14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft has recently purchased Activision Blizzard as one of the most surprising acquisitions in the last decade, and now it looks like one of its rivals is ready to invest big money in gaming as well.
It’s Apple, the most valuable company in the world and the one that has until recent been all about software and devices.
Gaming, however, has become a bigger priority for the Cupertino-based tech giant, as the launch of Apple Arcade back in 2019 is the living proof the company has big plans on this side of the market.
A report from Puck claims that Apple, together with Disney and Amazon, have the biggest changes to take over Electronic Arts, the gaming company that’s apparently seeking not necessarily a full acquisition but a merger as well. Of course, a takeover would be Apple’s only proposal if the deal has any chance to go through, with the report adding that EA is mostly seeking a merger because Andrew Wilson can remain the CEO of the new company and therefore continue the existing long-term strategy.
No official comments on the rumors
Electronic Arts has obviously refused to comment on the speculation, though a company spokesperson did say that EA has as very bright future ahead.
“We are proud to be operating from a position of strength and growth, with a portfolio of amazing games, built around powerful IP, made by incredibly talented teams, and a network of more than half a billion players. We see a very bright future ahead,” spokesperson John Reserburg was quoted as saying.
Needless to say, Apple also remained completely tight-lipped on the whole thing, as the company doesn’t typically comment on rumors either.
But Apple buying EA wouldn’t necessarily be a surprise, especially because Electronic Arts was founded by a former Apple exec in the first place. Trip Hawkins, a former Apple Director of Strategy and Marketing, left the company no less than 40 years ago to found Electronic Arts.