"In the transaction, all of Nokia's device business, including design, manufacturing, sales, marketing, and support, becomes a part of Microsoft. This includes 32,000 staff, of which 4,700 are in Finland."
Nokia Solutions and Networks (previously Nokia Siemens Networks) is to remain behind. This is the division that builds telecom equipment and mapping division called HERE. Nokia's Advanced Technologies group, which develops and licenses intellectual property, is also staying put. According to the report, these divisions account for roughly half of the company's revenue, as well as 24,000 staff.
This acquisition, while not shocking, is interesting nonetheless. Current Nokia CEO Stephen Elop is to be succeeded by Risto Siilasmaa, but will remain on board as Executive Vice President of Devices & Services and is expected to move over to Microsoft after the deal closes. With Steve Ballmer retiring within a year, there is speculation as to whether Elop is going to become his replacement. Regarding the Nokia acquisition itself, there is an interesting blog about why it should make Google and Apple nervous. You can read it here.
What do you all think about this move? Chime in on the thread and let me know!
(Source: ARS Technica)