RIM Addresses Shareholders

In the face of layoffs, delays, and falling stock, Research in Motion (RIM) attempted to ease shareholder concerns by addressing them in a recent meeting. While not all were satisfied with the meeting (share had dropped from $7.82 to $7.34 by the end of it), chief executive, Thornsten Heins tried to address concerns and appeared as an approachable and open executive.

This has not been the best time to be an RIM shareholder. After the company's recent layoff of 5,000 workers, the release of BlackBerry 10 was pushed back to 2013. Still, Heins claims that the delay is unfortunate but necessary for getting the best possible product out, and that the devices will become available in January. While remaining optimistic, he was sure to mention that there will be "challenging" quarters ahead.

Heins did his best to address shareholder concerns, although they did not appear as optimistic as him. Some questioned his ability to run a company as large as RIM, while others voiced complaints about products. Heins attempted to address all issues and alleviate concerns, reminding them that while he may have only held his position for a matter of months, his experience from Siemens is not to be taken lightly.

Still, fears persist that RIM is on a downward slope towards defeat. Its BlackBerry smartphone has had harsh competition from the iPhone and Android, and delaying BlackBerry 10 will further set off some alarms. The company has been trying to work PR magic to alleviate consumer concerns, and promises big things in the future, but whether or not customers will wait long enough to see remains to be seen.

Want to learn more about today’s powerful mobile Internet ecosystem? Then be sure to attend the Mobility Tech Conference & Expo, collocated with ITEXPO West 2012 taking place Oct. 2-5 2012, in Austin, TX. Co-sponsored by TMC Partner Crossfire Media the Mobility Tech Conference & Expo provides unmatched networking opportunities and a robust conference program representing the mobile ecosystem. The conference not only brings together the best and brightest in the wireless industry, it actually spans the communications and technology industry. For more information on registering for the Mobility Tech Conference & Expo click here.

Stay in touch with everything happening at Mobility Tech Conference & Expo. Follow us on Twitter.