Unveiling the Mystery: Are Blackberry Phones Really Android?

Unveiling the Mystery: Are Blackberry Phones Really Android?

For many years, Blackberry was synonymous with security, efficiency, and a distinct operating system that made it a standout in the mobile phone market. Once the preferred device for professionals, Blackberry’s popularity began to wane with the rise of iOS and Android platforms. But as Blackberry adapted, so did its operating systems. This shift has led to much debate and confusion: Are Blackberry phones actually Android now?

In this article, we’ll dive into the evolution of Blackberry’s operating systems, how they differ from standard Android devices, and what it means for users today. We’ll also explore the reasons behind Blackberry’s shift to Android and provide a step-by-step guide to understanding its current capabilities. Let’s unravel the mystery and see where Blackberry stands in the Android era.

The Evolution of Blackberry’s Operating System

To understand whether Blackberry is truly an Android device, it’s essential to look at the history of its operating systems. Originally, Blackberry operated on its proprietary OS, known as Blackberry OS. It was widely known for its high level of security and features specifically designed for professional use. This OS was unique to Blackberry and was a key reason for its dominance in the enterprise sector.

However, as the mobile landscape evolved and Android and iOS started to dominate the market, Blackberry faced the challenge of staying relevant. In 2013, Blackberry launched Blackberry 10 (BB10), a more modern OS with enhanced functionalities. Despite these improvements, it failed to gain traction compared to Android and iOS devices.

Finally, in 2015, Blackberry made the significant decision to release its first phone running on the Android OS, the Blackberry Priv. This marked the beginning of Blackberry’s journey into the Android ecosystem.

Why Did Blackberry Switch to Android?

The decision to switch from a proprietary OS to Android was driven by several factors:

• Market Competition: With Android and iOS dominating the market, it became increasingly challenging for Blackberry to maintain a competitive edge with its OS.
• App Availability: By transitioning to Android, Blackberry users could access millions of apps on the Google Play Store, a feature that was lacking on previous Blackberry OS devices.
• Development Resources: Maintaining a unique OS requires extensive resources. Partnering with Android allowed Blackberry to leverage Google’s updates, improving device security and functionality.
• Security Features: Android is known for being customizable, allowing Blackberry to build on Android’s foundation and enhance it with their renowned security features.

Understanding Blackberry’s Android Integration

When Blackberry adopted Android, it didn’t simply copy the typical Android experience; it enhanced it. Blackberry’s Android phones come with a unique suite of applications and security features not found on standard Android devices.

Here’s how Blackberry’s Android experience differs:

• Enhanced Security: Blackberry phones running on Android come with additional security layers, such as DTEK, which monitors the device’s security status and provides real-time feedback.
• Blackberry Hub: A productivity tool that combines all messages, emails, and social media notifications in one place, exclusive to Blackberry devices.
• Physical Keyboard Integration: Blackberry has also integrated its famous physical keyboard into select Android models, providing a unique typing experience.
• Enterprise Features: Blackberry’s Android devices offer enterprise-level features that cater to business users, including secure device management and advanced encryption.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Blackberry Android Phone

If you’re a new Blackberry Android user, here’s a step-by-step guide to getting started:

1. Setting Up Your Device

When you turn on a Blackberry Android phone for the first time, you’ll be guided through the setup process:

• Choose your language and connect to a Wi-Fi network.
• Sign in to your Google account. This step allows you to access the Google Play Store and sync your apps and contacts.
• Set up Blackberry-specific features, such as DTEK security, which provides a dashboard to monitor the security status of your device.

2. Configuring Blackberry Hub

The Blackberry Hub is a core feature for Blackberry users on Android. Here’s how to set it up:

• Open the Blackberry Hub app and grant the necessary permissions for accessing your emails, messages, and other notifications.
• Add your email accounts (you can link multiple accounts to manage everything in one place).
• Customize your notifications, including snooze settings and priority notifications.

The Blackberry Hub can be especially useful for professionals who manage multiple communication channels daily, helping streamline productivity.

3. Enabling Additional Security Features

Blackberry’s reputation for security remains a significant selling point. Here’s how to enable key security features on your Blackberry Android device:

• DTEK by Blackberry: This security app monitors app permissions and device vulnerabilities. To enable DTEK, open the app and follow the setup instructions.
• Fingerprint and Password Security: Go to Settings > Security to set up your fingerprint or a strong password.
• Encryption: Blackberry offers device encryption for extra security, which can be activated in the security settings.

These steps ensure that your Blackberry Android device maintains a high standard of security, making it suitable for both personal and professional use.

Troubleshooting Common Blackberry Android Issues

While Blackberry’s Android integration offers a smooth experience, users may occasionally encounter issues. Here are solutions to some common problems:

1. Battery Draining Quickly

If you notice your battery is draining faster than expected:

• Check for power-intensive apps in Settings > Battery.
• Turn on battery saver mode when needed.
• Disable or uninstall unused apps, especially those running in the background.

2. App Permissions Confusion

Blackberry’s DTEK may alert you frequently about app permissions. To manage this:

• Review permissions in Settings > Apps > Permissions and adjust according to your preferences.
• Use DTEK’s suggestions for balancing security with functionality.

3. Physical Keyboard Malfunctions

On Blackberry models with physical keyboards, typing issues can arise. To troubleshoot:

• Restart the device, as a simple reboot can often resolve minor keyboard issues.
• Check for software updates, as Blackberry frequently releases patches for hardware-related bugs.

In case issues persist, consult Blackberry’s support page for additional troubleshooting tips and resources.

Are Blackberry Phones Still Worth It?

For many, Blackberry’s transition to Android brought the best of both worlds: the flexibility of Android combined with Blackberry’s security and productivity features. Blackberry Android phones are particularly well-suited for users who prioritize security and professional productivity.

While traditional Blackberry OS devices are now out of the market, Blackberry Android devices continue to attract a loyal following. If you’re looking for a smartphone that combines Android’s app ecosystem with added layers of security, a Blackberry device may be worth considering.

Conclusion: The Future of Blackberry and Android

So, are Blackberry phones really Android? The answer is yes, but with a twist. While Blackberry has embraced Android as its operating system, it has added unique features and security layers to set its devices apart from other Android phones. From DTEK security to Blackberry Hub, the company continues to offer something distinct within the Android ecosystem.

Blackberry’s journey has been one of adaptation and evolution. Its shift to Android has allowed the brand to stay relevant in a fast-paced mobile industry, providing users with a balance of familiarity, security, and modern functionality.

If you’re interested in learning more about Blackberry’s current device lineup, check out our detailed guide on Blackberry phones for the latest reviews and comparisons. Alternatively, for further insights into Blackberry’s security features, visit Blackberry’s official site.

In the end, Blackberry may no longer be the standalone OS giant it once was, but it has successfully carved out a niche within the Android ecosystem, offering a unique experience that still holds value for many users today.

This article is in the category Reviews and created by AndroidQuickGuide Team