Aliso Viejo-based Networks In Motion Inc., a maker navigation and local search software for mobile devices, said Tuesday it bought some assets from TrafficGauge Inc., a Seattle-based maker of software for real-time traffic.
Terms of the deal weren’t disclosed.
Networks in Motion, known as NIM, is set to get four workers from TrafficGauge who’ll stay in Seattle.
TrafficGuage’s software is set to be integrated into NIM’s cell phone software to help increase the accuracy of its traffic information.
The software works by turning each cell phone on a network into a sort of probe that constantly gathers traffic information.
The information is sent to a server over the wireless carriers’ network, where it’s combined to create a real-time look at traffic conditions.
The traffic information can be called up by a cell phone user via NIM’s software.
“It’s a strategic acquisition and one that is focused on helping improve the quality and uniqueness of our technology,” said Chief Executive Doug Antone.
Antone said the buy was “a pretty small deal” but declined to give more details.
NIM didn’t get TrafficGauge’s hardware device business, customer base, service contracts or Web sites.
Networks in Motion’s business has been somewhat recession-proof as cell phone makers and wireless carriers compete to keep customers during the downturn.
Last month it inked a deal set to provide location-based services for users of phones made by Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications AB, one of the top three cell phone manufacturers.
Cell phone carriers offer their own versions of NIM’s phone navigation services.
For Verizon Wireless, a unit of New York’s Verizon Communications Inc., the software is called VZ Navigator on its mobile devices.
The software offers directions, 3-D maps and local searches for stores, restaurants and other points of interest.
Privately held NIM saw 2008 sales of $40 million, more than double the $16 million it posted in 2007.
