Mergers and Acquistions: February 2008 Archives
Microsoft is buying cellphone smartphone software maker Danger, strengthening its position in the consumer mobile space. Danger is best know for providing the software and technology behind the SideKick.
With the acquisition of Danger, Microsoft will benefit from the company’s nearly 10 years of expertise with mobile consumers. The Palo Alto, California-based company provides services that allow people to keep in touch, stay organized and keep informed while on the go through real-time mobile messaging, social networking services, web browsing and personal information management applications. Combining these services with Microsoft’s connected entertainment and mobile technologies will provide Microsoft with the tools to accelerate its work to create industry-leading entertainment and communication experiences for consumers.
In addition to the acquisition of Danger, Microsoft highlighted its partnership with Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications AB to make Windows Mobile phones, announced extended reach of Windows Live and MSN Direct services around the world, and demonstrated how the increased adoption of Microsoft software is giving consumers more control over digital content. Businesses including Brightstar Corp, Cbeyond, MTS (Mobile TeleSystems OJSC), Omnifone Ltd, Orascom Telecom Holding, TechData, Telecom Italia, Telefonica, Wind Greece and Wind Italy unveiled plans today to tap Microsoft for its latest mobile innovations.
Motorola may sell its mobile unit because of investor demand. It said it ismay “separate” its unprofitable mobile division. In a statement released yesterday the company stated it is: “exploring the structural and strategic realignment of its businesses to better equip its Mobile Devices business to recapture global market leadership and to enhance shareholder value. The company’s alternatives may include the separation of Mobile Devices from its other businesses in order to permit each business to grow and better serve its customers.”
