Motorola to acquire Kreatel

Kreatel's Linux-based solution extends into the application and middleware layers, allowing it to be used with a broad set of middleware solutions. Kreatel's customer base includes such major service providers as Telefónica (Spain), TeliaSonera (Sweden), and KPN (The Netherlands). This flexible set-top platform is a natural complement to Motorola's end-to-end digital video solution, and particularly addresses the growing need for IPTV based digital set-tops. Motorola offers flexible solutions throughout the cable, xDSL, and fiber-to-the-premise (FTTP) video chain – including network infrastructure, video headend and transport, industry-leading MPEG-4 encoding, and connected home devices. Kreatel brings over six years' experience developing and delivering innovative IPTV set-top software and hardware solutions to European telecom operators and ISPs. The Kreatel team and IPTV technology will add another significant advantage for Motorola customers worldwide – augmenting the company's existing portfolio and providing significant flexibility for operators as they deploy video services. The agreement, which is subject to customary closing conditions, is expected to be completed during the first quarter of 2006. Kreatel's management team and employees will remain based in Linköping, Sweden, and be integrated into the Motorola Connected Home Solutions business.