BlackBerry Launches New 'Spy-Proof' SecuTABLET In Partnership With IBM and Samsung [Hands-on Video]

BlackBerry is trying hard to make its presence felt in the tech world. In the latest attempt, once-popular Canadian phone-maker introduced the SecuTABLET, a spy-proof device created in a partnership with Samsung and IBM.

The tablet, priced at $2360, is a fusion of hardware and software from three companies. It uses a Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.5 with Secusmart micro SD card and IBM software that "wraps applications" that contain sensitive information into a "virtual container" where malware and other unwanted software cannot touch it. This allows the device to run personal apps, i.e., Facebook, WhatsApp, without fear of malicious attacks on business files.

Reportedly, the company plans to ship 10,000 units annually to governments and businesses.

"Security is ingrained in every part of BlackBerry's portfolio, which includes voice and data encryption solutions," says Hans-Christoph Quelle, chief executive officer of Secusmart, in a press release. "National and international government customers have entrusted their voice and data communications with the Secusmart Security Card for years. This same technology is what secures the new SecuTABLET."

The device is still awaiting security grading and approval by the German Federal Office for Information Security for clearance on a classified level, but is expected to hit shelves by next year, according to Bloomberg.