Blackberry admits that it might have to sell itself

After what can only be described as a very tough year so far, Blackberry has finally admitted that the end may be close.

In a press release announcing the exploration of strategic alternatives”, the company admits that it is considering possible joint ventures, strategic partnerships or alliances, a sale of the company or other possible transactions” in an effort to enhance value and increase scale in order to accelerate BlackBerry 10 deployment”.

Blackberry adds that it will offer no other comment until it strikes a deal.

"We continue to see compelling long-term opportunities for BlackBerry 10, we have exceptional technology that customers are embracing, we have a strong balance sheet and we are pleased with the progress that has been made in our transition,” president and CEO Thorsten Heins said.

As the Special Committee focuses on exploring alternatives, we will be continuing with our strategy of reducing cost, driving efficiency and accelerating the deployment of BES 10, as well as driving adoption of BlackBerry 10 smartphones, launching the multi-platform BBM social messaging service, and pursuing mobile computing opportunities by leveraging the secure and reliable BlackBerry Global Data Network."

In July it was revealed that sales of Blackberry 10 were lagging significantly behind fellow market struggler Windows 8.

Other gaffes this year include European MD Stephen Bates’ excruciating interview on BBC Radio 5Live, accusations that Apple was lacking innovation and predictions of the death of the tablet market.