BlackBerry moves QNX, patents into new business unit

BlackBerry has created a new business unit to house its most promising assets - cryptographic applications, its QNX embedded software, patent portfolio and Project Ion platform.

John Chen

The unit, called BlackBerry Technology Solutions, will be headed by Sandeep Chennakeshu, the former president of Ericsson Mobile Platforms.

The division will also include a portfolio of 44,000 patents and the Paratek antenna tech company purchased by BlackBerry in 2012.

Chen took the reins last year and has worked to stabilise the struggling handset business that made it a global brand while earning more money from its services and software.

BlackBerry's QNX embedded operating system powers its latest phones, but also helps run car infotainment panels, nuclear reactors and massive internet routers.

The company hopes QNX - and its Project Ion platform for connecting devices - will play a major role in the nascent industry forming around the so-called internet of things - the idea that all sorts of static devices could be connected to the internet in order to send and receive information and commands.

"Combining all these assets into a single business unit led by Sandeep will create operational synergies and new revenue streams, furthering our turnaround strategy," Chen said in a statement.

Chennakeshu himself is a named inventor on 73 patents, BlackBerry said. He has previously served as chief technology officer at Sony-Ericsson.