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| The Xplore 1 is a smartphone and walkie talkie |
In an era where smartphones are increasingly similar, Blackview has once again carved out a unique niche. Following our initial reports, the brand is officially launching a distinctive version of its rugged smartphone, the Blackview Xplore 1, now with an integrated two-way radio (walkie-talkie) system. This isn't a gimmicky app—it's a hardware-level feature marked by the prominent external antenna sprouting from the device's top, signaling a bold fusion of modern mobile communication and traditional, reliable radio tech.
A Walkie-Talkie in Your Pocket: More Than Just an Antenna
The most striking feature is, without a doubt, the dedicated walkie-talkie function. According to Blackview, this isn't just a simple open-channel radio. The system supports private calls between units and even boasts encryption capabilities, adding a layer of security for team communications in the field. The two-way radio is designed to be versatile, supporting both the UHF and VHF bands, which should offer flexibility depending on the environment.
However, potential buyers must exercise due diligence. Familiarity with local regulations and licensing requirements for these radio frequencies is an essential step before using this device. The manufacturer advertises an impressive range of up to 12.4 miles (20 km) in open terrain and 2.8 miles (4.5 km) in dense urban areas. As with any radio technology, these are ideal-world figures; real-world performance will depend heavily on obstacles, interference, and other environmental factors.
For those ready to embrace this hybrid device, it represents a significant reduction in gear. No longer do adventurers, construction site managers, or event coordinators need to carry a separate smartphone and a walkie-talkie.
Ready to see this unique device for yourself? Check out full details, specifications, and availability directly on the official Blackview Xplore 1 product page.
Built to Endure: A True Rugged Powerhouse
The communication features are bolted onto a chassis that is every bit as tough as you'd expect from a leader in rugged phones. The Xplore 1 Walkie Talkie edition is substantial, measuring about 1.2 inches thick and weighing 1.53 lbs (695 grams) including its antenna. It doesn't just look tough—it's certified to withstand extreme conditions, meeting the IP69, IP69K (for high-pressure, high-temperature water jets), and MIL-STD-810H standards for shock, vibration, and temperature extremes.
Under the hood, it’s surprisingly modern for a rugged device. Powering the experience is the 5G-compatible MediaTek Dimensity 7050 chipset, ensuring snappy performance and future-proof connectivity. Users can opt for configurations with 12GB or 16GB of RAM and 256GB or 512GB of internal storage. Furthermore, one of its dual SIM card slots is hybrid, allowing for microSD card expansion if you need even more space for maps, photos, and data.
Unmatched Battery Life and a Dual-Screen Surprise
If there's one spec that will make battery-anxious smartphone users envious, it's this: a colossal 20,000mAh battery. This capacity dwarfs that of even the largest mainstream flagships and promises days, if not a week, of usage on a single charge under normal conditions—a critical advantage when you're off-grid.
The display setup is also intriguing. Alongside the primary 6.78-inch main display, the Xplore 1 sports a secondary screen on the rear. This smaller screen can likely show notifications, the time, or battery status without needing to open the phone, a handy feature when the device is mounted or stored.
Camera System for Day and Night
Blackview hasn't skimped on imaging for an outdoor-focused device. The camera array is led by a 64MP main sensor, capable of capturing detailed photos of landscapes or work sites. More uniquely, it includes a 20MP night vision camera, designed to provide clear imaging in low-light or complete darkness—a tool potentially invaluable for security, wildlife observation, or nighttime expeditions.
Pricing and Availability
The Blackview Xplore 1 with its integrated walkie-talkie is positioning itself as a specialized tool for a specific audience. It carries an official price tag starting at $558 when purchased directly from the manufacturer. For professionals and outdoor enthusiasts who need consolidated, durable, and long-lasting communication and computing power in a single, nearly indestructible package, the Xplore 1 presents a compelling and utterly unique proposition in the smartphone market.