Apture was setup four years ago. Its in-page search technology capable of providing quick access to information seems to be the reason for he acquisition by Google. The technology is believed to come in handy in improvement of Google’s own search and browser services. The principal idea seems to be to beef up Google Chrome and render it unassailable.
Katango is relatively more recent; it was established just about a year ago. It develops algorithms for sorting friends lists based on specific criteria and is expected to be useful in Google’s foray into social networking through Google Plus. The technology employed by Katango is very similar in its import to the innovative “Circles” of Google Plus.
Apture said: “We have been acquired by Google and will be joining the Chrome team to continue driving innovation and creating a better user experience on the web.”
Katango said: “We are excited to join the Google Plus team and carry on fulfilling that mission. Google Plus is seeing tremendous momentum, so it’s a perfect time to join and make Circles smarter for millions of people.”
Google has successfully acquired 57 businesses so far this year for a purchase consideration of $ 502 million (compared to the 44 for $669 million last year).
Another juggernaut in the making, obviously.