BlackBerry has inked a new deal with Ford Motor Co. The two companies will work together to develop auto software using BlackBerry's QNX platform. The Canadian phone company believes that the collaboration will help it gain a foothold in autonomous vehicle segment.

BlackBerry's QNX platform is already being used by Ford as Panasonic Automotive uses the platform in the Sync3 infotainment console used in Ford vehicles. However, BlackBerry is looking to move beyond the infotainment system and aims to expand the usage of the software. Both companies will work together to determine the new areas where the platform can be used.

Like Us on Facebook

John Wall, the head of BlackBerry's QNX unit, said that the platform might be used for various purposes ranging from infotainment to autonomous driving. Ford is currently working towards developing an autonomous vehicle. Earlier in August, the company stated that it aims to have a fully automatic vehicle developed for commercial ride sharing by 2021. The company plans to ship 100,000 autonomous cars a year. Ford also aims to sell self-driving cars in mass market by 2025.

Wall said that QNX is certified for use in active safety systems and autonomous driving. He elaborated that the system may be used for telematics, cockpit or cluster. However, neither company has provided details about the possible rollout of the system. No financial details of the deal have also been provided either.

The deal is crucial for both Ford and BlackBerry. Ford faces tough competition in autonomous vehicle segment as companies such as Google and Uber are making strong progress in the area. BlackBerry, on the other hand, is looking to new business as its smartphone endeavor is all but finished.