Logitech buys video conferencing firm

Switzerland-based Logitech is buying video-conferencing equipment firm LifeSize Communications in a 405-million-dollar deal expected to close next month.

The acquisition promises to transform Logitech from a side player in the growing "tele-presence" market to a major contender vying with technology powerhouses such as Hewlett-Packard, IBM, and Cisco Systems.

LifeSize was founded in Austin, Texas, in 2003 and specializes in high-definition video systems intended to mimic in-person discussions.

- LifeSize was founded on the vision of providing life-like visual-communication solutions to change the way the world communicates - said the private firm's co-founder and chief executive Craig Malloy.

- We believe that together with Logitech, we can realize that vision for all enterprises -- private and public -- and small and medium businesses. -

The companies said they will pursue relationships with online collaboration and Internet telephony firms, and put Logitech's manufacturing, distribution, and research resources to work for LifeSize.

Logitech is a major maker of computer peripherals including keyboards, headphones, webcams, game controllers, and mouse devices. Logitech has been expanding into the tele-conferencing arena.

- We expect this acquisition to enable Logitech to extend our leadership in video communication beyond the desktop - said Logitech chief executive Gerald Quindlen.

- Together we can make life-like, HD-quality video communication as mainstream and seamless as a telephone. -

Along with LifeSize, Logitech would acquire the company's more than 9,000 customers located in about 80 countries. The acquisition must win the approval by antitrust regulators.