Motorola considers ditching cell phone biz
Will Motorola's Razr 2 be one of the company's last cell phones?
(Credit: Motorola )Motorola, the third largest cell phone maker in the world, may spin off its handset business as it tries to turn around its business, the company said Thursday.
In a statement issued after the market closed, Motorola said that it was exploring "strategic alternatives" that might include a possible separation of its mobile-device business from its other business units.
"We are exploring ways in which our mobile-devices business can accelerate its recovery and retain and attract talent while enabling our shareholders to realize the value of this great franchise," said President and CEO Greg Brown.
The company said it will not discuss developments until the board has approved a transaction or until the process is otherwise completed.
Motorola has been in a downward spiral for several quarters as it has lost market share to rivals like Nokia and Samsung. The company ousted its CEO Ed Zander last year and earlier this month appointed Brown as its new CEO.
A more in-depth look at Motorola's decision to possibly spin off the handset division will be posted on CNET News.com shortly. So stay tuned. In the meantime, let us know what you think about the Motorola's possible move.
Marguerite Reardon has been a CNET News reporter since 2004, covering cell phone services, broadband, citywide Wi-Fi, the Net neutrality debate, as well as the ongoing consolidation of the phone companies. E-mail Maggie. 
- Crap phones
- by close5828 January 31, 2008 6:10 PM PST
- I used to love Motorola but they went to cr/p after the V60 line...that was the last good Motorola phone. I bought a RAZR last year and it has been replaced TWICE for dropping calls, lousy earpiece, etc.
- Like this Reply to this comment
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(5 Comments)I got a Nokia a few weeks ago and it's never dropped a call and the voice quality is great. I'll never own another Motorola again...