BlackBerry's evolution from phones to automotive technology

In hindsight, 2007 may be best known for the release of the iPhone - but it was also the heyday of the android, BlackBerry. Things have calmed down for the Canadian software company since then, but Tarun Shome, Product Management Director at BlackBerry IVY, has some thoughts on EV adoption.

Evolution of BlackBerry: From phones to automotive innovation

BlackBerry phones were popular for their strong focus on security and their complete keyboards. The devices also offered secure email communication and internet browsing. The following year, The BlackBerry Bold series offered both a physical keyboard and a touchscreen.

But in 2016, BlackBerry stopped manufacturing its own phones, instead forging partnerships to produce BlackBerry-branded devices. In 2020, BlackBerry announced a partnership with OnwardMobility to build a new 5G BlackBerry smartphone with a physical keyboard.

Early in 2023, BlackBerry and IoV technology service PATEO announced that Chinese automaker Dongfeng Motor had chosen BlackBerry IVY™-powered PATEO Digital Cockpit for the automaker’s next-generation, all-electric VOYAH H97 model.

Set to enter production in 2024, the premium BlackBerry IVY-enabled VOYAH H97 model will feature Electra Vehicles, Inc.’s BlackBerry IVY-powered AI battery management solution – EVE-Ai™ - which offers real-time, personalised recommendations for EV battery management to improve EV range and lifetime, and to alleviate drivers’ ‘range anxiety’.

Overcoming challenges in 2024 for a sustainable future

Tarun Shome, Product Management Director at BlackBerry IVY, has some thoughts on EV adoption.

“Many customers maintain that it’s risky to use an electric car when charging points are few and far between,” he said. “Sales could plateau if consumers decide to wait for the infrastructure, leaving us further behind on net-zero goals.

"Manufacturers can help by enhancing in-vehicle connectivity and providing more meaningful insights to drivers in 2024. Then, the vehicles themselves would enable drivers to accurately find their nearest public chargers (along with charging capabilities) or suggest changes in driving style to save power until the next charging point. This is key to reducing range anxiety, which remains the main barrier to mainstream adoption of more sustainable transport.”
 

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