BlackBerry unveils the DTEK50, its thinnest device ever

BlackBerry is not done with handsets, yet.

On Tuesday, the once-dominant cellphone manufacturer delivered its thinnest BlackBerry device to date, the DTEK50.

The name is significant, since DTEK also applies to the BlackBerry's security watchdog software that we first encountered on the admirable, but too-expensivePriv. 

The 7.4-millimeter, 5.2-inch, Android-based DTEK50 is, accoridng to BlackBerry, built for security. It offers full-data encryption, built-in malware protection, hardware support for tracking and provisioning (which should make the DTEK50 attractive for businesses), the DTEK security app and additional "hardening" of the Android OS.

Unlike the Priv, which has a physical QWERTY keyboard hidden behind its large touchscreen, the DTREK50 is touch only. On the software side, BlackBerry does provide a smart, learning keyboard that will offer suggestions as you type. Like other BlackBerry devices, the DTEK50 also comes with BlackBerry Hub communications consolidation software.


The device also includes a 13 MP camera, dual LED flashes and expandable memory (up to 2 TB via a micro SD card slot).

Some have noted the DTEK50's resemblance to the new Alcatel Idol 4S (right down to the thickness — 7.4 mm — and the unusual button on the side, which BlackBerry calls a customizable Convenience Key). BlackBerry did confirm toMashable that it did not manufacturer the phone. The company did not reveal, however, if the DTEK50 was made by Alcatel.

What may excite BlackBerry fans (those who remain) the most, though, is the price. The DTEK50 is on sale for preorder right now, starting at $299 (the Priv started at $699).