Google closes deal on Motorola Mobility for $12.5 bln, Dennis Woodside is new CEO

As of yesterday, Google finally got the go ahead for taking over Motorola Mobility after a long and drawn out “battle” with the powers that be. The cogs that were set in place have got the gears finally in motion and the all new addition to Google’s arsenal of power has been activated.

Google’s front man, CEO Larry Page, made an official announcement on their blog that the deal was finally closed and for a whopping sum of around $12.5 Billion dollars, Motorola Mobility changed hands. Larry Page went on to say “Motorola is a great American tech company that has driven the mobile revolution, with a track record of over 80 years of innovation, including the creation of the first cell phone.” Indeed the Motorola StarTAC took the world by storm and introduced us to the Mobile revolution. “And as a company who made a big, early bet on Android, Motorola has become an incredibly valuable partner to Google.” Page went on to say.

Motorola CEO Sanjay Jha, will be replaced by long-time Google employee, Dennis Woodside. With a fresh set of eyes, the company now has new potential to move into the next stage of their evolution. Page also mentioned that he was happy with the fact that Jha was on hand and working to ensure a smooth transition between the two brands. He thanked him as well for his efforts. 

Finally the deal is done

According to Page, Woodside was integral in building up Google’s interest in the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe and Russian sectors and was, up until now, President of the Americas region. The new Motorola Mobility CEO has already started recruiting his new team.

Just how the now cemented merger of these two powerhouses in the mobility sector will affect the market is yet to be seen. However, keeping the various issues that rivals have had regarding this ‘take over’, things might be smooth sailing initially. Back in March Google and Motorola were ordered by a court to share details of the Android OS with big time rival Apple Inc. There’s also the fact that some Motorola handsets have been barred from importation into the United States on grounds that they infringe on Microsoft's patents. Needless to say, the new management has their work cut out for them.

But new blood always brings change and new ideas, and new ideas in this day and age usually count for innovating thoughts and fresh perspectives so could we see a whole new Motorola line up emerge? Or just variants from what we’ve grown to expect? Only time will tell.

For all accounts on this story go here.