Following rumors that BlackBerry is in talks to sell itself to various technology companies like Google, LG, Intel and Samsung, another potential buyer has been added to the list today. A new report from the Wall Street Journal claims that Lenovo is weighing a purchase of BlackBerry and has signed a non-disclosure agreement in order to take a look at the Canadian firm's books.
Lenovo isn't a huge name in the North American mobile market, but the company has a large presence in China and has expressed interest in breaking into the U.S. smartphone game. Buying BlackBerry could be one way to help Lenovo to do just that. It's also worth noting that Lenovo's CEO has previously said that he's open to making acquisitions, including in the smartphone world, in order to help boost sales.
Right now it sounds like the talks between Lenovo and BlackBerry are at an early stage and so it's possible that nothing will come of these talks. Still, the situation is definitely one to keep an eye on, especially considering that BlackBerry has already agreed to be purchased by Fairfax Financial for $4.7 billion. If the Canadian device maker agrees to a different offer before Fairfax's due diligence period, it would be forced to pay a breakup fee. Stay tuned for more details as I get 'em.
