June 10, 2025, 3:02 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
The iconic smartphones with physical keyboards might be making a comeback. It appears that the BlackBerry could soon celebrate its return.
There was a time before the iPhone when people either walked around with the nearly indestructible Nokia phones or treated themselves to what was then a modern flip or slide phone. However, those who really wanted to make a statement opted for the BlackBerry, a modern smartphone with a physical keyboard that, as early as the late ’90s and into the 2000s, featured an email function, among other things. But then the iPhone arrived, and RIM (Research in Motion) models disappeared–until now. A Chinese company is looking to bring back the BlackBerry by using old Q20 models of the well-known brand for a new venture.
BlackBerry Comeback on S20 Basis
This information comes from an interview on the YouTube channel Returning Retro with the Asian manufacturer Zinwa Technologies. According to the interview, the relatively small company wants to help the BlackBerry make a comeback. They are purchasing remaining stocks of old Q20 models, which are either used devices or ones still available in the supply chain in Hong Kong.
Of course, they don’t just want to resell these devices as-is. Instead, the old devices will undergo a comprehensive modernization. This includes a new motherboard, a new battery, and new cameras. Furthermore, the Zinwa Q25, as the new old smartphone is called, will be equipped with Android.
Q25 with Modern Features and Classic Look
Zinwa plans to use a MediaTek G99 Octa-Core as the system on a chip (SoC), which will feature up to 2 gigahertz (GHz) clock speed and a 4G modem–similar to newer entry-level smartphones. Additionally, it will have 12 GB of RAM, 256 GB of internal storage, and a slot for microSD cards. The front camera will have 8 megapixels, while the main camera will boast 50 megapixels. The casing will also include a USB-C port.
Despite the many updates, the classic BlackBerry design remains intact. Zinwa retains the LCD screen with 720×720 pixels and touchscreen, as well as the physical keyboard and the familiar casing.
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Special Project with Drawbacks
Because the BlackBerry comeback aims to be authentic, it results in a relatively small build size. This is reflected not only in the 3.5-inch display but also in the battery, which is expected to have a capacity of only about 3,000 milliampere-hours (mAh). However, this should still be sufficient for a full day.
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Future owners should not expect multiple system updates for the Q25, as the company has already stated. The BlackBerry comeback is more of a special project for enthusiasts.
For them, a special package is planned: While the complete device is already available for pre-order at $400, hobbyists can purchase a kit for $100 less, allowing them to modify the old Q20 themselves. The first devices are expected to be delivered starting in early August 2025.