BlackBerry says Amazon App store to be available with launch of updated OS

WATERLOO, Ont. – BlackBerry Ltd. (TSX:BB) is adding the Amazon Appstore in the next update to its operating system this fall.

The move will give users of the BlackBerry 10.3 operating system easy access to thousands more of the most popular Android apps and games.

The smartphone maker has been criticized for the lack of applications available for its devices.

By adding the Amazon App store, BlackBerry says its app developer program can put more emphasis on business and productivity applications.

The Waterloo, Ont., company has been working to return to its business-focused roots as consumers have flocked to Apple and Android smartphones.

BlackBerry recently announced a three-year mobile payment agreement with EnStream, a joint venture between Canada’s three biggest telecom companies.

Under the partnership, BlackBerry will provide security technology that supports transactions made by customers through their mobile devices.