Microsoft acquires Nokia

Nokia's official Weibo in China has just released a major announcement: Microsoft will acquire Nokia's Devices & Services division, accelerating the development of the Windows ecosystem. Nokia stated that both Nokia and Microsoft have had great dreams - there should be a computer on every desk and a mobile phone in every pocket. Today, these dreams have gradually become reality through our relentless efforts. Today marks a new moment of innovation. It is reported that this transaction is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2014, subject to approval by Nokia shareholders and relevant authorities. The following is an open letter from Ballmer and Elop:

Nokia and Microsoft both have great dreams - we once dreamed that there should be a computer on every desk and a mobile phone in every pocket. Today, these dreams have gradually become reality through our long-term efforts.

Today marks a new moment of innovation.

Nokia has a legacy of 150 years of heritage, innovation, excellence, and continuous innovation. This DNA of change began in Finland and has continued to develop and spread globally. From the initial paper mill to producing rubber shoes and tires, then to mobile phones, the spirit of innovation exists in Nokia's blood.

Nokia will write a new chapter, continuing its innovation in mobile networks, maps and location services, as well as cutting-edge technology.

Microsoft is also like this. Today is a brave step towards the future, a big leap towards our new journey: creating a series of devices and services to delight consumers and assist businesses of all sizes.

In our past two and a half years of partnership, we have built a new global mobile ecosystem with our respective strengths, achieving remarkable achievements: Nokia's Windows Phones are becoming the fastest-growing intelligent terminals globally through award-winning phones and excellent mobile applications and services.

On the basis of this successful cooperation, we announce today important news: Microsoft intends to acquire Nokia's Devices & Services business, providing customers with more choices, faster innovation, and more surprising devices and services.

This will accelerate the momentum of Nokia's Devices & Services business, bringing the world's most innovative smartphones to more people, while continuing to connect the next billion users through Nokia's rich range of feature phones.

Microsoft's commitment and resources will drive Nokia's Devices & Services business forward. Now we can realize the huge potential of the Windows ecosystem, delivering the best mobile experiences for people's work and life.

We will continue to produce the phones you love, while investing in the future - new phones and services combining the best resources of both Microsoft and Nokia.

Both Nokia and Microsoft will fully commit to this new chapter.

We will join hands to rewrite the boundaries of the mobile field.

Elop and Ballmer