This acquisition will grow Autodesk's expertise and offerings for the design of consumer products and automotive, as well as in the media and entertainment markets.
Founded as Alias Research in 1983, Alias is headquartered in Toronto and offers a product line that consists of sketching, animation, visual effects, design, modeling, rendering and reviewing tools. Alias MotionBuilder is the company's 3D character animation product. Alias FBX is used in the exchange and use of 3D content. Maya is Alias' 3D application, which has been recognized with an Academy Award. These products will augment Autodesk's offerings in the film and video and interactive games segments.
Alias also offers StudioTools, a software package for design tasks, from 2D sketches to production models. Autodesk plans to continue developing the Alias product lines in conjunction with its own complementary products and technologies.
"This acquisition brings to Autodesk a highly talented group of individuals, a wealth of technologies and a great set of products," says Carl Bass, COO of Autodesk. "Alias' technology spans several of our most important markets and augments the synergy between our design and media businesses."
"This acquisition is designed to leverage the strengths of both companies," adds Doug Walker, president and CEO of Alias. "Alias' customers will benefit from nearly $300 million in R&D spending while having access to new and complementary products and technologies. Together, Autodesk and Alias will deliver products and services that give form to great ideas from the fantasy world of film to the factory floor."
Autodesk acquired Discreet back in 1999, giving it post tools for 3D animation, visual effects, compositing and editing. The Alias transaction is expected to close within the next four to six months.