FAQs

  1. What is Symbian?

    • Symbian is a leader in operating software for mobile smart phones that run personal computer-style functions.
  2. Who created Symbian?

    • Symbian was created in June 1998 as a partnership between Psion, Nokia, and Ericsson.
  3. Which company acquired Psion’s stake in Symbian?

    • Nokia acquired Psion’s 31.1% stake in Symbian for $251 million.
  4. Why did Psion sell its stake in Symbian?

    • Psion sold its stake to focus on creating specialized mobile technology products for companies through its Teklogix arm.
  5. How did the acquisition impact handset makers?

    • The acquisition narrowed their choice of suppliers for new software to Nokia and Microsoft.
  6. What did John Strand say about the acquisition’s impact on other Symbian shareholders?

    • Strand said they would have to decide if they wanted to be part of Nokia or Microsoft.
  7. What is Series 60?

    • Series 60 is Nokia’s implementation of Symbian for mobile phones that use a numerical keypad for inputting.
  8. Why did Motorola sell its stake in Symbian?

    • Motorola sold its stake due to the belief that other operating systems could dominate the smart phone market.
  9. What is the main issue emerging with smart phones, according to Dean Bubley?

    • The escalating customer support costs related to handsets with complex software.
  10. How many Symbian-based smart phones were sold in the last quarter of 2003?

    • Over 2 million
  11. Why did Jessica Figueras warn about Nokia’s acquisition?

    • She stated that it could damage Symbian’s credibility with operators and encourage them to explore alternatives.
  12. What are Psion’s plans for the future?

    • Psion intends to support Psion Teklogix’s organic growth through acquisitions and investments in mobile technology products.

Summary

Nokia’s acquisition of Psion’s stake in Symbian solidifies its control over the mobile operating system. This move follows Motorola’s departure, signaling a shift in the smart phone market landscape.

Symbian has played a dominant role in advanced mobile devices, but its future may be uncertain under Nokia’s complete ownership. Some experts express concerns about Nokia’s potential influence over the platform and its impact on operator relationships.

However, Nokia’s acquisition also presents opportunities for Psion to focus on specialized mobile technology products and capture a niche in the enterprise market.

As the smart phone industry evolves, it remains to be seen how Nokia’s dominance will affect Symbian’s standing and how other players will respond. For more information about Symbian’s history, acquisition, and implications, visit our website.