Microsoft Corp. today announced that its acquisition of Nokia Devices and Services business has been completed.
In a move that signifies the first step in the coming together of the two organizations, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella welcomed the Nokia Devices and Services business to the Microsoft family, saying “The mobile capabilities and assets they bring will advance our transformation.”
According to the CEO, Microsoft and its partners remained focused on rapid delivery of innovation in its recently launched mobile-first, cloud-first world.
The new addition to Microsoft will be overseen by Stephen Elop, former President and CEO of Nokia, who will report to Nadella as Microsoft Devices Group’s executive vice president. Elop’s function will also include management of expanded devices business that includes Nokia mobile phones, Lumia smartphones, tablets, Xbox hardware, Perceptive Pixel (PPI) products and accessories, as well as Surface.
The tech giant will, as part of the transaction, honour all existing Nokia customer warranties for existing devices, the company says.
Windows Phone has enjoyed rapid growth in a smartphone market where there is stiff competition, with its expanding award-winning devices.
According to Market research company, International Data Corporation (IDC), Microsoft’s Windows Phone reinforced its position as a top three smartphone operating system in the fourth quarter of 2013. It also recorded a 91 percent year-over-year gain was the fastest-growing platform among the leading operating systems.
Microsoft said its target will be the market of affordable mobile devices, as it seeks to deliver the first mobile experience to more people as it introduces Microsoft services to new customers around the world.
“Microsoft will continue to deliver new value and opportunity, and it will work closely with a range of hardware partners, developers, operators, distributors and retailers, providing platforms, tools, applications and services that enable them to make exceptional devices,” the company said.
