BlackBerry is once again being pinpointed as a target for acquisition after it managed to swing back to profitability in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014 (December 2014-February 2015) following its recent corporate restructure, according to industry sources.

Microsoft and a number of China-based handset vendors, including Xiaomi Technology, Lenovo and Huawei, are being indicated as potential investors, the sources noted.

Microsoft reportedly has commissioned investment companies to evaluate the possibility of taking over BlackBerry, aiming to enhance its competitiveness in the business mobile solution segment as well as its patent portfolio in the Internet of Vehicles (IoV), mobile platform and communications sectors, the sources indicated.

Microsoft has an advantage to take over BlackBerry since the Canada-based company has shifted its business focus to software products instead of hardware devices, which complements Microsoft's product lines, said the sources.

China-based handset vendors intending to acquire BlackBerry are aiming at improving their presence in the business sector in the US and Europe, while also expanding their platform products and patent portfolios, added the sources.

But it may be difficult for China-based vendors to pass the scrutiny of regulatory agencies in the US and Europe on concerns of national security, commented the sources.