HKT's premium mobile brand 1O1O has launched the privacy-centric Blackphone 2 smartphone in Hong Kong
The Blackphone 2 includes full-device encryption enabled by the handset developer Silent Circle's Silent OS operating system, built on top of Android for improved compatibility.
The device comes pre-loaded with encrypted voice, video calling and text and file transfer capabilities via the Silent Phone app. It offers remote wipe capabilities and the ability to control permissions for the extent of data access for individual apps.
HKT will offer the device for no additional cost when subscribing to a range of plans with monthly rates starting at HK$557 ($72).
Silent Circle introduced the Blackphone 2 at Mobile World Congress 2015 in March. The company is aiming the devices at enterprises wary of falling victim to data breaches and at consumers concerned about privacy in the digital world.
By targeting this segment, the company is placing itself in competition with BlackBerry, which has made encrypted communications one of its unique selling points.
“We are confident the innovative Blackphone 2, packed with remarkable capabilities, will provide our customers with the ultimate mobile experience and peace-of-mind,” CSL Mobile chief marketing officer Bruce Lam commented.