RIM: We Might Sell Our Hardware Division

RIM: We Might Sell Our Hardware Division


RIM CEO Thorsten Heins has admitted that he is considering selling the company’s hardware division after the launch of new OS BlackBerry 10.

In an interview with German newspaper Die Welt, Heins openly voiced the possibility of selling off RIM’s hardware division — adding weight to last year’s rumours. From the interview (translation):

This strategic review is still running, even if the pressure… has decreased. We do not want to limit our options… There are several options, including the sale of the hardware production… But there is no reason for us to decide in hectic. It is important first of all, BlackBerry 10 successfully putting them on the market. Then we shall see.

It’s not the first time we’ve heard suggestion that RIM could ditch handsets — but it is the first time anyone from the company has voiced such thinking. Whether selling off the hardware section of the business and relying on software licences is a viable business strategy will of course depend on the success of BlackBerry 10, but given RIM’s recent track record, anything might help. Let’s wait and see. [Die Welt via Reuters]

Picture: AP