Silent Circle security-centric Blackphone 2 smartphone has joined Google's Android for Work programme, which promises to offer enterprises higher levels of security in the workplace with an easy to manage platform and enhanced levels of protection.
Joining the programme means Silent Circle can offer its customers Google Play and Google Mobile Services, plus a range of other services on the smartphone's operating system, which it was previously unable to do.
"With the first Blackphone, we delivered an Android experience coupled with control over app permissions and the powerful Spaces feature, which lets users securely separate work life and personal life on the same device," said David Puron, SVP engineering of devices at Silent Circle.
"Customers responded to Blackphone's unique offering of privacy by design, and pushed us to offer even more choices for its second generation."
The extra support from Google's Android for Work programme also means companies can use a wider array of applications to boost productivity in the workplace without compromising on security, with IT departments able to manage devices better.
"Privacy is about being able to decide and control what information to share and how you share it," Bill Conner, President and CEO of Silent Circle added. "We're delighted to join the Android for Work program. It's a significant step forward in Silent Circle's development which enables us to deliver privacy and security to a broader enterprise customer base, while meeting their need for the wide-ranging apps and services provided by Google."
The company has teamed up with Android for Work despite the latest flaw on the operating system, dubbed Stagefright, putting 95 per cent of all Android users at risk.
Silent Circle's Blackphone started shipping in July 2014 and was updated as the Blackphone 2 in March with a bigger focus on the enterprise, with enhanced applications focused for that particular market.
