It was one of the world's largest smartphone makers but its global
market share has fallen to about one percent as other devices took
over.
BlackBerry built a reputation for innovative smartphone technology and
in 1999 rolled out its RIM 950 allowing on-the-go wireless email. The
move announced on Wednesday signals a strategic shift for the company.
The Canadian company said it will now focus on growing its software
business. "We believe that this is the best way to drive profitability
in the device business," chairman and CEO John Chen said in a
statement on Wednesday.
All development for BlackBerry-branded phones is to be left to the
company's partners, which will license its technology and brand. It
plans to make the move by February 28, when the company's financial
year ends.
Blackberry has signed one agreement already with a telecom joint
venture in Indonesia - BB Merah Putih. The move will reduce
BlackBerry's expenses by cutting out the need to carry inventory and
by lowering the number of staff and reducing the amount of equipment
it needs to hold.
©DW
