BlackBerry’s Smartphone Exit, Cloud Rebirth

Last month, BlackBerry (BBRY) introduced its VAI (or value-added integrator) program. This specialized program will build a global network of skilled and qualified experts on BlackBerry’s QNX and Certicom technologies, enabling partners to scale Blackberry’s embedded technologies by developing secure solutions and delivering integrated services. 

In February 2017, BlackBerry (BBRY) introduced the BBM Enterprise SDK (software development kit) and thus entered the CPaaS (communications platform-as-a-service) space. According to BlackBerry, the BBM Enterprise SDK should “enable developers to integrate secure messaging, voice and video capabilities into applications and services.”

BlackBerry will compete with cloud communication platforms globally and provide APIs (application program interface) to enterprises, thereby enabling them to improve business processes. The CPaaS segment also provides another market for BlackBerry to increase revenue, which it has been struggling to do for the past few years.

Instant messaging is quickly becoming the primary mode of communication in enterprises. BlackBerry has the capabilities to provide secure and encrypted messaging services, as it now has over 80 security certifications and approvals. The firm aims to provide a highly secure messaging platform for both iOS (AAPL) and Android (GOOG) (GOOGL).

Notably, a research report from MarketsandMarkets has projected that the cloud communication platform will grow at a CAGR (compound annual growth rate) of 26.8% from $1.4 billion in 2016 to $4.5 billion in 2021.

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