The Vergecast Microsoft to acquire Activision for $68.7 billion / Google is building an AR headset / The 5G battle between the FAA, AT&T, Verizon, and airlines
Jan 21, 2022
Guests Ash Parrish, a Verge games reporter, shares insights into Microsoft's $68.7 billion acquisition of Activision and its potential game-changing impact on the industry. Alex Heath, a senior reporter at The Verge, discusses Google's ambitious plans for an AR headset amidst challenges. Russell Brandom, the policy editor, analyzes the contentious 5G rollout clashes between aviation and telecom giants. Together, they dive into antitrust issues, exploring how these developments influence the tech landscape.
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Kotick's Legacy and Future
- Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick's 31-year tenure began with buying Activision out of bankruptcy for $400,000.
- His leadership built the company into a gaming giant, raising questions about his future role after the acquisition.
Microsoft's Game Pass Strategy
- Microsoft aims to bolster Game Pass and metaverse ambitions with Activision's content and game engines.
- They're betting on a shift towards subscription services, mirroring music and television industry trends.
Antitrust Concerns
- The Microsoft Activision deal coincides with increased antitrust scrutiny and new merger review guidelines.
- This raises questions about the deal's approval process and potential impact of antitrust bills.