Apple is reportedly considering a buyout of video games giant Electronic Arts, according to company watchers 9to5Mac. The Sims game publisher, based in Redwood City, California, is believed to be actively seeking a potential buyout or merger, and industry watchers believe the tech and media giant is weighing up its options.
Disney and Amazon are also thought to be considering a bid for EA. The move would come after Microsoft's $68 billion purchase of Activision Blizzard earlier this year, which was followed by Sony's acquisition of Destiny maker Bungie for $3.6 billion. Reports suggest EA would seek a deal that would allow CEO Andrew Wilson to remain at the helm of the combined group.
EA was in fact founded in 1982 by former Apple director of strategy and marketing Trip Hawkins, who left the then-emerging tech behemoth to launch into video games.
EA spokesperson John Reseburg declined to comment on any “rumours and speculation relating to M&A", adding: "We are proud to be operating from a position of strength and growth, with a portfolio of amazing games, built around powerful IP, made by incredibly talented teams, and a network of more than half a billion players. We see a very bright future ahead.”
Apple has not commented on any potential deal with EA.
Commenting on the prospect, 9to5Mac said: "EA seems to be in a hurry to finalise a deal, so we will probably hear more soon. However, I would imagine Apple and EA’s relationship is just 'talks' for right now."
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