Founded in 1976, Acer ranks among the world's top five branded PC vendors. In 2000, Acer spun-off its manufacturing operation to focus its resources on developing technologically advanced, user-friendly solutions. The decision to support the sales of its product lines through specific marketing activities that best utilize distribution channels has allowed Acer to achieve excellent results worldwide. In 2008, they announced they would be introducing their first smartphone device in early 2009.