To everyone asking about the game titles: as always, they're right on the screen! :) Check the upper-left corner whenever we're showing gameplay footage. "Asphalt 8" and "Galaxy on Fire 2 HD" were the games featured in this review. ^M
M....You got this brother. Still the best reviewer on youtube. No doubt. I can't believe I'm saying this but, I would buy this if it weren't an 808 device. Sadly that means more issues,than not.
Some of you think Michael went too easy on the Priv, while others seem to think he came down too hard on it. Check out the full review to see how he really feels (and to see more of him talking in the third person): pocketnow.com/2015/11/18/blackberry-priv-review ^M
Unless the Priv got an 11 out of 10 rating here, and on all other tech sites, I don't see this saving BB. "Annoyances" shouldn't happen on a company-saving flagship.
So glad blackberry decided to release an android device. Though I doubt it's the device that'll put them back amongst the smartphone top dogs it certainly looks like a major step forward for them.
They actually should have done what Google did this year. Release 2 phones with different price points because as much as I like BBs; this is way too expensive.
+Andre Wolff Doubt it because this actually has an audience and appeal. I work at AT&T and we have sold quite a few of these. This phone is really good!
+Andre Wolff the Amazon Firephone was sold as a physical portal to the Amazon store. Apart from scanning something and being able to buy it from the Amazon store, it had no real reason to exist. The BlackBerry Priv has concrete differentiators that (some) people can relate to: more privacy on Android, more security on Android, and a physical keyboard.
I'm still using my 4 year old Priv in 2020 because of its form factor with the slide-out keyboard and large screen. I am on my third battery and have had the screen replaced after a 6 ft. drop. Every reviewer gripes about the camera, but I think it takes amazing shots. It didn't take me long to become fast with the keyboard, and the slide out feature is great for typing emails and documents with a full screen when I'm not in the office. In fact, as a solo attorney, I do about half of my work on this phone despite often having a desktop computer in front of me. This phone does drain the battery very fast, and the processor can often be used to cook eggs. But overall I have been happy with it. People always stop me to ask about it when I'm out in public, and are shocked that anyone still has a Blackberry in 2020. It's unfortunate that there won't be any new Blackberry phones in the foreseeable future, so I may break down later this year and get the Key2 despite it having a smaller screen.
Stopping by to say praise about how good this review was. Short enough, while also being extremely complete and full of details that most reviewers would simply skip.
Hey PocketNow congrats on your 5000 videos. I'm a big fan here from Finland. I always rely on your review videos before making any purchase for mobile phones and other accessories. I think pocket now is one of the most if not the most reliable and honest reviewers on the Internet. keep up the good work and congrats on your success!!! lots of love from Finland.
Been using the Priv here in the UK for a little under a week now. Using on O2 but it is available on other networks. Also, I've noticed that phones seem a lot more expensive in the US. The Priv is a great phone; used and owned all the big named phones and I am enjoying this phone more than those. I think the build is good, the physical keyboard is fantastic (once you get used to it) it really is great seeing the full screen while typing. Yep, software is a bit confusing here and there, some things are duplicated, for example Gmail, you're going to want to cancel Gmail alerts as the Hub will keep you right. Also, every time you take a picture it asks you if you want to save to the SD card, every time. As mentioned, with a couple of software updates and tweaks the phone could be fantastic. Blackberry have been releasing the occasional update so hopefully they'll be able to address some of the issues.
+Honda lover sadly, I think this phone is a make or break test for Blackberry, so, let's hope not everyone interested into a BB Android phone will think the same as you.
Now this is HOW you create an Unbiased Reviews, most tech channels either sounds like unintentional paid ads when they like the product or paid negative marketing when they dont like the product
+sumanth vemuri We've used BB10 since it was announced, yes - and since day one we've found the Hub quite sluggish no matter what hardware we used. th-cam.com/video/SQhvc4Nxo_U/w-d-xo.html ^M
When I heard that blackberry was coming out with another phone... Got my hopes up so high and after the review started coming and whenever I saw these negative comments a tear would fall from my eye and after watching Michael's review I am the happiest person on earth... Love your reviews brother. Just love the priv and how it looks... Would love to get one. Thanks Michael best review ever!!!
Great review Michael! If you could do a "revisited" review after the new year (or after the Marshmallow update) that would be much appreciated. I really want to give Blackberry another shot but these inconsistencies are going to be hard to look past come upgrade time. Cheers!
Idk why but that skin is so simple yet so beautiful. I love it how they changed alot of the icons but kept them very material design like, and didn't take them to far from the original icons. The charging bar that wraps around the screen is a nice touch as well. If you couldn't tell I'm the kind of android user that looks at the design of the os and how it looks and feels when I'm using it instead of only settling for the best of the best phone. Give me a phone with a good app store, nice screen, decent specs, decent battery, good looking icons and lots of cool animations hidden around and you have me sold.
A fair review. My only comments would be the software seems to be getting better all the time, and the price point given the hardware involved is valid.
I have had mine for 5 days. I haven't experienced any lag at all and that's amazing considering its android. I feel blackberry have done a wonderful job. my battery seems pretty good. camera I'm still trying to get a nice day to try it. will I keep it. yes it's for better android experience than anything else. it just needs a few updates to smooth things out.
+xFreshKicks08 s6 edge is one slippery phone lool it looks like its fake...why the build is so cheap u can tell they wanted to save money on hardware lol....the curved screen on the s6 is only for show lol...battery is bad ...lol@at keen saying bad battery lol I didn't charge it for a whole day...ive owned the s6 and the battery was bad
+Keenan Spencer well the S6 has a fantastic build quality. But not the S6Edge. The phone's back is an aggression to the palm of a human hand, however big it is, and the overall quality of the S6Edge is inferior to most Huawei smartphones. Besides, every reviewer has stated that the curves on the Priv screen are better used than the curves on a S6Edge screen. Most people who understand what security is stay away from fingerprint scanners on smartphones. Regarding the 2MPix selfie camera, yes it is anemic, and yes it can be a showstopper for some people. I'm not part of those people.
@Michael I am a blackberry fan and for some reason I liked the genuine critics you made. I am using blackberry 10 since it's launch and feels extremely fluid for my usage over and over the updates. Switching to android creeps out at time, because when I used it, it just doesn't do my things as easy as BB 10 dose. What is your choice between BB Passport Vs BB Priv, considering I don't care about google services. Is BB priv more productive than BB Passport??
+Amey Phatale If you don't need Google services and BB10 suits you fine, then there's no reason to switch. In some ways BlackBerry's own software is more consistent and fluid than its Android launcher. We can't speak to BB's long-term plans regarding BB10 though. ^M
I have both the Passport and the Priv. The Passport is by far the better device for communications and productivity. If you can afford it and your use to having two devices, the Priv is a good secondary device, which is how I use mine. Better than the other Android devices I've tested, and prefer it over the iPhone 6S Plus.
I originally wanted to hate this video due to the title, but Micheal did an amazing job. Many videos of the Priv which I've seen have been a tad bias and pretty harsh at times. You told what you liked, and then what the Priv didn't do well... with examples. I have a BB10 Passport which I adore, and was totally opposed to the Blackberry Android amalgamation, then started playing with the Priv one day. Now I would consider even buying this phone. But maybe I'll wait, as there is nothing wrong with my Passport. Keep up the great reviews!
Marshmallow just hit Priv yesterday, can't wait until July when I'll buy myself a Priv for my bday. Would love to see the face of my iPhone fanboy coworkers when they'll see 1. a Blackberry, 2. a great looking Android phone and 3. a slider.
l am turning into a BlackBerry fanatic with each release. There is a bit to fix within the company, but l love their integrity and hope they get back to a corporate level where they can splurge more on their flagships to see strong returns. BlackBerry is doing interesting things now that they are the underdogs. l think the Priv would work better for me in Zimbabwe (currently l'm on the Z10. Its required some technical maneuvering since Zim has no BB support whatsoever). So you really have to be a die hard BB Fanatic outchea. Loved this review. Brilliant job Pocketnow. As for me l think HTC and BlackBerry rock!
Good thing that most of these "problems" that were complained about aren't really problems, and can simply be addressed as the software becomes more mature. For BlackBerry's first foray into Android after working on a completely different operating system, I'd say they did a fairly solid job compared to Android veterans at the usual suspects' companies. I was sort of confused by the "app crashing" comment, as I've yet to experience that on mine so far; and I've been running mine pretty hard since I got it with plenty of apps. All in all though, it was a decently fair review of positives and negatives.
+Jevon Butler lol i compared it at ATT store and the samsung phones look and feel so fake compare to the priv ...no lie...the s6 edge was embarrassing to hold......that priv is one beautiful phone ...looks so authentic
As a Priv owner - they've fixed a lot of those issues with software updates. Like the performance, battery life, boot time, app crashing and keyboard device search lag. Still there's a lot of things that need fixing - probably in the 6.0 update... and it's annoying it's not available even though the first quarter of 2016 has passed.
I see it like this...if someone gets access to where my fingerprint is stored I can't get a new one ...with passwords I can just change them whenever I want
+Arthur K you have obviously never used a fingerprint reader, once you do you will never go back to PIN security. The tech is there so not having it is a major fail for a smart phone OEM. When you take the price into account it is even less forgivable. Why isn't it launched with Marshmallow. For a business phone why is the front camera so poor? Why on benchmarks is it performing worse than phones half the price? Lots of good stuff but they have not done the really important stuff well for the price. Hopefully software tweaks can improve things but I suspect mark 2 will be the one to go for, assuming BB is still making phones.
First reaction: LOVE IT! However, my biggest physical concern would be that sliding mechanism wearing out quickly, giving you use it constantly sliding in and out
PravSrpski They obviously had Google Fi. OMG I just noticed the timestamp of 8:15 refers to the numbers! As in 4,8,15,16,23,42! Mindblow within a Mindblow!@_@
This is the device I have been after since it was first thought to be the name of Venice. Priv is an interesting name but is one that follows BlackBerry and their history of secure devices. My first smart phone was a BlackBerry, now that they've entered the Android subspace, it makes it that much more drool worthy. Thanks for an awesome review!
@pocketnow, now I need your LG v10 review so I can make a final decision on which phone to get. I truly rely on your reviews to help me make a sound decision with my two year commitment of my next phone.
On of the concerns of the Priv right now is that it packs a powerful battery, but it doesn't to hold up as long as it should. With this in mind and all the other performance issues faced by Priv, I believe we would all appreciate a relook of the device once it gets a Marshmallow update. In any case, keep up the good work and have a great day! :)
Definitely be getting 1 of these. BlackBerry have got enough right and software updates will only improve any glitches in a very good system, the way BB did with BB10 updating.
Wow... now that is one of the best reviews I've seen of the Priv. Thanks for viewing it is real life situations and not look for bad but more objectively.
I love Blackberry's take on Android. I love little tweaks like the charging animation, app shortcuts integrated into the keyboard, the widgets and many more. I know and hope that they will Polish this take on Android and make Bb's android one of the best there is in a short time. Best of luck blackberry, I miss my Bb curve and I wish I could buy the priv if it was within my budget. Sticking to Sony for now.
My favorite thing about the Priv is the keyboard. I really miss having a nice physical keyboard. It would be awesome if I could get my hands on one! It looks pretty sweet!
if I got ever the chance to choose the most brilliant and amazing editor in TH-cam that would be you no doubt… BlackBerry still got a lot of work to do
I like your review, it was well thought-out and balanced. I don't think the lack of a fingerprint reader is a negative, when considering privacy. I, personally believe that having your fingerprint stolen by a rogue app would be detrimental, as it's very unlikely you'll ever be able to get a new fingerprint in the future, as opposed to always being able to change your password.
this device is unreal now. so much better after the last hub, camera and marshmallow update. the hub widgets are really handy, provides instant acces to custom views, back button takes users back to the universal inbox instead of minimising the app. html auto signatures also (auto signatures with pictures). the camera is a lot faster now and swiping the keyboard adjusts settings.
Really blackberry has sorted out & put things together in the correct path after quite a while.. Hope they had done this earlier & saved their brand. Would really like to get my hands on the BB priv sometime when it is available for purchase in my country. Finally thank u guys for this brief & detailed review.
finally was waiting long for review on BB priv by pocketnow. Thank you for perfect pros and cons. Mute button - most useful button when u know u need to mute a call during some mid business days conversation. Front camera- BB users used it to minimum previously too as it's only for short Skype calls so BB din go for a heafty front cam (even when it would have been a charm) my thoughts for assumed "illogical hardware" as customers claim
+Manish Shah Fingerprint reader on a smartphone is convenient, and better than no password at all, but by no means would any security expert claim that it is secure.
great review Michael! I can always trust pocketnow with a review before I actually buy a phone. I want a black berry priv of my own because I'm stuck on a Nexus 4 after having my Nexus 6 break TWICE (neither were my fault). I'd love a priv. thanks!
I think it was a fair review. I love BlackBerry and currently own a Z30. I'm thinking about the Priv and as a consumer want to hear the truth. Michael did a good job. The good news is that all the issues mentioned can be resolved with software updates.
I have a friend who has a blackberry z10 and he's been looking forward to owning the priv. I told him about this review and he was totally more on it. And I really think this phone is one of the best and most unique phone of 2015.
Are we going to get an 'After the Buzz' on the Priv? It would be great to see how updates might change things going forward. - great content as usual guys, keep it up -
Damn good video....thanks Michael,...you mentioned just the exact experience that we need to know about this phone rather than others who just regurgitate the specs sheet.....keep up the good job......
it's kinda sad when the contest is not opened world wide...😢 i'm really fond of blackberry keypads...they're unique and interesting...i think that blackberry priv is awesome...the design is sooo high-end and it's more suitable for work purposes more than a selfie kinda phone...but blackberry priv really do make a special unique phones that other phones has nowdays...i really do misses phones with keypads...haha.. btw thnks so much pocketnow.. u helped me a lot in picking new phones through your review.. L.O.V E IT....💕💕
Was waiting for this review like crazy excellent work Michael I love you're reviews. and yhh I'm going to wait a little longer for the price to go down and when marshmallow is available on the device.
Where was the footage shot for this review? I'm road tripping across America next year and the town in this video was beautiful. Would like to see it in person.
Bought the priv a couple of days ago and I'm liking it so far. The warmth while using it is very real, all the problems could be solved via software updates though... HEAR ME BLACKBERRY!? The hardware is very nice overall and the changes in stock android are "original moto x" level of awesome.
7 days is the full review? It's the equivalent of saying you're my best friend after 7 days.. I'm sure there are issues, and will look for a follow up since they supposedly guaranteed scheduled updates.. thanks for the review.
This review had it all!, nostalgia, sincerity, a dose of idealism in an age of carbon clones. there's nothing wrong with sliders keep up the good work PocketNow!
It is the right step for blackberry to enter to the Android world. Even though it has a bit flaws. It's a decent device for blackberry to create. I do hope they will improve their next iteration of blackberry on Android.
Nice, balanced review. Thanks! Although I did not like the BB's I had to use for work, I was happy to see the Priv and interested to see it's capabilities. Too bad it's so last, but hopefully the update to M will help.
I did expect to see bugs, lags and half-baked features since it's a Blackberry after all but that flex on the back is totally UNFORGIVABLE at that price and as the legacy of the legendary Blackberry hardware quality. I so hoped for the Priv to succeed - more for my Canadian pride, because I never had a BB. :(
![BlackBerry Priv Review Re-Do [2017]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/_jP3L1-RyL0/mqdefault.jpg)
To everyone asking about the game titles: as always, they're right on the screen! :) Check the upper-left corner whenever we're showing gameplay footage. "Asphalt 8" and "Galaxy on Fire 2 HD" were the games featured in this review. ^M
Duh! Thanks...Totally missed that.
Sadly way too little, way too late for Blackberry... Right? Thanks for the review. Your reviews are among the best to watch on TH-cam.
Damn this review is wonderful..absolutely perfect script and well organized ideas with thorough analysis 👍👍👍 you're the right guy for this job Michael
Damn this review is wonderful..absolutely perfect script and well organized ideas with thorough analysis 👍👍👍 you're the right guy for this job Michael
M....You got this brother. Still the best reviewer on youtube. No doubt. I can't believe I'm saying this but, I would buy this if it weren't an 808 device. Sadly that means more issues,than not.
Some of you think Michael went too easy on the Priv, while others seem to think he came down too hard on it. Check out the full review to see how he really feels (and to see more of him talking in the third person): pocketnow.com/2015/11/18/blackberry-priv-review ^M
Unless the Priv got an 11 out of 10 rating here, and on all other tech sites, I don't see this saving BB. "Annoyances" shouldn't happen on a company-saving flagship.
+stevestojan ffffffF&*.^:/""0)szzzzz28l
Pocketnow yes he did
Another great Michael Fisher review. My god he is such an amazing reviewer, what would Pocketnow be without him
+Androx5000 Really, I liked the review of Dom Espito even more..
He's the best.
They would be nothing. As a matter of fact, he's the only reason I'm subscriber. And I'm sure I'm not the only one.
Karim Salloum same here
+Karim Salloum I'm subscribed for both Fisher and Rivera.
I don't care what anyone says I want this phone!
I second that notion
+Mr. Venom me too!
Good price now! Check!
So glad blackberry decided to release an android device. Though I doubt it's the device that'll put them back amongst the smartphone top dogs it certainly looks like a major step forward for them.
+Govind Somadas Well said. It's absolutely a big step. ^M
+Pocketnow I agree, the functionality concept is praticaly brilliant
They actually should have done what Google did this year. Release 2 phones with different price points because as much as I like BBs; this is way too expensive.
+Andre Wolff Doubt it because this actually has an audience and appeal. I work at AT&T and we have sold quite a few of these. This phone is really good!
+Andre Wolff the Amazon Firephone was sold as a physical portal to the Amazon store. Apart from scanning something and being able to buy it from the Amazon store, it had no real reason to exist.
The BlackBerry Priv has concrete differentiators that (some) people can relate to: more privacy on Android, more security on Android, and a physical keyboard.
@Pocketnow I want Michael Fisher to review all Flagship phones. In Michael Fisher we trust! 💟
MICHAEL FISCHER BEST PHONE REVIEWER OF ALL THE INTERNET
+Julian Mauro in english yeah =P other languages i dunno =P there some italians that are very good too
After MKBHD!
+iAm Tumelo Damn right
Sycophant.
Noah from phonedog is the greatest reviewer of all time!!!!
I'm still using my 4 year old Priv in 2020 because of its form factor with the slide-out keyboard and large screen. I am on my third battery and have had the screen replaced after a 6 ft. drop. Every reviewer gripes about the camera, but I think it takes amazing shots. It didn't take me long to become fast with the keyboard, and the slide out feature is great for typing emails and documents with a full screen when I'm not in the office. In fact, as a solo attorney, I do about half of my work on this phone despite often having a desktop computer in front of me.
This phone does drain the battery very fast, and the processor can often be used to cook eggs. But overall I have been happy with it. People always stop me to ask about it when I'm out in public, and are shocked that anyone still has a Blackberry in 2020. It's unfortunate that there won't be any new Blackberry phones in the foreseeable future, so I may break down later this year and get the Key2 despite it having a smaller screen.
I do have high hopes for Priv. There is a lot of room for improvement and most of the issues can be fixed with software updates.
Stopping by to say praise about how good this review was. Short enough, while also being extremely complete and full of details that most reviewers would simply skip.
Wow, really hope to see them making a comeback in this crowded market. I might be picking one up, haven't decided yet.
do it. their sick
+Steeve McCloud I bought it yesterday and it one of the best mobile I've ever held.
+Steve Fernandes I have one to and its awesome
Hey PocketNow congrats on your 5000 videos. I'm a big fan here from Finland. I always rely on your review videos before making any purchase for mobile phones and other accessories. I think pocket now is one of the most if not the most reliable and honest reviewers on the Internet. keep up the good work and congrats on your success!!! lots of love from Finland.
Clicked on the video and I was pleased to see it was Michael Fischer's review :D
Fisher*
really glad you waited more than a week for a proper review and not just in the first 2 days.
it has now been updated since this review ! I own a blackberry priv and most of the software negatives mentioned are no more
Shub91 does it still gets hot like a fireplace while normal or heavy usage?
how is your blackberry priv now in 2018?
I guess this phone still garrantee privacy better than most android phones of 2018.
Been using the Priv here in the UK for a little under a week now. Using on O2 but it is available on other networks. Also, I've noticed that phones seem a lot more expensive in the US.
The Priv is a great phone; used and owned all the big named phones and I am enjoying this phone more than those. I think the build is good, the physical keyboard is fantastic (once you get used to it) it really is great seeing the full screen while typing. Yep, software is a bit confusing here and there, some things are duplicated, for example Gmail, you're going to want to cancel Gmail alerts as the Hub will keep you right. Also, every time you take a picture it asks you if you want to save to the SD card, every time.
As mentioned, with a couple of software updates and tweaks the phone could be fantastic. Blackberry have been releasing the occasional update so hopefully they'll be able to address some of the issues.
Good phone but not perfect maybe when its updated or the 2nd edition for me
+Honda lover we should send an email to blackberry to say..keep going will buy the 2nd version. this is so preemie still..
+Honda lover fingerprint sensor is needed...
+Emanuele Sortino Do it!
Lucien Lee it depends i would like fingerprint but i can live with out it doesn't bother me to much
+Honda lover sadly, I think this phone is a make or break test for Blackberry, so, let's hope not everyone interested into a BB Android phone will think the same as you.
Now this is HOW you create an Unbiased Reviews, most tech channels either sounds like unintentional paid ads when they like the product or paid negative marketing when they dont like the product
+Pocketnow..., I don't know if you used BB10. Blackberry Hub is lighting quick on BB10,
+sumanth vemuri We've used BB10 since it was announced, yes - and since day one we've found the Hub quite sluggish no matter what hardware we used. th-cam.com/video/SQhvc4Nxo_U/w-d-xo.html ^M
+Pocketnow , Would you really use sluggish.. :(.
+Pocketnow ,Nonetheless your review on the priv is one of the best ones out there ! thanks.
+sumanth vemuri Thanks for watching! ^M
+Pocketnow It was actually pretty sluggish on pretty much all BB10 devices save for the Passport
When I heard that blackberry was coming out with another phone... Got my hopes up so high and after the review started coming and whenever I saw these negative comments a tear would fall from my eye and after watching Michael's review I am the happiest person on earth... Love your reviews brother. Just love the priv and how it looks... Would love to get one.
Thanks Michael best review ever!!!
Great review Michael! If you could do a "revisited" review after the new year (or after the Marshmallow update) that would be much appreciated. I really want to give Blackberry another shot but these inconsistencies are going to be hard to look past come upgrade time. Cheers!
+Keith Rice Thanks! We'll definitely schedule an After The Buzz for this one, yes. ^M
+Pocketnow Fantastic! Thanks!
+Pocketnow after the buzz would be perfect 👌👌👌
Idk why but that skin is so simple yet so beautiful. I love it how they changed alot of the icons but kept them very material design like, and didn't take them to far from the original icons. The charging bar that wraps around the screen is a nice touch as well.
If you couldn't tell I'm the kind of android user that looks at the design of the os and how it looks and feels when I'm using it instead of only settling for the best of the best phone. Give me a phone with a good app store, nice screen, decent specs, decent battery, good looking icons and lots of cool animations hidden around and you have me sold.
after the buzz is needed for this . want to see how it aged.
waseem bux Check Mr mobiles Review Re do
A fair review. My only comments would be the software seems to be getting better all the time, and the price point given the hardware involved is valid.
The hardware is gorgeous maybe the next android blackberry once they fix the software.
A blackberry nexus would be AMAZING
+Jose Cazares (GunnarOptik) Well...I'm just curious what can they make with a BB nexus.
+Andrei Sena Let's hope curiosity gets the best of google
If you read his comment he used a pre release software, he received an update and it fixed the little software glitches
+ariza034 Fixed some, but not all. His conclusion was that it NEEDS more.
I have had mine for 5 days. I haven't experienced any lag at all and that's amazing considering its android. I feel blackberry have done a wonderful job.
my battery seems pretty good.
camera I'm still trying to get a nice day to try it.
will I keep it.
yes it's for better android experience than anything else.
it just needs a few updates to smooth things out.
Beautiful hardware, poor software execution
just like the original LG G flex
This is true. However, the flex in the rear cover is disappointing.
The second g flex is pretty good other than the heat issues
+w99mmt good hardware held back by android.
+w99mmt Isn't that the unique selling point of BB?
I have been whatching for 3 years now and Im proud.You keep getting better.And...I want blackberry priv :D
I would have been sold on this phone if it had a fingerprint scanner and 5mp front facing camera.
Those are minor things that are missing
+Keenan Spencer You my nigga, are a Samsung fanboy
+xFreshKicks08 s6 edge is one slippery phone lool it looks like its fake...why the build is so cheap u can tell they wanted to save money on hardware lol....the curved screen on the s6 is only for show lol...battery is bad ...lol@at keen saying bad battery lol I didn't charge it for a whole day...ive owned the s6 and the battery was bad
+Keenan Spencer
well the S6 has a fantastic build quality. But not the S6Edge. The phone's back is an aggression to the palm of a human hand, however big it is, and the overall quality of the S6Edge is inferior to most Huawei smartphones.
Besides, every reviewer has stated that the curves on the Priv screen are better used than the curves on a S6Edge screen.
Most people who understand what security is stay away from fingerprint scanners on smartphones.
Regarding the 2MPix selfie camera, yes it is anemic, and yes it can be a showstopper for some people. I'm not part of those people.
Last BB Phone I owned was the Torch and I absolutely loved it. Glad to to see that design back in a more modern style
@Michael I am a blackberry fan and for some reason I liked the genuine critics you made. I am using blackberry 10 since it's launch and feels extremely fluid for my usage over and over the updates. Switching to android creeps out at time, because when I used it, it just doesn't do my things as easy as BB 10 dose. What is your choice between BB Passport Vs BB Priv, considering I don't care about google services. Is BB priv more productive than BB Passport??
+Amey Phatale If you don't need Google services and BB10 suits you fine, then there's no reason to switch. In some ways BlackBerry's own software is more consistent and fluid than its Android launcher. We can't speak to BB's long-term plans regarding BB10 though. ^M
I have both the Passport and the Priv. The Passport is by far the better device for communications and productivity. If you can afford it and your use to having two devices, the Priv is a good secondary device, which is how I use mine. Better than the other Android devices I've tested, and prefer it over the iPhone 6S Plus.
I originally wanted to hate this video due to the title, but Micheal did an amazing job. Many videos of the Priv which I've seen have been a tad bias and pretty harsh at times.
You told what you liked, and then what the Priv didn't do well... with examples.
I have a BB10 Passport which I adore, and was totally opposed to the Blackberry Android amalgamation, then started playing with the Priv one day. Now I would consider even buying this phone. But maybe I'll wait, as there is nothing wrong with my Passport.
Keep up the great reviews!
Marshmallow just hit Priv yesterday, can't wait until July when I'll buy myself a Priv for my bday. Would love to see the face of my iPhone fanboy coworkers when they'll see 1. a Blackberry, 2. a great looking Android phone and 3. a slider.
+Ultrakillerism Did that fix most of the software issues? Also, is there a price drop coming anytime soon? I just LOVE the hardware aspect so much.
+Jyu Viole Grace 299 rn :D
SlicesofBread ebay or?
+Jyu Viole Grace eBay
What a great reviewer you are....surely one of the best on youtube! Can u also do a hands-on and full review of the new Lumia 950 and 950XL?!
The real question is why does he look like Tony Stark?
I really love how blackberry is incorporating that physical keyboard once more and this time into an android phone!
this is me typing on my priv. Very good phone.
l am turning into a BlackBerry fanatic with each release. There is a bit to fix within the company, but l love their integrity and hope they get back to a corporate level where they can splurge more on their flagships to see strong returns. BlackBerry is doing interesting things now that they are the underdogs. l think the Priv would work better for me in Zimbabwe (currently l'm on the Z10. Its required some technical maneuvering since Zim has no BB support whatsoever). So you really have to be a die hard BB Fanatic outchea. Loved this review. Brilliant job Pocketnow. As for me l think HTC and BlackBerry rock!
Looks like a fancier torch.
+The only easy Day was yesterday
... with apps!
Good thing that most of these "problems" that were complained about aren't really problems, and can simply be addressed as the software becomes more mature. For BlackBerry's first foray into Android after working on a completely different operating system, I'd say they did a fairly solid job compared to Android veterans at the usual suspects' companies.
I was sort of confused by the "app crashing" comment, as I've yet to experience that on mine so far; and I've been running mine pretty hard since I got it with plenty of apps.
All in all though, it was a decently fair review of positives and negatives.
I'll keep my Note 5, best android phone of 2015
That's the Nexus 6p
Not gonna lie that nexus 6p is a beast too. But I love my SPEN. If I could use two phones tho, it would be the note 5 and nexus 6p
+Joel Koh Nexus or nothing! :D
lg v10 ftw!
+Jevon Butler lol i compared it at ATT store and the samsung phones look and feel so fake compare to the priv ...no lie...the s6 edge was embarrassing to hold......that priv is one beautiful phone ...looks so authentic
Michael is the Robert Downey Jr of Phone reviews. Love your videos, man. Keep em coming
I call it the Blackberry S6 Edge
lol 😂
lol
God your reviews of the smartphones are the best on TH-cam!Keep up the good work Michael
I'm typing this msg from my physical keyboard
#priv 🙂🙌
Cas per how is it holding up now in 2018? Lol. I'm actually looking into purchasing one now.
As a Priv owner - they've fixed a lot of those issues with software updates. Like the performance, battery life, boot time, app crashing and keyboard device search lag. Still there's a lot of things that need fixing - probably in the 6.0 update... and it's annoying it's not available even though the first quarter of 2016 has passed.
Lmao, selling point is security privacy, doesn't even have a fingerprint sensor. Smh.
My thoughts as well
fingerprint scanners aren't that secure
I see it like this...if someone gets access to where my fingerprint is stored I can't get a new one ...with passwords I can just change them whenever I want
+Arthur K you have obviously never used a fingerprint reader, once you do you will never go back to PIN security. The tech is there so not having it is a major fail for a smart phone OEM. When you take the price into account it is even less forgivable. Why isn't it launched with Marshmallow. For a business phone why is the front camera so poor? Why on benchmarks is it performing worse than phones half the price? Lots of good stuff but they have not done the really important stuff well for the price. Hopefully software tweaks can improve things but I suspect mark 2 will be the one to go for, assuming BB is still making phones.
+amfrepo it might be convinient but that doesnt defeat my earlier comment
First reaction: LOVE IT! However, my biggest physical concern would be that sliding mechanism wearing out quickly, giving you use it constantly sliding in and out
8:15 Lost Reference XD
+PravSrpski So Michael is the Black Smoke!? No Way!
Abebil3 I know right! Didn't know they had service on the island
PravSrpski They obviously had Google Fi. OMG I just noticed the timestamp of 8:15 refers to the numbers! As in 4,8,15,16,23,42! Mindblow within a Mindblow!@_@
Abebil3 NO WAY!
This is the device I have been after since it was first thought to be the name of Venice. Priv is an interesting name but is one that follows BlackBerry and their history of secure devices. My first smart phone was a BlackBerry, now that they've entered the Android subspace, it makes it that much more drool worthy. Thanks for an awesome review!
I don't care about camera's, why would I want to take pictures of my ugly friends and family?
yeah i would have to move to another city for sure.
+friendofCHAKA you live in Utah don't you
worse, Milwaukee!
@pocketnow, now I need your LG v10 review so I can make a final decision on which phone to get. I truly rely on your reviews to help me make a sound decision with my two year commitment of my next phone.
On of the concerns of the Priv right now is that it packs a powerful battery, but it doesn't to hold up as long as it should. With this in mind and all the other performance issues faced by Priv, I believe we would all appreciate a relook of the device once it gets a Marshmallow update. In any case, keep up the good work and have a great day! :)
Definitely be getting 1 of these. BlackBerry have got enough right and software updates will only improve any glitches in a very good system, the way BB did with BB10 updating.
This was one of the best reviews i have heard in a while :) .
Now we just need a horizontal slider. Nobody was asking for a vertical slider, but that capacitive scrolling feature is kind of neat.
Wow... now that is one of the best reviews I've seen of the Priv. Thanks for viewing it is real life situations and not look for bad but more objectively.
I love Blackberry's take on Android. I love little tweaks like the charging animation, app shortcuts integrated into the keyboard, the widgets and many more. I know and hope that they will Polish this take on Android and make Bb's android one of the best there is in a short time. Best of luck blackberry, I miss my Bb curve and I wish I could buy the priv if it was within my budget. Sticking to Sony for now.
My favorite thing about the Priv is the keyboard. I really miss having a nice physical keyboard. It would be awesome if I could get my hands on one! It looks pretty sweet!
if I got ever the chance to choose the most brilliant and amazing editor in TH-cam that would be you no doubt… BlackBerry still got a lot of work to do
I have the note 5 and never had a blackberry in my life, but watching this review...I want this phone!
I like your review, it was well thought-out and balanced. I don't think the lack of a fingerprint reader is a negative, when considering privacy. I, personally believe that having your fingerprint stolen by a rogue app would be detrimental, as it's very unlikely you'll ever be able to get a new fingerprint in the future, as opposed to always being able to change your password.
this device is unreal now. so much better after the last hub, camera and marshmallow update. the hub widgets are really handy, provides instant acces to custom views, back button takes users back to the universal inbox instead of minimising the app. html auto signatures also (auto signatures with pictures). the camera is a lot faster now and swiping the keyboard adjusts settings.
Really blackberry has sorted out & put things together in the correct path after quite a while.. Hope they had done this earlier & saved their brand. Would really like to get my hands on the BB priv sometime when it is available for purchase in my country. Finally thank u guys for this brief & detailed review.
finally was waiting long for review on BB priv by pocketnow. Thank you for perfect pros and cons.
Mute button - most useful button when u know u need to mute a call during some mid business days conversation.
Front camera- BB users used it to minimum previously too as it's only for short Skype calls so BB din go for a heafty front cam (even when it would have been a charm)
my thoughts for assumed "illogical hardware" as customers claim
yes fingerprint reader is the most secured and private mode BB did miss on that
+Manish Shah
Fingerprint reader on a smartphone is convenient, and better than no password at all, but by no means would any security expert claim that it is secure.
Great review..Are they any plans for more updated Blackberry Priv reviews?
The most useful review I have seen about the BB Priv.. and I have seen a lot! Thanks
I like the trackpad option and the 3 points feature. it seems most problems are software fixable. decent showing by BB. Good review.
Anyone who was excited about the swiping up for widgets feature in the Blackberry launcher, this feature also exists in Action Launcher 3
great review Michael! I can always trust pocketnow with a review before I actually buy a phone. I want a black berry priv of my own because I'm stuck on a Nexus 4 after having my Nexus 6 break TWICE (neither were my fault). I'd love a priv. thanks!
I like how it goes back to its roots while getting hip with Android
I think it was a fair review. I love BlackBerry and currently own a Z30. I'm thinking about the Priv and as a consumer want to hear the truth. Michael did a good job. The good news is that all the issues mentioned can be resolved with software updates.
I have a friend who has a blackberry z10 and he's been looking forward to owning the priv. I told him about this review and he was totally more on it. And I really think this phone is one of the best and most unique phone of 2015.
Are we going to get an 'After the Buzz' on the Priv? It would be great to see how updates might change things going forward. - great content as usual guys, keep it up -
Damn good video....thanks Michael,...you mentioned just the exact experience that we need to know about this phone rather than others who just regurgitate the specs sheet.....keep up the good job......
Yea Michael Fisher is an amazing reviewer,everyone on PocketNow is.
Keep up doing great work guys and good luck in future...
Cheers
As a Canadian, have to say: Well DONE BlackBerry!!!
Michael Fisher...just the best of Pocketnow
it's kinda sad when the contest is not opened world wide...😢
i'm really fond of blackberry keypads...they're unique and interesting...i think that blackberry priv is awesome...the design is sooo high-end and it's more suitable for work purposes more than a selfie kinda phone...but blackberry priv really do make a special unique phones that other phones has nowdays...i really do misses phones with keypads...haha..
btw thnks so much pocketnow..
u helped me a lot in picking new phones through your review..
L.O.V E IT....💕💕
@Pocketnow Please do a Priv vs. Passport comparison smackdown. Maybe before black friday in case there's some good sales.
I love the fact Blackberry decided to go back in time a little and bring us something different.
Was waiting for this review like crazy excellent work Michael I love you're reviews.
and yhh I'm going to wait a little longer for the price to go down and when marshmallow is available on the device.
I kinda want BB to bring back SurePress on their next full touch device. 3D touch is my favorite feature on my iPhone.
Great work! Great Review! Wich icon pack did you used in the video?
Where was the footage shot for this review? I'm road tripping across America next year and the town in this video was beautiful. Would like to see it in person.
I loved the keyboards they made back then, and still do
Bought the priv a couple of days ago and I'm liking it so far.
The warmth while using it is very real, all the problems could be solved via software updates though... HEAR ME BLACKBERRY!?
The hardware is very nice overall and the changes in stock android are "original moto x" level of awesome.
7 days is the full review? It's the equivalent of saying you're my best friend after 7 days.. I'm sure there are issues, and will look for a follow up since they supposedly guaranteed scheduled updates.. thanks for the review.
This review had it all!, nostalgia, sincerity, a dose of idealism in an age of carbon clones. there's nothing wrong with sliders keep up the good work PocketNow!
hands down best reviewer on youtube
I love the design of this phone and the retractable keyboard. How long does the battery usually last on stand-by?
It is the right step for blackberry to enter to the Android world. Even though it has a bit flaws. It's a decent device for blackberry to create. I do hope they will improve their next iteration of blackberry on Android.
Nice, balanced review. Thanks! Although I did not like the BB's I had to use for work, I was happy to see the Priv and interested to see it's capabilities. Too bad it's so last, but hopefully the update to M will help.
I did expect to see bugs, lags and half-baked features since it's a Blackberry after all but that flex on the back is totally UNFORGIVABLE at that price and as the legacy of the legendary Blackberry hardware quality.
I so hoped for the Priv to succeed - more for my Canadian pride, because I never had a BB. :(
You guys should edit this review after you update everything !
First step for Blackberry in the right direction for a long time
Turned out to be way better than I expected
The design is so pretty and looks it has a lot of potential
Best review on the Priv I've seen. Great stuff Fisher.
the keyboard scrolling is so cool!!!