Amazon Web Services (AWS), has reached an agreement to acquire Elemental Technologies. Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed and the deal expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2015. The move brings together Elemental’s video solutions with the AWS Cloud platform to provide media and entertainment companies with a range of integrated solutions to video infrastructures, as the media industry increasingly moves to internet based delivery.
Elemental software allows media and entertainment companies to take live and on-demand video destined for traditional networks like cable, satellite, or over-the-air broadcast and re-format that content for distribution to PCs, smart phones, tablets, and TVs. Elemental has more than 700 media franchise customers and powers OTT applications including the BBC’s iPlayer, CNNGo, ESPN ScoreCenter, HBO GO, MSNBC Shift, and Sky Go and Sky Now. Additionally, Elemental is supporting the world’s first 4K Ultra HD services including those that were delivered by the BBC during the 2014 World Cup.
“Elemental shares Amazon’s passion for invention and putting the customer first,” said Andy Jassy, senior vice president of Amazon Web Services. “Together, we’ll collaborate on deeper technology integrations and new infrastructure offerings so that media and entertainment companies can evolve their hybrid and cloud models as they continue to innovate their services for viewers.”
Founded in 2006 and headquartered in Portland, Oregon, Elemental will continue to operate its business under its existing brand. The company will also expand the integration of its offerings with AWS, and through close collaboration with AWS, aims to accelerate the innovation of next-generation services that feature a range of solutions for customers leveraging on-premises assets, hybrid architectures, and cloud.
“The media and entertainment industry is at a unique inflection point, and as a part of Amazon, we will be in an even stronger position to help our customers delight their viewers globally,” said Sam Blackman (pictured), co-founder and CEO of Elemental. “We’re thrilled to have Amazon supporting our growth and ongoing commitment to our customers’ success.”
