According to recurrent rumors, RIM would be looking a partner or to be acquired. Initially, Samsung was the first on the list, but officially denied to have any interest. Other companies, such as HTC would be studying the opportunity of such acquisition, as it would help the company to catch up with Apple and Samsung.
If the battle among SmartPhone companies continue, it is quite likely that we will be seeing numerous acquisition and merger in the coming months, as this is a way to reduce R&D cost, as well as pooling patent portfolio... even though Sony recently released its first touch screen mobile phone under its own brand; no more Sony Ericsson.
