Research In Motion's Steady Steps Forward

Updated

As I was saying just a few days ago, BlackBerry maker Research In Motion (NAS: RIMM) is not down in the dumps as yet, as it goes all out to woo back customers with the Playbook upgrade and integration with the Android platform.

While some may say the company has already become a no-go, thanks to the hype about Apple's new iPad launch, among other things, I think RIM is actually taking steady steps forward with the acquisition of technology provider Paratek Microwave. Does this mean we will now get to see 4G LTE connectivity on its new QNX-based handsets? That may gain back some market share from Apple.

What actually happened
Paratek is known for its RF (radio frequency) technology that enables mobile handsets to effortlessly connect to multiple wireless networks. But it's not just about supporting a variety of networks, it's also about doing that in a much smaller package. Paratek's technology involves a thin film that improves a phone's performance while reducing the need for a number of components. A part of that process involves miniature antennae that might lead to thinner, more powerful BlackBerrys in time. And that's not all.

Paratek's technology is said to sharply improve mobile call quality as well as prolong battery life. The latter is especially useful considering today's smartphone users, who believe multitasking to be the order of the day. After all, that's one of the benefits of having a smartphone, but then everybody also knows the consequent battery drain.

The Opera angle
BlackBerry is not content with the Paratek acquisition alone. The company seems to be focused on providing its existing users with a better Web browsing experience as well. With BlackBerry smartphones now getting access to the ever-popular Opera Mini browser, users can expect lower data rates, given the latter's widely known data compression capabilities. Opera's popularity in Asia and Africa, where lower browsing rates often make a big difference, does seem to make this a smart move indeed.

Foolish last words
BlackBerry is certainly trying to do all it can to wriggle out of the recent depressing scenario and the Paratek acquisition is a solid step forward in that direction. After all, a product range comprising the company's new QNX-based smartphones that seamlessly run on the revolutionary 4G LTE network should be enough to turn around BlackBerry's fortunes in the long run. I still have my hopes pinned on this stock. What about you?

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At the time thisarticle was published Fool contributor Subhadeep Ghose does not own shares of any of the companies mentioned in this article.The Motley Fool owns shares of Apple.Motley Fool newsletter serviceshave recommended buying shares of Apple.Motley Fool newsletter serviceshave recommended creating a bull call spread position in Apple. Try any of our Foolish newsletter servicesfree for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe thatconsidering a diverse range of insightsmakes us better investors. The Motley Fool has adisclosure policy.

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