Microsoft is apparently making another move that's related to its upcoming Xbox plans. Today, the Wall Street Journal reports, via unnamed sources, that Microsoft has acquired Id8 Group R2 Studios.
The report states R2 Studios was founded by Blake Krikorian in May 2011. He was also the founder of Sling Media, the company that gave us the Slingbox TV streaming device. The story says that Krikorian and his small startup team will join Microsoft's Xbox unit and that the deal also includes some patents that R2 Studios owns; specific financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Microsoft apparently was the winner in the race to acquire R2 Studios with Google and Apple both reportedly also interested in buying the company. So far, R2 Studios' only product is a $99 Android app, R2 Control For Creston. which allows users to remotely control devices such as security systems, lighting and more on an Android smartphone or tablet.
This move could be a signal that Microsoft's next version of the Xbox console will have some kind of expanded remote control features. The company has already launched Xbox SmartGlass apps for Windows 8, iOS and Android device owners for use as a "second screen" experience for some Xbox 360 games and media.
Source: Wall Street Journal | Image via Id8 Group R2 Studios
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