RIM just dropped us an email to let us know that their BlackBerry Playbook tablet is the first tablet that has received approval by US government agencies, and it has gained the FIPS certification (Federal Information Processing Standard).
“RIM is pleased to announce that the BlackBerry PlayBook is the first tablet approved under FIPS for use within the U.S. federal government,” said Scott Totzke, Senior Vice President, BlackBerry Security at Research In Motion. “This certification demonstrates our continued commitment to meeting the needs of security-conscious organisations and enables the U.S. federal government to buy with confidence knowing that the PlayBook meets their computing policy requirements for protecting sensitive information.”
Significance of FIPS Certification
The Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS) certification is a crucial benchmark for devices used by U.S. government agencies. This certification ensures that the device meets stringent security standards for protecting sensitive information. For the BlackBerry PlayBook, achieving this certification means it has passed rigorous testing and evaluation processes, making it a trusted device for handling confidential government data. This is particularly important in an era where cybersecurity threats are increasingly sophisticated and pervasive.
The FIPS certification could potentially open new markets for the PlayBook, especially among organizations that prioritize security. This includes not only government agencies but also sectors like finance, healthcare, and legal services, where data protection is paramount. By meeting these high standards, the PlayBook positions itself as a reliable option for any entity that requires robust security measures.
Challenges and Opportunities
The BlackBerry PlayBook hasn’t done as well as RIM had hoped, and hasn’t exactly had the best response from consumers. Initial reviews pointed out several shortcomings, such as the lack of native email and calendar apps, which were significant drawbacks for business users. Additionally, the app ecosystem for the PlayBook was not as developed as those for competing tablets like the iPad or Android tablets, making it less attractive to a broader audience.
However, the FIPS certification could serve as a turning point. Government agencies and security-conscious organizations may now consider the PlayBook a viable option, given its certified security features. This could lead to increased sales and potentially revive interest in the device. Moreover, RIM could leverage this certification in its marketing strategies to highlight the PlayBook’s unique selling points, differentiating it from other tablets in the market.
To further capitalize on this opportunity, RIM could consider addressing some of the initial criticisms of the PlayBook. For instance, enhancing the app ecosystem and improving user experience could make the device more appealing to a wider audience. Additionally, partnerships with software developers to create specialized applications for government and enterprise use could add significant value to the PlayBook.
In conclusion, while the BlackBerry PlayBook has faced challenges in gaining consumer traction, the FIPS certification marks a significant achievement that could open new avenues for RIM. By focusing on the strengths of the PlayBook, particularly its security features, and addressing its weaknesses, RIM has the potential to turn the PlayBook into a success story.
Source RIM
Image Credit Massdistraction/Flickr
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