After Nokia, BlackBerry could be sold as early as November

by Phil Tottman

Microsoft not ruled out as bidder even after Nokia acquisition.

BlackBerry has set up a committee to look at alternative strategies for its future, including the possible sale of the company by the end of the year, reports the Wall Street Journal.

A bidding war will take place between a number of private equity groups if the sale is to happen.

Microsoft may also get in on the action even after its $7.2 billion deal for Nokia’s mobile business.

If they do manage to take on the BB devices, then it will give the company a huge advantage in the smartphone market, where it has previously struggled to stay relevant.

Numerous alternatives for the future of the business are to be considered including the sale of its handset manufacturing side, meaning the firm will become more software focused.

The company recently experienced a loss of $84 million despite a 13 per cent increase in device shipments – just one of many struggles it has faced this year.

If its sales weren’t already damaged enough, the open review of its future could further impact performance in corporate, enterprise and customer based areas of its business.