We’ve heard from numerous sources that mobile ad network AdMob may be in the process of acquiring AdWhirl, the startup that lets iPhone developers tap into multiple ad networks. One source has even said that AdWhirl is already working out of AdMob’s offices, though we haven’t confirmed this. Update: this is confirmed
Asked on the phone whether AdWhirl has been acquired by AdMob, AdWhirl CEO Sam Yam responded, “How did you know that,” before clamming up with a “no comment.”
It’s an interesting partnership, and one that raises a few questions. AdWhirl allows developers to switch between different ad networks on the fly without having to submit a new application coded with another ad network to Apple. The service has support for five different ad networks, including AdMob, Quattro Wireless, Videoegg, Jumptap, Mobclix and Millenial Media. Mobclix has a competing iPhone exchange that AdMob is not a part of. But if AdMob and AdWhirl have a relationship, this might make the waters a bit murky for the other networks. It would be suspect to have an open platform that is owned by one of the ad networks.
The acquisition does come as a surprise, however. In June, AdMob announced its decision to cut off ad network aggregators like AdWhirl and Tapjoy, claiming it had been hearing of complaints of technical glitches related to ads served by such “ad net mediators.” The company later announced a delay in this decision in August.
UPDATE: AdMob acquired the assets of AdWhirl, according a press release issues this afternoon.
That has to be exciting. To have a CEO ask “how do you know that”… So cool to see the reporting process in smaller hands…
Uhhh, no. That answer was probably prepard days in advance. Make the reporter think he’s got some amazing, inside scoop Doh!
Props to techcrunch for moving fast and furious
Talent acquisition?
its exciting news as it shows that for mobile ad networks (just like we do for local ad networks) there is a need for smart exchanges that find the best ads for publishers without having to integrate multiple networks. That said, mobile banner CPM’s are have dropped to sub 50 cents (while we drive $20+), hopefully this brings some price increase for mobile app companies..
Congrats ! M%A is on
Why would I ever work with an “open platform” that is supported and run by my biggest competition? Open Network is pretty questionable here – ahem.
Cause you idiot the code is open to make sure that you have full visibility into how the ranking is done. So even if you are leery of working with them there is the ability for transperancy.
Just saw on their blog that they are going to ppm source this! This is reaaly good news.
How the heck can you open source a BIASED platFORM!!!!!? NO THIS IS NOT GOOD NEWS
Not good news there is no OPEN in a SPONSORED platform!
“talent” – 2 dudes being incubated at foundation – sure they are smart but this isn’t for them – it’s for the concept
Interesting wonder when microsoft office is going open source
Oops – my bad
The above isn’t me. I’d note that what I actually asked was “who told you that?” instead of “how do you know?”, but Leena should’ve known not to call an engineer before late afternoon – she woke me up and I had no idea what was going on
asset acquisition = wtf??
that means they didnt buy out any equity.. weird for adwhirl unless they were dying for cash or had something funny hiding in the closet so Admob couldnt do the proper DD.