Rumors surfaced earlier this month that Boxee is about to get bought on the cheap. And while details are virtually non-existent on the identity of the buyer, we’ve never let that stop us from speculating before.
So who is the mysterious suitor? I see four potential acquiring types.
Hardware company
With Boxee’s software roots, it’s possible that a hardware manufacturer like D-Link could pick up Boxee’s video guide and DVR applications to bundle with retail boxes. If the price is right, I wonder if even Roku might be interested. Roku doesn’t want to spend the money to license fancy guide software for its super-cheap hardware. But if it could pick up the Boxee assets cheaply enough, the interface upgrade potential could be compelling.
Service provider
It’s hard to imagine that a pay-TV provider would bother with Boxee, given the other software options available, and the fact that the big operators are building their own next-gen UIs. However, maybe a small innovator would consider grabbing the assets just to break away from the standard software vendors and create some buzz. Wide Open West has made hay with the Moxi interface. Maybe somebody else on the tier-two provider list is ready to step up on the multi-screen UI front.
Media company
Now that TV is going everywhere, the big media brands are anxious to capitalize on the closer relationships they’re building with consumers. Networks like HBO and ESPN are building their own applications, but the build-versus-buy equation might tilt toward “buy” for another media company. Add in the cloud DVR functionality, strip out OTA functionality, and streamline the OTT apps available, and Boxee could offer an intriguing platform for someone like Discovery Networks or National Geographic. Seems unlikely, but who knows?
Private equity firm
And then there’s the private equity route. I’m personally hoping that Boxee doesn’t get swallowed up by the finance guys, but given the tough position it’s in, that may be the only viable exit option. Sometimes you just have to minimize your losses.
Update: And the results are in! Rumor has it Samsung is picking up the Boxee team and tech on the cheap to power future “smart” television products.