BlackBerry Passport Returns: Released in September 2014, the BlackBerry Passport carved out a unique niche with its distinctive 4.5-inch square screen (1440 × 1440 resolution) paired with a physical QWERTY keyboard featuring innovative touchpad gestures. This device was specifically engineered for business professionals who prioritized productivity and efficient text input.
Despite earning acclaim for its robust construction and superior typing experience, the Passport struggled to compete as the smartphone market rapidly embraced sleek, touchscreen-only designs.
Fast-forward to 2025, and the Passport has unexpectedly captured social media attention, with its iconic square design going viral and inspiring a movement to revive classic BlackBerry form factors with contemporary technology.
Current Revival Efforts
Zinwa Technologies’ Classic Refresh Initiative
Zinwa Technologies, a Chinese manufacturer, has announced plans to modernize legendary BlackBerry models, including the Passport. Their upcoming Passport successor, tentatively called the P26, is scheduled to arrive following the launch of their BlackBerry Classic revival (the Zinwa Q25 Pro) in August 2025.
These reimagined devices promise to retain the beloved physical keyboard experience while incorporating current-generation hardware and software capabilities.
Unihertz Titan 2: The Spiritual Successor
While not carrying BlackBerry branding, the Unihertz Titan 2 captures the essence of the Passport experience with remarkable fidelity:
Core Specifications:
- 5G-enabled MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset
- 12 GB RAM with 512 GB internal storage
- Android 15 operating system
- Dual display setup: 4.5″ main screen (1440×1440) plus 2″ rear notification display
- Enhanced physical keyboard featuring six dedicated function keys, customizable tap shortcuts, and swipe-scroll functionality
Additional Features:
- Camera system: 50 MP primary sensor, 8 MP telephoto lens, 32 MP front-facing camera
- 5,050 mAh battery with 33W rapid charging
- Comprehensive connectivity: NFC, Bluetooth 5.4, fingerprint authentication, IR blaster
- Physical dimensions: 235g weight, 10.85mm thickness
- Pricing: $269 for early supporters, $399 at full retail, with October 2025 delivery
Technical Comparison
| Specification | Original Passport (2014) | Modern Revivals (Titan 2/P26) |
|---|---|---|
| Screen | 4.5″ square (1440×1440) | Matching resolution; Titan 2 includes 2″ secondary display |
| Input Method | Physical QWERTY with gesture recognition | Advanced tactile keyboard with enhanced touch gestures |
| Processor/OS | Snapdragon 801, BlackBerry 10 | Dimensity 7300, Android 15 |
| Network | LTE only | Full 5G compatibility |
| RAM/Storage | 3 GB RAM, 32 GB storage | 12 GB RAM, up to 512 GB storage |
| Photography | 13 MP rear, 2 MP front | 50 MP + 8 MP rear, 32 MP front |
| Power | 3,450 mAh battery | 5,050 mAh for extended usage |
| Availability | Discontinued | Titan 2: October 2025; P26: Late 2025 |
Market Context and Significance
This revival movement fills a void left by OnwardMobility’s failed attempt to launch an official BlackBerry 5G device in 2021. Independent manufacturers have stepped into this gap, targeting users who refuse to abandon physical keyboards for productivity-focused mobile computing.
The Titan 2’s successful crowdfunding campaign, which quickly surpassed its $100,000 target, demonstrates genuine market demand. Users consistently praise the substantial 5,050 mAh battery capacity and tactile keyboard, accepting the device’s increased thickness as a worthwhile trade-off.
The timing aligns with growing interest in nostalgia-driven technology and digital wellness trends promoted by social media influencers, giving keyboard-equipped smartphones renewed cultural relevance.
Release Schedule and Purchasing Options
Unihertz Titan 2: Pre-orders available through Kickstarter at $269 (early bird pricing) or $399 (standard retail), with shipping confirmed for October 2025.
Zinwa P26 Passport Refresh: Expected launch in late 2025, following their Classic Q20 revival in August. Anticipated pricing around $400 for complete units or $300 for upgrade kits targeting existing BlackBerry owners.
The Future of Keyboard Smartphones
The modern BlackBerry-inspired smartphone renaissance reflects a shift from licensed brand resurrection to grassroots innovation driven by productivity-focused users. Both the Titan 2 and forthcoming P26 deliver essential modern features:
- Advanced 5G network support
- Refined physical keyboard experiences
- Contemporary processing power and camera systems
- Design philosophy emphasizing efficient communication workflows
For users who appreciated the original Passport’s wide form factor and keyboard-centric approach, these devices represent the most authentic modern interpretation of that iconic design philosophy. The Titan 2 launches this fall, with the P26 following before 2025 concludes.
