BlackBerry Unveils Cloud-based Internet of Things Platform

As expected and noted to be discussed ahead of CES 2015, BlackBerry has now unveiled their plans for their cloud-based Internet of Things platform in greater detail. Combining technology from QNX Software Systems as well as BlackBerry's secure network infrastructure, the BlackBerry IoT Platform is initially targeted at industries that manage highly mobile, high-value resources, including the shipping and automotive markets but will expand into the smart energy sector and the healthcare field.

"The BlackBerry IoT Platform blends the technologies that have enabled BlackBerry to become a leader in both the mobile data security and embedded systems industries," said Matt Hoffman, VP of Strategy and Marketing, BlackBerry Technology Solutions. "By combining the BlackBerry global network and device lifecycle management proficiency with the embedded software experience of QNX, we have built a modular, cloud-based platform that gives customers the chance to build IoT applications in a secure, efficient and scalable way. Looking ahead, we will extend the platform with other BlackBerry technologies to give developers additional control over the flow of information to devices on the network's edge."

As it stands, the BlackBerry global network infrastructure today handles approximately 35 petabytes of mobile data per month and handles connections from more than 300 mobile operators and 400 partner networks worldwide. If you're looking for more details, you can jump below to read the full press release or head on over to the new BlackBerry IoT landing page for even more details.

Press Release

BlackBerry Unveils Cloud-based Internet of Things Platform

The BlackBerry IoT Platform Leverages BlackBerry's Extensive Technology Portfolio

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA--(Marketwired - Jan. 7, 2015) - 2015 International CES - BlackBerry Limited (NASDAQ:BBRY)(TSX:BB), a global leader in mobile communications, today launched its comprehensive Internet of Things (IoT) platform, initially targeting the automotive and asset tracking industries. The BlackBerry(R) IoT Platform will leverage the company's extensive technology portfolio, extending its best-in-class security and reliability to emerging IoT applications.

The BlackBerry IoT Platform combines technology from QNX Software Systems, a BlackBerry company whose software powers mission-critical embedded systems in cars, industrial applications, and medical devices, with BlackBerry's secure network infrastructure and device lifecycle management software. The BlackBerry global network infrastructure today handles approximately 35 petabytes of mobile data per month in data centers located around the world and manages peering connections with more than 300 mobile operators and 400 partner networks worldwide.

"The BlackBerry IoT Platform blends the technologies that have enabled BlackBerry to become a leader in both the mobile data security and embedded systems industries," said Matt Hoffman, VP of Strategy and Marketing, BlackBerry Technology Solutions. "By combining the BlackBerry global network and device lifecycle management proficiency with the embedded software experience of QNX, we have built a modular, cloud-based platform that gives customers the chance to build IoT applications in a secure, efficient and scalable way. Looking ahead, we will extend the platform with other BlackBerry technologies to give developers additional control over the flow of information to devices on the network's edge."

An efficient, scalable messaging system forms the foundation of the BlackBerry IoT Platform and is responsible for its highly responsive performance. The system serves as the message bus for additional platform modules by delivering reusable services including: BlackBerry's gold standard security; instantaneous data indexing and storage for reliable real-time intelligence; integrated analytics for data visualization; and fine-grained permissions that enable every action, message and data object to be validated.

The BlackBerry IoT modules provide rich functionality for data collection, including time-of-service and maintenance records, and device lifecycle management. The lifecycle management module comprises three main elements - over the air (OTA) software update, application enablement and log collection - designed to accelerate device deployment and extend the longevity of in-field devices. By leveraging the platform foundation and using these pre-built modules only as needed, an organization can efficiently create a customized IoT solution.

The BlackBerry IoT Platform is initially targeted at industries that manage highly mobile, high-value resources, including the shipping and automotive markets. The platform's asset tracking and connected car applications targeting those markets are just the first step in BlackBerry's broad and expanding IoT strategy. The BlackBerry IoT platform will also be extended into the smart energy sector and the healthcare field.

For more information about the BlackBerry IoT Platform, please visit www.BlackBerry.com/IoT. Visitors to 2015 International CES can see demonstrations of the BlackBerry IoT Platform in BlackBerry's QNX booth: North Hall, #2231.

About BlackBerry

A global leader in mobile communications, BlackBerry(R) revolutionized the mobile industry when it was introduced in 1999. Today, BlackBerry aims to inspire the success of our millions of customers around the world by continuously pushing the boundaries of mobile experiences. Founded in 1984 and based in Waterloo, Ontario, BlackBerry operates offices in North America, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Asia Pacific and Latin America. The Company trades under the ticker symbols "BB" on the Toronto Stock Exchange and "BBRY" on the NASDAQ. For more information, visit www.BlackBerry.com.

Forward-looking statements in this news release are made pursuant to the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and applicable Canadian securities laws. When used herein, words such as "expect", "anticipate", "estimate", "may", "will", "should", "intend", "believe", and similar expressions, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on estimates and assumptions made by BlackBerry Limited in light of its experience and its perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that BlackBerry believes are appropriate in the circumstances. Many factors could cause BlackBerry's actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including those described in the "Risk Factors" section of BlackBerry's Annual Information Form, which is included in its Annual Report on Form 40-F (copies of which filings may be obtained at www.sedar.com or www.sec.gov). These factors should be considered carefully, and readers should not place undue reliance on BlackBerry's forward-looking statements. BlackBerry has no intention and undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

BlackBerry and related trademarks, names and logos are the property of BlackBerry Limited and are registered and/or used in the U.S. and countries around the world. All other marks are the property of their respective owners. BlackBerry is not responsible for any third-party products or services.

Read more