Blackberry 2012 Annual Report Download - page 25

Products and Services
RIM’s primary revenue stream is generated by the BlackBerry wireless solution, comprised of smartphones and tablets, service and
software. BlackBerry service is provided through a combination of RIM’s global BlackBerry Infrastructure and the wireless networks
of RIM’s carrier partners.
Other revenue includes accessories, non-warranty repairs, BlackBerry App World and gains and losses on revenue hedge contracts.
The Company’s revenue mix for fiscal years 2012 and 2011 is as follows:
B
lackBerry Smartphones and Tablets
BlackBerry smartphones use wireless, push-based technology that delivers data to mobile users’ business and consumer applications.
BlackBerry smartphones integrate messaging including instant messaging, email and SMS; voice calling; webkit browser; multimedia
capabilities; calendar, and numerous other applications, making it easy for customers to stay connected and entertained on the go.
During fiscal 2012, RIM introduced 10 new smartphones and launched substantial software updates to both its smartphone and tablet
platforms. BlackBerry OS 7 added major performance enhancements with accelerated liquid graphics, improved media capture, faster
web browsing and integrated communications capabilities. These improvements were further enhanced with the introduction of
BlackBerry OS 7.1, which allows for new sharing experiences using NFC technology and the ability for the BlackBerry 7 smartphone
to act as a Mobile Hot Spot and offer wireless internet connection through a cellular network for up to five Wi-Fi-enabled devices,
including laptops and tablets. During fiscal 2012, RIM began to take steps to position itself as an industry leader in NFC and
implemented this technology in a variety of its smartphone models. NFC implementation resulted in a number of certifications and
recognition from industry agencies and major financial service providers.
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• Targeted acquisition and investment strategy. RIM continues to evaluate and purchase companies and make investments in
products that provide opportunities for growth or expansion of the BlackBerry value proposition. These may include but are not
limited to companies or products related to software, wireless solutions, security, and applications, among others. The Company
also intends to continue to purchase intellectual property (“IP”) in various forms and technologies when appropriate
o
pp
ortunities arise.
Revenue (U.S. millions) March 3, 2012 Februar
y
26, 2011
Devices
$13,794 74.8% $15,956 80.2%
Service
4,086 22.2% 3,197 16.1%
Software 318 1.7% 294 1.5%
Other
237 1.3% 46
0
2.2%
$18,435 10
0
% 19,907 100%