BERLIN ― Samsung Electronics’ vice chairman Choi Gee-sung expressed confidence Friday that the company will take the lead in the global software industry in two years, dismissing rumors that it will take over the PC unit of Hewlett-Packard.

“People are posting concerns that Samsung isn’t in the lead in software (industry), but I want to tell them not to worry. It will not take long, meaning the results will be shown in a one to two-year term,” he said in a press conference with the Korean press held on the sidelines of IFA 2011 that opened on Friday.

He also said the company has no thoughts of acquiring the HP unit. However, it is open to small mergers and that it may purchase the solutions from other firms, he added.

Regarding fourth generation networks, Choi confirmed that Samsung has turned away from pursuing the 4G wireless broadband network projects, also known as WiMAX, under his leadership, pushing its drive in projects related to the Long Term Evolution technology since 2009.

“We will feature leadership in the sector of 4G LTE systems by first concentrating on establishing the local systems,” said Choi, acknowledging that the firm ran into obstacles in the global telecommunications market with the 4G WiMAX technology.

Samsung has the most number of patents related to the WiBro technology around the world, largely promoted by the government’s initiative in that network technology.

Involving Samsung’s relationship with Apple Inc. that has recently soured over its global fights on patents and design, it is a road for Samsung to take to rise as the industrial No. 1 player, according to Choi.

The company also unveiled its sales target in the European market ― $50 billion by 2015 ― with its line-up of smart devices, including smart TVs and smartphones as well as smart home appliances. This year’s goal is $24 billion, meaning it aims to double its sales figure within four years.

By Cho Ji-hyun, Korea Herald correspondent 
(sharon@heraldcorp.com)