On Monday AOL announced that it had acquired Userplane, a provider of private chat and instant messaging software for online communities.
Userplane’s chat tools are used by MySpace, Honda, IGN, and Friendster, among more than 100,000 Web sites. It will now function as a wholly owned subsidiary of AOL, as Userplane will “better serve clients and realize its long-term vision, while AOL could best make the strategic leap they know is essential,” according to the announcement on Userplane’s site.
This seems to be a smart partnership for both parties. AOL will have increased screen time with many users of Userplane’s chat tools, which could translate into increased ad revenues. This would be important for AOL as they make their transition to offering their services for free.
“Userplane will expand and extend the reach and relevance of the AOL instant-messaging franchise,” said Ted Leonsis, AOL Audience Business president.
Userplane expressed their expected benefits on their site:
“…expect to see an abundance of new features and innovation as a result. For years, Userplane has been dreaming of federated identity and network interoperability with AIM - to bridge the Userplane platform with the AOL network and invent a synergy between open networks and “walled-gardens”. As we look forward to leveraging the experience and resources of AOL, we’re sure the change will only support and enhance Userplane communities.”
No changes to its services or pricing are planned by Userplane. Though they are under new ownership, Userplane will continue to operate out of its Los Angeles, California offices.
The financial terms of the deal were not revealed.
Sources:
http://www.userplane.com/aol/
http://news.com.com/AOL+snaps+up+IM+developer+Userplane/2100-1032_3-6105180.html?tag=nefd.top
http://www.webpronews.com/topnews/topnews/wpn-60-20060814AOLSnakesInAUserplane.html
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