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Synchronica plc, a provider of next-generation mobile messaging services, has signed an agreement to acquire Colibria's IMPS Instant Messaging business, reseller agreements and existing worldwide mobile operator customer base.

The acquisition will help Synchronica (News - Alert)'s get into the fast-growing mobile IM sector and establish as the leader in next-generation mobile messaging for emerging markets.

Synchronica will develop, market and support Colibria (News - Alert)'s open standards-based IM technology as a stand-alone product. The software will also be integrated into Synchronica's Mobile Gateway messaging suite and will be pre-installed on the recently launched MessagePhone, a low-cost messaging-centric handset powered by Mobile Gateway (News - Alert).

Synchronica will use the acquisition for cross-selling and up-selling opportunities as it seeks to further expand its market share in the expanding emerging markets.  

The acquisition includes transfer of 13 carrier contracts, including two large carrier groups; 46 Colibria employees, who will become part of the Synchronica team, transfer of two reseller agreements with a tier-1 network equipment provider and a messaging infrastructure software provider; Colibria's Instant Messaging and Presence Service (IMPS) which provides OMA standards-compliant mobile operator messaging service; Colibria's Windows Live Messenger Gateway; Colibria's Social Network Gateway; Colibria's dedicated App Centre, a collection of 'software as a service' solutions designed to add instant value for the user and boost revenues for the operator through increased traffic, premium services and advertising.

Synchronica CEO Carsten Brinkschulte (News - Alert) states, 'Mobile IM and social networking are fast-growing sectors, in particular in emerging markets. Our acquisition of Colibria's IM business will allow Synchronica to offer a comprehensive range of next-generation messaging products to service providers, improving our competitive positioning and accelerating our commercial growth.'

'Synchronica is fully committed to future development of the acquired products and to providing first-class, uninterrupted service and support to Colibria's IMPS customers. The transfer of 46 Colibria employees provides an assurance to Colibria's customers of a seamless transition and continuous support,' Brinkschulte said.