Wow! Today Astraware announced that it has forged a new operating relationship with Handmark in which it will become part of Handmark proper. Both companies have offered each other’s titles in the past, and now both hope to capitalize on each other’s strengths to become a gaming powerhouse.

"We recognize the genius of the mobile gaming pioneers who created Astraware and welcome them to the Handmark family," said Paul Reddick, Handmark CEO. "We share a passion for delivering superior mobile experiences."

Howard Tomlinson, CEO and co-founder of Astraware had this to say about the new business relationship:

"For over 10 years, Astraware has successfully created some of the best mobile gaming brands in the industry, building a company through unparalleled focus on quality and customer satisfaction," said Howard Tomlinson, co-founder and CEO of Astraware. "I am excited to be joining forces with Handmark and we will be able to focus our experience and talent on creating games across more platforms, and together we will become one of the most powerful forces in the mobile gaming industry."

With this business modus operandi, Astraware plans to expand its existing UK games development studio to produce new high-profile licenses as well as continuing work on its own original titles.

In addition to Palm OS and Windows Mobile offerings, Astraware will start releasing their first titles for Symbian S60 and UIQ in the first quarter of 2008. BlackBerry users, don’t fret, as apps for these devices will appear later in the year.