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PapayaMobile tops 50 million users as firm targets Facebook and Google+

Social Splash converts HTML5, Flash to Android

PapayaMobile tops 50 million users as firm targets Facebook and Google+
PapayaMobile has branded its decision to focus solely on the development of its social gaming platform a success, with its network passing 50 million users across iOS and Android.

The company claims the platform has grown by 260 percent since it pulled out of publishing its own titles nine months ago, and it's now looking to expand its reach further with the launch of a new development tool.

Making a splash

Dubbed Social Splash, the tool is designed to help developers currently working with HTML5 or Flash bring their games to Android without having to learn a new coding language.

The firm claims Social Splash acts as a wrapper, using an Android Flash plugin and the latest web kit engine to render the games in question. Compilation is handled entirely in the cloud, with no installations or prior Android knowledge  required on the part of the developer.

Papaya is also developing a native extension for studios using Adobe Air to connect all the integrated social features.

"This tool is for every developer that has felt abandoned by Adobe and crowded out by Zynga," said CEO and co-founder Si Shen.

"We believe in helping HTML5 and Flash developers make the transition to mobile a seamless experience.

"Not only does this new tool decrease development time, but it also allows developers to launch their entire games catalog onto mobile without having to learn a new coding language."

Staying social

Social Splash is being pitched at Facebook and Google+ developers, with IHS iSuppli having recently published a report suggesting the era of the social network as a "boomtown for game operators" is coming to an end.

"Following fast growth during the previous two years, the number of Facebook gamers languished in 2011," said the company in the report.

"At the end of 2010, about 50 percent of Facebook's monthly active users (MAUs) were gamers.

"At the end of 2011, the absolute quantity of gamers changed little, and the percentage of Facebook MAUs that were gamers slipped to just 25 percent."

Games utlising Papaya's tool, however, will be able to stay social thanks to the  platform's JavaScript API, with notifications, leaderboards, achievements and friends lists – amongst other features – all on board.

Social Splash can be downloaded for free from PapayaMobile's website.

With a fine eye for detail, Keith Andrew is fuelled by strong coffee, Kylie Minogue and the shapely curve of a san serif font.