BlackBerry shares surged following the deal with Google that allows the search engine giant’s mobile productivity tools to run on the smartphone maker’s device management system. According to a statement by BlackBerry, after the agreement, businesses and governments using BlackBerry’s BES12 software will be able to integrate Android for Work into the system.
Expanding in BYOD segment
In recent times, many businesses have allowed employees to “bring your own device” (BYOD). To capitalize, BlackBerry is trying to expand its ability to manage devices and tools from multiple technology providers. In November, the Canadian smartphone maker entered into a similar deal with Samsung.
Users can segregate work and personal applications on their smartphones with the help of Android for Work, allowing the company’s IT department to secure and manage only work-related content.
Kevin Stadtler, president of Stadtler Capital Management LLC, told the Boston Globe that BlackBerry still is a popular name in the security field. Stadtler, who owns BlackBerry stock said, “One shortcoming of the Android platform is security. They’re partnering with BlackBerry in order to directly address that.”
Apart from BlackBerry, the internet giant entered into similar partnerships with SAP SE, Samsung and SOTI Inc.
BlackBerry Classic on Verizon
Apart from focusing on its software, BlackBerry is also reviving its hardware business and recently launched the Classic, a QWERTY keyboard phone that will be available on Verizon network starting today, as announced by the Canadian firm. The BlackBerry Classic was announced before Christmas last year and received much positive feedback.
A survey from Business Insider ranked it at the 16th spot in its smartphone list. The Classic reminds consumers of BlackBerry’s good days and its most successful devices such as the Curve and Bold. The Classic is the phone for users fond of a QWERTY keypad.
“The familiar design and iconic keyboard return for those who have 10 minutes to type 10 emails before moving onto their next task. QWERTY fans, this is for you,” the company said in a press release.
On Wednesday, BlackBerry shares closed up by 2.34% at $10.51, while year to date, the stock is down by over 4%.
