Built on a modified version of Android Lollipop, known as Silent OS, the device offers full device encryption and a in-built security centre for managing privacy and security settings.
Users can control and fine-tune their individual app permissions and the data the apps have access to, and can also build separate, secure “Spaces” for their sensitive business data and personal apps.
The smartphone comes pre-loaded with Silent Phone – Silent Circle’s private communication app – which offers encrypted, secure voice calls, conference calling, video conferencing, secure text and file transfers.
It also comes with a remote wipe setting, should the phone be lost or stolen.
“Today our privacy is increasingly threatened by governments, businesses and individuals,” said Bill Conner, President and CEO of Silent Circle.
“In addition, the growing number of companies where employees work on their own devices in and out of the office means that it is ever more vital to build smartphones that deliver on privacy.”
The Blackphone 2 is aimed primarily at the business market, with support for Google’s Android For Work program and integration with Google’s suite of applications.
The device is the first component of Silent Circle’s Enterprise Privacy Platform (EPP), which combines software, services and devices to enable privacy at every level of business.
However, the company hopes that its high-end specs and improved design will also make it an attractive option for privacy-conscious consumers.
The Blackphone 2 has an octa-core Qualcomm processor, 3GB RAM, 32GB of internal storage and a removable Micro SD card slot, as well as a larger 5.5” Gorilla Glass display and a 13-megapixel camera.
