QNX Launches QNX Hypervisor 8.0 to Accelerate Embedded Software Development

Rhea-AI Summary

QNX, a BlackBerry (NYSE:BB) division, has launched QNX Hypervisor 8.0, an advanced embedded virtualization solution built on the QNX Software Development Platform 8.0. The new hypervisor enables multiple operating systems including Android, Linux, and QNX to operate simultaneously on a single system-on-chip (SoC). According to TechInsights, 90% of vehicles by 2030 will have at least one domain controller, making hypervisors crucial for software-defined vehicles. The solution combines Type 1 Hypervisor's direct hardware access with Type 2's flexibility, featuring comprehensive virtualization capabilities including virtual memory, CPUs, and interrupt controllers. Already deployed in tens of millions of vehicles, QNX technology is trusted by major automotive OEMs including BMW, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, and Toyota.

Positive

• QNX Hypervisor is already deployed in tens of millions of vehicles
• Strong market potential with 90% of vehicles expected to need hypervisor technology by 2030
• Partnerships with major automotive OEMs including BMW, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, and Toyota
• Enhanced functionality combining benefits of both Type 1 and Type 2 Hypervisors

Negative

• None.

Insights

Software Technology Analyst

BlackBerry's QNX Hypervisor 8.0 launch strengthens its position in the growing automotive software market with significant revenue potential.

BlackBerry's QNX division has launched QNX Hypervisor 8.0, a significant advancement in embedded virtualization technology that allows multiple operating systems to run simultaneously on a single system-on-chip (SoC). This release builds upon the QNX Software Development Platform 8.0 and addresses a critical market need in the evolving automotive industry.

The timing of this release is particularly strategic. According to TechInsights data cited in the announcement, 90% of vehicles produced by 2030 will contain at least one domain controller, zonal controller, or high-performance computing unit—all hardware configurations that benefit from hypervisor technology. This positions BlackBerry to capture substantial market share in the software-defined vehicle (SDV) ecosystem.

The technical architecture combines advantages of both Type 1 and Type 2 hypervisors—offering direct hardware access with developer-friendly flexibility. This hybrid approach differentiates QNX from competitors by addressing both performance and usability requirements. The VIRTIO standard support further enhances interoperability in complex embedded environments.

Most compelling is QNX's existing market penetration and customer base. The press release notes deployment in "tens of millions of vehicles" and lists prestigious automotive clients including BMW, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, and Volkswagen. This established customer footprint provides BlackBerry with significant advantages for upselling this new technology.

For BlackBerry, which has pivoted toward software and services, QNX represents one of its most promising growth vectors. This product strengthens their competitive position in the rapidly growing market for automotive software infrastructure, which is increasingly critical as vehicles transform into software-defined platforms. The modular approach also enables expansion beyond automotive into broader IoT applications, diversifying revenue potential across multiple embedded systems markets.

Powerful embedded virtualization software to scale and consolidate multiple operating systems on a single system-on-chip (SoC)

WATERLOO, ON / ACCESS Newswire / May 28, 2025 / QNX, a division of BlackBerry Limited (NYSE:BB)(TSX:BB) today launched the QNX® Hypervisor 8.0, an embedded virtualization solution which aims to streamline and accelerate embedded software development. QNX Hypervisor 8.0 is built on the latest foundational QNX® Software Development Platform (SDP) 8.0, leveraging all the valuable functionality required to build and manage complex embedded software projects.

The QNX Hypervisor 8.0 microkernel architecture enables multiple operating systems, including Android™, Linux®, and QNX, to operate on the same system-on-a-chip (SoC). It offers a comprehensive virtualization solution, including virtual memory, CPUs, interrupt controllers, devices and para-virtualized devices to isolate and protect critical systems.

"TechInsights forecasts that in 2030, 90% of the vehicles produced will have at least one domain controller, zonal controller, or high-performance central computing unit," said Ian Riches, VP of Global Automotive Practice, TechInsights. "Hypervisors that offer rapid and reliable performance with modular design, such as the QNX Hypervisor 8.0, are thus vital to unlocking the potential of these platforms and making the software-defined vehicle a reality."

"Software-defined architectures and digital twins are becoming a mainstay for developing next generation automotive and IoT systems," said John Wall, Chief Operating Officer and Head of Products, Engineering and Services at QNX. "Adding virtual machine management to the QNX® OS microkernel helps boost reliability and performance, accelerates development efforts and saves time when building mixed criticality applications. QNX Hypervisor 8.0 allows you to scale and deploy these systems efficiently while building complex embedded applications that interact and work together."

Fostering a collaborative and familiar development environment, the new QNX Hypervisor 8.0 combines the direct hardware access and efficiency of a Type 1 Hypervisor with the flexibility and ease of use of a Type 2, focusing on the developer and integrator first. QNX Hypervisor 8.0 includes API references and a virtual device developer's guide, complete with examples of virtual device source code customers can use as models for developing their own virtual devices, including para-virtualized devices designed and built to the VIRTIO standards.

The QNX Hypervisor has already been deployed in tens of millions of vehicles. As OEMs move towards software defined vehicles, QNX Hypervisor 8.0 is poised to bring the valuable benefits of QNX SDP 8.0, driving the next generation of automotive technology, delivering enhanced throughput, future-proofing architectures, and unparalleled scalability.

QNX powers critical applications across various embedded industries and is trusted as the software foundation by most leading OEMs and Tier 1s worldwide, including BMW, Bosch, Continental, Dongfeng Motor, Geely, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, Volkswagen, Volvo, and more. By championing innovation and safety, QNX continues to drive the future of embedded technology, ensuring seamless integration and high performance in mission-critical environments.

ENDS

About BlackBerry

BlackBerry (NYSE: BB; TSX: BB) provides enterprises and governments the intelligent software and services that power the world around us. Based in Waterloo, Ontario, the company's high-performance foundational software enables major automakers and industrial giants alike to unlock transformative applications, drive new revenue streams and launch innovative business models, all without sacrificing safety, security, and reliability. With a deep heritage in Secure Communications, BlackBerry delivers operational resiliency with a comprehensive, highly secure, and extensively certified portfolio for mobile fortification, mission-critical communications, and critical events management.

About QNX

QNX, a division of BlackBerry Limited (NYSE: BB; TSX: BB), enhances the human experience and amplifies technology-driven industries, providing a trusted foundation for software-defined businesses to thrive. The business leads the way in delivering safe and secure operating systems, hypervisors, middleware, solutions, and development tools, along with support and services delivered by trusted embedded software experts. QNX® technology has been deployed in the world's most critical embedded systems, including more than 255 million vehicles on the road today. QNX® software is trusted across industries including automotive, medical devices, industrial controls, robotics, commercial vehicles, rail, and aerospace and defense. Founded in 1980, QNX is headquartered in Ottawa, Canada. Learn more at qnx.com.

©2025 BlackBerry Limited. Trademarks, including but not limited to BLACKBERRY and EMBLEM Design, QNX and the QNX logo design are the trademarks or registered trademarks of BlackBerry Limited, and the exclusive rights to such trademarks are expressly reserved. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. BlackBerry is not responsible for any third-party products or services.

Media Contacts:

BlackBerry Media Relations
+1 (519) 597-7273
mediarelations@BlackBerry.com

SOURCE: QNX

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

FAQ

What is the key feature of BlackBerry's QNX Hypervisor 8.0?

QNX Hypervisor 8.0 enables multiple operating systems (Android, Linux, QNX) to operate simultaneously on a single system-on-chip (SoC), offering comprehensive virtualization capabilities for embedded software development.

Which major automotive manufacturers use BlackBerry QNX technology?

BlackBerry QNX is used by major OEMs including BMW, Bosch, Continental, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, Volkswagen, Volvo, and others.

What is the market potential for BB's QNX Hypervisor technology by 2030?

According to TechInsights, 90% of vehicles produced by 2030 will have at least one domain controller, zonal controller, or high-performance central computing unit requiring hypervisor technology.

How does QNX Hypervisor 8.0 benefit automotive software development?

It accelerates development efforts by combining Type 1 and Type 2 Hypervisor benefits, enabling efficient scaling and deployment of complex embedded applications while boosting reliability and performance.