Nokia is exploring strategic options for its mobile networks business, with potential interest from suitors such as Samsung Electronics, Bloomberg News reported on Thursday.
The Finnish telecom equipment maker is considering several alternatives, including a potential sale of its mobile networks division, which could be valued at up to $10 billion. Other options under review include merging the business with a competitor.
This move follows Nokia’s report last month of a 32% drop in second-quarter operating profit, attributed to reduced demand for 5G telecom equipment.
Samsung, the world’s largest producer of memory chips, smartphones, and TVs, has shown initial interest in acquiring some of Nokia’s assets. The South Korean giant is looking to expand its scale in radio access networks, which link mobile phones to telecom infrastructure. However, discussions are still preliminary, and no agreement has been reached.
In response to the reports, Nokia stated it does not comment on market rumors or speculation. The company emphasized its commitment to the success of its Mobile Networks division, describing it as a “highly strategic asset” for both Nokia and its customers.