Struggling handset maker Blackberry will combine its thousands of patents and several key software projects into a single unit as it tries to develop new revenue streams.
The company said Monday it has created the BlackBerry Technology Solutions unit, which comprises BlackBerry’s technology assets, including: QNX (embedded software), Project Ion (Internet of Things application platform), Certicom (cryptography applications), and Paratek (RF antenna tuning), as well as BlackBerry’s extensive patent portfolio.
"Combining all these assets into a single business unit led by Sandeep will create operational synergies and new revenue streams, furthering our turnaround strategy," Executive Chairman and CEO John Chen said in a statement.
The unit wil be led by Sandeep Chennakeshu, who has served as president of Ericsson Mobile Platforms and chief technology officer of Sony Ericsson.
BlackBerry is shifting away from its failed focus on consumers back to its core corporate and government clients and building on its strengths in security and mobile-device management.