BlackBerry and Google are teaming up on an Android-related effort. And before you ask, no, it’s not a new smartphone.
The new BlackBerry-Google partnership is focused on fusing together BlackBerry’s BES12 system for managing mobile devices in the enterprise with Android Lollipop. As a result of the deal, BES12 will have integration with Google Play for Work for improved app management as well as better hardware encryption and secure enterprise and personal data.
BlackBerry was helping to secure Android devices in the enterprise before today’s announcement, but now it looks like the company is working with Google to better integrate Google Play For Work and make it easier for IT admins to encrypt devices and offer better security for hardware and data.
BlackBerry’s always been about security, but its enterprise efforts appear to be amped up in recent years as its mobile market share has waned. Because BlackBerry’s got so much experience in the enterprise, it’s probably wise for the firm to use that expertise to help secure other OSes and stay relevant in the enterprise.
