Mattel announced it would acquire full ownership of the mobile games studio Mattel163 from NetEase, according to Variety, in a deal expected to close by the end of the first quarter of 2026. The acquisition marks a significant move for the toy giant, which will take control of a studio responsible for games based on popular Mattel brands like Uno! and Phase 10.
Mattel163, founded in 2018, has seen considerable success, boasting over 550 million downloads worldwide and approximately 20 million monthly active users, Variety reported. The studio's portfolio includes mobile versions of iconic Mattel games. The acquisition signals Mattel's continued investment in the digital gaming space and its efforts to leverage its established brands in the mobile market.
In other tech news, blockchain lending company Figure Technology confirmed a data breach resulting from a social engineering attack, as reported by TechCrunch. The ShinyHunters hacking group claimed responsibility and allegedly published stolen customer data after Figure refused to pay a ransom. The breach, which included customer names, addresses, and dates of birth, is linked to a broader campaign targeting Okta users, including those at Harvard and UPenn. Figure is offering credit monitoring to those affected.
Meanwhile, the UK's communications regulator, Ofcom, fined porn company Kick Online Entertainment SA £800,000 for failing to implement adequate age verification measures, according to BBC Technology. The company also faces an additional £30,000 fine for non-compliance with information requests and a daily penalty until it responds. Message board 4chan faces a separate fine.
In the gaming world, Saber Interactive is developing a new "Untitled John Wick Game" starring Keanu Reeves, with input from the film's director Chad Stahelski, BBC Technology also reported. The game, revealed at a PlayStation showcase, will feature Reeves' likeness and voice, aiming to capture the franchise's action and potentially serve as a prequel, while also introducing new characters and catering to mature audiences.
Finally, the electric vehicle market is experiencing significant shifts, with Tesla losing its top spot to BYD, according to Wired. This shift raises questions about the future of the EV market, including infrastructure development and the viability of gas-powered vehicles. A WIRED livestream will discuss the potential for American companies to regain dominance.
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