
If you're wondering whether your trusty BlackBerry phone still works after support has ended, the short answer is yes, it will still work, but with some limitations.
You can still use your BlackBerry phone to make calls, send texts, and access the internet, but you won't receive any security updates or software patches to fix bugs or protect against new threats.
In fact, BlackBerry phones will continue to function as long as the operating system and hardware remain compatible with the existing infrastructure.
However, you might experience issues with app compatibility, as many apps will no longer be supported or updated after the end of support.
As a result, you may find that some apps no longer work or behave erratically, which can be frustrating.
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January 4 Deadline
Classic BlackBerry phones will stop working on January 4, marking the end of an era for the once-iconic devices. This means that all older devices not running on Android software will no longer be able to use data, send text messages, access the internet, or make calls, even to 911.
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The company announced the news in September 2020 as part of its efforts to focus on providing security software and services to enterprises and governments around the world under the name BlackBerry Limited. BlackBerry has been mostly out of the phone business since 2016.
All classic BlackBerry devices running BlackBerry 10, 7.1 OS, and earlier will be affected by the shutdown. This includes devices like the BlackBerry 850, which was the first gadget to introduce the BlackBerry name. BlackBerry phones gained support for email, apps, web browsing, and BBM, an encrypted text messaging platform that predated WhatsApp.
The shutdown was first announced in September 2020, and the company has been reminding users about the deadline through updates and notifications. BlackBerry's main business isn't even phones anymore, but rather cybersecurity solutions like emergency communications systems and mobile security platforms.
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End of an Era: BlackBerry Phones
Classic BlackBerry phones will stop working on January 4, marking the end of an era for the once-ubiquitous devices.
Starting Tuesday, January 4, the company will stop running support for its classic devices running BlackBerry 10, 7.1 OS and earlier.
This means all of its older devices not running on Android software will no longer be able to use data, send text messages, access the internet, or make calls, even to 911.
The company originally announced the news in September 2020 as part of its efforts to focus on providing security software and services to enterprises and governments around the world under the name BlackBerry Limited.
BlackBerry's old school cell phones with physical keyboards from the late 1990s and early 2000s were once so popular that people nicknamed them "CrackBerries."
The devices became a status symbol and fixture for people on Wall Street, celebrities like Kim Kardashian, and even President Barack Obama, thanks in part to its great reputation for security.
At its peak in 2012, BlackBerry had more than 80 million active users.
The company got its start in 1996 as Research In Motion with what it called two-way pagers.
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Eventually, BlackBerry phones gained support for email, apps, web browsing, and BBM, an encrypted text messaging platform that predated WhatsApp and survived long after BlackBerry was surpassed by its rivals.
But Apple's touchscreen revolution with the iPhone in 2007 made BlackBerry's offerings appear lacking.
BlackBerry eventually gave up on its own software, embracing Android and layering its security software on top.
Some fans are holding out for the arrival of OnwardMobility's BlackBerry 5G device, which was originally expected to launch in 2021.
Despite the delay, its website still features a banner that says "coming 2021."
BlackBerry's main business isn't even phones anymore, it's focused on cybersecurity solutions now, like emergency communications systems and other mobile security platforms.
The company's market cap peaked at about $63 billion in 2007 before Apple came and ruined its gig.
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BlackBerry Users Affected
BlackBerry users affected by the January 4th shutdown will no longer be able to use data, send text messages, access the internet, or make calls, even to 911.
The shutdown affects classic BlackBerry phones running BlackBerry 10, 7.1 OS, and earlier.
BlackBerry users will no longer be able to use their older devices, which were once a status symbol and fixture for professionals, celebrities, and even President Barack Obama.
At its peak in 2012, BlackBerry had more than 80 million active users.
The company's old school cell phones with physical keyboards from the late 1990s and early 2000s were once so popular that people nicknamed them "CrackBerries".
BlackBerry's Android devices, however, are not affected by the shutdown.
Some fans are holding out for the arrival of OnwardMobility's BlackBerry 5G device, which was originally expected to launch in 2021.
The device will run on Android software and is expected to bring back the BlackBerry brand to the market.
BlackBerry's main business is no longer phones, but rather cybersecurity solutions, such as emergency communications systems and mobile security platforms.
The company's sales have passed the $1 billion mark again in 2020, showing that it is still doing well for itself.
BlackBerry's market cap peaked at about $63 billion in 2007 before Apple came and changed the smartphone market.
Despite the shutdown, BlackBerry's legacy will not be forgotten, with some 36 million people continuing to use BlackBerry phones well into 2010.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What to do with my old BlackBerry?
You can sell your old BlackBerry on Kijiji or Craigslist for $100+ or donate it to an association that gives phones to children in emergency situations. Consider recycling or repurposing your old phone to give it a new life.
Can I use my BlackBerry in 2025?
Yes, you can use your BlackBerry in 2025 if it's in working order and has a compatible charger. However, keep in mind that using an older device may have limitations and compatibility issues.
Is the BlackBerry server still working?
BlackBerry Limited discontinued blackberry.net email and other services for non-Android devices on January 4, 2022, but other features remain operational
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