"Will anyone be interested in BlackBerry when they've probably unsuccessfully explored that option? BlackBerry's statement shows lack of interest in the company. However, not everyone is convinced BlackBerry's assets will generate interest. Francisco Jeronimo, research director for wireless and mobile communications at analyst firm IDC, remains unconvinced that tech companies will be clambering over each other to buy BlackBerry. "If a target or deal is consistent with Lenovo's strategy, we would take the opportunity." So Lenovo is definitely in a good position to become an important player," Yaunqing told the Wall Street Journal.
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We believe that the PC industry and the mobile phone industry will continue to consolidate. "I cannot comment on any specific target or deal. After the news that BlackBerry could put itself up for sale, Lenovo CEO Yang Yuanqing was questioned about whether the PC maker would be interested. The Chinese firm was linked with potential partnership with BlackBerry in January. The firm reported that sales of tablets and smartphones had overtaken PCs for the first time in Q1, and it is looking to invest in the mobile market. Lenovo, which is now the world's largest PC maker, is also touted as a potential buyer. However, given that Microsoft is pushing its own Windows Phone platform and already has close ties with Nokia, an outright purchase may be a longshot. "Someone like Microsoft could justify paying $4 billion to $5 billion for the business, and $4 billion to $5 billion for the IP, which would yield an $8 billion to $10 billion purchase price," he said. Microsoft and Lenovo have also been tipped to make a move for the patents.Īccording to Marlett, Microsoft would be interested because BlackBerry has traditionally been strong in the enterprise. These firms all dominate the mobile market and are always looking for ways to boost their wireless communication portfolios. If BlackBerry does put itself up for sale, potential buyers include the usual suspects - Apple, Google and Samsung.