BlackBerry Key2 First Impression Roundup; Physical Keys Could Prove Challenging

BlackBerry just revealed its Key2 smartphone with actual, physical keys that users can type on. First impressions and initial reviews are already flooding in, and many of them have been quite positive. However, there were a few potential issues brought up, the biggest of which might be the physical keys that make the “Key2” a unique product.

In its early hands-on experience with the device, Engadget focused a lot on the camera of the Key2 to see what it was capable of. As the site notes, this is the first BlackBerry unit to have dual rear cameras. It was only natural that the reviewers would want to put it through its paces.

Apparently, many of the results have been quite impressive. The rear cameras have reportedly performed well, taking beautiful shots of New York City and its various offerings. All in all, the testers found that the Key2 produces better pictures than most smartphones, but not as good as more expensive ones.

The site did touch on the matter of the keypad, noting how many of its staff members are finding the physical keys useful. Naturally, there are those who expressed skepticism on the feature, which other publishers share.

As noted in its own first impression of the Key2, CNET reports that users who have become accustomed to touchpads might find the physical keys challenging. Actions that have become instinctive can be difficult to shake off, such as attempting to swipe at the keypad. However, the reviewer attributed this problem to not being used to the device just yet.

Of course, one of the Key2’s main targets are fans of the physical QWERTY key setup. As the only new device to offer such a feature, so far, initial impressions of the unit have been quite positive. Those who are already accustomed to typing using physical keys have had no problems using the Key2. In fact, some have reported improved typing speeds when using the keys.