RIM denies split; patents up for grabs?

Research in Motion is going under -- that much seems clear. "Under where?" is now the question (forgive the childish play on words). Reports this morning that the company was going to split its hardware and messaging divisions for sale have been quelled by the company's CEO, but that hasn't stopped the talk. The bottom line is that RIM can't afford business-as-usual, and I bet one of the most valuable assets at this point is their patent portfolio -- at least to other tech companies. Thorsten Heins may drive the company into the ground, but you can bet that another big player looking to beef up their patent defense for a new entry into the mobile market will be there to dig up the remains (*coughmicrosoftcough*).