Samsung buys NewNet for RCS technology
Samsung Electronics has acquired RCS operator NewNet Canada, the company has announced.
The South Korean tech giant said the acquisition showed its commitment to RCS as mobile networks transition to IP-based networks and services.
NewNet Canada, formed in 2009 and previously known as NewPace before being bought by NewNet Communication Technologies in 2014, provides RCS infrastructure and services.
Going forward, Samsung plans to offer solutions to telcos without RCS infrastructure, and launch more handsets with the technology. The company said the broader communications ecosystem will benefit the mobile market.
RCS is a messaging standard set by GSMA that allows the sending of texts, group chat, and the sharing of large multimedia files. Unlike other messaging apps, it allows users to communicate on any network by telcos who have RCS infrastructure.
The South Korean tech giant, under the leadership of Lee Jae-yong, vice chairman and de facto leader of the entire Samsung Group, has been more active in its acquisitions.
Earlier this week, Samsung announced the acquisition of auto-parts supplier Harman for $8 billion.
Last month, it announced the acquisition of Vivo, an AI-based voice assistant maker, which it plans to have on the upcoming Galaxy S8.