For those of you still using a BlackBerry 10 or BlackBerry OS device, the BlackBerry app store is going away, but not for another two years.
BlackBerry will shutter its BlackBerry World app store on Dec. 31, 2019. Before that, the BlackBerry Travel site will go away in February 2018 and the company's Playbook video-calling service will end in March 2018.
The impending shutdowns aren't too much of a shocker, considering BlackBerry hasn't manufactured a BB10 or BSOS device since 2015.
BlackBerry is working with partners to offer a "trade-up program" that will give BB10 or BBOS device owners a "significant discount" when upgrading to a new BlackBerry KeyOne or Motion, both of which run Google's Android operating system.
"Customers who upgrade to a new KeyOne or Motion won't miss a beat as they'll have immediate access to the rich universe of apps in the Google Play store without compromising on either security or their desire for a physical keyboard," the company wrote on its Inside BlackBerry blog.
BlackBerry said to "stay tuned" for more information about the trade-up program.
At this point, "millions" of people are still using BB10 and BBOS devices, BlackBerry said. Many of those devices are more than a decade old, the company added, calling that a "testament to the durability of our designs and brand loyalty."
The BlackBerry KeyOne earned an "excellent" rating in PCMag's review this year, nabbing praise for its "fantastic physical keyboard," "long battery life," and more.
"With its excellent hardware keyboard, BlackBerry's Android-powered KeyOne phone is a messaging marvel for a niche audience," PCMag's Lead Mobile Analyst Sascha Segan wrote.
BlackBerry World App Store Is Shutting Down
By -Awadh Jamal (Ajakai)
December 16, 2017
0
Tags:
Awadh Jamal (Ajakai)
A bright, talented and ambitious IT support technician with a strong technical
background who possesses self-discipline and the ability to work with the minimum of
supervision. Having exposure to a wide range of technologies & able to play a key role in
diagnosing hardware and software problems and to ensure that quality solutions meet
business objectives. Possessing a good team spirit, deadline orientated and having the
ability to organize and present complex solutions clearly and accurately.
Excellent communicator who makes every person feels as if he or she is the only one in
the room.