BlackBerry phones, with their black bodies and compact QWERTY keyboards, are making a comeback in the hands of Gen Z. Last year, a single TikTok video calling for the relaunch of these devices surpassed 6 million views and received over 500,000 "likes." Related posts exceeded 125,000. For younger generations, outdated BlackBerry phones have become fashion items despite their limited functionality.
BlackBerry itself did not return to smartphone manufacturing. Instead, it has transformed into a software company that powers communication networks for the automotive, medical device, industrial robot, and government and defense sectors.
Song Han-jin, Ji (President) of BlackBerry Korea, stated, "Many people believe that BlackBerry withdrew from the Korean market when it ended its phone business in 2016, but that is not true. Over the past decade, we have transitioned into a software company that safely operates critical systems."
What made BlackBerry phones special was not just their keyboards. The core of their appeal lay in communication security technology that allowed governments and enterprises to securely exchange emails and messages via smartphones, ensuring that only authorized individuals and devices could access work-related data. Former U.S. President Barack Obama also used BlackBerry devices during his inauguration, which featured enhanced security and restricted contact lists.
BlackBerry applied the technologies it accumulated while manufacturing smartphones to cybersecurity. It protects calls, messages, and file sharing on iPhones and Android phones. Unlike traditional cybersecurity that blocks malware and external intrusions, BlackBerry safeguards the "moment" when people communicate via smartphones and share data. Client organizations can directly control who employees contact, which devices they use for access, and what content they are allowed to share.
BlackBerry's current business is divided into two segments: 'QNX,' software that powers automobiles and various devices, and 'Secure Communications,' a communication security solution. QNX is installed in over 275 million vehicles worldwide. The 'Secure Communications' segment is now taking its first steps in the Korean market. It offers three solutions: 'UEM,' which manages work smartphones and company data; 'SecuSUITE,' which converts ordinary smartphones into secure devices by encrypting calls, messages, and files; and 'AtHoc,' which protects communication networks via apps, text messages, and phone calls during crises. All three have established references with foreign governments and national institutions.
Notably, AtHoc prompts recipients with the question, "Are you in a safe place?" When users respond that they are "safe" or "need assistance," the operations center can identify on-screen who remains in dangerous areas. It is also possible to trigger building-wide announcements and digital signage simultaneously, or allow field staff to send photos and location data to the operations center. The system is used not only for construction site collapses, power plant accidents, wildfires, and flash floods but also when ransomware halts business networks. Last year, the Malaysian government utilized AtHoc and SecuSUITE during the ASEAN Summit.
In May, BlackBerry secured ITSEN PNS (ITCEN PNS) as an official mobile integrated security platform partner and is now targeting government agencies, public institutions, financial firms, defense contractors, and construction and energy enterprises. It is also reviewing domestic security certifications required for entry into the public market in collaboration with its Canadian headquarters.
Song Ji (President) emphasized, "The key lies in whether an organization can independently control communication data, encryption keys, and system operational authority." He added, "We will support organizations in securing digital sovereignty, ensuring safe communication during crises, and maintaining business continuity."
in TECH
