The new BlackBerry tablet, BlackPad, that is expected to come out in November may run on software developed by QNX Software Systems instead of BlackBerry 6.0, according to new reports.

Research In Motion (NASDAQ: RIMM) has not yet confirmed what platform its tablet will run on, but QNX Software Systems was purchased by RIM for $200 million in April, and it has exclusive access to its software technology for its tablet. QNX is a company well-known for its real-time operating system (RTOS), used in critical components ranging from powering the six-wheeled unmanned Crusher combat vehicle of the U.S. Army to automotive navigation systems to cardiac monitors. A version of the RTOS will supposedly be created to specially spearhead RIM's first foray into the tablet space.

The QNX operating system (OS) doesn't need to carry legacy software from older BlackBerry devices like the new BlackBerry 6 OS, which is reportedly why RIM is opting for QNX software. The tablet is expected to be closely integrated with RIM's email system and provide similar security for messaging.

The BlackPad is seen as serving as a larger screen companion to the BlackBerry phone complete with tethering via the smartphone.

For more:
- see this Times of India article
- read this Bloomberg article

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