BlackBerry QNX has been selected by Hyundai Autron, an arm of South Korean automobile manufacturer, Hyundai, to power Hyundai Autron‘s advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving software platform.
“We will deliver ADAS and autonomous driving software platforms that will set a new standard for the automotive industry.”
Hyundai Autron focuses on research and development, specializing in electronic control software and automotive semiconductors. Hyundai Autron will use the QNX operating system for Safety, a software solution that provides the foundation for building automotive systems. The ADAS and autonomous driving software platform are set to be commercialized by Hyundai Autron’s original equipment manufacturer (OEM) customers.
“We are excited to work with Hyundai Autron to provide next-generation automobiles with a secured ADAS and autonomous driving software platform,” said John Chen, executive chairman and CEO of BlackBerry. “Functional safety and security are top priorities in connected and autonomous vehicles.”
BlackBerry’s QNX has developed a number of control units as well as semiconductor technology, which is a key part of automotive electronic controls. Its software is now integrated into more than 150 million cars, and can be found in the models of many automakers, including Audi, BMW, Ford, GM, Maserati, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Toyota, and Volkswagen. Dae-Heung Moon, CEO of Hyundai Autron called the collaboration with BlackBerry setting “a new standard for the automotive industry.”
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This week, BlackBerry also announced it would be renewing its partnership with the University of Waterloo expanding on a more than 30 year relationship. With this renewed partnership the two organizations stated vague plans to create a joint lab in order to accelerate the development of research and technology into products that can ultimately be taken to market.
Blackberry and the University of Waterloo also have faculty and students work with BlackBerry R&D and business leadership teams in research, workshops, and economic development sessions. The first session, Marketing and Sales Strategy 101, will teach students about the importance of go-to-market strategy from BlackBerry executives.
BlackBerry said it also plans to continue relationships with the university’s Waterloo Centre for Automotive Research, while initiating new relationships with the Cybersecurity and Privacy Institute and the university’s AI Institute.
Earlier this week, it was also revealed that BlackBerry’s president and chief operating officer Bryan Palma was stepping down after about 11 months at the company. According to the Waterloo Regional Record, Palma left the company to pursue other opportunities. Palma managed the company’s core product and services for its IoT strategy, including its connected cars and smart speakers.
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