Only TCL will release BlackBerrys in Europe

Only TCL, known for the Alcatel brand on smartphones, will release devices under the BlackBerry name in Europe. In some other countries BlackBerry leaves open the possibility for other manufacturers to release devices, but in Europe TCL is the only supplier.

As a result, only BlackBerrys like the recent DTEK50 and DTEK60 will appear in the future, according to an announcement from both companies. Both DTEK phones are based on earlier models that TCL released under the Alcatel flag. TCL’s BlackBerry phones will feature software from the Canadian former smartphone manufacturer.

TCL and BlackBerry’s exclusive agreement is valid in all countries except India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh and Indonesia. Other manufacturers can also use the BlackBerry software and brand there. In addition to designing and manufacturing, TCL also handles warranty and customer service for the BlackBerry phones.

Despite the fact that TCL will now be the only supplier, BlackBerry will come next year with a single new model with a physical keyboard. Photos of this have recently been posted online. This ends the hardware branch of BlackBerry.

DTEK50