Nokia's new CEO serious about US market

Aug 10 2006 - 03:11 PM ET | Nokia

Nokia's US marketshare may be tumbling in the US, but the company's new CEO isn't settling to be a distant player. Olli-Pekka Kallasvuo took the reigns over in June and has announced plans to spend one week per month in the US. That's significant considering the US only makes up 8.3% of Nokia's revenue.

Worldwide Nokia is the top mobile phone manufacturer, but Motorola dominates in the US market. Analysts blame Nokia's late adoption of the clamshell form factor as one of the leading causes. Its failed CDMA play also has contributed, half the US isn't even a potential customer.

Some changes are expected to be made, including an increased emphasis on design and style.

And, the company plans to launch slimmer handsets over the coming months to better compete with Motorola's hit RAZR phones. "We are making very good progress in getting thinner," says Mr. Kallasvuo. But, he adds, "we are not there as of yet."

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