Huawei to Push Into Business Phones, Buys Out Symantec Joint Venture

The deal, pending regulatory approval, is expected to close in the first quarter next year. The handset maker's exact plans for the acquisition are unknown, but Huawei may use its full ownership of the venture to boost its product portfolio for business customers.

The Shenzen, China-based company says it will offer more Android smartphones next year, and plans to become one of the top five players in the U.S. cell-phone market. The Android OS is plagued by security problems and often targeted by malware attacks, so the company may use Symantec's security resources to safeguard their devices to gain a market edge.

Corporate users may be most at risk from security threats, especially as many businesses abandon RIM's BlackBerry, which built a reputation for enterprise security, in favor of more vulnerable Android devices. Many businesses now use smartphones like mini computers, and the devices handle a wealth of business-critical, sensitive information, making security a prime concern.

As a result, computer security companies, such as Symantec, are moving to the mobile realm and starting to offer protection specifically designed for smartphones.

Apps, such as the one offered by Lookout Mobile, also strengthen security for iOS and Android devices, as customers search for more solutions to combat malware threats to their smartphones.

Huawei's buyout of Symantec's half of its joint venture may put the handset maker in a favorable position as the market for smartphone security solutions grows, and give the company an edge among business users who are looking for a secure, trustworthy device.