In a move that is very interesting, but no real surprise, if you think about it, Microsoft has acquired Nokia’s phone division. Reports have placed the purchase to the tune of about USD 7.17 Billion. This is in stark contrast to the company’s figures in 2007, when it was pegged as having a market value of USD Billion. With a “B.” Ouch.
Since the partnership of the brand with Microsoft, and the release of their Windows Phone 8-powered handsets, there really was no better company to buy the Finnish giant out. Some of the more popular (in relative terms) Nokia phones, and the ones that were being pushed aggressively were Windows devices. They were, at least to the casual observer, the devices that kept the brand relevant.
The deal isn’t complete at the moment, but should be done by early next year, at which point, we should see a pretty solid push from the resulting OS-Manufacturer offspring.
According to a story up on theguardian.com, outgoing Chief Executive Steve Balmer was optimistic about the acquisition. “It’s a bold step into the future – a win-win for employees, shareholders and consumers of both companies,” he said.
“Bringing these great teams together will accelerate Microsoft’s share and profits in phones, and strengthen the overall opportunities for both Microsoft and our partners across our entire family of devices and services.”
We’re really excited t the new direction Nokia is going, and hope that this change of hands spells many great things for both companies. More control by the creator of the OS means a much more focused approach–something that has worked to great effect to other companies both past and present.