Facebook acquires HTML5 app delivery network Strobe

Following the launch of its own HTML5 app platform, social network Facebook has acquired app delivery network Strobe in a bid to strengthen its hand in the market.

The move, of which terms were not disclosed, was announced via Strobe's blog, with founder and CEO Charles Jolley claiming the deal will see the firm's vision of transforming the way "people use their mobile phones through apps available everywhere, anytime, on any device" realised.

Sprouting success

"Now we're joining the talented people at Facebook to help develop innovative mobile experiences for their users around the world," detailed Jolley.

"For now, the Strobe service will continue to be available to existing users in its existing beta form."

Indeed, Jolley confirmed the firm's open-source user experience framework aimed at delivering web apps SproutCore will continue to operate as an independent project.

Facebook's first HTML5 platform previously dubbed Project Spartan was finally unveiled at the start of October, delivering web apps to iOS devices via the social network's app on the App Store.

Criticised for lacking a clear storefront, the platform is expected to hit Android in the near future.

[source: Strobe]