The United States Air Force is replacing 5000 legacy BlackBerry smartphones with Apple's iPhone, and eventually all of their BlackBerry users will have to make the changeover. The announcement, reported by Defense News, comes as the future of BlackBerry within the Department of Defense is debated, with the chips seeming to fall on the side of transitioning away from a network supporting a mish-mash of BlackBerry 6 and 7 devices to a mix of modern devices — though apparently without BlackBerry 10 in that mix. The situation has changed dramatically since this time last year, when the Department of Defense was adamant they weren't dropping BlackBerry.
Brigadier General Kevin Wooten, the communications director for Air Force Space Command (which manages the Air Force's IT infrastructure), said that "in order to keep costs down and save on network resources, BlackBerrys will be turned in and shut off once the user is transitioned to an iOS device." Additionally, anybody who hopes to activate a new BlackBerry on the Air Force network will require approval from the Air Force Space Command. The general that's attached to his BlackBerry is going to have to write an awfully compelling memo justifying why he should get a new one.
Both iOS and Samsung's Knox-enabled Android smartphones have been approved for use on Department of Defense networks, though the process of adding those new devices has been slow. Given the nature of government purchasing contracts, that's little surprise. BlackBerry 10 has also received DoD approval. Transitioning the tens of thousands of BlackBerry smartphones onto iOS and maybe Android will take time and money, the latter of which the US government has been more prudent about than in recent years.
But it seems that either way, BlackBerry hasn't presented a compelling case to the U.S.A.F. The Air Force has long led the advancement of technology in the Department of Defense (they are the ones with stealth planes and satellites, after all), so where the airmen go, so too will the Soldiers, Sailors, and Marines of the United States Armed Forces.
Reader comments
US Air Force begins transition, swapping 5000 BlackBerry devices for iPhones
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I'm comfortable with anything
Why yes, China, your dreams have come true!
UuuughhhhhhhhhhH!
MAYDAY! MAYDAY!
We're hit! We're hit!
IOS just got blasted
The USAF got hit from the Inside .... Have a look to these links!
Extremely critical crypto flaw in iOS may also affect fully patched Macs...
http://arstechnica.com/security/2014/02/extremely-critical-crypto-flaw-i...
http://www.tuaw.com/2014/02/14/apples-secure-coding-guide-is-an-invaluab...
http://www.kvor.com/common/more.php?m=58&ts=1393088704&article=7952781B9...
http://www.fireeye.com/blog/technical/2014/02/background-monitoring-on-n...
Captain my toy is broken...
Don't worry, We already put only 80 patches last October
I do still have one more...
http://www.csoonline.com/article/740081/apple-s-ios-7-patches-80-vulnera...
"in order to keep costs down and save on network resources"
"Transitioning the tens of thousands of BlackBerry smartphones onto iOS and maybe Android will take time and money"
Isn't that a contradiction?
Funny, just received an email at work about a current security vulnerability with iOS devices. Also received a link about it on the US NVD database.
http://web.nvd.nist.gov/view/vuln/detail?vulnId=CVE-2014-1266
Posted via my Z10 24BE700B
"Reuters) - A major flaw in Apple Inc software for mobile devices could allow hackers to intercept email and other communications that are meant to be encrypted, the company said on Friday, and experts said Mac computers were even more exposed."
Hahahahha
Hahaha hahah
Hahaha haha
You professional deciders at the air force.
That is what you get now .
Muhahahahahaha
While I wish for the success of BlackBerry and am hurt by this announcement, I don't believe wishing for the iPhone to be hacked is the best way to go.
However, has anyone seen this - http://arstechnica.com/security/2014/02/extremely-critical-crypto-flaw-i...
It's funny how muted the x
My Z30... #LoveHateLoveRelationship
maybe they feel bad for spying on every one else they are going to give them freebies and switch to hackable tech?
And boom goes the dynamite:
http://news.msn.com/science-technology/apple-security-flaw-could-allow-h...
Posted via CB10 on a Z10STL100-3/10.2.1.2141
Good reading for the head of IT at the air force dep:
http://www.theguardian.com/technology/2014/feb/22/apple-ios-software-hac...
Posted via CB10 for the BB-Z30
that's ok, they were using ancient devices anyway. The NSA prefers this; easier to keep tabs on military personnel on iOS and Android.
Posted via CB10
Just saw this on Business Insider. Iphone security flaw.
http://www.businessinsider.com/r-apple-says-security-flaw-could-allow-ha...(Business+Insider)
Posted via CB10
http://www.businessinsider.com/r-apple-says-security-flaw-could-allow-ha...(Business+Insider)
I'm not comfortable with anything not blackberry but apple would have been my next choice before I saw this.
Posted via CB10
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/tech/hardware/apple-says-security-fl...
http://news.cnet.com/8301-13579_3-57619299-37/apple-security-update-fixe...
Good luck with that switch!!!!! Glad your not protecting Canada!!!
These decisions are taken by people which are deciding by their own impressions. If they think i(diot)Phone is cool they will push into this direction for taken changing decision. It's simple. If in charge would be a normal person, not a Crapple fan , maybe they will understand the facts. But the Crapple phenomenon is alive and it is not sleeping.....and their fans are growing day by day. BlackBerry be aware! Why you can't sell? Because this is the problem. The sales department isn't present.
Proudly Z10 owner
China now make our Air force mobile devices! Great! Keep going down east...
Posted via CB10
BS
Posted via CB10
Wow..
Posted via CB10
Didn't the Air Force read the recent article from Gartner saying that sensitive data should not be access on iOS and Android phones? It's a 180' flip in direction, stating that most MDM providers can't secure the devices. You would think the Air Force would be concerned about using devices that can be easily rooted.
http://www.itworldcanada.com/article/mobile-containers-only-good-for-med...
Posted via CB10
I read an article that Obama isn't allowed to use an iphone because it can get hacked so he's using a BlackBerry :)
Posted via CB10
The US Government FLIP-FLOPS soooo much on the issue of smartphones.. you never really can trust what the hell they will truly end of staying with.. they may end up ditching iPhony for a my little Pony..
Posted from my Q10 (TMobile) Running OS 10.2.1.2102 as of 2.14.2014!
HEY BLACKBERRY! I don't know about you but if one of my major customers told me they are dropping 5000 units of my product to go to the competition, I would be sending over my best salesman for a meeting. Someone over there is not making an educated choice. Good luck.
Posted via CB10 on Q10
I thought it would have been the Navy.
Posted via CB10
Well the iphones were designed to have bugs, bugs that were planted intentionally by the US government.
We have heard rumors of the mic can be auto turned on, cameras can be controlled and many more overrides from the NSA.
So its a phone built to take advantage from.
Since Blackberries dont compromise on security so they might have let it down.
Anyways thats my opinion, keep moving BlackBerry and lets hear some good news soon.
There is a lot whole bigger world outside The US too.
Posted via CB10
This explains the mistake the US air force is making:
http://www.theguardian.com/technology/2013/dec/05/barack-obama-cant-have...
Posted via CB10
Well, just like all the gov. Is transitioning from the PC to Mac. They're doing a big mistake bc blackberry is the safest to use. It's why even the president has a blackberry! Unless he switches to the iPhone...lol!
Posted via CB10
Coming from UK the saying that started in the first world war, when Germany shoots we all duck, when Britain shoots Germans duck, when America shoots every fucker ducks. So why shouldn't their military spread their information around like they do their bombs and bullets?
Tapping and flicking on my Zed 10
Chinese made iPhone with Chinese made chips and secret spy ware. Exactly what the Americans need lol
Posted via CB10
Wtf?
C00121953 channel for car freaks!!
The USAF has a procurement process that takes forever and gives favor to American owned companies. I'm pretty sure this has been in the works for a while. I could see them having a tiered system with iPhones distributed to the masses and BlackBerrys used when enhanced communication is required. No way to really tell, but not sure it is wise to bet the farm on any one platform. Seems to me it would be an OPSEC risk. Any way you cut it, this appears to be bad news for BlackBerry from a revenue standpoint. It would be interesting to hear what Mr Chen has to say.
I am Taiwanese, using the BlackBerry 8 years, as in the electronics industry, Blackberry OEM Foxconn, Foxconn's little not imagine the quality will be good to go
Over to wiki leaks :-)
Posted via CB10
Okay, two thing I noticed that doesn't seem to go well together in one "sentence", so to speak. First, cost savings and iPhone in one sentence doesn't make sense. Second, National defense...meaning rough handling of the phone...and glasshouse iPhone together doesn't make sense. Hmm, little sense in their move aside from showing support for their own American company and falling for the mainstream trend like everyone else.
Wouldn't be surprised if the missile they launch hit the wrong target because of a (multiple) typo.
Posted via CB10 on my Z30
W0qj made a good point above. BES 10 doesn't support BlackBerry 7 is a pure politics issue within old BlackBerry. It is an epic stupid move.
Hope the new management right the wrong quickly.
As the statement said, it's about saving money. The US Dept of Defense is under the microscope to save money so here is their decision.
The price may be too high when they have to spend a fortune on patches to take care of the gaping security holes that BlackBerry security had covered. BlackBerry still has its part in the failure of the company but potential customers and management has to look forward, not backwards. I love by BlackBerry Z10, it's a workhorse and has the best touch screen, period.
Posted via CB10
Why the *beep* is the USAF switching to a device that's proven to be far less secure than any Blackberry?! I'm not seeing the logic here.
Did they do this to spite Canada, because women hockey Canada won 3-2 with us leading 2-0 at the start of round 3?
Lol
Posted via CB10
I guess they want to change the curve with iphone 4. Please Chen call the general tell him that next month you have the new z3 that only $150 with 5" display and long lasting battery
Posted via CB10
Just because the Canadian Women beat the American women at hockey the Air Force should not take it out on BlackBerry. It was only a case of beer that President Obama had to give to Prime Minister Stephen Harper not the whole country.
Blackberry needs focus on developing markets... americans have all been brainwashed by apple.
Like I've said for a long time, it was a *HUGE* mistake for BB10 BES servers to not support BB7.
So how come BB10 BES servers could support Android and iPhone devices and not BB7 ???
This is now backfiring, and very badly too.
I predict many corporate companies are in the same situation--going to eventually switch off BB7 BES servers.
BlackBerry better add BB7 support into its BB10 BES servers going forward, before the remaining corporate (and government?) management switches off BB7 servers, forcing a switch to its competitors.
N
Posted via CB10
Anybody who has watched house of cards knows about cell phone politics... 1. BlackBerry, 2. IPHONE, 3. Android.
The men use #1, the women use #2 and the dog uses #3.
DOD will be begging for their BlackBerry phones back once they realize how little real work is being conducted on their new iPhones.
Posted via CB10
Big mistake as they will soon discover when the NSA starts listening in to their conversations!!
Cartman says: Screw you guys I'm going home!
This is no news at all. U.S. has been trying this since air force first started to use BlackBerry in about 2000. This is just another try.
Folks don't jump into conclusion. Please check:
- FIPS 140-2 and the NIST certification list;
- Check HSPD12 or any thing that replaces it; specifically, security requirements on the communications of generals
- Whether a restricted iPhone is as entertaining as Z30 with Balance.
Also, see which stock has more potential.
BlackBerry cannot sit on current BES/Relay architecture though. BlackBerry must innovate and leap ahead. Otherwise the day would eventually come.
But as far as I can tell iPhone won't succeed this time. It will be another failed attempt.
The US Air Force have been preaching this for some time now. Clearly they've missed the memo regarding how un-secure iOS is. BlackBerry 10 is the only one that received the "Authority To Operate".
yacoby 54, you are quite obnoxious!
Posted via CB10
Oh well!
Part of the decision would have been made when BlackBerry put itself up for sale. This would have made it easier for the decision makers at the time to side for another phone other than the new berry. There will still probably be some more fall out from putting themselves up for sale going forward.
I would think one of Chen's first jobs was to close the floodgates on this major issue and let all potential customers going forward that BlackBerry was going to be around for the long term.
Posted via CB10
@afspc_cto: “@C4ISRNET: Air Force swaps BlackBerrys for Apple devices http://t.co/4FMckLPkfn” great movement forward
https://twitter.com/afspc_cto/status/436487019821142016
Afspc_cto a brilliant man, led AFCEA, ACC, AMC. He don't want no stink'n BlackBerry
Posted via CB10
Pentagon gets 80,000 BlackBerry phone but the air force gets iPhone? No wonder that country is in the toilet
Bad news velkod. That report was BS.
http://www.theverge.com/2014/1/23/5338012/pentagon-absolutely-no-new-ord...
iPhone? Lol. Excuse me, I have to wipe my ass now. Is there an app for that?
Posted via CB10
Test post
Posted via CB10
Yup, good luck with your iPhony's! Should have transitioned to BB10... but then again why would the air force need a secure platform anyways?
Posted via CB10 on my Q10
It's not just the USA where BlackBerry is losing its market share. I work for a mobile solutions provider in France and there is a growing trend here where major corporations are moving away from BlackBerry, predominantly to iOS and now more recently to Android. We've been inundated with demands from customers to move away from BlackBerry using MDM companies like Airwatch and GOOD! Unless Chen pulls a miracle or BlackBerry develops a game changer, it's not looking good at all...
Posted via CB10
Well big mistake for the US
Normal conversion when I ring my friends who have I phones what can't what not exactly 20th century? Oh dear...
Rob32
Does this really matter materially, in fact? Yeah it's a prestige business supplying phones for the fly boys. But it stands to reason that a modern corporation can survive without such government contracts, because many do [here's a commensurate example: HTC]. Therefore, some gnashing of teeth about this loss is probably justified, but not a huge amount.
Posted by the inimitable Z10 handheld system
Air force officially offering themselves to the Chinese hardware backdoor machine.
Well if from now on BB devices continue to be made by foxconn we would already be on the same damn page.
Not ALL BlackBerry devices, just some of them
Posted via CB10
well thats sad, i would think that some on in those positions would want a phone that can last longer then 4 hours
hehe
I'm sure it has something to do with buying American products and uncertainty surrounding BlackBerry's future.
Z10 on the Rogers Network
Thanks for reporting this. Now, more than ever, Chen's decision to retreat from the overall consumer platform race seems shortsighted. Pushing hard to upgrade government and enterprise clients makes sense, but BlackBerry needs to convince people that they want BlackBerry devices, because if they don't, people will convince their institutions to BYOD or go iOS. I wish you could just put some love on the IT guy and close the sale without anyone else strongly weighing in, bit that's not today's environment. Make sexy devices that make BlackBerry enthusiasts or perish. If only Chen would listen...
Posted via CB10
That hurts on my jewels....
Posted via CB10
Booooooo!
Posted via CB10
I just find it funny that this BlackBerry fan site is days behind everyone else to report anything yet jumps at the first opportunity to report this. More traffic right?
Posted via CB10
Nope
Posted via CB10
Hey, they're the ones that are going to get hacked.... but that's what armies and govt do, make bad decisions, which ultimately the people will pay for.
Don't know why a soldier would want a girly iPhone. Oh well, to each there own.
Posted via CB10
Further proof our government is incompetent.
Posted via CB10
That is what happens when you spook your customers with talk of a sale. Why is it the people that want to make the most money end up shooting the company in the foot
?
Posted via CB10
Here is his compelling argument. "I'm a General. Get it done"
Posted via CB10
They aren't leading any longer.
Posted via CB10
Long enough, the NSA spied on the whole world.
It is a fine commitment to better international relationships to enable all countries to spy on the us air force.
Screw the air force!
BlackBerry Q10
Blackberries and parts are manufactured in China too.
http://www.forbes.com/sites/jeffreycarr/2011/01/13/do-you-know-who-manuf...
Not good news at all especially of they lead the technology pack as the article states. =0(
Posted via CB10
That's bad real bad for U.S defense.
Some special interest group probably paid big money for this deal to go through.
Apple smart phones are made in China(no offense to Chinese people). Communist Government of China is expert at espionage stealing defense technology. Check out their new war ship, stealth planes. They look like copy of American. They even have Chinese mars rover looking similar. Their Copy Rover failed the mission. Even theirs evidence consumer electronics made in China have Chips inside to spy on Americans. Maybe to blackmail us later! They are even attempting to steal land from Japan, Phillipines even India!
Government Cyber Army of Iran, Syria, Russia and China are also threats!
USA Defense Force WTF were they thinking? Cost Cut?? Not in the long run!!! Threat to Democracy! Here and every where.
BlackBerry Lead
Do not Follow
Posted via CB10
<sarcasm>
Come to the Air Force. We are so cool! We look great and we like to play with our smartphones! Join the f(l)ight! Be cool! We don't need secure smartphones as we only play with them. No access to restricted communication or data. Don't worry. We don't want work drive stuff. We want ANGRY BIRDS stuff as we are the Air Force. Come and play with us. Get one for free if you sign up right now. I know you want to!
</sarcasm>
Place that as an ad and hand it to Uncle Sam's draftsmen!
I guarantee, it WILL work. (Just remove the sarcasm tags, we don't want that)
iPhone for me? Scr... ahem Q that! (posted from the latter)
Will this now make the the Air Farce?
...we are all connected...
The bias shown towards blackberry is getting a bit tired people!!
Posted via CB10
Picture the closed door meeting, at the head of the table you hear a booming voice "gentlemen, before we begin the briefing, have we deployed the latest version of iTunes?"
National security :)
Guess the US Air Force has no concerns that the NSA has made claims that they have full access to all iPhones. I guess security isn't a concern when it's your team doing the hacking.
Posted via CB10
Just wait until one phone gets hacked.
Z30 10.2.1.537
All bad SMH.
Posted via WHT Q10
And I also wonder how BGR will react this!
Costs over security. Sucks but yes military budgets are way down.
Posted via CB10
Tip: Spend less on nukes!
iPhone for me? Scr... ahem Q that! (posted from the latter)
Haha spend more on security so the nukes stop being disappeared...
First to hack USAF will get $1,000,0000 from BlackBerry because USAF will switch back to BlackBerry and buy hundreds of thousands BB10!!!
Lmao
Oh well, there goes their security.
Posted via CB10
So depressed - we should hound them on social media instilling questions abt safety of the choice #frozeniphone #iphonedeadbattery #iphonecolorwheel #iphonesarefortweengirls
Posted via CB10
Do the the iPhone 5 screens crackk as easily as the iphone 4? If so I cant imagine why any company would want to supply such delicate work tools.
Posted via CB10
Terrible news...
Posted via CB10
The iPhone runa applications that are only avail for military use. Some of you are crying and have no grasp of how these decisions are made behind the scenes.
The facilities management group at the U.N. here in NYC just dropped BB and went iPhone because of autocad compatibility between their laptops, tablets and phones.
Many here seem to think that all people do on their phones is type/text/social media.
Doctors are using iPads in emergency rooms to read xrays.
So keep typing and texting. Some folks are doing work out there.
I wonder how many will actually switch. Article claims BlackBerry 10 Devices have approval as well. I would hope most personnel would take the opportunity to upgrade to OS10.
Posted via CB10
Good news for American made products... oh wait..
Airheads choosing iphones, ^^. Have fun with the broken screens and good luck with the security. Hope the batteries will last the missions.
I think they try to diversify to save tax money. They let the less secure people use IOS and Android and the very secure one, they have them use BlackBerry(president Obama). I'm sure IOS and Android layers are trying to lobby the congress very hard for the Government to use their products as well.
Apparently security isn't a big deal for them anymore
Posted via CB10
Good news in my opinion, only way to prove if Apple and Android devices are able to compete on security level with BlackBerry not on the number of apps and games, let them play on BlackBerry ground and see the results, if BlackBerry future depends on US market probably they should close doors, NSA spy scandale should be a good opportunity for BlackBerry to sell its services to the rest of the world governments agencies etc... 5000 users/devices isn't a high number, BlackBerry should push BES10 where the profit good GP is, QNX and connected cars/things are the future, wasting time competing with iPhone and Samsung on device level isn't worth it, consumer market isn't for BlackBerry now, a strong presence of BES10 on enterprise and gov sectors is the way to go, BlackBerry devices massive orders will follow, BlackBerry should focus on its strength BES10/security/high encryption/QNX not on weakness (consumer devices game), QNX market share is 70%-80% that was the case for BlackBerry devices on the smartphones market years ago, they should not make the same mistake, they need to move faster than anyone else, Apple is moving on Tesla, Google signing agreements with many car makers, BlackBerry needs to act fast, today is a good example Facebook bought whatsapp, most of the people were negative about that on the users level, finance analysts said it's insane move, bold move, BlackBerry should grab that opportunity and growth from angry whatsapp users leaving the platform by making it easy to find and connect with people on BBM, iPhone is mature now and will start loosing users soon people are always looking for the next cool thing, BlackBerry needs to act fast period.
Posted via CB10 for the BB-Z30
"iPhone is mature now and will start loosing users soon people are always looking for the next cool thing"
The next cool thing will be the next new iPhone.
Well after the iPhone 4 no revolution was on the next 4s 5 or 5s just different hardware packing following the technology latest moves next cool thing won't be Apple, they had their glory time.
Posted via CB10 for the BB-Z30
You see Apple as simply a phone company. Apple is a tech company.
One of us will be right, the other wrong.
I'm betting on Apple.
Next big thing won't be phone, tablet or computer related, the way Apple is developing its products lately isn't promising, they only thing they can do is to buy another company with a revolutionary product because they have plenty of cash, if they wait too long they will suffer like they did in the 90's. I respect your point and opinion, probably we are both wrong but let's hope one of us is right ;-)
Posted via CB10 for the BB-Z30
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wFeC25BM9E0
apple is on its way out..
Ahahahahahaha....
I can't stop laughing...
Next new iPhone:
The iPhone 6ss with coin holder!!!!
Come on now. There hasn't been any real innovation after the iPhone 4s. Well that's my opinion anyways.
Posted via CB10
Who is only talking about phones? Apples makes more than phones. And anyone saying that the new MacPro wasn't innovative is lying.
Don't be stuck on phones. Apple is a tech company.
I wonder if the Air Force will "Drop a jeep out" of an airplane...
http://www.forbes.com/sites/erikkain/2013/12/30/the-nsa-reportedly-has-t...
F@ck. That's bad news.
Chen's move --- he needs to drop a bomb to keep BlackBerry alive!
Posted via bb10.2.1.2021
He needs to follow Steve's advice and go "thermonuclear"...
iPhone for me? Scr... ahem Q that! (posted from the latter)
I guess they don't value security and safety
IROC-Z30 But Mostly She Rocks Me!
Good for them. BlackBerry is not what they need. I guess they haven't heard of Angela Merkel.
Posted via CB10
Seriously? Boo!!
One more reason why there is something deeply wrong with this military.
Aka S.Jizzle Z30STA100-5/10.2.1.2141
Another incompetent decision by our government!
Z10
They must have multiple cigarette lighters on their jets to plug the phones in... I'd hate to have my battery die three hours after the war starts...
Posted via CB10
Z30 ftw!!
iPhone for me? Scr... ahem Q that! (posted from the latter)
Is it me or did I read that you have to have very good reason to want a Blackberry BB10. I think they don't want the regular enlisted soldiers to have new BlackBerry cell phones.
Posted via CB10
Ya that won't come back from bite the Air Force in the ass.
Brought to you by...My sweet Z30
This sucks bad. Undoubtedly, security is BB's strength and always has been. I can only assume the AF is pressed by it's user community to go with IOS and they think they can work with it. Maybe through some changes in protocols.
But I think this is bad, bad news for BB. I'm bummed. We'll see.
Via CB10 & Z10 or Q10
Also curious about whether they're using BES 10... is there any other way to get any decent security on an iPhone?
They'll be sorry they did. They'll be back
Posted via CB10
Do you really think so? I'm not so sure.
More than likely BlackBerry wouldn't submit to the NSA to have access to their system via a backdoor. Fact is all U.S. tech companies have been compromised by our own government. Maybe BlackBerry said we don't wish to destroy our secure server infrastructure by letting NSA have access. So Apple can have the DoD, I'll keep my secure BlackBerry.
White on White Q10 Baby!
Hey guys, DoD is just like us in that they buy what the carriers offer. Has anyone seen ads from VZ, AT&T, or T-Mo shouting about how they support BB10? I thought not. But we've all seen the big push for iAnything. With DoD, office equipment is lowest bidder / high cost of sustainment.
Posted via CB10 on my Z10
Use ChinaDroid direct imports from Shenzhen. Won't get much cheaper than that. Just have your malware scanner ready.
iPhone for me? Scr... ahem Q that! (posted from the latter)
Wow what a big mistake. The Germans made the mistake and now the are using bb10 phones.
What are they thinking?
Posted using the best phone ever, the Z30!
As someone who knows a lot of folks with gov't issued phones, they will be locked down pretty tight so there won't be a lot of "normal" smartphone use with them. Still, not great news for BB! :(
Posted via CB10
This one is easy to explain. It's obvious BB is the superior choice but right now the Americans really hate the Canadians after the beat down the Canadian women's hockey team just put on the US for the gold medal. In anger you make irrational decisions. It's that simple :)
Boo ya! Go Canada!
Posted using the best phone ever, the Z30!
It's ok, Canada just kicked the US a$$ in the gold medal woman's hockey game. !!!
They can have their iPhones
Zed30
Ever think that they want them to be hacked?
Posted via CB10
Yup lol, so they can probably ask for more funding perhaps? I also find it quite funny how they claim going iOS is cheaper where in fact its "A LOT" more expensive.
Who was the person to approve this?
Hackers!!! Start your engines!!
Why didn't the USAF run this by the NSA ?
Does the USA really need another leaks scandal? Congratulations you've just put 5,000 people in harms way.
What happened to national security?
Patriotism can't come at the price of security.
BlackBerry is the best around, so what if it's Canadian . It is a Global company.
Posted via CB10
+1,000,000
Posted via CB10
The NSA is probably pissed that they cannot hack a BlackBerry 10, not to mention they have absolutely no power over Canadians.
Oh well.. I guess security isn't a big deal in the most powerful country in the world .. smh..
Hell, bring on the Android OS while you're at it... I'm going to laugh so hard when they get hacked..
Talk about cost efficiency.
Why not go with some ChinaDroid pre-loaded with malware, if they really want it cheap. Maybe they can even get a pirated KNOX version!
See here and stop laughing, Samsung:
http://www.mobicity.com.au/catalogsearch/result/?q=mbc
iPhone for me? Scr... ahem Q that! (posted from the latter)
How does iOS win any battle with COST EFFICIENCY? Every device has pros and cons, but you can get a Z10 for $300. An iPhone 5C is twice that. Presuming that they will both be as durable (they won't) and that you won't need additional cases, chargers, etc. (they will).
Posted via CB10
One more Snowden and that will blown up in their face swapping to crapple
Posted via My rocking Droidberry Z30 on CB Forums
Let's all get an iPhone!
Posted via CB10
This is all George Bush Jr.'s fault!
Publicado con Zeta Diez
Old BlackBerries for new iPhones... uhmm, who could see that coming?
I'd be surprised if this decision was made AFTER John Chen was hired on. As you may recall, prior to November 13, 2013 the smart money had BlackBerry on its deathbed. Few were predicting the company's survival. In that light, what choice did the Air Force have?
After the first "hiccup" with iOS, opinions will change.
Mr. Chen's mission remains the same: improve BlackBerry's image, identify & execute the proper plan, grow the business. Concentrate on the fundamentals and the results will take care of themselves.
This is a small step back. Unfortunate, for sure, but it changes little.
Posted via CB10
A buggy iOS update will fix it for BBRY!
iPhone for me? Scr... ahem Q that! (posted from the latter)
And they all add a Typo... XD
Posted via CB10
Let the USA get hacked. When other countries find out our top secret stuff, who cares. Its their fault. BlackBerry won't go in the United States all the way. If it does, will, that will suck.
Posted via CB10
You mean to tell me, BlackBerry has been sitting on almost a billion dollars worth of BlackBerry Z10 and failed to give it out for free to the department of defense to entice them to stick with BlackBerry? Sad news, hopefully they gonna switch to BES 10 to manage these iPhones that they're going to get. If not oh well I'm going to need John Chen to say something in the next few days to save BlackBerry stock as its going to take a dip on Wallstreet
Posted via CB10
This news has been out for a long time. It's not new. This is OLD NEWS, and they are finally doing what they've been talking about for some time now. We know, as well as they know BB10 is superior in security. We know as well as they know iOS is recycled OS from 2007, on life support.
The issue is more about BBRY being a Canadian Company, and that they choose an un-secure iOS platform over the best BB10, because Apple is American. Have fun Hackers.... lol
How else can you spy your own employees. What do you think :) these blackberry os6,7 mobiles are hard to crack and has standard encryption.
This is one of the few negative stories I've read about BlackBerry lately. With all the talk John Chen is doing and all the OS updates and deals being signed, the tide has definitely turned.
Give the DoD some time and it'll be back to a new and improved BlackBerry.
This is a very bad sign, hope other companies can be pursuaded by the good stuff about BlackBerry!
You guys really believe they are receiving normal iPhones?
Mistakes are made everyday..and with every iphony
Everybody please settle down. Who cares it's only 5000 devices. I'm busy weighing on the awesome tmobile deal tomorrow.
CB10
Criteria? Simple - they just went American!
ZZwiped up on my Z10!
This is a mistake by the US Authorities which will be corrected in a very public way, following an avoidable future event.
Posted via CB10
This will be the Edward Snowden of mobile
Posted via CB10
Glad they don't care about their mobile security. You win some and you lose some.
Posted via CB10
Money talk,oh yeah,money talk and the world collapse
Posted via CB10
this is the real story.
http://www.defensenews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2014302180027
The Air Force is replacing 5,000 of its BlackBerry devices with Apple smartphones, in a broader move to eradicate the legacy devices in favor of more modern commercial technologies.
Eventually, all Air Force mobile users will be required to trade in their old BlackBerrys for Apple devices or other approved smartphones and tablet computer, the Air Force said in a Feb. 14 announcement.
“In order to keep costs down and save on network resources, BlackBerrys will be turned in and shut off once the user is transitioned to an iOS device," Brig. Gen. Kevin Wooton, communications director for Air Force Space Command, said in a statement.
Any new BlackBerry provisioned after Jan. 1 will require a waiver from AFSPC/A6, Wooten said.
Initially, the Air Force will focus on replacing BlackBerrys and executive users and enabling about 5,000 iOS devices for use. The Air Force didn’t say whether these devices will be supported by the Defense Information Systems Agency’s new mobile device management software, but it’s likely that DISA will play a role in centrally managing Air Force devices.
Last month, DISA said it is working with Air Mobility Command to connect devices to the network. Mobility pilots have been in place across Air Force Space Command, Air Mobility Command, and Air Combat since October 2011.
"The pilot tests we have run have shown positive results with the user communities," Wooton said. "However, we've only scratched the surface. As the number of users grows, we're confident our airmen will find new and innovative ways to enhance operations and job effectiveness."
Balancing security and functionality of the devices will be key.
Each Air Force Major Command will be able to provision an accelerated amount of devices per month, until their allocated licenses are used, the Air Force said. Mobile device users are encouraged to reach out to their MAJCOM mobile point of contact to start replacing their BlackBerrys.
I agree in part with this statement. BBRY to me has done a very poor job of maintaining a relationship with the American consumer. Instead of taking the arrogant approach of thinking that we will take whatever we are given will be OK (the PB and Storm) that missed the mark at launch. And they repeat the process with the Z10’s LATE to US market launch with an out of date OS. They introduced a kickass tablet but did nothing in a timely manner to keep and grow sales with PRODUCTIVE apps.
Why would they repeat the same actions when the US market the BBRY faithful told them time and time again what they wanted and to please launch on time with a working solid OS. Granted nothing of this type is ever really finished and that is understood but at least should have been much more solid or along than what was released with Z30 right around the corner!!!!
Maybe BBRY should’ve in response to iOS and other come out with a model geared to the all I want is games crowd with apps that match the competition and one for the grownups who needed their phones to work and do business RIGHT NOW. Have some cross platform features to keep manufacturing costs down.
Market for those segments and sales would have flourished. Along with this BBRY should’ve been sleeping at the Pentagon to make sure this one major KEY ACCOUNT was taken care of and that no one would be able to come in and take their business away from them.
General’s wives and daughters who use everything Apple at home and school do have an impact on the decisions made by dear old DAD. Who in turn listens to his aids and others about how easy the Apple product is to use and why can’t they use theirs at work and in the field. You hear enough of that you then start to look into it along with Apple coming in and pleading their case……where was the BBRY management or KEY ACCOUNT MANAGER to make sure they still have some form of visibility?? Flying to Asia getting drunk in First Class and making the news…. And introducing game apps???
The troops will use what they are told to use or are given. This is very sad news because where one goes others follow. I still can’t connect to my company server since moving to 10.2 and why is that when BBRY supposedly knows of the issue. My company in short order WILL require/demand that I move to a different phone as this is affecting my productivity while on the road. How can business people move forward with BBRY when the little things are not taken care of out of the gate?
This is why BBRY is losing the race with the American consumer in my opinion no matter what commercials are made…they are not giving what the consumer is asking for.
ENTER NEW MANAGEMENT
But the US Air Force is just one BRANCH of the military but why would anyone want to maintain two or three different platforms when you can transition all over to one for major costs savings and user confidence in the end no matter how true or false it is about anyone’s security measures.
You are 1000% correct sir. BB was the incumbent, it was theirs to lose. I believe someone dropped the ball, as usual with BB.
Arrogant company, it's in their DNA.
There's a reason some governments, businesses, and even those in the health care industry move to iPhone and it's totally NOT for flappy bird or games that many would like to think. Many governments, businesses, hospitals, and universities are turning to iPhone because of the availability of industry specific apps. I work for one of the top hospitals in my area that is also one of the top 10 hospitals in the country. They have transitioned many staff and physicians to iPhone from BlackBerry. They are using iPads in surgery and other departments. Mainly due to health care specific apps and the apps they build that can easily be used across our system. They have also started testing the Surface Pro 2 as well. They have the security protocols in place for each device and able to manage them. For many companies, it is about security AND the availability of industry specific apps. When the neurologists, neurosuregons, nurses, and residents I work with need access to the latest medications, procedures, etc, they can use their iPhone to obtain this information with an app that is easily available and constantly updated. I'm sure for super confidential and sensitive government information, other protocols are used. For governments, it's really not the fear of being hacked, but employees obtaining sensitive information and putting it out for the world to see.
Posted via the Android CrackBerry App!
WhatsApp and Facebook will make sure this information will get out there, lol
iPhone for me? Scr... ahem Q that! (posted from the latter)
Not good for BB. Shame on BlackBerry for not making a compelling reason to stay with the incumbent legacy devices. It's because BlackBerry will not / or cannot listen to what consumers want. We've seen it happen very rapidly in the last 24 months. No secret here folks, BlackBerry is in trouble. Hopefully Chen can pool a rabbit out of his hat!
Posted via CB10
Doesn't matter, Canada doesn't need US to win...
[Girls are in gold !!]
Hahaha.. go Canada gold. Defense wasn't too good on the ice I see
Posted via CB10
Funny that a device which is usually jailbroken instantly after each new software release is being supported.
Posted via CB10
Really bad news, it's about time that anonymous pay them a little visit.
Z berry are platforms of choice!
Anyway I read it it's bad news.
Now, usage will tell.
Posted via CB10
I knew it!!.....
The US air force loves playing with toys
Blackberry...build for MEN, not BOYS!
That's cool. The U.S. Air Force can now use a flight simulation app to fly their planes ROFL Just another decision by the U.S. government showing just how stupid they truly are.
Really bad decision.
Can't blame the Americans for supporting their own product, even though it's just not as good to use as the new BlackBerry.
It's just a matter of time before that decision backfires with security issues.
There are Apple cheers but louder cheers in China.
Just goes to show... there are other solutions to security out there... not just BB... and some folks need to wake up a smell the coffee so to speak...nothing lasts forever and that includes BB....
What security?
#PoweredByBlackBerry
Hmmm, the Air Force handles ICBMs and strategic bombers...I'm now very uncomfortable.
Posted via CB10 on Z10
Right: Are any important passwords stored on the devices?
Idea for next Hackathon : "remote control nuclear equipped USAF bomber and target Pyongyang using iPhone as a proof of concept"
(only half-kidding)
iPhone for me? Scr... ahem Q that! (posted from the latter)
Well, that's not good. For BlackBerry or for the USAF.
Posted from my Z10 via CB10
Dummies. Not news. It's American government. They want to be able to hack into their own system. Big bro!
Posted via CB10
They will also use the all-safe Whatsapp to communicate.
Fail.
Posted via CB10
+1 LOL
Actually, the headline should read. "The U.S Airforce just deployed iToys to their entire fleet". "Who were we supposed to go after? I don't remember i'm too busy on my iToy playing games, let someone else go". The next days paper will read. "U.S Airforce pilot abandoned his post because he was too busy on his iToy, half the American population dead because he let the bogy slip through and drop bombs over half the U.S.A
Team BlackBerry
You guys realize that BlackBerry would have known about this for some time. It's hardly a setback. It's nothing but sensationalism. You may see some stick reaction, but beyond that you won't see much of anything.
Posted via CB10
Iphone/androids instantly hacked at sochi olympics... yeah!! let's go with those phone! Morons... to be secure must mean I hand out my credit cards and ss numbers to random people too....
Posted via CB10
How a fake 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics hacking story is causing real damage to NBC News' reputation
http://www.imore.com/fake-2014-sochi-winter-olympics-hacking-story-cause...
Nooooooo!
Is the air force that naive? Wth??? And why are they still rocking legacy devices??? Maybe this is bb's fault. They should of somehow packaged some deals with the military for all of the overstock z10's
BlackBerry 4Life
+1 on the packaged deal.
Posted via CB10
Ouch.
Tough pill to swallow.
Pray for a security breach on iPhone.
Posted via CB10
Not impressed. That's the area I think BlackBerry continues to dominate and if things like these continue to happen, BlackBerry won't enjoy this position anymore.
Posted via CB10
It's scary to see the airforce buying the iPhone, I'm not impressed at all it seems that the is two different perspective when it comes to security. I know it's good to buy local products but it's a wrong move when it comes to defense site. If the white house approved the BlackBerry then that should put things in a clear picture
Nova
Posted via CB10
Fort Knox? More like Fort Swiss (cheese) from the reports. Seriously though US DoD, don't use inferior technology while I live here. It isn't safe, and I kinda like being safe.
Visit my channel @ C0029395D
I guess the military needs simple devices for their people. I usually don't pay attention to posts from BB fanatics because most cling to BB simply because that's what they know. It would be nice if they had real world experience using iOS so an intelligent comment could be made and not just bashing because another person does not agree with their platform. Having said that, I have used iOS, Legacy and now BB10.2 and I just don't get it. Why use anything else? It's a better OS and it's getting better. iOS has not really changed much in years and without Steve Jobs there to push the envelope it may not change much for years to come. Lets face it, He was the driving force!
I crave for the day the headline will read "Airforce iPhones have been breached"
Team BlackBerry
WELL. NO. $HIT!
Posted via CB10
"...to save on Network Resources..." LOLOL!!!
OS6 and OS7 devices are using compressed data and now get the biggest resource hog iPhone??? WTF???
Posted via CB10
Some palms were probably greased.
Visit my channel @ C0029395D
Bb10 isn't compressed. What's your point.
http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2013/12/31/the-problem-with-blackb...
Nooooo!
Vtecberry Z10
Meh, American protectionism. I would not expect any less from them. Good riddance! *wave*
Posted via CB10
We're waving right back at ya! Adios!
We're not down south. We're up north :p
Posted via CB10
Adios, Sayonara, Ciao, Au Revoir, Good Bye, Don't let the door hit ya where the good Lord split ya, Kick Rocks.
Sooooo loooong...
And now we see how BlackBerry is regarded in the eyes of the U.S.
Not good BlackBerry, not good.
Posted via CB10
May day, may day.
Posted via CB10
They are after the hacked iphone very very interesting this will hit the media and hit the stock hard
Sad news. Just goes to show how they cant depend on blackberry
Posted via CB10
Someone just have to check what's the kick back for the decision makers. I'm sure some palms been greased.
Posted via CB10
interesting, dont know what the point of switching is when the number one reason has to be security and blackberry's security is top notch. why take the chance switching? *shakes head*
We need armed forced consultants incessantly proving the dire need for the simplicity of BlackBerry 10 OS, it's compelling infrastructure and security, and of the fact that BB10 is new. Way back when in the early years of BBOS there were no real early adopters. The same holds true for BB10 in this governmental capacity; however, with the onslaught of the last 3-4 year steep decline, it is still an uphill battle. These high officers and generals used the iPhone at home so there was petition for swing over. Perfect for why our new innovation/security center was a much needed protocol in Washington from J. Chen.
Posted via CB10
That's bad real bad for U.S defense.
Some special interest group probably paid big money for this deal to go through.
Apple smart phones are made in China. China is expert at espionage stealing defense technology. Check out their new war ship, stealth planes. They look like copy of American. They even have Chinese mars rover looking similar. Even theirs evidence consumer electronics made in China have Chips inside to spy on Americans.
USA Defense Force WTF were they thinking? Cost Cut?? Not in the long run!!!
BlackBerry Lead
Do not Follow
Posted via CB10
Kudos to the Crackberry team for reporting this disappointing news honestly and promptly without any spin. This news sucks but there are a lot of governments and corporations out there beyond the Americans who probably don't want to be using the same architecture as those that are doing a great deal of hacking anyway.
Z10 on the Rogers Network
+1
Z10STL100-1/10.2.1.2141
News like this is such a piss off
#PoweredByBlackBerry
There must be other reasons at play rather than best phone and as always apple kia Obama and samsung are full of sh** loser crap disgrace to America
Delta Champion
Finger print really works.
Posted via CB10
Timely announcement. Suspicious.
Posted via CB10
Is the US Air Force using BES 10 to manage these devices?
Why does CB needs to post this ? Are not there enough haters out there to report this ?
they have to report the good and the bad, everything about BB.
They will regret that decision. Mark my words. I'm ex-Air Force and iPhones are gonna be a huge problem.
I used my Q10 to create this CrackBerry madness!
WikiLeaks...more food will be coming down the pipeline :)
Serious Airforce buys comedy phone!
Posted via CB10
>> Both iOS and Samsung's Knox-enabled Android smartphones have been approved for use on Department of Defense networks,
Samsung Knox does not have an ATO (Authority To Operate). I don't think iOS does either. See here:
"BlackBerry has announced today that the US Defense Information System Agency (DISA) has given both the BlackBerry Z10 and Q10 the Authority to Operate (ATO) on the Department of Defense (DoD) networks, making BlackBerry the first Mobile Device Management (MDM) to obtain an ATO. With the ATO, the DISA is prepping to support 10,000 BB10 devices by the fall and over 30,000 but the end of 2013."
http://crackberry.com/blackberry-awarded-authority-operate-us-department...
The CrackBerry article post-dates the link to the article saying Knox and iOS are approved. In other words, CrackBerry is contradicting itself.
Kevin -- Please get your stories straight?
Well sh*t.
Posted via CB10
Seems these guys need a reality check
Posted via CB10
This is terrible news. Could be the beginning of a worst case scenario. Let's see what Chen does.
Posted via CB10
If one of their reasons for swapping to iPhones is cost, all I can say is that they'll get what they pay for...
Posted via the super amazing BlackBerry Q10
There goes Air Force mobile security out of the plane and in to the jet engine Intake!!!
This is surprising...
You would have thought security would be paramount.
China is going to have a field day.
Posted via CB10
I'm starting to believe that Apple and Samsung representatives are being sent to these Federal organizations and making a hard sell while no one from BB is going there to reassure them of the extra security that BlackBerry brings to the table.
blackberry still believes its common knowledge it seems.. i often inform people that their media fed opinion on blackberry is false.. while i also load bbm for some people to show them how much better it is. and faster then sms by measurable amounts of time.
I guess with the NSA being able to infiltrate iPhone the Defence department wants no privacy for their staff. :)
Yes, because the NSA and DoD don't all have the same goal in mind or work for the same powers that be.
Really well thought out comment.
This move makes no sense at all...... is everyone a hipster these days..... apple has absolutely NOTHING To offer that industry..... i just don't get it
Posted via CB10
Exactly
Posted via CB10
Me too.
Posted via BlackBerry Q10Bold
Flight plan apps???? This was one of the biggest reasons that the Air Force and FAA were looking at iPads is to replace paper maps and logs with an iPad. Again it comes down to apps, and the other platforms have more apps, including productivity apps, and their is much greater developer support out there for iOS. iPhone and iPad running iOS 7 is FIOS approved so that box is checked, just like BB10, and they are switching to a device that fits their needs better.
Posted via CB10
I don't know...... i don't think adapting a flight plan app to BlackBerry should be that difficult for the usaf...... as noted before a mobile finger print scanner is a bit of a weird idea at least to me.
But i guess we'll see, and i still can't see how they will really save money by switching to iphone's??
Posted via CB10
It's going to be a totally locked down phone with very little access to apps. It'll honestly be a glorified feature phone.
At my employer (bank), "regulated" users such as Traders have really crappy bb10s. No Bluetooth, HDMI out, no apps. Email and limited web browsing.
Posted via CB10 - Z30STA100-5/10.2.1.1925
that's weird, all BB10 have that BT, HDMI, email and the browser has very good reviews, that must not be a BB10 maybe an old legacy.
Can be locked from an IT Policy when activated on a BlackBerry Server
Posted via CB10
If that is the IT policy it will be the same with any device regardless of the brand.
True, and that's why it's typically only deployed to users with sensitive data
Posted via CB10
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