The Blackberry Success Story: Research In Motion Celebrates 20 Years

RIM was founded in 1984 by engineering students Mike Lazaridis and Doug-las Fregin, currently president and vice president of operations, respectively. Based in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, RIM was the first North American company to develop packet-switched wireless networking equipment and systems, initially for Mobitex.

The company's success can be traced to its strong focus on innovative wireless solutions for the mobile communications market. Introduced in 1998, the BlackBerry has won dozens of industry awards for its innovation and many accolades for its pure usefulness. Along with its BlackBerry handled device, the company also develops integrated hardware, software, and services that support multiple wireless-network standards. Its wireless solutions give users access to time-sensitive material via e-mail, phone, SMS messaging, the Internet, and any desired intranet-based applications.

RIM employs over 2000 people in its Waterloo facilities, where the company does its research, development, and all manufacturing. RIM also has offices in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. The company is listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market (Nasdaq: RIMM) and the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: RIM). For more details on the company and its products, go to www.rim.com and www.blackberry.com.