Samsung merges mobile and camera units to differentiate its smartphone imaging

Samsung Electronics is combining its mobile unit with its camera business to not only bring wireless connectivity to more of its cameras but to improve the imaging capabilities of its smartphones.

The reorganization, which was first reported by South Korean news site ET News, just occurred, so it likely will be some time before the results wind up in finished products on the market. However, Samsung clearly has high hopes for the transition.  

Samsung told ET News: "We will transplant the brand, sales networks, software competency and manufacturing competitiveness of the Wireless Business Division into the Camera Business Division, and integrate the technical know-how of the two business divisions into competency for differentiating our smartphones."

The reorganization comes as more and more smartphone makers are turning to imaging to set themselves apart, with camera specs and software being one of the few areas OEMs can differentiate these days. For example, this year HTC has tried to push its "UltraPixel" camera for its One family of smartphones, which the company says gathers 300 percent more light than traditional smartphone camera sensors. Additionally, Nokia (NYSE:NOK) has made imaging the centerpiece of many of its Lumia-branded Windows Phones, especially high-end models such as the Lumia 1020 and 1520. And LG Electronics has also touted improved camera technology in its flagship G2 smartphone.

Nokia, which has staked its brand on being a leader in imaging, could have much to lose if Samsung can improve its smartphone cameras and close the gap. Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) is in the process of acquiring Nokia's devices business in a deal that will likely close early next year.

For more:
- see this ET News article
- see this The Verge article
- see this BGR article

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