Apple Buys Mobile Ad Firm Quattro Wireless

By Geoff Duncan January 5, 2010

apple_iphone_3g-251x300 — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Internet giant Google is in the process of trying to finish up acquiring mobile advertising firm AdMob, but now Cupertino is getting into the game: Apple has just clinched a deal to acquire mobile advertising firm Quattro Wireless for a so-far undisclosed amount.

“Together with Apple, we look forward to developing exciting new opportunities in the future that will benefit our customers,” wrote Quattro Wireless co-founder Andy Miller, in a statement. “For now, the offerings and services you receive from Quattro Wireless will not change. We will continue to operate the Quattro Wireless network across all devices and platforms.”

Industry speculation has Apple putting about $275 million towards its acquisition of Quattro Wireless. The company focuses on delivery highly targeted advertising on mobile platforms, and counts Time, CBS Interactive, Univision, Edmunds, Slacker, the NFL, and NHL among its clients. Quattro Wireless’s core team is largely made up of former m-Qube folks; m-Qube was acquired by VeriSign in 2006 for some $250 million.

Image used with permission by copyright holder

Neither Apple nor Quattro Wireless have indicated what Apple plans to do with the company, but it’s a safe bet that Apple plans to integrate Quattro’s mobile advertising platform into the iTunes App Store and provide a way for application developers and content providers to push ads to users of things like the iPhone, iPod touch, and future as-yet-unannounced portable devices from Apple. Some industry watchers envision Apple setting up something similar to Google Adwords for iPhone apps, whereby developers can simply opt to have their applications tap into targeted ad streams and (perhaps) receive a cut of revenue in exchange. Quattro Wireless co-founder Andy Miller is now Apple’s VP of Mobile Advertising, however.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics

Apple

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Geoff Duncan writes, programs, edits, plays music, and delights in making software misbehave. He's probably the only member…

Mobile

Best Apple Watch Series 9 deals: Get the smartwatch for $309

The Apple Watch Series 9 showing apps on the screen.

The Apple Watch lineup is one of the most popular smartwatch lineup on the market. While there are more rugged options in the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and more affordable options in the Apple Watch SE 2, the flagship of the lineup is the Apple Watch Series 9. It’s a great balance of performance and price, and there are some opportunities to save on a new Apple Watch Series 9 right now. We’ve chased down some of the best Apple Watch Series 9 deals taking place out there, as well as some information you may find helpful while you shop.
Today's best Apple Watch Series 9 deals

Apple Watch Series 9 (GPS, 41mm) —
Apple Watch Series 9 (GPS, 45mm) —
Apple Watch Series 9 (GPS = Cellular, 41mm)—
Apple Watch Series 9 (GPS + Cellular, 45mm) —

Mobile

8 watches you should buy instead of an Apple Watch

A person wearing the Apple Watch Series 9.

The Apple Watch Series 9 is the best smartwatch you can buy, regardless of the fact you can only use it with an iPhone. It's also great that it comes in three flavors — the Series 9, along with the Apple Watch SE 2, and the Apple Watch Ultra 2 — to suit many more people and pockets than you may first think. However, perhaps you want something a little different on your wrist or even a weekend alternative when you don’t feel like wearing a touchscreen watch.

That’s where this list should help you out, as we’ve gathered eight watches to buy instead of the Apple Watch. Notice I said “watches,” and not just smartwatches, as some non-connected wristwear has been included. Our choices cover the entire Apple Watch range in terms of price, even going above and below, to give you some real inspiration about a watch to buy instead of — or as well as — the superb Apple Watch.
Casio G-Shock GPR-H1000 Rangeman
Casio G-Shock Rangeman Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Mobile

Two of Apple’s most expensive Apple Watch straps are up to 63% off

A person wearing the Apple Watch Series 8.

No matter what model you buy from Apple Watch deals, pairing the wearable device with a premium watch strap will further elevate its stylish design. If you're interested in making the swap, you should check out the discounts on the Milanese Loop and Leather Link -- two of the most expensive Apple Watch Bands -- from Amazon's Woot. The Milanese Loop, which is originally priced at $99, is down to just $37 after a 63% discount that results in savings of $62, while the Leather Link, which also has a sticker price of $99, is available for only $50 due to a 50% discount for savings of $49. If you're interested buying either of these Apple Watch Bands, you're going to have to hurry with your purchase because there are only several hours left before these offers expire. You just need to make sure that you've chosen for the appropriate size of the Apple Watch before pulling the trigger.
Milanese Loop Apple Watch Band -- $37, was $99

The Milanese Loop is named as such because it's a modern interpretation of a design that was developed in Milan, Italy, way back at the end of the 19th century. This Apple Watch Band is made of stainless steel mesh that smoothly wraps around your wrist, and because it's fully magnetic, you can adjust it any way you want to find the perfect fit. It also comes with an additional physical vapor deposition later, which gives it a unique finish that certainly looks very expensive alongside your Apple Watch.