Even though RIM is continuing to bring out new smartphones and is rumored to be developing new tablet PCs, the company is thought to be the target of a takeover. We now have news that online retailer Amazon could be buying RIM, as Samsung says no to any deal.
Samsung has denied the rumors that it is thinking of purchasing BlackBerry maker RIM, but meanwhile an article on Appboy is reporting that Newsgeek are claiming that Amazon are the company looking to snap up RIM. It is reported that RIM has turned down a number of bids from a variety of companies including Microsoft and Nokia.
But it is being claimed that talks between Amazon and RIM have restarted with an alleged offer on the table, and a deal is reportedly close. When RIM was at their peak around three years ago, the company was probably worth around $144 billion. But times have changed and the company has seen its market share slip away.
By the end of last December RIM had lost more than 90 percent of its value that now sits at under $7 billion. This lower price has stimulated interest among perspective buyers who would like to have RIMs assets that include its many patents. Many companies have been touted as possible purchasers of RIM such as Microsoft, who could use it as a way to expand its Window Phone platform.
Amazon is seen as an ideal suitor who could use the purchase to further expand into the mobile market. Some of RIMs biggest investors have previously called for the sale or breakup of the company as it tries to recover its position. It is being claimed Amazon are trying to close the deal to buy RIM and have offered almost $10 billion for the privilege.
The source is claiming that both companies have agreed a preliminary understanding, and are looking to move the process forward with an announcement made during the first quarter of this year. Although this is purely speculation RIM are looking vulnerable to a takeover. Do you think Amazon buying RIM would be a good deal?
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