BlackBerry maker Research in Motion (RIM) has revealed that it could sell off its hardware division after the launch of its BB10 operating system.

As Digital Spy revealed citing TechCrunc, Company CEO Thorsten Heins told German newspaper Die Weld that a move away from the hardware market is one of the options presently under discussion.

"There are several options, including the sale of the hardware production," he said. "But there is no reason for us to decide rashly. It is important, first of all, that we successfully put BlackBerry 10 on the market. Then we shall see."

RIM is also mulling over the possibility of licensing out the BB10 software to third-party manufacturers, but Heins was quick to point out that launching the operating system successfully is the priority.

"Before you license the software, you must show that the platform has a large potential," he explained.

BB10 is viewed by some as RIM's last chance to remain competitive in the marketplace following a dismal year marred by below-par sales and reputation-damaging service outages.

RIM will launch its BlackBerry 10 range on January 30.