Nokia shies away from business mobility

Nokia has admitted defeat in the crowded mobile apps market by bowing out of making behind-the-firewall business solutions in-house.

Instead, the mobile giant plans to team up with enterprise technology vendors like Cisco, IBM and Microsoft to marry its devices with their business solutions.

The resources and energy previously focused on the business side of things will instead be channelled towards Nokia's new consumer push email service.

"We have very strong relationships with industry leading enterprise technology partners such as Cisco and Microsoft, as well as a broad range of operator and retail channel partners," said Niklas Savander, executive vice president of Nokia's services and software division. "Together with them, we will use our expertise in devices, as well as the combined channel footprint and customer base, to deliver a range of unbeatable end-to-end offerings for business."

"The initial success of the Nokia E71 with Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync is a great example of the attractiveness of our new approach," added Savander. Nokia added that service to dozens of handset models earlier this month.

"We will also continue with our investment strategy to develop key consumer internet services in areas such as music, games, media, messaging and context based services."

It looks increasingly likely that the company will sell off its security appliances arm as it has confirmed it is now in advanced talks with a financial investor.

"If this transaction is concluded, it would be an extremely positive development for the security appliance business, which will be able to realise its full potential under new ownership. The investor is committed to continuing the development and growth of the business, to serving its current network of customers, and to retaining and motivating its employees," added Savander.