BlackBerry 'Oslo' release date, specs, rumors: next device similar to BlackBerry Passport, leaked image reveals

(Reuters/Mark Blinch/Files)

Canada-based smartphone maker BlackBerry is rumored to be working on another Passport inspired device, known internally as "Oslo," which sports similar curves as the AT&T branded Passport. At the Mobile World Congress held last month in Barcelona, Spain, BlackBerry had announced plans to launch three more devices in 2015, including a follow-up to the QWERTY-touch Classic, a dual-curved keyboard slider, and the "Keian" in a partnership with Porsche Design.

However, there were rumors that BlackBerry Oslo was secretly unveiled to a select audience at the MWC. The latest leaked press renders of the BlackBerry Oslo now reveals that the handset's design is similar to that of the Passport, except that it has round edges and a different speaker grill design. Unlike the rectangular shape of most smartphones, the BlackBerry Passport is more squarish in shape, mainly due to its 1:1 display.

The BlackBerry Oslo will have more or less similar internals as the BlackBerry Passport, except that the handset will pack a 3,450mAh battery and will come bundled with BlackBerry OS 10.3.2 out of the box. The remaining specifications of the BlackBerry Oslo match those of the BlackBerry Passport, including Snapdragon 800 SoC, an LCD display with a resolution of 1440 x 1440 pixels, a 2MP front camera and a 13MP rear camera with OIS.

Earlier rumors had claimed that the BlackBerry Oslo would be made available in China and a few other small countries. However, the latest report now suggests that the BlackBerry Oslo will be launched globally and not just in China. According to the report, the BlackBerry Oslo will be officially announced on June 30, though there has been no official declaration yet by the company.

Additionally, the latest smartphone from the Canadian firm, an all-touch screen LTE 4G mobile phone called the BlackBerry Leap can now be purchased online in the U.K. and will be soon available in other markets as well.

 

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