BlackBerry, T-Mobile Update: CEO John Legere Issues Open Letter After BlackBerry Nix Licensing Agreement Renewal
T-Mobile's CEO published an open letter to consumers following BlackBerry's decision not to renew its U.S. licensing agreement with the fourth-largest mobile carrier in the country.
According to T-Mobile CEO John Legere, the mobile carrier "always have and always will" remain loyal to BlackBerry customers but expressed disappointment with the Canadian-based company's decision to not renew their licensing agreement.
"But here's what really matters most for BlackBerry owners. Whether you're an individual customer or business customer, nothing changes," wrote Legere in an open letter. "Nada. Zero. Zilch."
Despite BlackBerry's decision, Legere stated customers with their smartphones can still rely on the mobile carrier on providing service, regular operating system updates, and nationwide 4G LTE network.
"None of that changes as far as we're concerned," he added.
Legere also announced a $100 credit toward any new BlackBerry device, including the BlackBerry Q10 and Z10 smartphones. The $100 credit offer started on April 3 and concludes Dec. 31 this year. T-Mobile subscribers with the JUMP! plan can be eligible for the $100 bill credit if they are qualified for an upgrade.
"One thing you can count on from us: we'll keep listening to you and finding new ways to meet the needs of BlackBerry users -- individuals and businesses -- everywhere," wrote the T-Mobile CEO.
Legere also referenced the mobile carrier's Un-carrier plans and how another offer will be coming to entice people to stay with T-Mobile.
"I'll always fight for you. And our team remains committed to providing the same great Un-carrier experience to all BlackBerry users," Legere stated, adding that, at the end of the day, "this has got to be about you -- the customer."
As Latino Post reported, the BlackBerry and T-Mobile licensing agreements expires on April 25. BlackBerry also announced the decision "should not" change the service or support customers with T-Mobile receive.
"BlackBerry has had a positive relationship with T-Mobile for many years. Regretfully, at this time, our strategies are not complementary and we must act in the best interest of our BlackBerry customers," said BlackBerry CEO and Executive Chair John Chen.
The BlackBerry CEO didn't rule out a future partnership with T-Mobile again. Chen stated he was "deeply grateful" to BlackBerry customers currently with T-Mobile or another mobile carrier. He also noted BlackBerry is working with other carriers to provide consumers and businesses alternatives if they decide to exit T-Mobile.
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