Facebook has acquired e-book publisher and app maker, Push Pop Press, in a move that has analysts scratching their heads over what it could mean for the social networking giant's strategy.
Push Pop Press is known for its interactive books created for the iPad and iPhone, which incorporate interactive graphics and give books a “movie-like” feel.
Push Pop Press is best known for its publication of the interactive e-book, “Our Choice”, written by former US vice-president Al Gore.
In a statement posted on the Push Pop Press Web site by co-founders, Mike Matas and Kimon Tsinteris, it said: “Now we're taking our publishing technology and everything we've learned and are setting off to help design the world's largest book, Facebook.”
The statement also quells speculation over whether Facebook has its eye on the e-book market, stating: “Facebook isn't planning to start publishing digital books; the ideas and technology behind Push Pop Press will be integrated with Facebook, giving people even richer ways to share their stories.”
What these “richer ways” of sharing actually will be remains in question, but there is evidence that Facebook wants to expand its entertainment offerings, and launch an iPad app.
It was recently reported that the code for an iPad app was found to be hidden in the code for Facebook's iPhone app - Facebook has, however, since blocked access to the code and is yet to make any official announcements regarding such an app.
It is thought that Facebook will be looking to include Push Pop Press technology in its iPad app, when it eventually launches it.
In an official statement to the press, Facebook said: "We're thrilled to confirm that we've acquired Push Pop Press, a start-up whose groundbreaking software changes the way people publish and consume digital content.
“We can't wait for co-founders Mike Matas and Kimon Tsinteris to get started, and for some of the technology, ideas and inspiration behind Push Pop Press to become part of how millions of people connect and share with each other on Facebook.”
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