Japanese IT solutions provider Access has acquired NetRange, a German supplier of white-label smart TV and OTT solutions.
The takeover of which financial details have not been disclosed is handled by German subsidiary Access Europe and includes NetRange’s new connected car infotainment platform OS.CAR (pictured above).
The acquisition comes at a time when the convergence between the automotive and media industries is gathering pace, according to Access. In-car connectivity is enabling new use cases inside vehicles, while the breadth of connected entertainment solutions available to consumers has reached an all-time high, spanning video, digital radio, eBooks, podcasts, video games and more.
Building on this momentum, the takeover guarantees that customers will be able to deploy best-in-class solutions spanning the entire connected entertainment portfolio inside the home, on the go and in connected vehicles worldwide, according to Access. The move will also bring together both companies’ products and solutions, including Access Twine for Car and NetRange’s OS.CAR.
“The combination of Access and NetRange solutions will enable automotive manufacturers to offer varied in-car infotainment solutions that adjust to the needs of drivers and passengers, while supporting new business models for traditional car companies and for the growing electric, hybrid and autonomous driving industry,” said Dr Neale Foster, CEO of Access Europe.
Jan Wendt, founder of NetRange, added: “From its inception in the early days of smart TVs, NetRange has always prided itself on being a pioneer. This vision is echoed by Access’ journey. We are looking forward to be part of the team to design solutions that meet consumer demand today and tomorrow.”
