BlackBerry phones were once the ultimate status symbol — clutched by CEOs, texted on by teens, and hailed for that iconic keyboard. Then came the fall. Touchscreens took over, BBM died, and the brand slowly faded into tech nostalgia. But fast forward to 2025, and somehow, BlackBerry is trending again. Not because of a flashy new launch or comeback device, but thanks to a strange mix of Gen Z, TikTok, and a startup in China that’s breathing new life into old-school handsets.
Nope, there’s no official BlackBerry phone dropping this year — and there probably never will be. A planned reboot in 2021 by a company called OnwardMobility fizzled out without a single product, ending in a quiet shutdown. But that hasn’t stopped Chinese firm Zinwa Technologies from reviving old BlackBerry models.
Their first offering? A modernised version of the BlackBerry Classic, rebranded as the Zinwa Q25 Pro. It runs Android 13, has upgraded hardware, and supports 4G LTE — all for about $400.
There’s even a DIY kit for $300 if you already own the original. Refreshed KEYone and Passport models are also on the way.
Blame TikTok and the rise of digital minimalism. Gen Z is ditching smartphones to escape doomscrolling, late-night binge sessions, and constant pings. Enter: Nokia and BlackBerry. Both of these smartphone brands are now considered “retro”, and both of them have got that satisfying keyboard, and it doesn’t support most modern apps — which is kind of the point.
A viral video with the caption “POV: you bought a BlackBerry in 2025 because your iPhone is ruining your life” has racked up over 6 million views. Suddenly, the BlackBerry isn’t outdated — it’s a lifestyle.
You technically can, but it’s a throwback experience. Most BlackBerry models still boot up, support SIM cards, and handle calls and texts. But don’t expect app support — WhatsApp’s gone, and the operating system is no longer secure.
You’re also open to cyber attacks without regular updates. If you must use one, stick to basic apps and avoid sensitive transactions.
If you love the retro vibe but want something usable, Zinwa’s upgraded models are the safest bet. Or check out physical keyboard accessories like Clicks. Want to cut screen time without going full 2009? Look into minimalist 'dumb phones' or digital wellbeing apps like Forest and Opal.
You can grab a BlackBerry Classic online for as little as ₹1,000–₹4,000 through resale platforms like OLX, CeX, or eBay. If you want a physical keyboard without the tech risks, cases like Clicks offer that vibe.
BlackBerry might not be making phones anymore, but its spirit is alive—repurposed and reimagined by a new generation that’s turning nostalgia into a lifestyle.
