Although we first reported Microsoft's purchase of id8 Group R2 Studios on Jan. 3, the company was silent on the matter until Jan. 10. The Redmond-based giant finally confirmed its acquisition, appointing R2 founder Blake Kirkorian as the new corporate vice president for its Interactive Entertainment Business (IEB). It means he'll be working directly on potential advancements to the Xbox, which presumably means his vision will be integral to the development of the next-generation system.
"We are thrilled to have Blake join the Xbox team," said Marc Whitten, chief product officer of IEB, in a press release. "He's a proven innovator and well-respected leader in both the media and technology industries, having created simple, elegant products that have transformed the way people engage with and consume content. We look forward to his contribution to our team as Xbox continues to evolve and transform the games and entertainment landscape."
Kirkorian is known for co-counding Sling Media Inc., where he was responsible for the development of the Slingbox, a product that enables computers, tablets, and phones to control and stream television programs directly from the home theater system. R2 Studios' first release also allowed for remote control of home systems, this time permitting users to control their home's thermostats, lighting systems and more through an Android device. If these inventions are any indication, perhaps Microsoft is looking to make its next console more than an entertainment hub, capable of controlling numerous household applications in addition to playing games and streaming videos.
"I am excited to join Microsoft and be a part of the Xbox team. As a 10-year Xbox LIVE subscriber, I have seen firsthand how Xbox has delighted us by reinventing how consumers experience games and entertainment," Kirkorian said. "I look forward to helping the team define the future of entertainment and contribute to the next decade of continued innovation."
R2 Studios' purchase by Microsoft was anything but a guarantee, as companies like Apple and Google had also expressed interest in buying the company.
Perhaps we'll be able to see the first hints of what Kirkorian will bring to the table later this year, when Microsoft announces its next console in June at the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3).
