BlackBerry claims that while Android is terrible at protecting users’ privacy, they need not worry as its new device fixes the issue well. The new device in question is the BlackBerry Priv, which is expected to debut next month.
Making Android more secure
Citing a recent Cambridge University study, David Kleidermacher said that nine of ten Android devices are exposed to a critical vulnerability that puts the communications and personal data of customers at risk.
“It’s not a good situation,” Kleidermacher said, adding, “However, we at BlackBerry think we can do better. PRIV™ by BlackBerry® will bring BlackBerry mobile privacy, security and productivity to the Android world.” The executive said the BlackBerry Priv offers its privacy-minded users and enterprises a no-compromise experience
The fact that BlackBerry has performed “extensive surgery under the hood” makes the Priv more secure than other Android devices, said Kleidermacher. The device comes with a patented picture-login, WatchDox private file sharing, BBM Meetings private conferences and SecuSUITE private voice calls. Certified cryptography from BlackBerry Certicom is also employed by the device, noted Kleidermacher.
BlackBerry Priv expected next month
Kleidermacher is an expert in mobile security and the Internet of Things. He also wrote a book entitled Embedded Systems Security: Practical Methods for Safe and Secure Software and Systems Development. In February, when the Canadian firm hired Kleidermacher, CEO John Chen said that he has immense knowledge of securing the Internet of things and embedded systems, and as the company executes on its strategy and continues to expand “our management of the world’s mobile endpoints,” his knowledge will play a very important role in achieving their goals.
Carphone Warehouse already has a preorder page for the BlackBerry Priv on its online store, revealing that shipping will commence in the U.K. on Nov. 6. The U.K. online store also reveals the price, stating that the monthly pay plans start at £49 a month with no up-front cost.
If a customer is willing to pay something toward the handset, then monthly deals are available from £31.99, but customers will be required to pay £129.99 for 1GB of 4G data on the EE network and £179.99 for the handset on a deal with 5GB of data. The SIM-free BlackBerry Priv is available for £579.99.
