Microsoft Rumored to Be Eyeing RIM
October 13, 2008
Microsoft's rumored interest in acquiring Research In Motion (RIM) would instantly give the software giant a larger share in the consumer and enterprise smartphone market, while bringing in technology that could help stave off new challengers in the market, such as Apple and Google. — But, such a move would undermine Microsoft's efforts to expand its reach with Windows Mobile (which are just now showing signs of success in the face of the iPhone). And the gain is what? Microsoft is not going to be a leader in selling music or videos. The right move in that space is what Google did: partner with Amazon. Windows Mobile just needs a better browser, better VPN, and support for Amazon's content services. As it is, Windows Mobile makes a great companion to the desktop PC, so Microsoft needs to be very careful here.