Automattic Acquires Texts: A Game-Changer in Messaging Platforms
In a groundbreaking move, Automattic, the parent company of WordPress.com, has acquired Texts, an all-in-one messaging platform, for a whopping $50 million. This acquisition marks Automattic’s entry into the messaging market, a sector that is becoming increasingly integral to the modern web experience.
Texts, a relatively new company founded in 2020, has already made waves with its innovative approach to messaging. The platform creates a centralized inbox for all major messaging platforms, including iMessage, WhatsApp, Instagram, Telegram, Signal, Twitter, LinkedIn, Slack, and Discord. This means that users no longer have to navigate multiple apps and inboxes to respond to messages. Texts offers a level of interoperability that is unparalleled in the industry.
One of the key advantages of Texts is that it doesn’t require the use of its own servers. Unlike other messaging platforms that aim to keep users within their ecosystems, Texts ensures that users’ messages never touch its servers. Instead, they are encrypted and sent directly to the respective messaging platforms. This not only enhances security but also eliminates the need for users to trust yet another company with their data.
In addition to its commitment to user privacy, Texts also stands out by offering a subscription-based model instead of relying on selling users’ data. This aligns with Automattic’s values as a company that prioritizes user experience and privacy. Furthermore, Texts incorporates AI-powered features such as chat summaries, drafts, and translation, making it a comprehensive solution for efficient and effective communication.
The acquisition of Texts by Automattic comes as no surprise considering the company’s long-standing interest in messaging platforms. Matt Mullenweg, the CEO of Automattic, has expressed his fascination with messaging platforms and their relationship with the independent web. In fact, Automattic has been experimenting with Telegram’s group broadcasting feature and has previously invested $4.6 million in New Vector, the creators of Matrix, an open standard for decentralized communication.
Kishan Bagaria, the founder of Texts, will now assume the role of Head of Messaging at Automattic. This move ensures that the expertise and vision behind Texts will continue to drive its development and innovation. The rest of the 10-person team has also been retained to work on the product, ensuring a seamless transition and continuity.
As for the future of Texts, Automattic has exciting plans in store. The company is currently testing an iOS beta version with a select group of users, with Android support on the roadmap. While there are no immediate changes to pricing, Automattic is considering the addition of a freemium plan in the future, providing even more accessibility to users.
Texts is also set to expand its coverage by integrating with more platforms. Matrix, Tumblr, and other major platforms are on the roadmap, with plans to include Snapchat, Google Messages, and Reddit. This expansion will further streamline messaging across various platforms, making Texts an indispensable tool for individuals and businesses alike.
In conclusion, Automattic’s acquisition of Texts is a game-changer in the messaging market. With its centralized inbox and interoperability between major messaging platforms, Texts simplifies communication and enhances user privacy. As Automattic continues to invest in messaging platforms, we can expect further innovations that revolutionize the way we connect and communicate online.
