BlackBerry Rumored To Be Working On A 5-inch Phablet

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Well, it seems that BlackBerry’s Roadmap for 2013, which leaked earlier month is indeed true, as a latest report in by Jefferies analyst Peter Misek claims that BlackBerry will be rolling out 2-3 new devices this year, including a 5-inch, BlackBerry Z10-like phablet.

According to the report, the other two devices will be mid-range smartphones, one with QWERTY keypad, while the other with a touchscreen. Both the devices are expected to be priced around the $400 mark.

In a note to investors, Misek wrote,

Based on our checks we believe confirmation that 2-3 additional BB10 models are likely to launch before year end. A mid-range (i.e., ~$400) keyboard, a mid-range touch, and a 5? Z10-like device (slated for year end launch).

It is interesting to note that a roadmap leaked earlier this month, suggested that BlackBerry will launch three new devices by Q2 2014, one of which appeared to be a full-sized tablet.

The note by Misek also mentioned about the concerns regarding the return rate of BlackBerry Z10 smartphones, regarding which, he writes,

Overall, our checks indicate typical return rates. Of the few phones that were returned, the only main commonality we found is that buyers thought the Z10 had a keyboard. As it does not, they returned it and will buy the Q10 instead.

The rumors seem to be in line with BlackBerry CEO, Thorsten Heins’ comments, who said that BlackBerry plans to launch five new BlackBerry 10 devices during 2013 and some of his previous remarks have also indicated that the company is building a ‘very exciting’ flagship device.

Report by : Abhinav Bhargava