BlackBerry is launching an Android Oreo beta program for the KEYone, ahead of Android P release

First look: BlackBerry KEYone

It’s a strange announcement but if you have been waiting for it, then your wait is almost over. BlackBerry is bringing the Android Oreo update to the KEYone through an invite-only beta program. This is unusual timing, especially with Android P set to launch pretty soon (the latest is pegged at sometime next month). But if you do want to update your KEYone device, you can try your luck signing up here. BlackBerry hasn’t specified when the beta build will be coming to the testers.

As Android Authority points out, it’s stranger that the newer Key2 isn’t getting a beta program, which could mean that BlackBerry might just wanted to get feedback on the KEYone’s Oreo update instead of treating the beta program like an actual program.

Rogers scheduled to rollout Android Oreo for BlackBerry KEYone owners starting June 28th

Review: BlackBerry KEYone

If we’re to rely on the latest operating system schedule posted on Rogers’s forums, we’re just days away from the carrier rolling out Android Oreo 8.0 to the BlackBerry KEYone. The carrier expects the OS to start rolling out on June 28^th. One other detail highlighted with the update is Wi-Fi calling, which we presume will be available for the device as well. With the last update Rogers rolled out was considered “Oreo prep,” it’s safe to assume that the carrier might stick to this timeline and KEYone owners are closer to getting the OS upgrade. Let us know once the update hits your device.

Source: CrackBerry

BlackBerry KEYone gets new update to prep it for Android Oreo

If you own a BlackBerry KEYone, you better keep your eyes peeled for this new update. A 17MB update referred to as version ABA676 is rolling out. According to Rogers, it’s a maintenance update that prepares the device for Android Oreo update. Aside from Rogers, Telus is said to be rolling out the update. And it must be noted that you might get an error message on your phones when you try to install the update but it is actually being properly installed and it’ll complete successfully after the device reboots. There is no specific time frame when Android Oreo will roll out but if this update is preparing the device for it, then we can say it’s going to happen pretty soon.

Source: GSMArena + PhoneArena

Blackberry Motion and KEYOne available for $100 off in limited Black Friday promos

Black Friday after Thanksgiving is probably the best time to get either the BlackBerry Motion or BlackBerry KEYOne for $100 off. The KEYOne remains one of the most unique Android experiences and the robust and secure (not to mention water and dust resistant) BlackBerry Motion is simply one of the best midrange smartphones in the market.

Several retailers across Canada are now offering up to $100 off the BlackBerry Mobile lineup from now until November 27. Various carriers are offering the devices on limited discounted plans. Hit jump for the details.

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