BlackBerry demos OTA updates for IoT and connected car solutions

BlackBerry is demonstrating its next-generation over-the-air (OTA) update solution for connected cars as well as Internet of Things applications. Enabling these connected devices to remotely receive software updates and fixes, just like how smartphones and tablets get updated today, is a promising move forward for IoT.

BlackBerry says this solution will help automakers cut maintenance costs, reduce expensive recalls, improve customer satisfaction, and keep vehicles up to date with compelling new features long after they have rolled off the assembly line. The OTA update solution is part of the BlackBerry(R) IoT Platform and is designed to deliver secure, globally scalable update services for maintaining and enhancing the software in infotainment systems, telematics units, and other end-points in the vehicle. 

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IBM investing $3 Billion to develop Internet of Things business

Image by Sean Gallup/Getty Images

IBM announced the formation of a new business unit inside the company, dedicated to accelerating its leadership in the Internet of Things (IoT).

IBM estimates that 90 percent of all data generated by devices like smartphones, tablets, connected vehicles and appliances is never analyzed or acted upon. As much as 60 percent of this data begins to lose value within milliseconds of being generated. To address this challenge, IBM will announce plans to develop new industry-specific cloud data services, IoT developer tools and expanded ecosystem partnerships. 

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BlackBerry MWC announcements focus on platforms over devices

It's really no surprise that BlackBerry made a number of platform announcements with no handset news at the Mobile World Congress. BlackBerry has been moving to its Internet of Things as well as providing industry-wide security solutions and partnering with Samsung on enterprise-grade security offerings.

Announcements at Mobile World Congress include how the BlackBerry Experience is being made cross-platform, updates to their KNOX partnership with frenemy Samsung, and a suite of new BBM customization options. 

“Flexibility without compromise is what current and former BlackBerry users tell us time and again they want from their mobile device. They want BlackBerry’s legendary security and core productivity and collaboration capabilities while still being able to choose a device that matches their lifestyle and personality," said BlackBerry CEO and Executive Chairman John Chen. Hit jump for specifics.

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