Amazon has announced that it is acquiring digital comics platform Comixology. The digital comics firm operates both a online comics store, and a mobile comics app. Their app was the top-grossing non-game iPad app in 2013.
“We’ve long admired the passion Comixology brings to changing the way we buy and read comics and graphic novels,” said Amazon VP of content acquisition and digital publishing David Naggar. “We look forward to investing in the business, growing the team, and together, bringing comics and graphic novels to even more readers.”
Comixology debuted a self-publishing platform in 2013, with capabilities similar to Amazon’s own Kindle platform.
While customers have been able to purchase graphic novels for the Kindle, the Comixology acquisition marks a big move into the digital comics market for Amazon. Comixology has deals with both major comics companies, Marvel and DC, offering their output via Comixology’s own app, and via branded apps for both companies.
Amazon has not as yet indicated its plans for Comixology. A Comixology spokesperson says the brand isn’t going anywhere in the foreseeable future, and said the companies will likely find ways to make the Comixology and Kindle platforms work better together.
The cost and terms of the purchase were not disclosed, however the firms say they hope the transaction will be completed in Q2 of 2014.
