UK-based Synchronica which offers push-based messaging services to mass market mobile handsets announced that its Board has approved a decision to acquire messaging company, Colibria’s IMPS business for £4.8m.

The deal is expected to assist Synchronica in its aim to become leader in next-generation mobile messaging services especially in emerging markets.

Synchronica plans to provide Colibria’s open source IM technology solution as a stand-alone offering. The software will also be incorporated into Synchronica’s Mobile Gateway messaging suite as well as MessagePhone. Synchronica will also gain 13 carrier grade contracts while also transferring two reseller agreements with a tier one network equipment provider and a leading messaging infrastructure software provider.

David Mason, Chairman of Synchronica plc, comments, "The purchase of Colibria''s Instant Messaging software is highly complementary to Synchronica's mobile email and synchronization suite and gives us increased advantage in the rapidly expanding market for mobile messaging software. Also, the contracts acquired from Colibria give us access to key clients in high growth areas, including Latin America, Africa and CIS. We are fully committed to continued development and support of the Colibria IMPS product and we are looking forward to work with Colibria’s customers and partners to ensure a seamless transition and continuity with equal or improved support and a convincing product roadmap."