Microsoft has announced that they have acquired id8 Group R2 Studios (R2 Studios) and has named Blake Krikorian corporate vice president in its Interactive Entertainment Business, confirming previous rumors. Previously, Krikorian was the founder of R2 studios and before that, he served as the co-founder, chairman and CEO of Sling Media Inc.
Krikorian will report to Marc Whitten who had the following to say about the acquisition:
"We are thrilled to have Blake join the Xbox team," Whitten said. "He"s a proven innovator and well-respected leader in both the media and technology industries, having created simple, elegant products that have transformed the way people engage with and consume content. We look forward to his contribution to our team as Xbox continues to evolve and transform the games and entertainment landscape."
Microsoft apparently was the winner in the race to acquire R2 Studios with Google and Apple both reportedly also interested in buying the company. R2 Studios" only product was a $99 Android app, R2 Control For Creston, which allows users to remotely control devices such as security systems, lighting and more on an Android smartphone or tablet.
This move could be a signal that Microsoft"s next version of the Xbox console will have some kind of expanded remote control features. The company has already launched Xbox SmartGlass apps for Windows 8, iOS and Android device owners for use as a "second screen" experience for some Xbox 360 games and media.
Source: PRnewswire