Android, iOS, Windows devices recommended for Duke system compatibility
The Office of Information Technology recommends that Duke users who are considering buying or upgrading to a new mobile device consider an Android, iOS or Windows device instead of a BlackBerry. Android, iOS and Windows devices are able to connect directly with Duke's central systems and support, whereas BlackBerry devices require the operation of a separate server.
OIT's recommendation is based in part on national and local usage trends. In recent years, BlackBerry has lost considerable market share to other smartphone models, according to national reports. At Duke, BlackBerry use has dropped from more than 500 university users at peak to 350 in late 2011 to only about 180 today.
Given the declining usage, operating dedicated infrastructure is no longer financially feasible. The university's BlackBerry server will eventually be decommissioned, but a deadline has not been set.
Users with questions should contact their local IT and/or departmental account manager.