Focus on Analytics: AT&T Completes Acquisition of Appnexus

AT&T has announced the completion of its acquisition of AppNexus, now part of AT&T advertising & analytics led by CEO Brian Lesser.

AppNexus operates a leading global advertising marketplace and provides enterprise technology products for digital advertising, serving publishers, agencies and marketers.

AT&T will continue to invest in and build on AppNexus’ technology globally as it integrates with AT&T’s first-party data, premium video content and distribution. AT&T has more than 170 million direct-to-consumer relationships across its wireless, video and broadband businesses.1 AppNexus also extends AT&T advertising and analytics’ footprint globally, expanding into Asia-Pacific, Australia, Europe, and Latin America.

“This is an important milestone in the young history of our company,” said Lesser. “With the addition of AppNexus, I’m excited about the role AT&T will play in rethinking advertising not just for today, but for the future — advertising that’s better for brands, publishers and consumers.”

AppNexus’ expertise in machine learning, engineering and advanced analytics will accelerate and expand AT&T’s ad-supported offerings across its portfolio, including Turner Networks, Otter Media and DIRECTV.

With the acquisition now closed, AppNexus’ co-founder and CEO Brian O’Kelley will report directly to Lesser. He will continue to lead the AppNexus business and help spearhead the integration process with AT&T.