BlackBerry completes acquisition of networking company AtHoc

BlackBerry has completed the acquisition of networked crisis communications company AtHoc.

AtHoc will be integrated into BlackBerry as a complete division, with the company's existing CEO Guy Miasnik leading the department and reporting to BlackBerry's John Chen, executive chairman and CEO.

AtHoc's technology gives businesses the power to exchange critical information with people and connected devices, such as Android and iOS-based smartphones, computers, fire panels and sirens in real time during business continuity and life safety operations.

The benefits to business include enhanced collaboration between teams and improved situational awareness for all employees in a time of emergency.

The software platform will be integrated into BlackBerry's portfolio of enterprise-ready products and services such as WatchDox to enhance organisations' secure distribution of confidential documents during emergency situations.

Additionally, BlackBerry will continue offering AtHoc's full portfolio to its customers including AtHoc Connect, which gives companies the tools to create their own secure, permission-based communities of employees and teams so they are able to share critical information in real time to resolve emergencies and meet compliance regulations.

AtHoc's currently customers include the US Department of Defense and Homeland Security, the Department of the Treasury, Department of Energy, the Centers for Disease Control and the Food and Drug Administration and all will continue to liaise with the company via the new BlackBerry division.

"AtHoc technology enhances BlackBerry's mission to provide secure communication solutions for the connected world," BlackBerry said.