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This is not the first time Microsoft has been linked with the Canadian company, but Google's long-rumoured entry into the mobile phone operating system could tempt Microsoft to act.

One potential stumbling block for a Microsoft takeover could be integrating the two companies' product lines. Blackberrys

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run on RIM's proprietary operating system, while Microsoft has its own Windows Mobile OS. Any attempt to build Windows Mobile Blackberrys could prove hugely unpopular with the RIM user base.

Microsoft is not the only name in the takeover hat, however, with Motorola also reported to be sniffing around the BlackBerry maker.

The BlackBerry has become synonymous with professional users in recent years but has struggled to make an impact on retail consumers. In response RIM has added a raft of mass market features, including cameras and music players increasingly pushing it into iPhone territory.

Both RIM and Microsoft declined to comment on the rumours.

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