Bose buys FMOD maker Firelight to push into gaming audio
What's the deal? BoseDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom → has acquired Firelight TechnologiesDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, the Melbourne-based maker of interactive audio software FMOD, for undisclosed terms. The deal, announced October 1, 2026, brings FMOD's game-audio technology into Bose's Audio Technology business. Financial terms will remain confidential.
What does Firelight do? For 25 years, FMOD has given game developers tools to build audio that responds to gameplay in real time. It integrates with leading engines including Unity and UnrealDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, and runs across consoles, desktop, mobile, and web.
Why now? Bose, a 60-year-old audio company best known for consumer products, is building out a business-to-business Audio Technology unit. Gaming is a growth target. "Gaming represents a significant opportunity for our continued growth," said Nick Smith, president of Bose Audio Technology and chief strategy officer.
What's the endgame? Beyond gaming, Bose plans to explore interactive audio in VR/AR, automotive, and other real-time applications. The company says it will keep investing in FMOD, which will remain open and broadly supported.
What changes for customers? Bose has committed to FMOD's existing developers and partners. "Joining Bose provides new opportunities to advance the FMOD roadmap while continuing to support the community that relies on it," said Brett Paterson, founder and CEO of Firelight.
The signal: The deal shows a consumer hardware maker moving upstream into the software that shapes interactive sound. For Bose, which already works with brands including McIntoshDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom → and Sonus faberDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, owning FMOD extends its reach from finished products into the tools creators use — and positions it for immersive formats where adaptive audio matters most.
Read more: prnewswire.com
Image credit: Generated with Gemini
