Microsoft has assured Nokia customers that the ongoing acquisition deal won’t affect the privacy aspect of users’ data. In a letter addressing the Nokia customers, Microsoft also confirmed that Nokia’s buyout deal will close this month. In addition, Microsoft revealed that it is starting a new division called “Microsoft Mobile”, wherein it will keep the assets of Nokia it has acquired.
Last year, Microsoft bought Nokia’s Devices & Services business, licenses to Nokia’s patents, and license and use of Nokia’s mapping services. The $7.2 billion dollar deal was expected to close last month, but got delayed. As the deal will close, Nokia is expected to announce a new CEO as well.
Microsoft is reportedly creating a new division called ‘Microsoft Mobile’ to provide shelter to the Nokia assets it has bought. The letter hints that Microsoft may decide to expand or spin off the business. Or perhaps it refers to the Windows Phone platform – but we’re not sure why Nokia would refer to ‘Microsoft Mobile’ in its email. We’ve reached out to Microsoft to confirm the name.
Below you will find the translated version of the letter.
Hello:
We want to share important information about the privacy of your data and contracts.
Currently Nokia expects to complete the sale of their businesses Devices & Services to Microsoft in April 2014 . With the completion of this transaction, a Finnish subsidiary of Microsoft * take responsibility for your personal and contractual relationships for products and services with this business .Microsoft feels a deep responsibility for their privacy and protection of personal data, and continue to collect and use your personal information in the same ways and for the same reasons as Nokia, so you should not experience differences as a result of the sale.
Also, keep in mind that Nokia will continue to conduct their business, including the products and services HERE locations, which are not part of the acquisition of Microsoft. Nokia will continue to be responsible for your personal data and the contractual relationship regarding these products and services from Nokia. Nokia remains committed to the highest standards for protecting your privacy and personal data standards.
We wanted to notify you of these changes. Our commitment to your privacy remains paramount. For more information about the privacy policies and terms of service of Microsoft and Nokia, click here. You can also contact us at: Microsoft Mobile Oy, c / o Privacy, Keilaranta 7 02150 Espoo, Finland and Nokia Corporation, c / o Privacy, Keilalahdentie 4 02150 Espoo, Finland.
Sincerely,
Chad Fentress
vice president, director of compliance and ethics
NokiaBrendon Lynch
Chief Privacy
Microsoft* Upon completion of this sale, the division of Nokia devices and services form part of the financial institution Microsoft Mobile, a subsidiary of Microsoft Corp.
Further reading: Microsoft, Microsoft Mobile, Nokia
