Microsoft Corp. (Nasdaq: MSFT) has acquired
Israeli start-up YaData Ltd., provider of
advanced tools for the discovery of unique
customer segments. The companies did not disclose
the price tag or other financial details.
YaData's technology will enable Microsoft to
provide its advertisers with richer targeting
capabilities so they can connect with their
audience in more efficient and engaging ways, at
the same time providing its customers more
relevant and focused ads. The YaData team will
join Microsoft's R&D center in Herzliya and
YaData's solutions will be deployed through
Microsoft's Advertiser and Publisher Solutions
group.
Microsoft Israel R&D Center president Moshe
Lichtman said, "The purchase of YaData brings the
Israeli R&D center into the field of online
advertising, which is undoubtedly one of
Microsoft's most strategic fields. This is a
great example of how Israeli technology has
considerable value that is contributing to our
most important areas of development. In recent
months, I have become familiar with YaData's top
quality personnel, and I am convinced that their
contribution to the Israeli R&D center and to
Microsoft globally will be significant.
YaData CEO Amir Peleg said, "YaData fully
believes in the potential of behavioral targeting
to enhance the value of online advertising for
publishers, advertisers and users. Microsoft has
the resources to unlock the potential in YaData's
technology and create a truly innovative online
advertising solution. We're excited to see what
the future holds."