BlackBerry cuts QWERTY device prices
23 Jul 2014
Canadian handset manufacturer BlackBerry, formerly Research In Motion, has slashed the prices of a range of QWERTY keyboard mobile devices, effective Wednesday.
The company, which is trying to regain its leadership position in the smartphone market, has slashed prices by upto Rs6,000.
The highest reduction was effected for BlackBerry Q5 at Rs6,000, with the handset's prices slashed to Rs13,990 from the earlier Rs19,990.
BlackBerry also slashed the prices of BlackBerry 9720 by Rs4,000 to Rs11,990 from earlier Rs15,990. Prices of QWERTY handset BlackBerry 9320 was slashed by Rs 1,010 to Rs9,900 from the earlier Rs11,000.
''The classic BlackBerry keyboard, re-engineered for the fast efficient navigation and one-handed use, has huge fan base who swear by the distinct typing experience that BlackBerry offers. These compelling price-points will enable QWERTY fans to experience the latest technology and ease of use in one device,'' said Sameer Bhatia, director, distribution at BlackBerry India.
BlackBerry has reduced prices a number of times during the recent past. In March, it slashed prices of its flagship device Z30 by Rs5,000 to Rs34,990 under a limited period offer (See: BlackBerry slashes prices Z30 by Rs5,000) . The company said this followed an ''enthusiastic response'' to 10th anniversary special offer on BlackBerry Z10, and the special offer will be valid till for next 60 days.
In February, BlackBerry slashed prices of its Z10 handset to Rs 17,990 under a limited period offer. This was a reduction of about Rs12,000 from the present Rs29,990. The offer has a validity of 60 days, starting immediately.
In January, BlackBerry reduced prices of Q5, the third time after the launch of BB10 range in the country, with the handset manufacturer offering it for Rs 19,990, a 20 per cent reduction from the earlier 24,990. Today's reduction is the fourth time the prices of Q5 has been slashed.
In December, it made a Q10 QWERTY smartphone by reducing its prices to Rs 38,990 under a limited period offer till January 26, 2014.