They have sent out emails to users indicating not only that Niantic is now it’s open company, but also that they are to receive a transfer of information.
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Niantic Labs, the group behind Ingress and Field Trip, are now becoming independent from Google, likely stemming from Google’s restructuring into a subsidiary of Alphabet. The email explained users how Ingress will develop the game further to add more features, along with support from Google.
It is not clear, however, whether the plan to separate from Google has been in development by Niantic Labs for some time now or if it was decided upon the formation of Alphabet.
As part of the announcement Google also reshuffled its leadership structure, appointing Sundar Pichai as CEO, replacing co-founder Larry Page.
Niantic said it will allow the company to work with new partners while continuing to collaborate with Google.
Under the reconstruction, many of Google’s core online services such as ads, maps and search will remain in the company that will be called Google Inc.
In a post on Google+, Niantic Labs announced that it will be breaking off as its own company, but will still be somewhat supported by Google.
Niantic Labs is becoming an independent company.
The split with Niantic may be because Google might be slimming itself before the upcoming reorganization. In case a user opts out, their data will be deleted from Google servers, and they will have to start from scratch if they want to play the game again.
Niantic said that Ingress has been downloaded for about more than 12 million times, and has enticed more than 250,000 audiences have met up in person at live Ingress for game-related events around the globe.
Niantic Labs first launched Field Trip, and Android app which helps users find interesting places nearby.
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Google is going through big changes and seeing one of their previous companies blossom will probably a ray of hope for developers and companies alike.
