Dell "interested in computers, not phones"

 

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By Matthew Sparkes & Reuters

Posted on 5 Feb 2008 at 08:36

Dell says it is more interested in the computer market than expanding into the mobile phone sector. However, the company has refused to rule out the possibility of buying Motorola's handset business.

Dell, the world's second largest computer maker, is among a small group of companies thought by analysts to be potential buyers for Motorola's mobile phone arm. Motorola said last week it was reviewing its options, including splitting off its mobile unit.

When pressed on whether his company is among the potential suitors, Dell declined to rule itself out. "We really don't comment on rumours and speculation," says Michael Dell. "We are more focused on the computer business."

Rumours circulating last week suggested that Dell may be releasing a smartphone at the upcoming 3GSM conference. The device is expected to run on Google's Android mobile operating system.

If the company was to enter the smartphone market it would be another move towards a more Apple-like business model, following the introduction of the XPS One, a nod to the stylish design of the iMac. Dell has also made great strides to make its laptop range more appealing, last year claiming that "the company is in transformation".

Almost half of Apple's revenue now comes from iPod and iPhone sales, so there is a potential for Dell to massively increase revenue if it can carve out a healthy market share in the mobile sector.