BlackBerry reinvented: CEO sees big opportunities AI-powered robots
BlackBerry CEO John Giamatteo highlights AI-powered robots as a growth area, with QNX software in 275M vehicles. Robotics is a fast-growing segment, contributing to a $1.2B royalty backlog. Shares have risen 142% in 2026, market cap at $5.4B.
How this was made

The 30-second read
Why it matters
The disclosed backlog increase signals accelerating adoption of BlackBerry's software in emerging physical AI markets, which could drive revenue growth and support the stock's recent rally.
Market read
The story provides fresh quantitative data on BlackBerry's software backlog, reinforcing a positive narrative for the stock and the broader automotive software sector.
What to watch
The company's reliance on a limited number of large automotive customers could concentrate risk.
Background
BlackBerry has transitioned from a smartphone maker to a software provider, focusing on its QNX operating system for vehicles and now AI‑powered robots.
Ticker impact
BlackBerry reported its QNX royalty backlog exceeded $1.2 billion, up $250 million over two quarters, highlighting growth in AI‑powered robotics.
upward pressure as investors price in higher future software revenue from AI‑robotics opportunities
Backlog growth is a forward‑looking metric; the market typically reacts positively to rising contract values in a turnaround story.
Market effects
Strengthens the outlook for automotive and industrial software providers competing in AI‑robotics.
Positive for North American tech stocks, especially firms with automotive software exposure.
Highlights a broader shift toward physical AI, potentially benefiting global robotics supply chains.
Counterpoint
Backlog growth may not translate into cash flow if automotive OEMs delay payments or shift to competing platforms.
Key entities
- companyBlackBerry Ltd.
Canadian cybersecurity and embedded software firm (ticker BB).
- executiveJohn Giamatteo
CEO of BlackBerry, discussing AI‑robotics opportunities.


