BlackBerry released their first Android smartphone last year, the BlackBerry Priv, and now the company has confirmed that all of their 2016 BlackBerry smartphones will come with Android.
The news comes from BlackBerry CEO John Chen, who recently confirmed in an interview that there will be no BB10 devices from the company this year. This marks a significant shift for BlackBerry, which has traditionally relied on its own operating system, BB10, to power its devices. The move to Android is seen as a strategic decision to stay relevant in a market dominated by iOS and Android.
BlackBerry’s Strategic Shift to Android
The BlackBerry CEO revealed that they will release at least one new Android-powered BlackBerry smartphone in 2016 and possibly a second one. This decision underscores BlackBerry’s commitment to embracing the Android ecosystem, which offers a wider range of apps and services compared to BB10. By adopting Android, BlackBerry aims to attract a broader audience, including those who may have previously overlooked the brand due to its limited app availability.
The BlackBerry Priv appears to have been quite popular so far, and the device could be about to get more popular in the US as it was revealed recently that it will soon be headed to more carriers in the US. The Priv’s popularity can be attributed to its unique combination of BlackBerry’s renowned security features and the versatility of the Android operating system. Additionally, the Priv’s physical keyboard appeals to users who prefer tactile feedback over touchscreen typing.
Expansion to Major US Carriers
The Priv is soon going to be available on three more of the major US carriers, which will include Verizon, Sprint, and T-Mobile. This expansion is a crucial step for BlackBerry, as it will make the Priv accessible to a larger customer base. Being available on multiple carriers not only increases the device’s visibility but also provides consumers with more options in terms of pricing plans and network coverage.
It will be interesting to see how the addition of the BlackBerry Priv to these new carriers in the US helps to increase sales of the device. Historically, BlackBerry has struggled to compete with the likes of Apple and Samsung in the US market. However, the Priv’s positive reception and its availability on major carriers could signal a turnaround for the company.
Moreover, BlackBerry’s focus on security could be a significant selling point. In an era where data breaches and privacy concerns are rampant, the Priv’s robust security features could attract business professionals and security-conscious consumers. The device comes with DTEK by BlackBerry, an app that monitors and provides feedback on the security status of the device, ensuring that users are aware of potential vulnerabilities.
As soon as we get some more details on the next new Android smartphone from BlackBerry, we will let you guys know. The anticipation for BlackBerry’s upcoming devices is high, especially given the success of the Priv. Fans and industry analysts alike are eager to see how BlackBerry will innovate and differentiate its future Android smartphones in a highly competitive market.
In conclusion, BlackBerry’s decision to go all-in on Android for its 2016 smartphones represents a bold and strategic move. By leveraging the strengths of the Android platform while maintaining its core focus on security, BlackBerry aims to reclaim its position in the smartphone market. The expansion of the Priv to major US carriers is a positive step towards achieving this goal, and it will be fascinating to see how the market responds to BlackBerry’s new direction.
Source Cnet
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