Google snaps up Snapseed's photo-editing service

Google has snapped up the digital photo editing service Snapseed as part of its effort to compete against Facebook's online social network.

Snapseed is the centerpiece of Google's acquisition of Nik Software, which developed the service's photo-editing technology.

The deal announced Monday gives Google a popular service that competes against Facebook's Instagram, whose tools are widely used to display, touch up and share photos taken on smartphones and tablet computers.

Facebook bought Instagram for $715 million in a deal that closed last month.

Google Inc. didn't disclose the terms of the Nik Software acquisition.

Snapseed could be used to increase usage of Google Plus, a social networking alternative to Facebook.

Nik Software says more than 9 million people use Snapseed's application for the iPhone and iPad.

Volume Button
Volume
Now Listening To Livestream
MPR News logo
On Air
MPR News