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RIM's BlackPad to Run on QNX Software with Military-Grade Technology

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Research In Motion Ltd. (RIM) is developing its new tablet computer, known as the BlackPad, with technology used in products from BMW and the U.S. Army's Crusher tank. The company plans to use software from QNX Software Systems, which it acquired for $200 million in April, to power the tablet. This move aims to differentiate the BlackPad from Apple Inc.'s iPad, according to three people familiar with the plans.

QNX's software is already used in various industries, including automotive, industrial, medical, and communications. The company's technology helps control music, media, and navigation systems in cars like those from BMW and Porsche. The U.S. Army also utilizes QNX software in its unmanned vehicle, the Crusher, which was developed by Carnegie Mellon University's National Robotics Engineering Center in 2006. The BlackPad is designed to leverage RIM's strength with corporate customers, particularly with email services, and will be closely integrated with the BlackBerry's email system.

The BlackPad's plans include the use of Wi-Fi technology, enabling users to connect to the Internet whenever the wireless technology is available. This device is intended to fill the gap between smartphones and laptops, potentially providing an alternative to the iPad for those who need a device for creating and producing content.

Key Takeaways:

  • RIM's new tablet, BlackPad, will run on QNX software, utilizing technology from BMW and the U.S. Army's Crusher tank.
  • QNX's software is used in various industries, including automotive, industrial, medical, and communications.
  • The BlackPad will be closely integrated with the BlackBerry's email system and will have similar security for messaging.
  • The device will include Wi-Fi technology for internet connectivity.
  • RIM is aiming to differentiate the BlackPad from Apple's iPad with the use of QNX software technology.
  • The BlackPad is designed to leverage RIM's strength with corporate customers, particularly with email services.

Statistics:

  • RIM acquired QNX Software Systems for $200 million in April.
  • The U.S. Army's Crusher tank was developed by Carnegie Mellon University's National Robotics Engineering Center in 2006.
  • QNX's software helps control music, media, and navigation systems in cars like those from BMW and Porsche.
  • The BlackPad's Wi-Fi technology enables users to connect to the Internet whenever the wireless technology is available.
  • RIM is racing to introduce its tablet as rivals debut similar devices that fill the gap between smartphones and laptops.

Sources:

  • Bloomberg News
  • 2010 Toronto Star

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