Brussels, 09/01/2007 (Agence Europe) - On 8 January, the European Commission cleared the proposed purchase of Symbol Technologies INC. (Symbol), an American company producing so-called “ruggedised” mobile computers (i.e. with a rugged body designed for use in harsh, dirty or extreme environments or ways which might easily damage a standard mobile computer) by Motorola Inc (Motorola) of the US, active in wireless and broadband technology.
Motorola is active in wireless handsets (mobile telephones), wireless network infrastructures, laptop computers, communications and network systems and broadband products. Symbol manufactures and distributes “ruggedised” mobile computers, data capture and scanning devices, wireless local area network infrastructure and radio frequency identification technology. Through this proposed concentration, Motorola would gain control over Symbol's “ruggedised” mobile technology solutions and “ruggedised” handheld mobile computers in particular.
The Commission's examination concluded that the horizontal overlaps between the activities of Motorola and Symbol were limited, and that Symbol's position on the market for data capture and scanning devices did not threaten to close off the markets affected. The Commission concluded, therefore, that the transaction would not significantly impede effective competition in the European Economic Area (EEA) or any substantial part of it. (cd)