But that was then.
In 2025, out of nowhere, headlines started popping up “BlackBerry is making a comeback with a 5G phone.” The nostalgia was real and for a moment, the internet buzzed with excitement. But now, years later, we’re left wondering, what happened?
Let’s rewind and unpack the truth.
A Legend Falls Silent
BlackBerry was once the name in smartphones. Before iPhones and Androids ruled the world, BlackBerry devices were a status symbol. They were sleek, secure, and let’s be honest typing on that QWERTY keyboard felt powerful.But as touchscreens became the norm and app stores exploded, BlackBerry couldn’t keep up. Their proprietary OS couldn’t match Android’s flexibility or iOS’s polish. Slowly but surely, they lost ground. By the late 2016s, BlackBerry stopped making phones altogether and shifted their focus to enterprise software and cybersecurity.
The hardware chapter? Seemed closed.
The 5G Revival We Almost Got
In 2025, things took a surprising turn. A Texas based startup called OnwardMobility licensed the BlackBerry name and boldly promised a 5G Android smartphone with you guessed it a physical keyboard.Their pitch? A phone built for productivity, security, and modern performance.
Fans were ecstatic. Think about it, a secure 5G phone with a full keyboard, running Android, and wrapped in the BlackBerry brand? It felt like a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern tech.
But despite the hype, the project hit roadblocks.
First, delays. Then silence. By early 2022, BlackBerry revoked OnwardMobility’s license. No phone, no prototype, Just a dream that faded as quietly as it arrived.
Is a 5G BlackBerry Still Possible?
At the time of writing, there are no official plans for a BlackBerry branded 5G phone. The company itself, BlackBerry Limited, is now fully focused on cybersecurity, IoT, and enterprise software.Still, the idea of a BlackBerry comeback refuses to die.
Why? Because the need for a secure, minimalist, communication first smartphone still exists. With so much tech noise endless notifications, algorithm driven feeds, and app overload a distraction free, keyboard equipped phone could find a unique place in today’s market.
What Would a Modern BlackBerry 5G Need?
If someone were to revive BlackBerry’s hardware dreams today, they’d need to go big or go home. Here’s what fans would likely expect:- 5G connectivity (obviously)
- Android 14 or newer
- A physical keyboard done right
- Emphasis on privacy and encryption
- Clean UI with minimal bloatware
- Long lasting battery
- Business first productivity tools
Why the Hype Still Matters
Even though BlackBerry phones aren’t on store shelves anymore, their legacy lives on. They introduced concepts that are now industry standards secure messaging, push notifications, and the idea of a phone as a professional tool.So, when you see the BlackBerry logo or hear about a possible reboot, it hits differently. It’s not just nostalgia it’s a craving for something purposeful in a sea of digital noise.
And hey, if retro flip phones can make a comeback, maybe BlackBerry's moment isn’t over just yet.
Final Thoughts
So, is a BlackBerry 5G phone really on the way?As of now nope. The rumored revival didn’t happen, and the company has moved on. But that doesn’t stop fans and tech lovers from hoping. And who knows? In the ever surprising world of consumer tech, stranger things have happened.
Whether it’s under the BlackBerry name or a new one entirely, the idea of a distraction free, secure, productivity focused phone may yet return. Until then, we’ll hold onto the memory and maybe, just maybe, keep one old BlackBerry in the drawer... just in case.