[bane]

Samsung may have a couple strategies

a) Korean companies have a long history of turning around public perception. Samsung, LG and Hyundai (to name 3 well known brands) were perceived as cheap junk makers not all that long ago. Now they're well considered brands.

b) Samsung may not be interested in keeping the Blackberry brand, but getting the patent portfolio and killing the rest off.

Samsung profits are way down, even as consumer happiness is up. I think this move is more likely #b to give them more competitive options.