Microsoft purchases R2 Studio, founder becomes corporate vice president of Xbox division

Blake Krikorian, founder of home automation company R2 Studios, has been hired as a corporate vice president in Microsoft's Interactive Entertainment Business division, which oversees the Xbox division, following R2's acquisition, according to a Microsoft press release.

Today's announcement confirms a report from early January that Microsoft had purchased R2 Studios. The company specializes in technology that interfaces with electronic devices and reportedly holds patents related to that technology. Before R2 Studios, Krikorian founded Sling Media Inc., inventors of the Slingbox digital media streaming device, leading to speculation that Microsoft's acquisition will help with the rumored "Xbox TV" set top box.

"We are thrilled to have Blake join the Xbox team," said Marc Whitten, chief product officer of the division and Kikorian's new boss. "He's a proven innovator and well-respected leader in both the media and technology industries, having created simple, elegant products that have transformed the way people engage with and consume content. We look forward to his contribution to our team as Xbox continues to evolve and transform the games and entertainment landscape."

Krikorian also served on Amazon's board of directors until his resignation late last December, as reported by Market Watch.