BlackBerry launched its first Android-based device on Friday, and has received mixed reviews, mainly due to its hefty price tag desppite the impressive array of security features. The company hopes that the Priv's large curved screen, full array of Android apps from the Google Play store and blend of productivity and security features will help it rebuild its share of the smartphone market, which has slid to under one percent.

The smartphone comes loaded with DTEK feature that alerts users every time any app attempts to access data, or turn on the phone's microphone or camera. On the other hand, it lacks the "wow" factor and its slide out physical keyboard looks outdated, although it features touch-sensitive keys that allows users to swipe, scroll and set up shortcuts. The phone is powered by a large battery giving it a prolonged operation with a single charge, but it has a very high price tag - $699 without a contract in the United States and C$899 without a contract in Canada.

If the Priv is a hit, it could drive growth for the Blackberry. Other wise, it could be Blackberry's last smartphone, as the company's CEO has declared in the past. The company is pivoting to focus more on software and device management services and will only stick with hardware if the segment is profitable.