It's official, Apple buys Beats for $3 billion, Iovine and Dr. Dre to join Apple

So, the premature celebration a few weeks ago was sort of merited. Apple has bought the Beats Music streaming service as well as Beats Electronics, which makes those insanely popular headphones. The deal cost Apple US $3 billion but aside from the established Beats brand and cache of hipness, they also get two of the most powerful players in the entertainment industry. Rap mogul and pioneer Dr. Dre as well as industry impresario Jimmy Iovine. 

“Music is such an important part of all of our lives and holds a special place within our hearts at Apple,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO. “That’s why we have kept investing in music and are bringing together these extraordinary teams so we can continue to create the most innovative music products and services in the world.” It will be interesting to see if the Beats brand will continue or if it will be turned into an Apple product. Hit jump for the full details of this blockbuster acquisition.

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Microsoft and Nokia to complete merger on April 25

Mark the date. Microsoft has just announced the exact date when it will complete its acquisition of Nokia’s (or should we say Microsoft Mobile?) devices and services business. According to a blog post by Microsoft’s General Counsel Brad Smith, the merger will take place on April 25, Friday. All legal hurdles are said to be cleared at this time. After the merger, Microsoft will be in charge of Nokia’s website and social media presence for up to a year. Former Nokia CEO Stephen Elop will be in charge of the devices division at Microsoft, where he will also report directly to CEO Satya Nadella. 

Source: Engadget

Leaked supplier letter claims Microsoft to rename Nokia Oyj to Microsoft Mobile Oy

Microsoft is reportedly planning to rename Nokia once their deal closes soon. According to a letter sent to suppliers, Nokia Oyj will become Microsoft Mobile Oy, a wholly-owned subsidiary that will become Micrososft’s mobile devices division. Based on the copy of the letter obtained by Nokiapoweruser, the suppliers were told that the terms and conditions of their contracts will not change when the acquisition is completed.

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Amazon targets digital comics market with comiXology purchase

Amazon has already invaded the e-book space through Kindle but it looks like they want to expand into the comic book space with their newest acquisition. Amazon has just bought comiXology, a digital comic book service. While the deal isn’t closed yet, comiXology CEO David Steinberger expresses his approval of the agreement. “Working together, we look to accelerate a new age for comic books and graphic novels,” Steinberger says.

Amazon said they will find a way for Kindle and comiXology to work together as Kindle already offers single issues and graphic novels. The company also plans to retain comiXology’s branding and they will continue to support existing apps.

Source: Engadget