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Time for a switch? GE may sell its lightbulb biz

What would its founder, Thomas Edison, think?

Jessica Dolcourt Senior Director, Commerce & Content Operations
Jessica Dolcourt is a passionate content strategist and veteran leader of CNET coverage. As Senior Director of Commerce & Content Operations, she leads a number of teams, including Commerce, How-To and Performance Optimization. Her CNET career began in 2006, testing desktop and mobile software for Download.com and CNET, including the first iPhone and Android apps and operating systems. She continued to review, report on and write a wide range of commentary and analysis on all things phones, with an emphasis on iPhone and Samsung. Jessica was one of the first people in the world to test, review and report on foldable phones and 5G wireless speeds. Jessica began leading CNET's How-To section for tips and FAQs in 2019, guiding coverage of topics ranging from personal finance to phones and home. She holds an MA with Distinction from the University of Warwick (UK).
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The lighting division could sell for $500 million by some estimates.

CNET

Oh, the irony!

General Electric, a company literally founded by the man who developed the first mass-market incandescent lightbulb -- yes, that's Thomas Edison -- may put its consumer lighting business on the auction block, The Wall Street Journal reported, citing unnamed sources.

The rumor comes 10 months after GE sold it appliances division to Haier, which makes us wonder if the company plans to focus solely on its commercial business.

GE would presumably keep making tools for aviation, health care and transportation, as well as products for Current, a spinoff company that makes industrial LED lighting.

GE declined to comment on its plans.