Tech Shout!

VeriSign Inc. has purchased leading mobile channel enabler for $250 million. m-Qube helps companies, develop, deliver, and bill for mobile content, messaging and applications. m-Qube’s end-to-end technology platform, carrier relationships and value-added services empower consumer-facing companies and their service providers to take advantage of wireless as a content delivery, marketing and communications channel.

VeriSign will maintain existing m-Qube offices and add around 200 full-time employees. The company had entered into a definitive agreement to buy m-Qube on March 20, 2006.

m-Qube’s strategic wireless partners include Verizon Wireless, Cingular Wireless, Sprint PCS, T-Mobile USA, Nextel Communications, Alltel, US Cellular, Boost Mobile, Dobson, Cincinnati Bell, Rogers Wireless, Bell Mobility, Telus Mobility, MTS Wireless, SaskTel, Aliant Mobility, and Virgin Mobile Canada.

Jeff Treuhaft, senior vice president, VeriSign Communications Services said, “VeriSign leads the industry in providing intelligent infrastructure services that enable operators, portals, media and consumer product companies to provide mobile and broadband content services that allow them to compete in the ‘any era’.”

Treuhaft continued, “m-Qube has award-winning products, a growing list of satisfied customers and a passionate group of committed employees. We are thrilled to have them become part of the VeriSign family.”

Headquartered in Boston, m-Qube has offices in Los Angeles, New York, Seattle, and Toronto.

VeriSign expects the acquirement to contribute approximately $6-$7 million in incremental revenues during the current quarter. The combination of m-Qube and other recent acquisitions will be a cent dilutive to present quarter earnings, but neutral for the year.