Glu's Provision exit

News

Tim Green Jan 16 2007, 2:00pm

Glu Mobile has sold its mobile games delivery platform ProvisionX to Wmode.

The deal looks like 'housekeeping' by Glu ahead of its forthcoming IPO. Even though it has sold Provision X, it can be assumed Glu will retain a degree of content delivery know-how to aid any future transition to a direct-to-consumer offering.

Provision X was originally created by the UK games developer Macrospace as a download service to complement its gaming output. Macrospace merged with the US publisher Sorrent in 2004 and the combined entity was renamed Glu in 2005.

Now, Wmode will integrate the platform as part of its ClearMode content distribution service. This suite of technologies and services helps operators, MVNOs, content providers and brands deliver mobile consumables to consumers. With the addition of ProvisionX, games publishers and developers will benefit from Wmode’s global distribution network, allowing them to enter new markets quickly and cost effectively.

“The acquisition of ProvisionX strongly complements our current services by offering a dedicated gaming platform in high growth markets and expanding our reach in key Asian, Latin American and European markets,” stated Emanuel Bertolin, the CEO for Wmode.

“We are excited to work closely with the ProvisionX customers and provide them with our industry leading expertise in mobile content distribution.”

Greg Ballard, CEO of Glu, said: “We have been a partner of Wmode for years, and we are confident that their strong operational experience combined with the addition of ProvisionX to their portfolio of services will provide ProvisionX’s current and future customers with innovative services that will enhance their current business.”

Wmode serves over 40 carriers and media companies and works with hundreds of leading content providers. This transaction makes Wmode one of the most recognized international mobile content distribution services in the industry.

Glu is a publisher of mobile games. Its portfolio includes original titles and IP based on major brands from Atari, Harrah’s, Hasbro, Microsoft, PlayFirst, PopCap Games, SEGA and Sony.