BlackBerry Priv Simulator Reveals Productivity Edge Feature

It looks like the BlackBerry Priv's dual curved edge won't just be for show. We're still not sure if Samsung has had any hand in this, but it seems that those edges will have some hidden features much like, actually even more than, the Galaxy S6 edge. Canadian carrier Telus "accidentally" put up a BlackBerry Priv simulator that acted as an interactive manual for the smartphone's features. Although the simulator has since then been pulled down, quick eyes and hands have ensured that we have plenty to look at.

We've seen hints before that the curved edge will display a charge indicator when the display is locked, with a gauge that rises from bottom to top. Now we're discovering that the edges are also more interactive than initially thought. When the display is on, a swiping gesture will reveal shortcuts to favorite apps. Users can choose whether the left or the right side will be the Productivity Edge.

Aside from that, those edges also has another use. When on the homescreen, for example, a swipe from the edge will immediately launch the Notes app, perfect for quickly typing something.

Unrelated to the edges, the simulator also revealed some rather interesting features. For example, swiping up on an app icon on the homescreen will pop up its associated widget if it has one. This is a functionality offered by some Android launchers like Action Launcher's Shutters feature.

Suffice it to say, it seems that the BlackBerry Priv will be interesting beyond simply the fact that it is a BlackBerry Android smartphone. The Priv is now available for pre-orders in the US with a price tag of $699 and a shipping date of November 6. The device will run on a Snapdragon 808 with 3 GB of RAM and will boast of a 5.4-inch QHD display. And of course, that sliding keyboard.

VIA: phoneArena