As we reported on May 6, Aladdin Systems, the folks who develop and publish a variety of Mac software products such as StuffIt Deluxe and Spring Cleaning, may merge with Activeworlds Corp. Activeworlds provides software products and online services that let users enter, move about and interact with others in a computer-generated, 3D virtual environment using the Internet.
The two companies announced a week ago that they’ve entered into a letter of intent regarding a non-binding proposal pursuant to which Aladdin would merge into Activeworlds. However, Jonathan Kahn, CEO of Aladdin Systems, says the Aladdin name won’t disappear. They will continue to be marketed under the Aladdin Systems Inc. name. He also said that the merger would not affect their line of Mac products.
“The Mac is a viable market for us and we are committed to developing publishing great software,” Kahn told MacCentral.
Activeworlds and its Web browser offer a virtual reality experience, letting you visit 3D worlds built by other users. Unfortunately, Activeworlds doesn’t have a Mac OS supported version of their software available, though you can run it under a Windows emulator like Virtual PC. Might a more Mac friendly version of the Activeworlds browser come about as a result of the proposed merger. Kahn said he couldn’t comment on that right now, but did feel that the two companies would make a good match.
“Activeworld brings new growth opportunities and opens new markets for Aladdin,” he said. “At the same time, Aladdin provides Activeworld with new customers and opportunities for its product line.”
The CEO said that it’s “too early” to comment about any possible loss of head count at either company. However, Aladdin Systems expects to remain in Watsonville, CA. More details will be available as the deal progresses. The goal is to complete the merger within 75 days after signing a definitive agreement.