Vendors, users divided on BlackBerry 10

BlackBerry may have launched their latest phones, the Z10 and Q10, simultaneously over six cities two days ago.

However, in Malaysia, vendors and long-time users are still divided over BlackBerry’s latest hype.

“I haven’t seen the phone so it is hard for me to say how this phone would do in the market,” said a vendor based at Low Yat Plaza who wants to be known as June.

June said that even though more people are migrating to Androids and Apple products due to their attractive functions and display, BlackBerry still has its own niche market.

“The security feature is good as the data via BlackBerry Messenger and Email are encrypted. Users do not have to worry because their messages are secured and it cannot be traced by a third-party. That’s the good thing about BlackBerry. Messages sent via WhatsApp can be detected by the mobile operators.

“BlackBerry has the Messenger (BBM) and its email feature is ideal for businessmen,” he added.

Despite BlackBerry-only features, vendors feel that customers want more features on their phones, especially the younger generation.

Another vendor, who wanted to be known as Lucky, said his customers preferred Android or Apple products because of the user experience and applications.

“Some people like bigger screens and they want to play games. BlackBerry has very limited applications compared to other smartphones. They want to be able to do more with their phones,” he added.

However, Carson Cheang said some of his customers are already asking him about the BlackBerry 10.

“BlackBerry phones were popular several years ago but now people prefer iPhone or Samsung phones. However, people have asked me about the BlackBerry 10 and we are expecting many orders when it arrives,” said Cheang.

Meanwhile, long-time fans of BlackBerry are still divided over the new device.

Part-time model Dylan Aras, 28, has been using the BlackBerry for 10 years but is now ready to move on.

“My first BlackBerry was the 8700. I’ve been a loyal BlackBerry user for a decade but the competition is getting more attractive. I only use the BlackBerry for the BBM feature but even the BBM is not great anymore because we can chat through other apps,” he said.

Ean Yaacob, 41, a senior manager at an insurance company also shared similar sentiments.

“Even the mighty BBM may not be the sole reason to cling on to BlackBerry. Chats are happening on WhatsApp now,” he said.

An education facilitator from Bangladesh, Rimla Changi, 28, said she will consider buying the Q10 model because of its keypad.

“I am a BlackBerry fan. The keypad is their signature. BlackBerry is for work...accessing my emails and obtaining quick responses through the BBM,” she said.

Admin executive Syed Faisal, 36, who uses the BlackBerry Torch said he plans to purchase the BlackBerry 10 once he has the budget for it.

“It’s a cool device. It lives up to its hype in terms of the design and software,” Syed added.

The BlackBerry 10 is scheduled for launch in Malaysia on February 20.