Are Blackberries Still Being Made?

Are Blackberries Still Being Made? A Look at the Brand’s Current Status

The short answer is yes, Blackberry phones are still being made, though their form and function have drastically changed. While the iconic keyboard-centric devices are no longer manufactured by Blackberry Limited, the brand has been licensed, and new devices, running Android, are available.

A Brief History: From RIM to Near Extinction

Blackberry, originally Research In Motion (RIM), dominated the smartphone market for years with its secure email, BBM messaging service, and signature physical keyboard. Their devices were the go-to choice for professionals and anyone who valued productivity on the go. However, the advent of the iPhone and Android smartphones, with their large touchscreens and app-centric ecosystems, presented a challenge Blackberry struggled to overcome.

RIM rebranded as Blackberry in 2013, attempting to regain market share with new devices like the Blackberry 10 operating system. These efforts ultimately failed to recapture the brand’s former glory. Blackberry officially stopped designing and manufacturing its own phones in 2016, opting to license its brand to other manufacturers.

The Licensing Era: TCL and Onward

After Blackberry ceased direct production, TCL Communication stepped in and produced Blackberry-branded devices such as the KEYone and KEY2, running Android. These phones were designed to appeal to Blackberry loyalists, retaining the physical keyboard while offering modern smartphone features.

However, the agreement between Blackberry and TCL ended in 2020. Shortly thereafter, a Texas-based company, OnwardMobility, announced plans to release a new Blackberry device with 5G connectivity and a physical keyboard. Unfortunately, OnwardMobility’s plans were scrapped in early 2022 due to licensing issues and component shortages.

The Current Status: Resurrected by PT Indo Barensi

Despite setbacks, the Blackberry name hasn’t disappeared completely. A new licensing agreement allows PT Indo Barensi Telecom, an Indonesian company, to manufacture and sell Blackberry-branded devices in select markets. These devices are largely focused on enterprise security and device management, leveraging Blackberry’s established reputation in that space. These phones are often manufactured by other companies to specifications set forth by the license holder.

While these current Blackberry devices may not have the same widespread appeal as the iconic models of the past, the brand continues to exist, adapted to a different market and consumer base.

The Modern Blackberry Phone: Software and Focus

The new Blackberry phones primarily run on Android. This allows them to benefit from the vast app ecosystem available on the Google Play Store, something earlier Blackberry devices lacked. The focus has shifted towards enterprise solutions, emphasizing security and device management for businesses. The key features promoted in these current models are typically centered around secure communication and productivity applications.

Why Blackberry Matters: A Legacy of Innovation

Even though the Blackberry of today is different from the Blackberry of a decade ago, the brand still holds significant historical importance. It was a pioneer in the smartphone industry, popularizing mobile email and establishing the concept of a connected, always-on device. The physical keyboard became synonymous with productivity and efficient communication. Blackberry also set the standard for mobile security, a legacy that continues to influence the industry today.

Future Prospects: Can Blackberry Adapt and Thrive?

The future of Blackberry as a hardware brand remains uncertain. The market is dominated by Apple and Android devices. To thrive, a modern Blackberry needs to offer a unique selling proposition beyond brand recognition. This might involve focusing on niche markets, offering specialized software solutions, or innovating with hardware design. Whether the current licensing model can lead to a sustainable future for Blackberry remains to be seen.


FAQs About the Current State of Blackberry

Is Blackberry still a company?

Yes, Blackberry Limited is still a company, though it has transitioned from a hardware manufacturer to a software and cybersecurity company. The company focuses on providing security software and services to enterprises and governments.

Are the Blackberry phones sold today the same as the old ones?

No, the Blackberry phones sold today are different. While some models retain the physical keyboard, they run on Android and are manufactured by companies holding a Blackberry license.

Can I still use BBM (Blackberry Messenger)?

Unfortunately, BBM for consumers was discontinued in 2019. An enterprise version, BBM Enterprise, remains available for secure business communication.

Where can I buy a new Blackberry phone?

The availability of new Blackberry phones varies by region. PT Indo Barensi Telecom distributes devices primarily in select markets, often focusing on business customers. It is important to check availability in your specific country through authorized retailers.

What operating system do modern Blackberry phones use?

Modern Blackberry phones run on Android. This allows them to access the Google Play Store and a wide range of applications.

What is Blackberry Limited focusing on now?

Blackberry Limited focuses on cybersecurity software and services, providing solutions for secure communication, endpoint management, and threat prevention.

Are there any Blackberry phones with 5G?

While OnwardMobility initially announced plans for a 5G Blackberry device, that project was cancelled. Currently, no readily available Blackberry phones feature 5G connectivity.

Is the physical keyboard still a feature on Blackberry phones?

Some Blackberry-branded phones continue to offer the physical keyboard, appealing to users who prefer tactile typing.

Are Blackberry phones secure?

Blackberry has long been associated with security, and current Blackberry phones benefit from the security features of Android, enhanced by Blackberry’s own security software and protocols.

Are Blackberry phones popular?

Blackberry phones are not as popular as they once were. Their market share is significantly smaller compared to Apple and Samsung. They primarily cater to niche markets, such as businesses requiring secure communication.

Will Blackberry ever regain its former glory?

It is unlikely that Blackberry will return to its former market dominance. The smartphone landscape has drastically changed, and competition is fierce.

How can I get support for my old Blackberry device?

Official support for older Blackberry devices and services has largely ended. However, online forums and communities may provide assistance from other users.

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