BlackBerry announced that a leading Chinese automaker has selected its QNX Sound audio platform for the automaker’s 2026 luxury electric‑vehicle lineup, marking a significant expansion of QNX’s software‑defined audio portfolio into the premium EV market.
QNX Sound is a digital audio platform that consolidates voice processing, media playback, alerts, and noise control into a single system. By adopting the platform, the automaker can reduce hardware costs by up to $98 per premium vehicle, cut printed circuit board surface area by up to 44%, and lower vehicle weight by up to 28%, all of which improve range and efficiency.
The win is a key milestone for BlackBerry’s QNX division, which has been growing steadily. QNX revenue reached $57.5 million in Q1 FY2026, up 8 % YoY, and $63.1 million in Q2 FY2026, up 15 % YoY, reflecting strong demand for software‑defined vehicle solutions. The company’s royalty backlog stands at roughly $865 million, underscoring the long‑term revenue potential of its automotive portfolio.
BlackBerry’s strategy has pivoted from legacy hardware to software and cybersecurity, with QNX positioned as a core growth engine. The new design win reinforces the company’s focus on high‑margin automotive software and signals that its platform is gaining traction against competitors such as Google’s Android Automotive OS.
Industry observers note that the luxury EV market is expanding rapidly, and software‑defined audio is a differentiator for premium buyers. The announcement is expected to generate incremental revenue for BlackBerry in the coming years and further solidify its presence in the high‑growth automotive software sector.
William Dong, Chief Representative of Greater China, QNX, said the partnership underscores QNX’s role as a strategic enabler for automakers seeking scalable, software‑defined solutions that deliver premium in‑cabin experiences quickly and cost‑effectively.
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