Automattic, the owner of WordPress.com and Tumblr, has expanded its portfolio with the acquisition of Texts.com, an all-in-one messaging app, for $50 million. The app integrates various messaging platforms, including iMessage, Slack, WhatsApp, Instagram, Telegram, Messenger, and more, into a single dashboard. With end-to-end encryption and a range of user-friendly features, such as message scheduling and the ability to mark messages as unread, Texts.com offers a unique messaging experience.
Key Takeaway
Automattic has acquired Texts.com, an all-in-one messaging app, for $50 million. This acquisition allows Automattic to enter the messaging market and offer users a seamless messaging experience across multiple platforms. With a focus on user-centric values and strong encryption, Texts.com aligns with Automattic’s commitment to privacy and open-source initiatives.
Expanding into the Messaging Market
In a blog post, Automattic stated that the acquisition allows the company to enter a “fourth market that’s integral to the modern web experience: messaging.” This move complements Automattic’s existing offerings, which include WordPress for online publishing, WooCommerce for e-commerce, and Tumblr for blogging, among others. With the addition of Texts.com, Automattic further strengthens its position in the online communication space.
A User-Centric Approach
The founder of Texts.com, Kishan Bagaria, will join Automattic as the head of messaging, leading the distributed Texts.com team. Automattic owner Matt Mullenweg expressed his admiration for Texts.com, citing personal frustration with navigating multiple messaging apps as one of the motivations behind the acquisition. Mullenweg believes that putting a messaging app in the hands of a company like Automattic, rather than “Big Tech” giants, will allow for faster development and better focus on user needs.
Regulatory Opportunities and User Values
Mullenweg also sees the current regulatory framework as beneficial for a smaller player like Texts.com. With EU regulations in place, it would be challenging for larger companies such as Apple, Google, and Meta to block Texts.com due to its user-centric approach, client-side operation, and strong encryption. This level of security aligns with Automattic’s commitment to user privacy and its support for open-source initiatives.
Competing with the Big Players
Mullenweg emphasized the importance of user-centric values and integration with various messaging platforms as strategies to compete with industry giants. By acknowledging that users utilize multiple messaging apps, Automattic aims to provide a seamless experience across all platforms. With Texts.com, the company is poised to challenge Apple’s iMessage exclusivity and offer a more inclusive solution for messaging.
