Ericsson to acquire Azuki Systems for 'TV anywhere'

Ericsson is extending its activities in video delivery with the acquisition of Azuki Systems, a US-based provider of 'TV Anywhere' platforms for service providers, content owners and broadcasters. The takeover compliments Ericsson's recent acquisitions of the Microsoft Mediaroom business and Red Bee Media, allowing it to also deliver video to mobile devices. In addition, Ericsson will gain key functionalities such as adaptive bit rate and content protection technologies, plus a team of software engineers from Azuki Systems. No financial details of the takeover were disclosed.

Founded in 2008, Azuki Systems has 49 employees and counts among its customers HBO and US operator CenturyLink. The acquisition is expected to close before the end of February, and Azuki will be incorporated into Ericsson's business unit Support Solutions.