Founding (1984)

Lenovo was established in 1984 by Liu Chuanzhi alongside ten engineers, backed by an initial investment of approximately US$25,000. Originally operating under the name Legend, the company focused on adapting computing technology for the Chinese-language market through the development of systems capable of displaying Chinese characters.1

Growth in China

Throughout the 1990s, Legend emerged as China’s premier PC manufacturer. The company launched its own branded computers and expanded rapidly in tandem with rising computer adoption rates across the nation.

Rebranding to Lenovo (2003)

In 2003, the organisation transitioned its international brand identity from Legend to Lenovo. This name amalgamates:

• Le- derived from “Legend”
• Novo, a Latin term signifying “new”

The rebranding facilitated Lenovo’s strategic expansion into international markets.

IBM PC Acquisition (2005)

A pivotal moment in the company’s history occurred in 2005 with the acquisition of the personal computer division of IBM. This transaction encompassed:

• The iconic ThinkPad laptop brand
• The desktop computer business
• Global PC operations
• Worldwide distribution channels

This acquisition fundamentally transformed Lenovo from a regional manufacturer into a major global technology enterprise.1

Becoming the World’s Largest PC Company

By 2013, Lenovo had secured its status as the largest PC manufacturer globally, overtaking competitors through robust international sales and a diversified product portfolio. The company has since sustained its leadership position within the global PC market.2

IBM Personal Computer Division (2005)

• ThinkPad laptops
• ThinkCentre desktops
• Enterprise PC business

Motorola Mobility (2014)

Lenovo acquired Motorola Mobility from Google, significantly bolstering its worldwide smartphone business.2

IBM x86 Server Business (2014)

The company also purchased IBM’s x86 server business, thereby expanding its capabilities in enterprise infrastructure and data centre solutions.2

Personal Computers

Lenovo manufactures an extensive range of laptops and desktops catering to diverse user segments.

ThinkPad

Business-oriented laptops renowned for:

• Durability
• Security features
• Enterprise-grade functionality
• Keyboard quality
• TrackPoint pointing stick

Originally engineered by IBM, ThinkPad endures as one of Lenovo’s flagship product lines.

IdeaPad

Consumer-focused laptops designed for:

• Students
• Families
• Home users
• Everyday computing tasks

Yoga

Premium laptops characterised by:

• Convertible 2-in-1 form factor
• Touchscreen displays
• Foldable hinges
• High-end materials

Legion

Gaming-centric products comprising:

• Gaming laptops
• Gaming desktops
• Gaming monitors
• Gaming accessories

LOQ

Mid-tier gaming laptops engineered to deliver gaming performance at more accessible price points.

ThinkBook

Business laptops specifically targeted at small enterprises and professionals.

ThinkCentre

Desktop computers built for enterprise environments.

ThinkStation

Professional workstations utilised in:

• Engineering
• Architecture
• Scientific computing
• 3D rendering
• Artificial intelligence

Smartphones

Lenovo produces smartphones under two primary brands:

• Lenovo
• Motorola

Motorola remains one of Lenovo’s most recognised mobile businesses on a global scale.2

Tablets

Tablet product families include:

• Lenovo Tab
• Yoga Tab
• ThinkPad Tablets

Servers and Data Centre

Lenovo provides comprehensive infrastructure solutions including:

• Rack servers
• Edge servers
• Storage systems
• High-performance computing
• AI infrastructure
• Cloud solutions

Smart Devices

The company also manufactures:

• Smart displays
• Smart home products
• AR/VR devices
• Accessories
• Monitors
• Docking stations
• Keyboards
• Mice

Lenovo organises its operations across three principal business groups:

Intelligent Devices Group (IDG)

Encompasses:

• PCs
• Tablets
• Smartphones
• Smart devices

Infrastructure Solutions Group (ISG)

Comprises:

• Servers
• Storage
• Networking
• AI infrastructure

Solutions and Services Group (SSG)

Delivers:

• Managed IT services
• Device management
• Security
• Cloud services
• Digital workplace solutions

Lenovo invests substantially in research and development across multiple domains:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Hybrid AI
• Edge Computing
• Cloud Computing
• High-performance computing
• Sustainable technology
• Foldable devices

The company has pioneered several industry-first innovations, including foldable PCs and AI-centric personal computers.1

Lenovo has committed to various environmental initiatives, including:

• Carbon emission reduction
• Renewable energy adoption
• Sustainable packaging
• Circular economy programmes
• Product recycling
• A net-zero emissions target by 2050

The corporation also prioritises responsible supply chain management and corporate social responsibility.1

Lenovo maintains:

• Research centres worldwide
• Manufacturing facilities across multiple nations
• Sales operations in more than 180 markets
• Global service and support networks

Its dual headquarters in Beijing, China, and Morrisville, North Carolina, reflect the international scope of its operations.3

Lenovo is widely acknowledged for:

• Reliable business laptops
• The durable ThinkPad series
• Robust enterprise solutions
• Gaming products under the Legion brand
• Competitive pricing
• An extensive product lineup
• Global supply chain capabilities

Its products are utilised by individuals, businesses, universities, research organisations, and government agencies worldwide.

• 1984 – Founded as Legend in Beijing.
• 1986 – Developed technology enabling Chinese-language computing.
• 2003 – Rebranded from Legend to Lenovo.
• 2005 – Acquired IBM’s PC division and the ThinkPad brand.
• 2008 – Provided technology for the Beijing Olympic Games.
• 2013 – Became the world’s largest PC manufacturer.
• 2014 – Acquired Motorola Mobility and IBM’s x86 server business.
• 2020 – Introduced one of the first commercial 5G PCs (Yoga 5G).
• 2024 – Expanded its lineup with AI PCs across consumer and commercial segments.1

Lenovo articulates its mission as delivering “Smarter Technology for All,” with the objective of creating innovative, intelligent technologies that enhance how people live and work. The company focuses on integrating hardware, software, services, and AI to facilitate digital transformation for individuals and organisations globally.3

1. Our History | Lenovo Philippines
2. Our Company | Lenovo
3. About lenovo