Softimage deal gives Microsoft 9.1% stake in Avid

"Microsoft has sold its special effects software company Softimage to Avid Technology in a $285 deal that will accelerate the arrivel of an end-to-end digital sutdio, potentially turning the movie production process upside down." Screen International

The deal will give Microsoft an initial 9.1% in Avid, rising to 12% if Microsoft exercises all its options.

The combination on Avid and Microsoft means that the company will be able to "deliver on this digital studio vision much quicker than we had planned". "We think with combined technologies and digital studio architecture you will be able to move between different stages almost seamlessly and in a non-linear fashion" says Softimage president Moshe Lichtman.