mine is still heating up to the point where the CPU temp averages 36 degrees celsius... already on marshmallow. i maxed out at 51 deg once playing a few matches of clash royale
I loved my Priv, with the exception of the camera and the atrocious processor (which inevitably led to shite battery life). I could live with the camera, but whenever I used the Priv for navigation in a car, particularly in the summer, I had to stick the phone to the A/C vent so it wouldn't spontaneously combust.
Bit late but yeah most gorgeous phone i have owned. Unfortunately the lack of custom rom AND more importantly the sluggishness & heat increase made me sell it for an op3. Still nothing like the priv.
I really, really, really want this phone. SO DAMN MUCH. I'd probably buy it in a few years from now I can find one. WHY DID IT HAVE TO MESS UP WHERE IT DID?! It looks god damn beautiful, it has that AMAZING AMOLED screen, that epic, fucking epic, keyboard and that ever so lovable BlackBerry branding. My first phone was a BlackBerry and god did I love it. Somehow, that TLC doesn't have the charm of the Priv. It doesn't look like a flagship, and probably won't be specced up either. Ergh, it's such an evil thing, to make such a beautiful thing and ruin it with bad software and internals. I will never stop wanting it, but I know I can never use it. Such is life, such is life. Blackberry, why did you do this to me?!
As a PRIV owner I do agree to an extent. Just a few fixes could make it the best phone ever made. If it didn't have Snap Dragon's biggest mistake, if it got Android Nougat, if it had a fingerprint scanner, if BlackBerry got the thermal management correct, I wouldn't be thinking of a new phone for at least a couple of more years. Despite the flaws, I can't find a phone worth upgrading to. If I go for a Key2, I have to give up my AMOLED 5.4" qHD display. Any other brand, then I lose the physical keyboard that I've fallen in love with.
Mine was so sluggish. Overheats even for the slightest task. Using google maps or waze in a tropical country is out of the question. Mine finally died few months ago. Despite all this, i still loved my Priv. I was hoping they would come out with Priv 2 but dont think that will ever happen.
I had this phone, some days it made me feel so good, other days I just wanted to put in a blender. But it was always controversial and part of a wow factor in parties. My frustrated dream was Industrial Design, this embodies everything I wanted to create in my mind.
Hi. Would u advise against getting a priv now in 2022? I wonder if it's usable and doesn't get too too hot or anything ? I want it for calls and text and occasional browsing.
The TMobile model got really hot but the Verizon model was fine & is unlocked.... So I still use mine for still photos with a Hassleblad lense & as a spare on mint mobile....
My job is forcing us to carry a 2nd device for work only, so I went with this one. I truly appreciate you doing a review on how it runs, what's still good, and what isn't so great now. Thank goodness this will only be used for text, email, calls, and occasional web browsing.
I have my Priv since march and I love it. I love the design, I love the screen, I love the excellent speaker, I love the main camera and I love the battery, which is absolutely amazing for me. And since I don't care about the front facing camera there's only one thing that I ABSOLUTELY HATE ABOUT THIS PHONE - PERFORMANCE. It's garbage. Apps constantly reload, I can reboot my old phopne 3 times in a time it takes Priv to reboot, apps take forever to open... even the settings menu is slow and drops frames constantly. Also the Nougat update is waaaay overdue. But here's me still hoping it'll bring better performance.
NateFreestyle correct I know a lot of people don't research, however BlackBerry did a whole write up on the 7 layers of encryption put into the Priv. Google search will bring up the information.
Priv is poorly configured out of the box - that's the main performance issue. Here's the fix: 1. Go to Settings -> Developer Options and change: - "Force GPU rendering" to "Enabled" - this is crucial - "Window animation scale" to .5x - "Transition animation scale" to .5x - "Animator duration scale" to .5x (looks like apps in Android don't load during the animation!!! They start AFTER the animation is done, which is huge waste of time - 1 second for each) 2. Turn of all the services that are doubled and run in the background without a reason. - For instance, if your e-mail is linked in BlackBerry Hub, then turn off Gmail sync in the background, because it does the same thing and drains your battery quicker. 3. Do not close BlackBerry apps, exit the Hub via the circle (home button) instead of back. This should be running as a service, but it isn't. But like I said, it's their first phone and they didn't know how to properly implement their apps in the system. Also make sure you don't have 10 000 messages loaded in your Hub, as it can slow down every inbox. Archive or delete old messages. Besides, turning off unnecessary Google and BlackBerry services, then configuring Doze, makes Priv last even two days on heavy usage.
I loved the Priv… for about 3 months. Then mine got to be impossible to use any newer apps. Snapchat would consistently crash, instagram would load 1-2 photos per minutes. Even watching RUclips was too slow. Only reason I kept it for a total of 11mo was because the keyboard. Now I use an iPhone because I’m still waiting for a really good keyboard phone to come out again
Not a BB fan, but I loved the Priv. It just lacked high end specs and higher end materials. I hate the candybar with keyboard and touch screen form factor, the Priv was much more practical.
You're absolutely right about this: there's still nothing quite like the Priv at the moment on the market. I was wondering which one to get: the DTEK 50, which is although a sweet Android-based device, and the Priv (of course is kinda late since the Priv has been out there for 2 years but I can only afford it now), but not anymore after watching this review. Thank you for making a re-do review of the Priv, it really helps.
my S7 is running the BB Launcher and all the BB apps like BB Hub, password keeper, notes and BBM. I no longer have to buy a Blackberry 👊.... that swipe up on icons is slow a F
Haven't watched the video yet but this comment sums up what went wrong with my experience with the phone (on Android 6.0). Got rid of it after using it for two days, couldn't take the slow everything theme going on with it.
Chester Foster Great to hear Chester. Knowing BlackBerry, these apps will quickly improve through updates. I'm sticking with purchasing the Mercury but I'm glad they released these apps for everyone to enjoy.
I can't seem to find my ingress power cube. anyways I know they made a second version of that power bank but the one he's using I'm the video is the first version
Absolutely loved my Priv and the keyboard. I wish they could release a Priv 2 or something like that. They just need to improve performance and the camera to be honest.
You nailed it MrMobile, the price is the problem. I was looking for a smartphone at $300-$400 and I wished Priv was in it. It has the specs of that price range but sells anywhere above $400.
I'm watching this video and typing this comment from the Priv. I would like to say that since the marshmallow update the device has become sluggish. However this is my second Priv, I moved back from the Moto Z Force. The keyboard is something special and most of all the design. I like unlike the mercury the Priv keyboard does not take up screen space. The Priv has 7 layers of encryption which is why I think the phone is so sluggish. I believe the phone is also doing checks and balances. if the phone had more RAM of course this would be faster. However for the time it was the best available. I'm using it for the second time and man did I miss the design. I bought the device for $250 off amazon warehouse. The device is a people magnet because of the design, great conversation starter.
I pursuaded my mom to upgrade her bold 9900 to a priv! She is really happy with it! Because of her reaction to the blend of blackberry touches to android design she coudn't be happier. That's what motivated me to really want a blackberry too, I've really waited for the KeyOne for so long! This giveaway would make a real difference in my mobile life.
kwhite013 Lol. watching the whole video changed my mind too. Really happy with my Moto Z Play. All day (and sometimes more) battery with tons of screen on time.
kwhite013 you have to remember he does not use this often as a daily driver so that it's not a good judgment call. I watch tons of you tube videos,teather to my laptop. make calls send text and emails. still I don't have to put my phone on the charger. Also my BBM goes off all day and that doesn't kill my batter as well. I really think some of you considering getting the phone not base it off one reviewers opinion
Salis Salman I actually have the Z Force . the battery with the Priv and Z Force are very close together. the Droid does last a little longer but also remember it's not process 7 layers of encryption. The Priv is constantly running checks in the back ground to make sure the phone has not been compromised
Well, I get through the day with it effortlessly. My wife also recently bought one, she changed her iPhone 6 for it, and while she would usually come from work with around 25-35 % battery on the iPhone, on Priv she usually has 55-65 % left. She says (to my surprise because of all of these bad reviews) that battery life is one of the biggest pros of the Priv. And there was one day when she used it very little and she came home with 89 % battery left! With some 11 hours of standby and around half an hour of screen-on time. Regarding performance, I compared them several times while she still had the iPhone in opening various things and Priv came on top in most things. I don't use Snapchat, but Instagram loads faster on Priv than on iPhone 6, Facebook also, WhatsApp, web-page loading is faster as is scrolling and zooming around (I use Opera on Androids, so not sure about Chrome performance), Settings and such apps are also faster etc. Camera is a bit slower to load, but takes better pictures so can't complain. :) I don't really have much use of the front-facing one, if that's important to you, there are better phones. Sure, iP6 is now 2 years old, but they were around the same price at Priv's launch and iP is generally regarded as one of the fastest phones around. While the Priv is certainly not as fast as the Pixel, I wouldn't exactly say it's slow. Plus, Pixel is 750 $, Priv is mostly around 300-350, of course it's slower. It would be stupid to expect the same performance. I still believe that Priv is well on par and even faster than most phones in the 300-ish price range. Where I live that money gets you something like a Galaxy A5 (2016) with Snapdragon 615, only 2 GB of RAM, 16 GB of storage and no QHD screen in sight. So, if you compare the Priv fairly, i.e. to devices in the same price range, I think it's a very good choice.
It was a great design but mine started cracking plastics from the volume and power button area. Cheap plastic but sturdy aluminum part where the display houses. After using for an year, the software started lagging and apps like facebook, messenger started lagging and i had to ditch the phone. The touch sensitive keypad was a great feature. Camera was on par including the awful front camera.
I just bought a Priv for a month now, after going through all phone comparisons. And i would say i'm very happy with my choice. Gorgeous looking, unique design, powerful keyboard shortcuts, decent camera (rear), etc. I would say, the best thing about the priv is the way i use the phone, the experience is really unique and awesome.
RIM is short for "Research In Motion". That "was" BlackBerry before. RIM was the company and BlackBerry was the product / handset. Now: BlackBerry is the company and BlackBerry is it's product. You can compare it like: "BMW" and "3 series". Now: "BMW" and "BMW car"
The Blackberry Z10 was actually one of my favorite phones I've ever owned. The rugged, flat design with a matte soft touch finish, the hub (being able to reply to FB comments, FB messages, texts, and emails all inside of one app!?), the keyboard - though not physical, was still very good, gesture based navigation, and the departure from the Android/iOS debate to something new, and radically different on every level. Reminded me of the Palm Pre. It's a shame to see potential go to waste like that. Same goes for Windows Phone with the huge backing of Microsoft.
Would have bought a Priv at launch if it weren't so expensive. Instead I ended up with an Xperia Z5 which is great but every time I look at the Priv I get reminded of why I still want one.
Good review Michael. I haven't noticed any lag in launching HUB, and it is such a convenience, I can't imagine using anything except Blackberry, since it's free on a BB. I wonder if your PRIV lags because of the number of accounts you are accessing in HUB. I haven't noticed any lag, but I only have 5 email accounts, FaceBook Messenger, BBM, Text Messanger, Pinterest, LInked In and Skype. I am disappointed with the battery, but i assume it is a common problem for all smartphones once they get to be 12 -18 months old. My wife has a Note 5 and it needs to be charged more often than my PRIV. I have been using my PRIV for a year, and I have 130 apps on it, so that may be using some juice. I did buy a couple of their quick chargers and that has helped me power through the day without needing to have my phone constantly recharging. I hardly use the physical keyboard because the Voice Recognition is so much better than the Z30 I used to have.
The amazing PRIV may be a little laggy compared to newer high-end devices, but that doesn't bring it down at all. It was launched in September 2015, and by then it was very fast. We are talking about fractions of a second within processes that won't dramatically affect your productivity, whereas the awesome QWERTY-trackpad, shortcuts, security, support to all modern universal protocols, and crispy clear screen will keep you productive while the experience is outstanding. They might have done a better job with the front camera, but again, there is no phone which doesn't have any flaws at all. This is, overall, the greatest Android device that has ever existed.
Michael is correct. The unit is slower than most, however, when I updated the unit Marsh, I wiped it and now it is much quicker and the batt life is much better.
I've had this phone for 10 months now and I think I'd agree with your review. Pretty close to spot on. I think I like the rear-facing camera more than you probably do. I'm a huge BlackBerry devotee but I think you pretty much nailed it. I just wish I could get the DTEK60 on Verizon.
Have a PRIV last 6 months and no issues whatsoever. Surprised no mention on how nobody has been able to root! That is security! That is BlackBerry. Mentions like Nougat is installed in all Android devices? when BlackBerry is getting security updates basically at same time as Google devices. Not a bad review buy yes misleading . would be good if gave all the straight facts. By the way with all other Android devices when I type the keyboard real estate is so reduced ? look the PRIV does not have that problem..please if you do a Re do do it correctly and completely! thanks
Where did you get the cool red plaid wallpaper? Also I want to say that I love love love my Priv. I transitioned off my BlackBerry Torch because the current apps and some websites are not supported on it anymore. So this was a great upgrade for me.
I get that this is a joke but I want to make it clear that MrMobile does not do paid reviews under any circumstances. Also: if I were BlackBerry I'm not sure I would have paid someone for anything after 2:37.
Priv would be an amazing phone if those performance issues were addressed. Seems like a perfect form-factor to jump from Passport, Key2 wasn't too good for the price.
Would you recommend to upgrade to the Keyone from the Priv? From the other review it sounds you do. Here are my experiences of the Blackberry Priv, after 1 year 4 months, as you asked to share experiences. I bought mine on eBay from the USA, for around 400 Euros total (shipping, customs, taxes). The Priv is great sometimes, and is plain suffering experience due to the laggishness you mention at other times. CPU overheating, no charging when installing/updating apps in the background, battery barely lasting 5-6 hours during a day. My Ravpower charger gets used a lot! Otherwise, I use Nova Launcher, works better than the Blackberry Launcher. Buttons remapper does the trick for launching apps from keyboard. The Blackberry hub is a time waster, slow and sluggish. I agree, the Device Search is fantastic, but it's so slow, I never use it. I have the model with wireless charging, unfortunately the phone is a power sucker, so the wireless charging cannot keep up with the consumption, it looses charge while on the charger. Quickcharge fortunately works well most of the time, except when the device is switching to trickle charge to prevent overheating. Screen is nice and sharp. The build quality is solid, the phone can take the beating easily without any cover, while the Samsung S7 Edge of my wife already broke twice from very-minor hits of daily life, and went trough already one full screen replacement for 300 Euros. What I hate the most is that I have to constantly close apps, because too many apps in the background makes it choppy. And every 2-3 days it is recommended to do a complete power off with a soft reset, to clear the RAM, to speed up the phone. Despite all these features, still I find this is the best device for productivity: typing longer e-mails, taking notes during presentations, extensive use of OneNote or Evernote, adding tasks on Todoist, tracking expenses and food, completing occasional documents in MS Word or updating tables in MS Excel. All this is possible on other phones, but somehow, typing for extended periods on the physical keyboard is simply just possible, while I never would write more than a few words on a software keyboard. It is fast for short texts, but I never wanted to write anything longer on a software keyboard. A great feature that I love, is taking notes during a Skype audio call. I have the device in hand with a headset, I have OneNote open, and I type notes in parallel to the conversation - great time saver. The software keyboard is also great, in fact I have installed the Blackberry software keyboard on the other Android devices in the family. There's one area where blackberry excels and you didn't mention: using several languages in parallel. Here in Europe, it is quite common to use two or three languages in parallel, or I use four (English, German, French, Hungarian). Unfortunately, software prediction gets in the way very fast, unless one switches the language every single time. I prefer to switch off auto correction, and type fast, and leave the prediction on as optional. Blackberry can handle three languages in parallel for prediction, which more or less works, but the automatic corrections simply cannot cut it. Photos are "passable", they are a keeper, while the pictures on the S7 edge of my wife are "great". I find the front camera terrible, I only use it for Skype calls, I never use it for pictures.
The Priv is the only cellphone I've kept longer than 6 months in the last 6 years. That being said, EVERYTHING about this review is spot on. Both the good and the bad.
I really wish the Mercury had a slide up keyboard, I don't think most consumers would like a phone with a permanent tactile keyboard on the front, the Mercury seems more aimed at a niche market
NateFreestyle I noticed the slow down after marshmallow. I'm going to read up and find out exactly what that added into that update as far as encryption.
rxbuyer24 I have the LG G4 (snap 808 and 3gb RAM) and feels responsive and boot quickly. I can open ~10 apps at the same time and switch them without refresh or slowness
fersunk good point..but on the new BlackBerry Mercury with the Snapdragon 625/3gb RAM (rumor spec) is that going to be enough to keep the device from slowing down
fair review. I own priv for over a year now and I will upgrade to mercury once it comes out. I like priv because of physical keyboard and blackberry hub. "slowness" of the phone does not bother me much. obviously is slower to open apps or run some games than the newest android phones but not enough to make it meaningful difference. at the end priv can do exactly what pixel can but a little bit slower. i feel no desire to upgrade to newer , faster touch screen only phones because for me blackberry experience with physical keyboard matters more. one thing I love about priv hardware is its front speaker. I use the speaker for long conversations and the speaker is really good. . I think phone is great value at discounted rates that are easy to find on priv now.
I just switched to Priv and have to say, everything you say about the slow system is true. It was fast for like a day, after factory reset (with Android 6), but after updating all the apps, it slowed sooo much. I still see it as a downgrade compared to Passport in many ways, except, of course, apps. Looking forward for what BB comes with in 2021
That was an amazing review. I was a passport user and loved! The device the hub actually was quick as it was running bb10. Its probably the most missed feature. And I loved the keyboard scrolling.
Have the PRIV myself and found your review spot on. Although, I don't have drastic slow down or speed issues. I'm guessing it's because i clear my storage cache and do a 'go speed' performance boost monthly. (Ah the joys of Android) Myself, I'm looking forward to the Mercury. I just can't get used to the PRIV style keyboard after the Passport. Mercury looks to have a more traditional quality BlackBerry keyboard. Thanks for the video. Really well done.
This is a great phone. I paid 325 bucks for it unlocked from Best Buy and transferred it from my old T Mobile My Touch Q which had a full horizontal slide out. I got the phone mostly for the slide out but found the other features like hub fantastic. I grew up before even cordless phone so for me this is amazing. I think it runs plenty fast. I wish more phone makers would go back to the slide out. It is so much easier to type on. Pros: The interfaces, slide out keyboard, the Hub, the camera, the battery life- well over 36 hours with the Marshmellow update. Cons: Answering the phone is a bit glitchy and it is not just a simple press to answer it. It is a weird swipe that it takes time to master. Another con was opening certain attachments until I found the right file app. The screen is also not as thick and tough as my old My Touch so I plan to get a shockproof case. Compared to what people are paying for IPhones- which are overrated, this phone is a steal. 7 years ago I paid about 200 dollars on sale for the MyTouch Q and kept it for a long time due to the slide out. Given that I only paid a bit more for the Priv and it does so much more. I think you need the perspective of an ordinary person who grew up without all this tech to have a full appreciation of the convenience of this phone.
I have this phone and love it, but regrettably your spot on with your comments regarding the speed of the priv. I can't help but think there is a memory leak, because if you check background apps when the device really slows down, there is very little ram left if any. Reboot and the phone is fine again for a time. IDK really but hopefully nougat resolves these issues.
![MrMobile [Michael Fisher]](http://yt3.ggpht.com/Bf8B_79jyHxP6CVnjV5WKws93l9Vxlk0d7aPmcBygTBDKzgsGrpazdJRFUrfg1sUNlo8YX8rji8=s48-c-k-c0x00ffffff-no-rj)
they need to make a priv 2
if they just added a better camera and newer processor ill be more than fine
Mikey Guanipa Agreed.
Mikey Guanipa Camera is pretty good.
Mikey Guanipa I bought one and I loved everything but the battery :( it heated up soo bad. Other than that was perfect
Raquel Vasquez When? Marshmallow improved it.
mine is still heating up to the point where the CPU temp averages 36 degrees celsius... already on marshmallow. i maxed out at 51 deg once playing a few matches of clash royale
I genuinely love this guy's review style
it's fun and spicy
Jeppe Werring Spicy?
I love it, too. It's unique!
***** I feel like that was directed at Austin Evans lol.
Indra Fransens my first impression... "Mr. Tony Starks". :))
I loved my Priv, with the exception of the camera and the atrocious processor (which inevitably led to shite battery life). I could live with the camera, but whenever I used the Priv for navigation in a car, particularly in the summer, I had to stick the phone to the A/C vent so it wouldn't spontaneously combust.
Hahaha so funny to share this, DITTO. Map guidance on this it was abismal, and when using the wireless charging I was wondering why it didn't melt.
This is a BEAUTIFUL looking phone
Isn't it?!
Nicholas Sainburg the looks are beautiful . can't ignore that
That wears quickly off when you get mad with its usage.
Love it so much, bored with iPhone like phone these days
Bit late but yeah most gorgeous phone i have owned. Unfortunately the lack of custom rom AND more importantly the sluggishness & heat increase made me sell it for an op3. Still nothing like the priv.
Your way in videos is really awesome and well organized than other RUclips channels ! I think that you should have a lot of subscribers.
Mohamed El Domyaty he will definitely . most of people are not aware that its a micheal fisher channel that's the reason
thank you so much Michael! I missed your pocketnow after the buzz episodes so much and this is even better!
William Baker same here .... plz continue episodes like these
they still have after the buzz episodes, just less frequent
EnemyofHK yeah but I only watched the ones michael did
Regarding the opening line:
Now it's been nearly four and a half years since this thing hit shelves, and there's *still* nothing quite like it!
I really, really, really want this phone. SO DAMN MUCH. I'd probably buy it in a few years from now I can find one.
WHY DID IT HAVE TO MESS UP WHERE IT DID?! It looks god damn beautiful, it has that AMAZING AMOLED screen, that epic, fucking epic, keyboard and that ever so lovable BlackBerry branding. My first phone was a BlackBerry and god did I love it.
Somehow, that TLC doesn't have the charm of the Priv. It doesn't look like a flagship, and probably won't be specced up either.
Ergh, it's such an evil thing, to make such a beautiful thing and ruin it with bad software and internals. I will never stop wanting it, but I know I can never use it. Such is life, such is life. Blackberry, why did you do this to me?!
As a PRIV owner I do agree to an extent. Just a few fixes could make it the best phone ever made. If it didn't have Snap Dragon's biggest mistake, if it got Android Nougat, if it had a fingerprint scanner, if BlackBerry got the thermal management correct, I wouldn't be thinking of a new phone for at least a couple of more years.
Despite the flaws, I can't find a phone worth upgrading to. If I go for a Key2, I have to give up my AMOLED 5.4" qHD display. Any other brand, then I lose the physical keyboard that I've fallen in love with.
Lost mine bought another as a collectable for 100usd only this year.
priv user here, I agree with everything Michael has said, still love my Priv though.
you still have it?
I still use my priv today
With a iPhone 15 pro max
You're honesty is greatly appreciated with reviews like this.
Love the channel, MrMobile!
Mine was so sluggish. Overheats even for the slightest task. Using google maps or waze in a tropical country is out of the question. Mine finally died few months ago. Despite all this, i still loved my Priv. I was hoping they would come out with Priv 2 but dont think that will ever happen.
3:51 Love that lit up Excelsior class model, Michael. I really enjoy the quality videos you produce.
I had this phone, some days it made me feel so good, other days I just wanted to put in a blender. But it was always controversial and part of a wow factor in parties. My frustrated dream was Industrial Design, this embodies everything I wanted to create in my mind.
Hi. Would u advise against getting a priv now in 2022? I wonder if it's usable and doesn't get too too hot or anything ? I want it for calls and text and occasional browsing.
The TMobile model got really hot but the Verizon model was fine & is unlocked.... So I still use mine for still photos with a Hassleblad lense & as a spare on mint mobile....
My job is forcing us to carry a 2nd device for work only, so I went with this one. I truly appreciate you doing a review on how it runs, what's still good, and what isn't so great now.
Thank goodness this will only be used for text, email, calls, and occasional web browsing.
Loved the voice "This is a business device. ...." 😂😂😹
As a big Windows fan, who generally hates android and google, I could still imagine myself using this phone. It looks so cool :D
I have my Priv since march and I love it. I love the design, I love the screen, I love the excellent speaker, I love the main camera and I love the battery, which is absolutely amazing for me. And since I don't care about the front facing camera there's only one thing that I ABSOLUTELY HATE ABOUT THIS PHONE - PERFORMANCE. It's garbage. Apps constantly reload, I can reboot my old phopne 3 times in a time it takes Priv to reboot, apps take forever to open... even the settings menu is slow and drops frames constantly. Also the Nougat update is waaaay overdue. But here's me still hoping it'll bring better performance.
Mateusz Wojtkiewicz The boot up slowness is probably due to the security tweaks.
NateFreestyle correct I know a lot of people don't research, however BlackBerry did a whole write up on the 7 layers of encryption put into the Priv. Google search will bring up the information.
Thanks for all the comments about the security. I don't think, however, that's the reason for overall poor performance or terrible ram management.
Priv is poorly configured out of the box - that's the main performance issue.
Here's the fix:
1. Go to Settings -> Developer Options and change:
- "Force GPU rendering" to "Enabled" - this is crucial
- "Window animation scale" to .5x
- "Transition animation scale" to .5x
- "Animator duration scale" to .5x
(looks like apps in Android don't load during the animation!!! They start AFTER the animation is done, which is huge waste of time - 1 second for each)
2. Turn of all the services that are doubled and run in the background without a reason.
- For instance, if your e-mail is linked in BlackBerry Hub, then turn off Gmail sync in the background, because it does the same thing and drains your battery quicker.
3. Do not close BlackBerry apps, exit the Hub via the circle (home button) instead of back.
This should be running as a service, but it isn't. But like I said, it's their first phone and they didn't know how to properly implement their apps in the system.
Also make sure you don't have 10 000 messages loaded in your Hub, as it can slow down every inbox. Archive or delete old messages.
Besides, turning off unnecessary Google and BlackBerry services, then configuring Doze, makes Priv last even two days on heavy usage.
Michał Limitless tried what you said and didn't work. Still really laggy.
The blackberry video at pocketnow was the first review I heard your voice. Still get goosebumps to this day 😂
"I'm Michael FIsher with Pocketnow..."
I loved the Priv… for about 3 months. Then mine got to be impossible to use any newer apps. Snapchat would consistently crash, instagram would load 1-2 photos per minutes. Even watching RUclips was too slow. Only reason I kept it for a total of 11mo was because the keyboard. Now I use an iPhone because I’m still waiting for a really good keyboard phone to come out again
Not a BB fan, but I loved the Priv. It just lacked high end specs and higher end materials.
I hate the candybar with keyboard and touch screen form factor, the Priv was much more practical.
You're absolutely right about this: there's still nothing quite like the Priv at the moment on the market. I was wondering which one to get: the DTEK 50, which is although a sweet Android-based device, and the Priv (of course is kinda late since the Priv has been out there for 2 years but I can only afford it now), but not anymore after watching this review. Thank you for making a re-do review of the Priv, it really helps.
my S7 is running the BB Launcher and all the BB apps like BB Hub, password keeper, notes and BBM. I no longer have to buy a Blackberry 👊.... that swipe up on icons is slow a F
The whole thing is slow af, sadly. :(
Chester Foster Action Launcher 3 offers the same feature!
hahaha he said as fuck :P
Haven't watched the video yet but this comment sums up what went wrong with my experience with the phone (on Android 6.0). Got rid of it after using it for two days, couldn't take the slow everything theme going on with it.
Chester Foster Great to hear Chester. Knowing BlackBerry, these apps will quickly improve through updates. I'm sticking with purchasing the Mercury but I'm glad they released these apps for everyone to enjoy.
I really enjoy your "phone revisited" videos. please keep them up!
You can tell when MrMobile's videos are filmed by the "Backdrops" wallpaper
Your review style and the way you talk, its very professional. Keep it that way. Cheers!
Can I know what cable and power bank are you using at 4:05?
I think he mentions it his earlier videos, if not on this channel then on PocketNow. It's called the Ingress Power Cube I believe.
Yeah the power bank is the Ingress Power Cube thank you! But what is the cable?
Seems to be a generic USB cable, this looks kind of like it:
www.dhgate.com/store/product/visible-led-light-micro-usb-data-sync-charger/180042366.html
I can't seem to find my ingress power cube. anyways I know they made a second version of that power bank but the one he's using I'm the video is the first version
Absolutely loved my Priv and the keyboard. I wish they could release a Priv 2 or something like that. They just need to improve performance and the camera to be honest.
I love that curved display
You nailed it MrMobile, the price is the problem. I was looking for a smartphone at $300-$400 and I wished Priv was in it. It has the specs of that price range but sells anywhere above $400.
I'm watching this video and typing this comment from the Priv. I would like to say that since the marshmallow update the device has become sluggish. However this is my second Priv, I moved back from the Moto Z Force. The keyboard is something special and most of all the design. I like unlike the mercury the Priv keyboard does not take up screen space. The Priv has 7 layers of encryption which is why I think the phone is so sluggish. I believe the phone is also doing checks and balances. if the phone had more RAM of course this would be faster. However for the time it was the best available. I'm using it for the second time and man did I miss the design. I bought the device for $250 off amazon warehouse. The device is a people magnet because of the design, great conversation starter.
stranger danger I agree; BlackBerry knows how to design phones. They have great talent.
Nobody does After the Buzz vids like Michael Fisher! Hope you do more videos like this in the future 👏🏼
Is there any news about the Priv 2? I really wanna try something other than samsung and these one's from BB are frankly the only good options i see.
The way you review phones is awesome and your channel is greatly organized, your channel is grown a lot since it was made, you're awesome 👍
The real question is, How did you manage to keep dust out of the speaker grill?
I pursuaded my mom to upgrade her bold 9900 to a priv! She is really happy with it! Because of her reaction to the blend of blackberry touches to android design she coudn't be happier. That's what motivated me to really want a blackberry too, I've really waited for the KeyOne for so long! This giveaway would make a real difference in my mobile life.
I want one now. Thanks Mr.Mobile!
Never mind I jumped to conclusions. Just got to the part where the battery doesn't last a whole day. No thanks, I'll wait for the Priv 2 or Mercury
kwhite013 Lol. watching the whole video changed my mind too. Really happy with my Moto Z Play. All day (and sometimes more) battery with tons of screen on time.
kwhite013 you have to remember he does not use this often as a daily driver so that it's not a good judgment call. I watch tons of you tube videos,teather to my laptop. make calls send text and emails. still I don't have to put my phone on the charger. Also my BBM goes off all day and that doesn't kill my batter as well. I really think some of you considering getting the phone not base it off one reviewers opinion
Salis Salman I actually have the Z Force . the battery with the Priv and Z Force are very close together. the Droid does last a little longer but also remember it's not process 7 layers of encryption. The Priv is constantly running checks in the back ground to make sure the phone has not been compromised
Well, I get through the day with it effortlessly. My wife also recently bought one, she changed her iPhone 6 for it, and while she would usually come from work with around 25-35 % battery on the iPhone, on Priv she usually has 55-65 % left. She says (to my surprise because of all of these bad reviews) that battery life is one of the biggest pros of the Priv. And there was one day when she used it very little and she came home with 89 % battery left! With some 11 hours of standby and around half an hour of screen-on time.
Regarding performance, I compared them several times while she still had the iPhone in opening various things and Priv came on top in most things. I don't use Snapchat, but Instagram loads faster on Priv than on iPhone 6, Facebook also, WhatsApp, web-page loading is faster as is scrolling and zooming around (I use Opera on Androids, so not sure about Chrome performance), Settings and such apps are also faster etc. Camera is a bit slower to load, but takes better pictures so can't complain. :) I don't really have much use of the front-facing one, if that's important to you, there are better phones. Sure, iP6 is now 2 years old, but they were around the same price at Priv's launch and iP is generally regarded as one of the fastest phones around.
While the Priv is certainly not as fast as the Pixel, I wouldn't exactly say it's slow. Plus, Pixel is 750 $, Priv is mostly around 300-350, of course it's slower. It would be stupid to expect the same performance.
I still believe that Priv is well on par and even faster than most phones in the 300-ish price range. Where I live that money gets you something like a Galaxy A5 (2016) with Snapdragon 615, only 2 GB of RAM, 16 GB of storage and no QHD screen in sight.
So, if you compare the Priv fairly, i.e. to devices in the same price range, I think it's a very good choice.
how does it come that your videos are the only ones that are so amazingly smooth? I mean, the frame rate is amazing
I owned this phone for the trackpad features but I also returned it because it was too slow.
Really love the 'After the Buzz' videos Michael Fisher makes! :)
Anything with the physical keyboard has my sympathies.
"the physical keyboard"? You mean to say there is only one physical keyboard in the world?!
I beg your pardon, sire.
It was a great design but mine started cracking plastics from the volume and power button area. Cheap plastic but sturdy aluminum part where the display houses. After using for an year, the software started lagging and apps like facebook, messenger started lagging and i had to ditch the phone. The touch sensitive keypad was a great feature. Camera was on par including the awful front camera.
This is the one brand I would love to see come back. Hope it reaches it's former glory 😋
I just bought a Priv for a month now, after going through all phone comparisons. And i would say i'm very happy with my choice. Gorgeous looking, unique design, powerful keyboard shortcuts, decent camera (rear), etc. I would say, the best thing about the priv is the way i use the phone, the experience is really unique and awesome.
I like these revisited reviews.
I probably watched this video because im subscribed! Your videos are awesome and you bring your views on tech in an intresting and alluring way.
those fake phone calls b roll-s are kinda kool lol
My favorite feature of slide phones' is the ability to answer calls by sliding the keyboard open. It just feels so GOOD!
I'm using BlackBerry priv and I still love it
i saw u at first at pocketnow . then i just became fan of your reviews . nice review boss.
Michael you are awesome! Thank you for that video! The last "true" BlackBerry (inhouse engineered)!
I also love the Z10 & Passport - that QNX platform is something unique only BlackBerry could make. The sad thing is that it never got a chance.
actually the mercury will be the last in-house design. The Venice will be the last one designed AND built by BB.
+Mr. Random hi what is RIM??
RIM is short for "Research In Motion". That "was" BlackBerry before. RIM was the company and BlackBerry was the product / handset. Now: BlackBerry is the company and BlackBerry is it's product. You can compare it like: "BMW" and "3 series". Now: "BMW" and "BMW car"
Ich bins thank you well noted.btw what happen to RIM now?
The Blackberry Z10 was actually one of my favorite phones I've ever owned. The rugged, flat design with a matte soft touch finish, the hub (being able to reply to FB comments, FB messages, texts, and emails all inside of one app!?), the keyboard - though not physical, was still very good, gesture based navigation, and the departure from the Android/iOS debate to something new, and radically different on every level. Reminded me of the Palm Pre. It's a shame to see potential go to waste like that. Same goes for Windows Phone with the huge backing of Microsoft.
shahirahmed007 At least it had a removable battery.
Silicon like in a Huawei?
Silicon like in every computing device.
MrMobile [Michael Fisher] Ohhh. Haha
processor man
Would have bought a Priv at launch if it weren't so expensive. Instead I ended up with an Xperia Z5 which is great but every time I look at the Priv I get reminded of why I still want one.
Do a retro review of the Nokia E7!
I really love the design of the Priv! Please don't waste the design, blackberry! Release the priv 2 with higher spec for us!
Lol 3:04 you're the best phone review in the game, bro.
Darnell W. Just cause he mocked a hater using a mocky voice? wow your standards are low lmao
Good review Michael. I haven't noticed any lag in launching HUB, and it is such a convenience, I can't imagine using anything except Blackberry, since it's free on a BB. I wonder if your PRIV lags because of the number of accounts you are accessing in HUB. I haven't noticed any lag, but I only have 5 email accounts, FaceBook Messenger, BBM, Text Messanger, Pinterest, LInked In and Skype. I am disappointed with the battery, but i assume it is a common problem for all smartphones once they get to be 12 -18 months old. My wife has a Note 5 and it needs to be charged more often than my PRIV. I have been using my PRIV for a year, and I have 130 apps on it, so that may be using some juice. I did buy a couple of their quick chargers and that has helped me power through the day without needing to have my phone constantly recharging. I hardly use the physical keyboard because the Voice Recognition is so much better than the Z30 I used to have.
yes the design is perfect i will going to buy this even its 2017.
The amazing PRIV may be a little laggy compared to newer high-end devices, but that doesn't bring it down at all. It was launched in September 2015, and by then it was very fast. We are talking about fractions of a second within processes that won't dramatically affect your productivity, whereas the awesome QWERTY-trackpad, shortcuts, security, support to all modern universal protocols, and crispy clear screen will keep you productive while the experience is outstanding. They might have done a better job with the front camera, but again, there is no phone which doesn't have any flaws at all. This is, overall, the greatest Android device that has ever existed.
This needs a successor
Michael is correct. The unit is slower than most, however, when I updated the unit Marsh, I wiped it and now it is much quicker and the batt life is much better.
"lackberry" so ironic lol
Rishabh Patel fuck off poo
that app shortcut keyboard is genius
I miss you QNX.
always up a Micheal Fisher review because it's worth it 👌
HashChat Snaptag 😂😂😂
I've had this phone for 10 months now and I think I'd agree with your review. Pretty close to spot on. I think I like the rear-facing camera more than you probably do. I'm a huge BlackBerry devotee but I think you pretty much nailed it. I just wish I could get the DTEK60 on Verizon.
Have a PRIV last 6 months and no issues whatsoever. Surprised no mention on how nobody has been able to root! That is security! That is BlackBerry. Mentions like Nougat is installed in all Android devices? when BlackBerry is getting security updates basically at same time as Google devices. Not a bad review buy yes misleading . would be good if gave all the straight facts. By the way with all other Android devices when I type the keyboard real estate is so reduced ? look the PRIV does not have that problem..please if you do a Re do do it correctly and completely! thanks
Where did you get the cool red plaid wallpaper?
Also I want to say that I love love love my Priv. I transitioned off my BlackBerry Torch because the current apps and some websites are not supported on it anymore. So this was a great upgrade for me.
Blackberry must have shelled out some money. Lol
I get that this is a joke but I want to make it clear that MrMobile does not do paid reviews under any circumstances. Also: if I were BlackBerry I'm not sure I would have paid someone for anything after 2:37.
Priv would be an amazing phone if those performance issues were addressed. Seems like a perfect form-factor to jump from Passport, Key2 wasn't too good for the price.
#VerifyFisher
I'd kill for a priv 2, I always wanted that phone. It's actually interesting and innovative with lots of useful features.
Would you recommend to upgrade to the Keyone from the Priv? From the other review it sounds you do.
Here are my experiences of the Blackberry Priv, after 1 year 4 months, as you asked to share experiences. I bought mine on eBay from the USA, for around 400 Euros total (shipping, customs, taxes). The Priv is great sometimes, and is plain suffering experience due to the laggishness you mention at other times. CPU overheating, no charging when installing/updating apps in the background, battery barely lasting 5-6 hours during a day. My Ravpower charger gets used a lot! Otherwise, I use Nova Launcher, works better than the Blackberry Launcher. Buttons remapper does the trick for launching apps from keyboard. The Blackberry hub is a time waster, slow and sluggish. I agree, the Device Search is fantastic, but it's so slow, I never use it.
I have the model with wireless charging, unfortunately the phone is a power sucker, so the wireless charging cannot keep up with the consumption, it looses charge while on the charger. Quickcharge fortunately works well most of the time, except when the device is switching to trickle charge to prevent overheating.
Screen is nice and sharp. The build quality is solid, the phone can take the beating easily without any cover, while the Samsung S7 Edge of my wife already broke twice from very-minor hits of daily life, and went trough already one full screen replacement for 300 Euros.
What I hate the most is that I have to constantly close apps, because too many apps in the background makes it choppy. And every 2-3 days it is recommended to do a complete power off with a soft reset, to clear the RAM, to speed up the phone.
Despite all these features, still I find this is the best device for productivity: typing longer e-mails, taking notes during presentations, extensive use of OneNote or Evernote, adding tasks on Todoist, tracking expenses and food, completing occasional documents in MS Word or updating tables in MS Excel. All this is possible on other phones, but somehow, typing for extended periods on the physical keyboard is simply just possible, while I never would write more than a few words on a software keyboard. It is fast for short texts, but I never wanted to write anything longer on a software keyboard.
A great feature that I love, is taking notes during a Skype audio call. I have the device in hand with a headset, I have OneNote open, and I type notes in parallel to the conversation - great time saver.
The software keyboard is also great, in fact I have installed the Blackberry software keyboard on the other Android devices in the family.
There's one area where blackberry excels and you didn't mention: using several languages in parallel. Here in Europe, it is quite common to use two or three languages in parallel, or I use four (English, German, French, Hungarian). Unfortunately, software prediction gets in the way very fast, unless one switches the language every single time. I prefer to switch off auto correction, and type fast, and leave the prediction on as optional. Blackberry can handle three languages in parallel for prediction, which more or less works, but the automatic corrections simply cannot cut it.
Photos are "passable", they are a keeper, while the pictures on the S7 edge of my wife are "great". I find the front camera terrible, I only use it for Skype calls, I never use it for pictures.
Great video review as always, Michael. Say, are you planning on reviewing the new Nokia phone?-for nostalgia's sake, at the very least?
The Priv is the only cellphone I've kept longer than 6 months in the last 6 years. That being said, EVERYTHING about this review is spot on. Both the good and the bad.
But still nothing can replace that satisfying slider noise after a call 😍
Michael you should keep doing these! How bout the Moto x Pure next??? Awesome vid btw
Used it for two years. It was a great phone. But eventually it's battery gave up and then there were issues with updates. The keyboard was sturdy.
Sir, is the priv battery as bad as people say? They say it overheats alot.
Another excellent review that needs to be shared. This guy. I'm a believer.
I really wish the Mercury had a slide up keyboard, I don't think most consumers would like a phone with a permanent tactile keyboard on the front, the Mercury seems more aimed at a niche market
love the video recording style and review style ..... awesome and unique . u Rock Micheal fisher .
Second favorite tech reviewer. You do a fantastic job.
Mrmobile...do you think the slow down is the Snapdragon 808 or RAM or a combo of both?
rxbuyer24 That's what everyone is trying to figure out. I wish we had an answer.
NateFreestyle I noticed the slow down after marshmallow. I'm going to read up and find out exactly what that added into that update as far as encryption.
rxbuyer24 I have the LG G4 (snap 808 and 3gb RAM) and feels responsive and boot quickly.
I can open ~10 apps at the same time and switch them without refresh or slowness
fersunk I can believe it, but the LG G4 does not have to process though 7 layers of encryption.
fersunk good point..but on the new BlackBerry Mercury with the Snapdragon 625/3gb RAM (rumor spec) is that going to be enough to keep the device from slowing down
great review! it's lagging response and very short battery is due to its 550ppi screen
Thank you @Michaelfisher for all the great reviews on all smart phones you've ever covered. You are the best.
fair review. I own priv for over a year now and I will upgrade to mercury once it comes out. I like priv because of physical keyboard and blackberry hub. "slowness" of the phone does not bother me much.
obviously is slower to open apps or run some games than the newest android phones but not enough to make it meaningful difference. at the end priv can do exactly what pixel can but a little bit slower. i feel no desire to upgrade to newer , faster touch screen only phones because for me blackberry experience with physical keyboard matters more. one thing I love about priv hardware is its front speaker. I use the speaker for long conversations and the speaker is really good. . I think phone is great value at discounted rates that are easy to find on priv now.
what's the name of that upbeat electronic music that plays during the 'what's held up' part?
I just switched to Priv and have to say, everything you say about the slow system is true. It was fast for like a day, after factory reset (with Android 6), but after updating all the apps, it slowed sooo much. I still see it as a downgrade compared to Passport in many ways, except, of course, apps. Looking forward for what BB comes with in 2021
Is priv really that bad in 2022? Is the classic and passport better?
I used this phone... It was brilliant. I wish they made a Priv 2 with the same form factor and improved hardware.
I somehow think that priv look alot better than key1 and key2. The materials are better. And looks more classy .
Micheal your very consistent!
Can I ask where you got that red wallpaper for the Priv? It looks amazing
I wish they would just reveal a current gen Priv 2. I would choose an updated Priv over the Galaxy S8 or an iPhone 8 any day of the week.
That was an amazing review. I was a passport user and loved! The device the hub actually was quick as it was running bb10. Its probably the most missed feature. And I loved the keyboard scrolling.
Have the PRIV myself and found your review spot on. Although, I don't have drastic slow down or speed issues. I'm guessing it's because i clear my storage cache and do a 'go speed' performance boost monthly. (Ah the joys of Android) Myself, I'm looking forward to the Mercury. I just can't get used to the PRIV style keyboard after the Passport. Mercury looks to have a more traditional quality BlackBerry keyboard. Thanks for the video. Really well done.
This is a great phone. I paid 325 bucks for it unlocked from Best Buy and transferred it from my old T Mobile My Touch Q which had a full horizontal slide out. I got the phone mostly for the slide out but found the other features like hub fantastic. I grew up before even cordless phone so for me this is amazing. I think it runs plenty fast. I wish more phone makers would go back to the slide out. It is so much easier to type on.
Pros: The interfaces, slide out keyboard, the Hub, the camera, the battery life- well over 36 hours with the Marshmellow update. Cons: Answering the phone is a bit glitchy and it is not just a simple press to answer it. It is a weird swipe that it takes time to master. Another con was opening certain attachments until I found the right file app. The screen is also not as thick and tough as my old My Touch so I plan to get a shockproof case.
Compared to what people are paying for IPhones- which are overrated, this phone is a steal. 7 years ago I paid about 200 dollars on sale for the MyTouch Q and kept it for a long time due to the slide out. Given that I only paid a bit more for the Priv and it does so much more. I think you need the perspective of an ordinary person who grew up without all this tech to have a full appreciation of the convenience of this phone.
One other thing that I noticed is that the phone seems to get fairly dirty. What's your thoughts on this Mr. Fisher?
I have this phone and love it, but regrettably your spot on with your comments regarding the speed of the priv. I can't help but think there is a memory leak, because if you check background apps when the device really slows down, there is very little ram left if any. Reboot and the phone is fine again for a time. IDK really but hopefully nougat resolves these issues.
I hope so too - but then, I recall hoping the same for the Lollipop -> Marshmallow bump.
+MrMobile [Michael Fisher] very true!
damn, if this phone wasn't slow, i'd so get it. i love that it can hide the keyboard unlike the key series.