Microsoft Acquires Apptimum Inc., a Leading Application Transfer Company

March 8, 2006; 11:22 AM
Microsoft Corp. today announced it has acquired Apptimum Inc., which provides award-winning products that automatically transfer customers’ applications to new computers. Microsoft plans to use the acquired intellectual property and technology assets to provide customers of Microsoft^® Windows^® with the tools they need to simplify the transfer of their applications to their new computers. The technology acquired from Apptimum is expected to be a strong complement to the transfer experience offered in Windows Vista™ later this year.

“Our customers and partners have been asking for a much easier way to transfer their data and applications from old computers to new ones,” said Amitabh Srivastava, corporate vice president of Windows Core Operating System Development at Microsoft. “We’ve improved this experience in Windows Vista, and as a result of the Apptimum acquisition we will make it even easier for customers to transfer the applications that are most important to them.”

“Microsoft’s acquisition of Apptimum will dramatically extend the reach of our solutions to millions of Windows customers around the world. Windows customers will enjoy a significantly simplified computer setup process, and the innovative technology that Apptimum has built will contribute to a better overall experience,” said David Henrickson, co-founder and chief technology officer of Apptimum.

Apptimum, formerly Eisenworld Inc., was founded in 1998 and is best known for its market-leading Alohabob PC Relocator products. The first public release of a Microsoft product based on the Apptimum technology is planned to be an optional download for Windows Vista customers. Further details about the planned Microsoft product, including the timeline for delivery, are not yet available. Terms of the acquisition were not announced.

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.