Google launches its long brewing enterprise smartphone program-- Android for Work, a collection of applications, online services and industry services involving use of the mobile operating system on the workplace.

As Google puts it, Android for Work essentially provides a dedicated work profile on the user's device. Building on the built-in multi-user support and SELinux security in Android 5.0, Android for Work allows IT to deploy work apps alongside personal apps, without employees worrying employers are snooping on personal data.

The technology comes from Divide, a BYOD software startup Google swallowed back in May 2014.

An enterprise-managed version of the Google app store, the imaginatively titled Google Play for Work, handles app distribution. Android for Work also includes a built-in productivity tool suite with email, contacts and calendar complete with Exchange and Notes suite.

Jide, a company founded by a trio of ex-Google engineers, believes Android tablets are "terrible at getting real work done." Enter the Remix, an "ultra tablet" running on a custom version of the OS launched at CES 2015.

At first glance the Remix looks like the Microsoft Surface-- or, rather, it looks very much like the Surface. Like the Windows-powered device it features an 11.6-inch 1920x1080 display, magnetic power connector, detachable keyboard cover and a built-in dual-angle kickstand. The OS (a modified version of Android 4.4 dubbed "Remix OS") also borrows some elements from Windows, including a taskbar, file manager, multiple on-screen windows, improved mouse support and a clean look surely inspired by Microsoft's Metro UI.

BlackBerry announces an Android Wear version of the BBM application at CES 2015-- allowing users of a wide range of Google-powered smartwatches to access the popular communications software.

In other words, BlackBerry expects its (mostly) business customers to start buying smartwatches to quickly access notifications without need for digging into their pockets or purses. As well as alerts and message navigations, the Android Wear BBM app also allows users to respond to messages either hands-free via Google Now or pre-defined messages, as well as accept BBM invites from their wrists.

Devices compatible with the app include the Moto 360 and the Samsung Galaxy Gear S.

BlackBerry returns to its roots as it launches a literal smartphone throwback-- the BlackBerry Classic, a "no-nonsense" handset featuring a physical QWERTY keyboard and a design straight out of yesteryear.

It also features a touchscreen, specifically a 720x720 3.5-inch number allowing for one-handed use together with the keyboard, as well as a trackpad and physical navigation keys. Inside are a 1.5GHz dual-core Qualcomm processor, 2GB RAM and 16GB storage (expandable to 128GB via microSD slot), as well as 8MP/2MP front- and rear-facing cameras.

“We listened closely to our customers’ feedback to ensure we are delivering the technologies to power them through their day-- and that feedback led directly to the development of BlackBerry Classic,” BlackBerry CEO John Chen says. “It’s the secure device that feels familiar in their hands, with the added performance and agility they need to be competitive in today’s busy world.”