Harman International and Research In Motion (RIM) have reached an agreement for RIM to acquire QNX Software Systems. The deal is subject to regulatory approval and is anticipated to close within 35 - 45 days. This strategic move is expected to further strengthen QNX penetration in the automotive market and foster innovation for markets served by all parties.

QNX, based in Ottawa, Ontario, was founded in 1980 and acquired by Harman International in 2004. The unit’s QNX Neutrino open platform operating system is deployed across business sectors including automotive, industrial, telecommunications, medical, defense, and aerospace.

Research In Motion is a designer, manufacturer and marketer of wireless solutions for the mobile communications market. RIM provides platforms and solutions for seamless access to time-sensitive information including email, phone, SMS messaging, Internet and intranet-based applications.

Harman International manufactures audio and infotainment products for the automotive, consumer and professional markets.