Mobile game controller firm Zeemote shuts down

User interface technologies developer Zeemote, the firm behind a handheld, Bluetooth-based controller unit optimized for mobile gaming, has ceased operations. Citing confirmation from investor Michael Fitzgerald of Commonwealth Capital Ventures, MassHighTech reports Zeemote has closed its doors, and its assets will be sold--additional details on the closure are unknown. Commonwealth Capital, Egan-Managed Capital and Nauta Capital all contributed to Zeemote's $6.9 million Series A funding round, which closed in late 2007.

Zeemote debuted its patented JS1 controller in early 2008--the ergonomically-designed controller features a thumbstick and four assignable trigger buttons, promising real analogue control over mobile games and related applications and services. In August 2008, Zeemote inked an agreement with Sony Ericsson to offer the controller free to consumers in the Netherlands--the company also signed a game development deal with Gameloft. Virgin Media veteran Ernie Cormier replaced Zeemote co-founder Beth Marcus as president and CEO in early 2009.

For more on Zeemote's demise:
- read this MassHighTech article