasted. Do any of you not understand the survival mode the company is in? How do you not get it's "Enterprise approach ".
Get your heads out of consumer mode.
Enterprise until cash flow positive and growing ,or no BlackBerry, period.
I want a Flagship, but guess what, it isn't here yet, and I get it. They are coming, so stop whining.
Posted via CB10
People might upgrade, especially Z10 users like me, since the Z10 has a crappy battery life, no USB OTG, no WiFi Direct, no Miracast, nothing. But I wouldn't blame BlackBerry, after all the Z10 is nothing more but a guinea pig of the BlackBerry 10 portfolio.
But since I'm on a 'mission' to try all mobile OSes, my upgraded phone definitely isn't gonna be a BB10 although it's very good in my opinion. Maybe after I've tried the OSes like Tizen, Windows 10 for Phone (or whatever it's called), Ubuntu, Sailfish, Firefox etc, I might come back to BlackBerry.
Running on awesome 10.3.1
You're missing my point though. I'm trying to say that the Z30 is a more powerful device that costs the same amount as the BlackBerry Leap, so why would anyone buy the Leap over the Z30?
The z30 stocks will be run down and you won't have a choice on the matter.
Well, in my country, then yes, people will opt for Leap. It's a small difference in USD, but in my country (Malaysia, MH370, ring any bells?), the difference is very huge. The Z3 is selling for about RM700-800, the Q10 around RM900-1100, and the Z30, is at RM1600-1800. What in the actual f*ck. So Leap might come around RM1000.
But yes, you've made a point, people will opt for Z30 instead of Leap due to better specs (except people uncomfortable with oversaturated colours of AMOLED, like me, and no, I'm not a hater, and yes I've tried the Z30)
Running on awesome 10.3.1
Bro, Z30 now are priced at only RM1,000. My bet is that if Leap is on sale, both are at same price, although Z30 is a bit outdated but spec wise, better than Leap. By Comparison, Z30 better than Leap, yes that's the bitter truth, especially for me Z10 owner who still hoping to upgrade his device :-(
I guess that is the problem. The Z30 is terrific device selling at a loss. A real gem. The Leap is something they can sell (debatable) in the 5" range instead of the Z30 and not lose money.
Too bad, I love my Z30 and this news doesn't bode particularly well for a Z30 replacement unless they do so in limited quantity releases (or advance sales) so as to not lose money on it. Let's hope so as I don't want to go back to a torch type device.
And I thought I was the only one who thought about it.
From my BlackBerry Q5
Posted via CB10
Extremely outdated Z30? Reaching there just a little.
Posted via CB10
This is indeed a terrible price for a Z3 successor. If Motorola can put the specs that it has into the Moto E 2nd gen and Moto G 1st/2nd gen for 150-200, there's no reason BB cannot and should not be pricing this at 200 MAXIMUM. It's the exact same internals as a Z10 and a Z30 screen FFS! I would gladly spend the extra 15 bucks for a Z30. The Z30 also uses a higher end 8960(T Pro) with quad core Adreno 320, vs the standard 8960 in the Z10/Q10/Leap. If they can sell the Z30 for 290, they can sell this for 200. How much can an 8960 cost these days, anyways? It's about to be 3 generations old.
I like what Chen has done overall, but he needs to charge Motorola level price points for his budget range phones to have any chance in hell of regaining market share with them. The first gen Moto G is Motorola's best selling smartphone ever. In like 3 months it got the UK market share from nil to 6% if I recall.
If there is nothing. Wrong with your phone, keep it. You don't have to get whatever comes next
Rick, Z30
Thank you!! Some of these guys are just unbelievable . Lol
For a Z10 owner this would be a good replacement, it is basically a Z10 with a huge battery.
Posted via CB10
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