Microsoft reportedly acquires home automation company R2 Studios to bolster Xbox team

Microsoft has reportedly acquired home-entertainment technology startup id8 Group R2 Studios to bring its talent, technology and patents to the Xbox division, according to a report from the Wall Street Journal.

R2 Studios, a developer of home media and home automation technology, has been "working on technology related to distributing and displaying digital media on TVs," according to the Journal. The company was founded in 2011 by Blake Krikorian, former CEO of Slingbox maker Sling Media. Krikorian will reportedly join Microsoft with a small team.

The company reportedly owns patents related to controlling electronic devices and interfaces, according to an earlier WSJ report.

The startup has released one commercial product, the Android app R2 Control for Crestron. The $99 app lets users control AV equipment, lighting, thermostats, security systems and other products from touchscreen Android devices.

Microsoft is reportedly developing a set-top box under the Xbox brand. According to The Verge, the low-cost "Xbox TV" is an "'always on' device that boots quickly and resumes to provide near-instant access to TV and entertainment services."