WideOrbit appears to be the new intended home for the radio assets of Google.
The company’s Jim Woods told customers in a recent e-mail that “we have found a new home for the business,” referring to its Google Radio Automation, SS32 and Maestro product lines. He wrote that Google and WideOrbit were in final contract negotiations though the deal had not closed yet.
Officials at both WideOrbit and Google declined comment to Radio World.
WideOrbit makes business management software for media companies; it dates to 1999 and is headquartered in San Francisco. As widely reported, Google decided to sell its radio software assets when it departed the radio ad placement business earlier this year.
Woods wrote in his memo to customers about WideOrbit, “They have an excellent track record for innovative high-quality products and for exceptional customer service and support.”
“WideOrbit is committed to providing ongoing support for all customers of Google Radio Automation, SS32 and Maestro,” he continued. “We know there have been a number of rumors circulating around the industry and believe we are far enough along in the transaction to disclose our plans.
“One of those rumors is we are not supporting our products and are not continuing development. Both of these are not true. We also would like you to know that no other organization has access to the underlying source code, development team or development plans for Google Radio Automation, SS32 or Maestro. Without access to these valuable resources no other organization is able to provide support for our systems.”
Woods continued, “Although there have been some communications from our competitors suggesting they are in a position to provide support for our products … we don’t believe any other organization is equipped to successfully provide such support.”
He added: “Google’s primary goal in this process has been to find a good home for our customers and staff.”
