Terrible designs, zero cool factor and more
2. Apple exploded
Of course, BlackBerry didn't exist in a vacuum and if there are other companies responsible for its downfall Apple definitely had a part to play.
The iPhone overwhelmed everything before it. It was a slow burner for a couple of years after launch, but by the iPhone 4 and then iPhone 4S it was clear that Apple was way ahead of the competition.
The devices looked the best and the App Store was streets ahead by letting developers offer services from games to productivity tools.
Apple handsets were also easier to use. Most people adapted quickly to touchscreen technology and, of course, Apple devices had something that, as we've seen, BlackBerry's didn't - they were cool.
No-one wanted to be seen with a BlackBerry when they could pull the latest iPhone from their pocket, and no doubt many rushed to change devices after being mocked in the pub.
BlackBerry, just like Nokia and Microsoft, underestimated the challenge from Apple and realised too late just how powerful the firm had become.