PCR Tech and IT retail, distribution and vendor news
In a surprise move, mobile entertainment firm ROK has bought a 51 per cent stake in laptop manufacturer and namesake Rock for an undisclosed fee.
The move has been described by ROK as one that is aimed at sharing expertise in IPTV, place shifting, mobile internet and other mobile entertainment platforms. ROK recently told our sister-publication Mobile Entertainment that it was on the acquisition trail.
Rock, which produces high performance gaming laptops, was one of the few well know independent PC manufacturers left in the UK. ROK has said that it believes the vendor will help it to further its synergy strategies between mobiles and laptops.
Speaking about the deal, ROK’s CEO, Laurence Alexander said: "full-scale convergence of the notebook and mobile technologies – and how we use them both – has already begun. Three years ago, virtually no one browsed the web on their mobile or received and sent emails. In three years time, people will be using their mobile in very similar ways to how they are using their laptops at present. It’s all about technological convergence of the mobile with the internet to deliver ‘total connectivity’."
Rock’s CEO, Nick Boardman added: "Rock’s customer base consists largely of early adopters, and make the ideal target for ROK’s products and services. We will work extremely closely to bring some exciting technology to the market."