QNX Launches QNX OS for Safety 8.0: Next-Generation Microkernel Architecture for Safety-Critical Embedded Systems.

QNX launched QNX OS for Safety 8.0, a safety-certified solution built on QNX SDP 8.0's high-performance microkernel architecture. The operating system streamlines development and certification for safety- and security-critical embedded systems in automotive, industrial, robotics, medical devices, and defense sectors.

QNX, a division of BlackBerry Limited (NYSE: BB) (TSX: BB), has launched QNX OS for Safety 8.0 (QOS 8.0), a foundational, safety-certified solution built on the high-performance microkernel architecture of QNX Software Development Platform 8.0 (SDP 8.0). This latest release aims to streamline the development and certification of safety- and security-critical embedded systems across various sectors, including automotive, industrial, robotics, medical devices, and defense [1].

QOS 8.0 is designed to address the increasing demands of real-time execution and strict adherence to evolving safety and cybersecurity standards. As embedded systems grow more intelligent and interconnected, with emerging technologies like autonomous systems, edge computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT) accelerating this shift, there is a need for robust solutions that meet these stringent requirements [2].

The new operating system is pre-certified and ready to deploy, embedding safety and security requirements directly into the product. This allows developers to focus on developing and certifying the differentiating components of their systems, with the assurance that the foundational software has been built with safety and security in mind. QOS 8.0 is designed to function as a certified Safety Element out of Context (SEooC), facilitating seamless integration into safety- and security-critical systems and streamlining certification processes [1].

John Wall, Chief Operating Officer, Head of Product, Engineering & Services at QNX, stated, "With QOS 8.0, we are providing developers with a powerful foundation to build the next generation of safety- and security-critical embedded systems. This release reflects our deep commitment to helping customers meet the highest standards of functional safety and cybersecurity without compromising performance or time to market" [1].

QOS 8.0 offers a fully featured hard real-time operating system, qualified C/C++ toolchains, and key safety and security artifacts designed to simplify the certification of complex embedded applications. The platform is engineered to align with global safety and security standards, including ISO 26262 ASIL-D, IEC 61508 SIL3, IEC 62304 Class C, and ISO/SAE 21434 [1].

The latest release of QOS 8.0 is backed by over four decades of experience in mission-critical systems and more than 15 years in safety certification. This extensive experience positions QNX as a leader in enabling innovation with confidence in the embedded technology space [1].

BlackBerry Limited’s QNX unit has seen strong growth, with revenues from the QNX business totaling $57.5 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2026, surpassing guidance. The growth was driven by a 9% increase in royalties and a 23% rise in development seat license revenues. The company’s design win momentum is anticipated to further strengthen the QNX royalty backlog [2].

References:
[1] https://www.nasdaq.com/press-release/qnx-launches-qnx-os-safety-qos-80-accelerate-development-safety-and-security-critical
[2] https://finance.yahoo.com/news/blackberrys-qnx-launches-qos-8-151800791.html