The iconic imaging brand announced a partnership with Bullitt Group to build Android-based mobile devices that may debut in 2015.
"Kodak is one of the world's most recognizable brands. It is trusted by consumers as a marque of quality and innovation. We've taken that heritage and used it to inspire a range of beautifully designed devices that will let users take great pictures and edit, share, store and print them in an instant," Oliver Schulte, CEO of Bullitt Mobile, said in a news release (http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kodak-and-bullitt-group-partner-for-new-range-of-mobile-devices-debuts-at-ces-286533301.html).
A separate article on tech site The Verge noted UK-based Bullitt builds rugged smartphones for construction firm Caterpillar (http://www.theverge.com/2014/12/26/7450621/kodak-bullitt-smartphone-ces-2015).
The first Kodak-branded handset is to be launched at the Consumer Electronics Show 2015. Other devices planned for 2015 include a 4G phone, a tablet and a connected camera.
According to the news release, the upcoming Kodak-branded Android devices will target users seeking a high-end but relatively simple experience.
The devices are to be preloaded with image capture, management and sharing features, as well as advanced remote management software to let "family members and friends to provide help and support if needed."
"By giving customers easy access to printing and sharing services while still offering the latest Android OS and features found on high-end smartphones, we will appeal to a large audience of users who value ease of use and stylish design as highly as they value functionality," Schulte said.
For her part, Eileen Murphy, Kodak's vice president for brand licensing, said they are "impressed with Bullitt Group's commitment to delivering a portfolio of products that embrace the quality and innovation that our brand is known for around the world."
Licensing
The Verge said Kodak had licensed its brand and underwent restructuring to escape bankruptcy last September.
It had spun off or shut down its consumer divisions and is focused on commercial printing.
"Kodak can get people interested with its name alone, but it'll have to contribute more than just branding to actually win customers' respect," it said. — Reuters
