14 DAY TRIAL // According to Microsoft estimates, the install base of the Windows operating system is right on track to hit the 1 billion milestone by mid 2008. And while the company has a firm grip on computers worldwide via Windows, it is also looking to additional platforms. In this context, Microsoft has announced the intent to acquire Musiwave. An Openwave company, Musiwave would represent a shortcut to the mobile music device market. But this only if the acquisition will be finalized.
"Microsoft and Musiwave share the same philosophy in working with hardware and mobile operator partners to deliver great experiences for mobile device users," said Pieter Knook, senior vice president of the Mobile Communications Business at Microsoft. "Bringing Musiwave on board would provide an opportunity for Microsoft to explore new areas in the mobile space previously untapped, and to showcase the power of software plus services. This contemplated acquisition reflects Microsoft's recognition of the software and technology expertise in Europe."
Via Musiwave, Microsoft would have a way to bridge its own mobile technology with mobile music entertainment services, as well as to tap new partnerships with mobile operators and media companies. The Redmond company plans to add Musiwave to its suite of technologies and services reunited under the Connected Entertainment umbrella. In this manner, Microsoft would grow its current portfolio of digital entertainment connected to Windows Mobile, Zune, MSN and Windows Live.
Mobile offerings from the Redmond company are an integer part of over 140 mobile phones available worldwide from 50 handset-makers. But, the acquisition of Musiwave is nothing more than a preview of the rapid growth pace of the mobile music device industry. Microsoft wants no less than a share of a giant pie formed by over 1,100 million mobile music phones by 2010.
"Musiwave would bring key assets to us as we continue to bring our vision of Connected Entertainment to life," said J Allard, corporate vice president in charge of music at Microsoft. "Its software expertise and extensive relationships with operators and music companies would help us take our products and services to the next level, giving people access to whatever entertainment content they want, whenever and however they want it."