Following recent speculation and talks of a Google buyout, Twitch CEO Emmett Shear announced on the official Twitch.tv blog that the company had been acquired by Amazon. The news was rumoured before the post went live across social media and news networks.
Emmett Shear said “Today, I’m pleased to announce we’ve been acquired by Amazon. We chose Amazon because they believe in our community, they share our values and long-term vision, and they want to help us get there faster. We’re keeping most everything the same: our office, our employees, our brand, and most importantly our independence. But with Amazon’s support we’ll have the resources to bring you an even better Twitch.”
The news has helped stem concerns over a Google monopoly on streaming services, but many question what Amazon intends to do with Twitch. Some speculate the takeover will play a part in the development and services of the upcoming Amazon Fire.
Twitch staff have promised that the site will continue to strive to deliver the best resources and content possible, and thanked the community warmly for their help in keeping the service alive and well.
“Thank you, from a group of gamers who never dreamed they’d get to help shape the face of the industry that we love so much.”