Microsoft to become Top 10 chip buyer on Nokia acquisition
Microsoft's upcoming acquisition over Nokia is set to make it one of the world's Top 10 oem semiconductor buyers in 2014, as well as one of the leading purchasers of microchips for wireless.
According to market research firm IHS, the company will become the eighth largest oem chip buyer next year, spending around $5.9billion on semiconductors.
The company's new higher standing in 2014 also means it will be vying for fourth place in chip spending for wireless applications, alongside companies such as LG Electronics, Ericsson, Samsung, and of course Apple.
Prior to the Nokia deal, Microsoft purchased a relatively small quantity of semiconductors for its Surface line of tablets. However, it is expected to spend $110m on wireless chips this year, up from $85m in 2012.
According to IHS, approximately 37% of its $5.9bn spend in 2014 will be on chips for wireless devices like smartphones and tablets.
The Nokia deal is expected to close tomorrow (19 November), after it passes regulatory approvals in the US, European Union and China.
