Kids
Walt Disney Internet Group expands European mobile content operations; acquires Living Mobile
MUMBAI: The Walt Disney Internet Group (WDIG) has acquired Living Mobile (www.LivingMobile.net), which is a leading European mobile game developer and publisher.
The move is part of The Walt Disney Company’s overall strategy to leverage technology, supporting WDIG’s growth plans for its mobile business and raising its profile in the mobile games category.
“We’re committed to maintaining our position as a top-tier mobile content publisher with a portfolio including both Disney branded content and content from third parties. Purchasing Living Mobile is a key part of that commitment. They have proven track record in mobile game publishing and world-class talent in this new and highly competitive game category, and their strong, existing library makes us a serious competitor in games,” said WDIG, International executive vice president and managing director Mark Handler.
Founded in 2001 and headquartered in Munich, Living Mobile develops and publishes mobile games across Europe and in Singapore. Its portfolio of more than 70 games includes games based on popular content licenses including Hudson Soft’s Bomberman and Lode Runner, CAPCOM’s Resident Evil – ATN, and Saitek’s Mephisto Chess M.E., as well as a line up of original titles and classic puzzle and card games including Solitaire Deluxe.
In May 2005, Mobile Games Analyst ranked Living Mobile among the top 10 of all European mobile game publishers in an analysis based on both games and distribution network.
“It’s an honor to join one of the world’s leading entertainment companies. Disney was the first major entertainment company to make a meaningful commitment to mobile content. They understand this business and have a great infrastructure in place, and we look forward to helping them grow internationally,” said Living Mobile founder and president Stephan Berendsen.
Under the terms of the agreement, Living Mobile will operate as a subsidiary of WDIG Europe. It has approximately 40 employees and offices in Munich and Prague.
Having first entered the mobile market in Japan with a major mobile deal in August 2000 with NTT DoCoMo, Disney quickly became the number one mobile entertainment brand in that market with distribution on all four major carriers and more than 3.3 million paid subscriptions.
Based on its early learning in Japan, Disney is now one of the leading mobile content distributors worldwide with main offices in North Hollywood, Calif., London and Tokyo. Its content library has grown to include more than 6,000 products and services including ringtones, voicetones, games, video, graphics and applications which are distributed in 32 countries around the globe through agreements with more than 65 carriers and distributors.
Kids
Sony YAY! launches ‘House of Masti’ to celebrate 20 years of Shin chan
Comedian Kiku Sharda joins the fun with a special rap track as the mischievous icon returns to Indian TV.
MUMBAI: Shin chan is back and this time, he’s bringing the whole house of masti with him! Sony YAY!, India’s leading kids’ entertainment channel, has unveiled ‘House of Masti’, a specially curated programming block to mark 20 years of the iconic animated series Shin chan on Indian television. The campaign transforms the beloved character’s mischievous world into a fresh, high-energy viewing experience. It features new episodes, fan-favourite moments, and themed programming stunts, all designed to stand out from regular broadcasts.
Adding extra sparkle to the celebration, popular comedian Kiku Sharda has joined the campaign. He anchors the integration with a lively rap track titled ‘Shin chan ka YAY! Dhamaal’, infusing contemporary music and humour into the beloved series.
Sony YAY! business head of kids and animation Ambesh Tiwari said, “Over the past 20 years, Shin chan has built a strong and enduring connection with audiences in India. With ‘House of Masti’, we are celebrating this milestone through a differentiated, campaign-led experience. Kiku Sharda and the rap track add a fun, high-energy layer that will resonate with today’s kids and families.”
Starting 27 April, viewers can enjoy the World Television Premiere of Shin chan along with new episodes and an exciting lineup of blockbuster movies on Sony YAY!.
By blending nostalgia with fresh, engaging content, Sony YAY! is ensuring that the cheeky, laughter-filled adventures of Shin chan continue to entertain and connect with new generations across the country.
In a world full of serious cartoons, Shin chan remains delightfully naughty and with ‘House of Masti’, Sony YAY! is making sure his brand of chaos stays as fresh and fun as ever. Get ready for some serious masti!
