Zenops acquires In-Fusio, Filao Mobile

Interactive mobile entertainment publisher Zenops announced its acquisition of mobile media publishers In-Fusio and Filao Mobile. Financial terms of both deals were not disclosed. The purchases expand Zenops' mobile gaming footprint beyond the i-mode platform where it previously dedicated its energies: "Bringing on board the innovation mindset, technology and expertise of some of the world's leading mobile entertainment publishers and solution providers is a clear win for game players, manufacturers and carriers alike," said Zenops CEO Pascal Boiteux in a prepared statement. "It positions Zenops for further growth and is perfectly in tune with our strategy of delivering content for mobile phones and services dedicated to communities through cutting-edge technology and quality. We want to be a key player in the consolidation of this market, and these acquisitions make us the number two player in Europe and propel us into sixth place in the western world."

One dangling plot thread: In early 2007, In-Fusio filed a lawsuit against Microsoft, claiming the software giant was wrongfully seeking to terminate a $2 million deal to deliver wallpapers and ringtones inspired by the game "Halo." In-Fusio contends the deal was to culminate in a full-fledged "Halo" mobile game but that Microsoft refused to approve its game designs, forcing the developer to withhold the second of four $500,000 payments. In response, Microsoft cited the non-payment as grounds to end the agreement. It is currently unknown how if at all the Zenops deal impacts the In-Fusio suit.

For more on Zenops' buying spree:
- read this Mobile Games & Gaming Blog entry