Xamarin. The program uses Microsoft’s programming language C# and enables app developers
to build mobile apps for various platforms like Android, iOS, Windows, etc.
Xamarin was established in 2012 and in the past four years it has raised $ 82 million. The tool
helps developers by reusing one code to create mobile apps for different platforms. Xamarin
has received long time investment from Ignition Partners located in Seattle. Xamarin lets app
developers share the app logic code over the major platforms while retaining the native feel of
the specific platform.
Is it the first acquisition?
Just like a number of other companies like Apple, Microsoft has been aiming to make a
difference by buying out some of the important startups and companies who have something
new to offer. The announcement to buy Xamarin seems to fit in the plans. While Microsoft did
recently admit it was a mistake to acquire Nokia and its unprofitable mobile business, things
could be different with Xamarin.
Microsoft has shifted its focus over the last few years to gain control over platforms it does not
own. It continued success is dependent on cross platform app development and it can be the
reason behind the decision of acquisition. Xamarin is functional over 102 countries with a
customer base of 15,000 including industry giants like Honeywell, Alaska Airlines and
Supergiant Games.
How important is the acquisition to Microsoft?
Microsoft Cloud and Enterprise Group Executive Vice President Scott Guthrie said that Xamarin
and Microsoft have been partners for a long time. They have integrated Xamarin in Visual
Studio, Office 365, Microsoft Azure and Enterprise Mobility Suite to offer app developers an end
to end solution for cross platform app development with native features.
He also said that both the companies have teamed up to tools, services, workflow and training
required for developers to make high quality mobile apps. With this acquisition they are looking
forward to improve and extend the world class Xamarin to deliver enhanced tools and services
with rooted integrations and excellent mobile application development experience.
How big is Xamarin?
In terms of employees, Xamarin engages 350 people to work for them. It generates over tens of
millions US dollars on yearly basis. Guthrie feels that the takeover holds a new start for Xamarin
and its products. Microsoft’s adopt a mobile and cloud prioritized philosophy and this suits the
Xamarin team and products perfectly. They are hoping to help out many more developers in
making top notch apps.
Artale from Ignition Partners views Xamarin as a great success when he measures its usage the
number of software developers who use it daily around the world. The developers love and are
familiar with Xamarin and use it to make cross platform mobile apps for any device. Microsoft
has become aware of the importance of mobile first. It is now searching ways to scale the ladder
and put itself in the place of industry leader.