Niantic to Sell Games Division: What This Means for Pokémon Go and Future AR Developments

Niantic to Sell Games Division: What This Means for Pokémon Go and Future AR Developments

Niantic, the innovative company behind the widely acclaimed augmented reality game Pokémon Go, is reportedly considering the sale of its game development division. According to a recent report by Bloomberg, the firm is in discussions with mobile game developer Scopely, which is part of the Saudi Arabia-based Savvy Games Group, for a potential deal valued at approximately $3.5 million.

Niantic’s Current Situation

Despite its past successes, Niantic has faced challenges in recent years. Both Niantic and Scopely have not yet responded to media inquiries regarding this potential transaction.

Past Successes and Challenges

Niantic gained recognition for its pioneering use of augmented reality in gaming, starting with its inaugural title, Ingress. This game was celebrated for its innovative, geography-based approach to territory control. However, it was the launch of Pokémon Go in 2016 that propelled the company into the spotlight, making it a global sensation almost overnight.

Recent Developments at Niantic

While Niantic’s subsequent games have seen some level of success, none have reached the monumental heights of Pokémon Go. In recent years, the company has made significant workforce reductions and project cancellations:

  • In 2022, Niantic laid off 8% of its staff and discontinued four projects, including Harry Potter: Wizards Unite.
  • In 2023, the company cut 230 jobs and canceled its NBA and Marvel-related games.

Innovations and Future Directions

Despite these setbacks, Niantic continues to innovate. Last year, it enhanced its Scaniverse app, enabling users to create 3D models of real-world objects for developers. Additionally, in November, the company announced plans to develop a comprehensive geospatial model utilizing machine learning to analyze and connect scenes globally.

READ ALSO  Exciting Update: Niantic and Capcom Unite for Monster Hunter Now x Monster Hunter Wilds Collaboration!

For more information on augmented reality and its impact on the gaming industry, visit IGN’s guide on augmented reality.

Similar Posts

North Carolina Amazon Workers Reject Unionization: What This Means for Labor Rights

North Carolina Amazon Workers Reject Unionization: What This Means for Labor Rights

Bysupport

Workers at an Amazon warehouse in Garner, North Carolina, have voted against unionization, with 74.7% of the 3,276 ballots cast opposing the effort by the Carolina Amazonians United for Solidarity and Empowerment (CAUSE). The results are pending certification by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). CAUSE accused Amazon of unlawful practices to undermine their efforts, while Amazon expressed satisfaction with the outcome. This election follows previous successful unionization efforts at other Amazon facilities, including Staten Island and Whole Foods in Philadelphia. Additionally, Amazon’s legal team is challenging the NLRB’s structure, potentially impacting future labor relations.

Deutsche Telekom & Perplexity Unveil Game-Changing 'AI Phone' for Under $1,000!

Deutsche Telekom & Perplexity Unveil Game-Changing ‘AI Phone’ for Under $1,000!

Bysupport

At the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Deutsche Telekom announced plans to launch the “AI Phone” in collaboration with top AI firms, including Perplexity and Picsart. Set for release in late 2023, with a price under $1,000, it will initially target the European market. This device will feature advanced AI capabilities, including a new assistant app, Magenta AI, available to DT’s existing customer base of over 300 million users. DT aims to transition into an AI-focused company, emphasizing proactive solutions through AI. The initiative reflects the ongoing evolution of technology in the competitive smartphone market.

OpenAI Set to Finalize $40 Billion Funding Round Led by SoftBank

Unveiling ChatGPT’s Impressive Image Generator: Mastering the Art of Fake Receipts!

Bysupport

In March 2025, ChatGPT introduced its 4o model, featuring an advanced image generator capable of creating realistic text within images, raising concerns over its use in producing counterfeit restaurant receipts. This capability has been exploited by fraudsters, as highlighted by venture capitalist Deedy Das, who demonstrated the ease of generating fake receipts. Other users, including TechCrunch, attempted to enhance realism, revealing flaws in the generated outputs. OpenAI acknowledges the potential for misuse while emphasizing the legitimate applications of its technology, such as financial education and advertising. The company remains vigilant in monitoring user behavior and enforcing usage policies.

Why 'Growth at All Costs' is Harming the Internet: Ed Zitron Reveals Startup Opportunities in Today's Digital Landscape

Why ‘Growth at All Costs’ is Harming the Internet: Ed Zitron Reveals Startup Opportunities in Today’s Digital Landscape

Bysupport

Ed Zitron, CEO of EZPR and host of the Better Offline podcast, critiques the declining user experience in the digital landscape, coining the term “rot economy” to describe Big Tech’s profit-driven focus. He argues that major companies prioritize growth over customer value, resulting in ineffective products. Zitron sees opportunities for startups to disrupt this trend, particularly in social media, enterprise software, and search/email services. He highlights alternatives like Bluesky, Pixelfed, and DuckDuckGo that aim to enhance user experience. Zitron calls for a shift in venture capital towards supporting sustainable, user-centric innovations, offering a roadmap for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Reviving Zombie Nuclear Reactors: How AI Data Center Demand Sparks a New Energy Revolution

Reviving Zombie Nuclear Reactors: How AI Data Center Demand Sparks a New Energy Revolution

Bysupport

In South Carolina, Santee Cooper is reviving the Virgil C. Summer Nuclear Power Station, which has been inactive for eight years due to budget overruns and mismanagement. The utility is seeking partners to finance the completion of two reactors amid growing interest in nuclear energy driven by data center expansions. The original project, started in 2008, faced significant challenges, including cost escalations from $9.8 billion to $25 billion and the bankruptcy of Westinghouse. With renewed optimism in nuclear energy, Santee Cooper is exploring partnerships, although any agreement will likely encounter political scrutiny due to past financial burdens on ratepayers.

Shein App Relaunches in India: Exciting Partnership with Reliance Boosts Fashion Shopping Experience!

Shein App Relaunches in India: Exciting Partnership with Reliance Boosts Fashion Shopping Experience!

Bysupport

Shein has re-entered the Indian market through a partnership with Reliance Retail, nearly five years after being banned due to India-China tensions. The Shein India Fast Fashion app, developed with Reliance, marks a significant step ahead of Shein’s anticipated public listing. Reliance will manage all operations and customer data, ensuring compliance with local regulations, as Shein will not have access to this data. The app is currently available in select cities like New Delhi and Bengaluru, offering free delivery and affordable prices. This partnership highlights a shift in Reliance’s strategy amidst competition from Flipkart and Amazon.