Microsoft closing in on Musiwave acquisition

Microsoft announced it entered an exclusivity agreement to acquire white-label mobile music entertainment services provider Musiwave. According to Microsoft, the Openwave-owned company's relationships with record labels, device makers and mobile operators would ideally complement the software giant's Connected Entertainment technologies and services like Windows Mobile, Zune, MSN and Windows Live. "Microsoft and Musiwave share the same philosophy in working with hardware and mobile operator partners to deliver great experiences for mobile device users," said Microsoft's Mobile Communications Business senior VP Pieter Knook in a prepared statement. "Bringing Musiwave on board would provide an opportunity for Microsoft to explore new areas in the mobile space previously untapped, and to showcase the power of software plus services. This contemplated acquisition reflects Microsoft's recognition of the software and technology expertise in Europe."

For more on the pending Microsoft/Musiwave deal:
- read this release

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