Boeing enters smartphone race with the secure, tamper-proof Android ‘Boeing Black’

Following reports last night when the device was spotted going through the FCC, Reuters reports Boeing today officially announced a new Android smartphone with a number of innovative security features. Dubbed “Boeing Black,” the device will be marketed towards government officials and other organizations that highly value keeping their data secure. The tamper-proof device builds in a number of security features for encrypting calls and more and is designed to wipe itself clean of any data if someone attempts to open the physical casing of the phone. Here’s a bit more from Boeing’s website:

Boeing Black’s security is powered by the Boeing PureSecure architecture, which was designed from the outset for the mobile environment. Our architectural foundation is built upon layers of trust from embedded hardware, operating system policy controls, and compatibility with leading mobile device management systems. The device’s hardware roots of trust and trusted boot ensure the device starts in a trusted state, enabling maximum security of data. Hardware media encryption and configurable inhibit controls are embedded to protect the device, its data, and the transmission of information, significantly reducing the risk of mission compromise due to data lossBoeing Black’s security is powered by the Boeing PureSecure architecture, which was designed from the outset for the mobile environment.

Our architectural foundation is built upon layers of trust from embedded hardware, operating system policy controls, and compatibility with leading mobile device management systems. The device’s hardware roots of trust and trusted boot ensure the device starts in a trusted state, enabling maximum security of data. Hardware media encryption and configurable inhibit controls are embedded to protect the device, its data, and the transmission of information, significantly reducing the risk of mission compromise due to data loss

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A product page for the Boeing Black also notes that an expansion port can be used for integrating additional sensors or technology enhancements like satellite connectivity or expanding power capacity, plus other customizations. The not so amazing  specs for the device (pictured above) make it clear that Black will be aimed solely at business and government customers. Some of the key security features, according to Boeing’s website, include:

Key Features:

• Android™ Operating System: Convenient smartphone for Android usage
• Disk Encryption: Encrypted storage for sensitive data
• Hardware Root of Trust: Ensures software authenticity
• Hardware Crypto Engine: Protects stored and transmitted data
• Embedded Secure Components: Enables trusted operations
• Trusted Platform Modules: Provides secure key storage
• Secure Boot: Maintains device image integrity
• Hardware Modularity: Endless modularity capabilities

Boeing isn’t revealing information on pricing or availability, but it is already speaking with potential customers.