Zinwa P26 Kit Offers An Android Future for BlackBerry Passport
According to Zinwa developers, the P26 DIY Kit is targeted toward the fans of the classic BlackBerry Passport. The kit aims to turn the 2014 smartphone into a contemporary Android device by replacing the core internal components.
Major Specs and Upgrades
This is not a software hack; the P26 DIY Kit entails the complete hardware transformation. The display, keyboard, and speaker of the BlackBerry Passport are still used, but a modern chipset and components are installed. The new hardware consists of:
- Chipset: MediaTek Helio G99
- Memory: 12 GB of LPDDR4x RAM
- Storage: 256 GB of UFS 2.1 storage
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 4G LTE, and NFC
- Cameras: A 50 MP main sensor and an 8 MP front sensor
- Port: USB Type-C port
Software and Future Support
It will run an Android version based on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) code. Zinwa is planning to provide two versions of the software: one integrated with Google Play services, and another without. The developers further expect to provide OS updates for two to three years.
Availability, Compatibility, and Cost
Holders-on for the project will be the order of the day as it is unlikely that the Zinwa P26 DIY Kit gets on the shelves before 2026. It is being designed exclusively for the original BlackBerry Passport model. The final pricing of the kit has yet to be disclosed.
