A new day, a new rumor. This time, AppleInsider (via a Chinese report) tells us that Apple is "close" to making a final agreement to buy a Chinese mobile ISP and game developer for $148 million. The company, Handseeing Information Technology Co., focuses on online gaming for mobile devices.
The report originally said Apple was buying the company for $150 billion, but the Global Times corrected this to a more realistic $147.62 million. They also reported that there were other potential buyers, making the deal uncertain.
If this is true, it could mean big things for Apple and mobile gaming. Gaming is amongst the most popular uses for the iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch, and it makes sense that Apple would want to develop for this market in-house. The only game Apple currently has in the app store is Texas Hold 'em, and we all know we can find better games than that.
Perhaps the rumor will coincide with the release of the Game Center later this year? Either way, we'll be pleased if Apple gets more serious about gaming.
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