Amazon (AMZN) has announced that it bought the digital comics app ComiXology for a yet-undisclosed sum.
Amazon.com
The deal is expected to close in the second quarter.
The “Comics by ComiXology” app is free and houses numerous comics for users to view, with the site also offering a host of comics for its users to access.
“ComiXology’s mission is to spread the love of comics and graphic novels in all forms,” Comixology CEO David Steinberger said in a statement.
“There is no better home for comiXology than Amazon to see this vision through. Working together, we look to accelerate a new age for comic books and graphic novels.”
But the company — the largest provider of digital comics from more than 70 publishers 00 may take some criticism from its users. (Via VentureBeat)
While the acquisition will likely mean even more content for Comixology, many comic fans may take issue. It’s the virtual equivalent to an independent comic book store being swallowed by a giant retailer.
Both companies have already brushed aside critiques by saying they aim to further give comic fans better quality experiences through the partnership — especially as competition continues to push into the market.
“Amazon and Comixology share a passion for reinventing reading in a digital world,” said David Naggar, Amazon Vice President, Content Acquisition and Independent Publishing. “We’ve long admired the passion Comixology brings to changing the way we buy and read comics and graphic novels. We look forward to investing in the business, growing the team, and together, bringing comics and graphic novels to even more readers.”
AMZN stock is down 20% year to date.
