BlackBerry announces Foxconn-designed Z3 smartphone, promises more low-cost phones

BlackBerry has announced a new BlackBerry 10 smartphone, which will launch in Indonesia first, followed by other markers. In addition, CNET reports that BlackBerry CEO John Chen said one other phone will be on its way this year.   The new BlackBerry Z3 is a 5-inch device which runs the latest version of BlackBerry 10 OS, i.e 10.2.1. As we went over in detail when the update was announced, it brings significant changes to the platform and most importantly improves compatibility with Android apps . No other specs of the device was announced, though BlackBerry does say it has a long-lasting battery.   The Z3 is the first phone to come out of BlackBerry’s agreement with Foxconn, which we reported about last year . BlackBerry has gone with a soft launch, but Foxconn says Indonesia is the right choice. “BlackBerry is beloved in Indonesia and its loyal fans have made it a popular smartphone brand. This is why we are so proud to be able to help bring BlackBerry even closer to Indonesia with a fantastic product that will be accessible to even more Indonesians,” said Terry Gou, Founder and Chairman, Foxconn, before adding the Z3 is only the first smartphone to emerge out what will hopefully “be a long and fruitful partnership between Foxconn and BlackBerry.”   More information about the BlackBerry Z3 is available on the company’s Indonesian site. BlackBerry has previously said it was working with Foxconn to produce a BlackBerry 10-powered smartphone that could sell for less than $200. Though the price of the Z3 has not been announced, we would be highly surprised if that mark is missed. Chen also talked about more flagship-class devices in the works, but didn’t furnish any more details.   The second phone, which CNET reported about will reportedly be called Q20. Chen said it would be a BlackBerry Classic, hinting that it would have a physical keyboard. It’s also being designed and manufactured by Foxconn. “We are definitely here to compete and make up some lost ground,” Chen was quoted as saying by the website.