RIM's planned launch of QNX-series smartphones in 2012 will be crucial as to whether it can regain its competitiveness, but there is no urgent need for a sell-out of the company as suggested by some investors, according to industry sources.
RIM has come under pressure from investors to make strategic changes, including the consideration of either seeking a buyer or spinning off its patents amid its declining market share, the sources noted.
However, based on RIM's financial condition and its product roadmap, there is no need for the company to seek a buyer at present, commented the sources.
RIM plans to launch a series of BlackBerry 7 smartphones in September and October which should help boost the company's market share in the third quarter, said the sources, noting that market response to the new BlackBerry phones will offer a chance for RIM to review its strategy.
Although RIM's first tablet PC, the Playbook, did not generate much in sales, the company is now actively developing new smartphones based on QNX OS, which RIM developed for its Playbooks. A successful launch of QNX-based smartphones in the first half of 2012 may also help RIM hold its share in the smartphone segment, the sources commented.
RIM has also strengthened its application services recently including the launch of the BBM Music service and BlackBerry App World 3.0, noted the sources.
Article translated by Steve Shen
