Square Enix Co. Ltd. has acquired UIEvolution, Inc., a leading wireless software company, through its subsidiary, Square Enix U.S.A. Inc. This move is in hopes to capitalize on the growing mobile market in the U.S. Square Enix invested approximately $4 million in UIEvolution in December 2003. UIEvolution will function as the research and development center for core technologies that will help Square Enix produce a new type of network-based entertainment.
"Our industry is going through fundamental changes due to the network infrastructure and globalization trends. The acquisition of UIEvolution provides a unique opportunity to push the boundaries of content delivery and will facilitate a breakthrough in terms of both technology and people for Square Enix," said Yoichi Wada, president of Square Enix Co., Ltd.
"When founding UIEvolution, my goal was to develop software that delivers a rich, interactive mobile and broadband content experience to millions of users worldwide," said Satoshi Nakajima, ceo of UIEvolution. "Joining Square Enix not only validates the uniqueness and incredible potential of our technology, it also accelerates the standardization of our software as the premier technology for delivering applications to pervasive devices across any wireless or broadband network."
"The synergy of vision between the two companies is remarkable," said Lou Gray, president of UIEvolution. "Both Square Enix and UIEvolution believe the 21st century is about opening new doors for end users through the delivery of pervasive content, powered by innovative technology. Together, we look forward to taking wireless content to a whole new level."
Bellevue, Washington-based UIEvolution delivers wireless and embedded software technology, development tools, and core applications for leading consumer content brands, wireless publishers and consumer electronics manufacturers. The company's innovative software technology is a single solution for cross-platform, cross-device, client-sever application development and deployment. The UIEngine(TM) enables a data-rich, interactive user content across BREW, J2ME/MIDP, J2ME/DOJA, MS Smart Phone, MS Pocket PC, PalmOS, MS Windows, i-Tron, VxWorks, Symbian, SPOT, and Gameboy platforms used by any OEM. In addition, UIEngine runs applications across virtually any wireless network, including GPRS, CDMA 1xRTT, EDGE, Wi-Fi, PHS, Bluetooth, and IRDA.
Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, Square Enix Co. Ltd. develops, publishes and distributes entertainment content including interactive entertainment software and publications in Japan, North America, Europe and Asia. Square Enix is the creator of best-selling franchises -- FINAL FANTASY and DRAGON QUEST.
Square Enix U.S.A. Inc., located in Los Angeles, California, handles operations in North America including localization, marketing and publishing of Square Enix titles. More information on Square Enix U.S.A. can be found at http://www.square-enix-usa.com/.