The Mobile Media Co. has bought Rubberduck Media Lab as it readies to launch global mobile TV channels that let broadcasters and marketers stream TV programming to mobile phones.
Oslo, Norway-based Mobile Media distributes mobile-specific content to about 500 million mobile phone users globally (including 150 million in the U.S.). Its U.S. division is based in Vienna, VA; the firm expects significant growth in North America this year.
UK-based Rubberduck collaborated with Norwegian broadcaster NRK to create Europe’s first live TV service for wireless subscribers. In the U.S., Rubberduck streams film trailers to cell phones, including recent projects for Twentieth Century FOX’s Mr. & Mrs. Smith and Fantastic Four. Director Gavin Whyte remains at the helm of Rubberduck after the acquisition. (Terms were not disclosed.)
“The Mobile Media Co. is committed to the future of mobile as the fourth screen for information and entertainment,” said Mobile Media CEO Karsten Hauge. “Mobile devices will be as important a source of information and entertainment as the television set currently is, and our acquisition of Rubberduck reiterates our commitment to the future of mobile entertainment.”
“The world is finally waking up to the tremendous possibilities of an interactive television that you can carry in your pocket,” said Mobile Media North America Executive VP-General Manager Steinar Svalesen in a statement. “Branded downloadable content and streaming video services for the wireless mass market are now a reality.”
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