Nokia has denied reports it is gearing up to re-enter the smartphone market in 2016, releasing an official statement in response to recent speculation.Nokia has stated it currently has no plans to re-enter the market, having sold its handset division to Microsoft last year. Under the terms of the deal, Nokia has agreed with Microsoft to not re-enter the handset market until 2016.
Tech news site Re/code last week reported that Nokia was looking to re-enter the market in 2016, citing two sources briefed on Nokia’s plans, further reporting Nokia has a number of technology projects in the works, including some within virtual reality.
Nokia has moved to head off speculation, posting a statement via its website.
“Nokia notes recent news reports claiming the company communicated an intention to manufacture consumer handsets out of a R&D facility in China,” Nokia stated. “These reports are false, and include comments incorrectly attributed to a Nokia Networks executive.
“Nokia reiterates it currently has no plans to manufacture or sell consumer handsets.”
Nokia got back into the mobile device game shortly after selling its handset business to Microsoft, unveiling its N1 tablet towards the end of last year.
