BlackBerry now considering selling up after BB10 disappointment
After failing to meet the company’s big hopes for the BlackBerry relaunch, and despite garnering some critical acclaim for the Z10, Q10 and Q5 handsets, BlackBerry have announced that they are ready to “explore strategic partnerships” for the brand – which may include potentially finding a buyer for the whole company.
With Microsoft’s Windows Phone line wrestling third place in the smartphone market from the Canadian one-time mobile kings, BlackBerry have created a “Special Committee” to establish new money-making strategies for the company going forward. Thorsten Heins, president and CEO of BlackBerry, will sit on the board, while Timothy Dattels will act as chairman.
The committee will explore the potential of joint ventures and strategic partnerships, and could lead to the sales of company technologies, or increasing expansion of BlackBerry properties beyond the confines of BB10 – the same sort of expansion the BBM messaging service is currently going through.
“During the past year, management and the board have been focused on launching the BlackBerry 10 platform and BES 10, establishing a strong financial position, and evaluating the best approach to delivering long-term value for customers and shareholders,” said Dattels in a statement.
“Given the importance and strength of our technology, and the evolving industry and competitive landscape, we believe that now is the right time to explore strategic alternatives.”
Heins added, “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.”
