LG
Electronics, Inc., a worldwide technology and design leader in mobile
communications and
Microsoft Corp., the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions,
today announced the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to form
strategic collaboration in Mobile Convergence. The agreement was signed in Seoul
by Yong Nam, Vice-Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of LG Electronics and
Steve Ballmer, Chief Executive Officer of Microsoft.
The agreement ensures continued strategic collaboration in R&D, marketing,
applications and services in the field of converged mobile devices. The proposed
partnership also reflects both companies' commitment to leverage best-in-class
technology, resources and expertise by joining forces with leading players in
key markets.
"This agreement between LG and Microsoft will create critical momentum in
the industry," said Yong Nam at the announcement ceremony. "With this
partnership, mobile computing will truly become an everyday reality and LG
and Microsoft will be at the forefront of it."
"This MoU further strengthens Microsoft relationship with LG and
demonstrates our joint commitment to delivering the most innovative mobile
experiences to our customers," said Steve Ballmer. "We are excited that
leading mobility solutions providers, such as LG, are aligning with our
vision for mobility."
In particular, as a part of its strategy to reinforce LG's global
competitiveness in smartphone, LG sets mid to long term goals and documentaries
number of products, R&D, marketing and service to meet these goals. Under the
MoU, converged mobile device business will be reinforced through incorporating
LG's core competences in marketing and products in mobile and IT sector and
Microsoft's proficiency in Windows Mobile OS, application and service.
Both companies will continue to define and align their mobile strategies
through annual top management meeting.
Maybe this MoU is another indication that the
recently unveiled LG KS500 might be indeed LG's next Windows Mobile
smartphone? Nevertheless, it shouldn't be forgotten that LG
is also part of Google's
Open
Handset Alliance and will definitely release
Android smartphone
as well.
Cheers ~ Arne