BlackBerry strengthens its messaging service with AtHoc purchase

BlackBerry said it is planning to purchase the California-based network crisis communication service provider AtHoc, which provides a software platform for sending out alert messages to smart phones and other digital devices. It has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire AtHoc. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

With AtHoc now on-board, BlackBerry has added to the list of acquisition it has made in the recent past, having taken over Secusmart in 2014, and then the British firm Movirtu, in an attempt to added more value to BBM.

AtHoc is a leading provider of secure, networked crisis communications. Its software platform enables people, devices and organizations to exchange critical information in real time during business continuity and life safety operations.

The acquisition will enable AtHoc to expand globally and increase scale, as well as deliver new applications on a secure platform for mass communication. For example, new applications may include integrating AtHoc solutions with BBM Meetings during an alert to enable live video feeds or transmit messages to provide real-time collaboration by leaders and decision makers.

AtHoc’s networked crisis communications platform alerts any device – including iOS, Android, PC and Mac desktops, digital displays, radios, IP phones, and endpoints such as sirens, fire panels and speakers – helping organizations and people to connect and share information in times of crisis. The leading provider to the U.S. Departments of Defense (DoD) and Homeland Security, AtHoc also supports public and private enterprises across the world, including healthcare providers and industrial facilities.

“BlackBerry is making strategic investments in security, privacy and the Internet of Things, and acquiring AtHoc will enable us to provide a holistic, end-to-end approach to communications,” said John Chen, BlackBerry executive chairman and CEO. “We have a proud history of securing mission-critical communications for the public sector as well as enterprises operating in the most highly regulated industries. AtHoc’s technology and expertise will play a key role as BlackBerry works to connect and secure a broad range of endpoints.”

“AtHoc and BlackBerry share a common vision of a securely connected world,” said Guy Miasnik, president and CEO, AtHoc. “Federal departments, state and local agencies, and commercial enterprises alike depend on AtHoc to communicate reliably during their most critical moments. Becoming part of BlackBerry will give us the ability to scale more quickly to expand our global reach and introduce new applications for the AtHoc platform, while continuing to serve our government and enterprise customers.”

The transaction is expected to be completed in BlackBerry’s 2016 fiscal third quarter and is subject to customary closing conditions.