Singapore-based messaging app provider Pie, backed by a range of corporates, has been acquired by Google, the internet subsidiary of conglomerate Alphabet, for an undisclosed sum, Tech in Asia reported yesterday.
Google will use the Pie team to launch a regional office located in Singapore that will tackle the unique problems faced by emerging markets, such as the limited availability of fast and consistent mobile broadband.
Founded in 2013, Pie developed a messaging platform for the workplace. Users could also contact people outside of their organisations through the app and receive customisable daily email digests of conversations. It will shut down the platform on March 2, 2016.
Pie raised $1.2m in a June 2015 series A round led by Gree Ventures, the corporate venturing unit of game developer Gree. The round also featured Wavemaker Partners and assorted angel investors.
Internet services provider and incubator Digital Garage, marketing agency Publicis Groupe, Siemer Ventures and several angel investors had already provided $800,000 in seed funding for the startup the previous year.