Dell taps Samsung, Kodak, Fuji Xerox for printers

LAS VEGAS: Dell Inc., the No. 1 personal computer maker has said has it has
signed deals with South Korea's Samsung Electronics Co., Fuji Xerox and Eastman
Kodak Co. to expand its printer and imaging business. Dell currently sells
inkjet and laser printers under its own brand name that are made by Lexmark
International Inc. Last year Dell had planned to introduce new printers that
were made by another company.

Round Rock, Texas-based Dell has been pushing into consumer electronics, such
as televisions, printers and related products, to  increase its product
gallery outside of PCs and large corporate computers. "All these companies
have a wide array of intellectual properties which allows us to expand our
presence in the printing and imaging market," said  Michael Dell,
Chief Executive Officer .

Dell will continue to sell printers made by Lexmark. Fuji Xerox, a joint
venture between Xerox Corp. and Fuji Photo Film Co., will use its manufacturing
and patents to provide technology based on Dell's specifications, Xerox
International Partners.

Stamford, Connecticut-based Xerox said it can broaden its "market
reach" and stands to gain "revenue generating
opportunities"  through the huge customer base Dell offers. Xerox
holds a majority ownership stake in Xerox International Partners, which will
supply products to Dell.

Executives from Dell, Samsung and Kodak all declined to discuss the types of
products that might evolve from the relationship with Dell. Xerox said the deal
would help Fuji Xerox build upon its "strong patent portfolio."
Analyst suggested that Dell may license patented technology from one or more of
the companies as it bolsters its slate of imaging products. They speculated that
Samsung may be tapped for its low-end laser printers, Fuji Xerox for its
high-end lasers, and Kodak for its cameras and docking stations.

(Reuters)