There is a new rumor floating around that Microsoft will buy a $3.5 billion stake in RIM. The Financial Post reported the rumor that was originally spun from the Benzinga finance blog. RIM CEO Thorsten Heins has said that RIM is exploring partnerships and "strategic opportunities." It makes sense that RIM needs a suitor with a lot of cash and Microsoft fits that bill. However, what would Microsoft have to gain by purchasing a stake in RIM?
I suppose Microsoft could go after some patents that RIM has, but a partial stake may not accomplish that. Microsoft has launched their own mobile OS and has partnered with Nokia, so what would BlackBerry add to Microsoft? Not much.
This is just the latest rumor regarding RIM. Remember when the rumor was that Samsung was buying RIM? It can't be ruled out, but I seriously doubt Microsoft is eyeing a stake in RIM.
I suppose Microsoft could go after some patents that RIM has, but a partial stake may not accomplish that. Microsoft has launched their own mobile OS and has partnered with Nokia, so what would BlackBerry add to Microsoft? Not much.
This is just the latest rumor regarding RIM. Remember when the rumor was that Samsung was buying RIM? It can't be ruled out, but I seriously doubt Microsoft is eyeing a stake in RIM.