CRI Middleware Co., Ltd., a Tokyo-based video game company, has announced its plans for global expansion through three key initiatives.
The first initiative involves the addition of a new feature to CRI’s video playback middleware, “CRI Sofdec®”. The middleware will now support the next-generation codec, “AV1”, which is expected to become the mainstream in game development worldwide in the future.
According to CRI, this new feature will help reduce app sizes and download times, ultimately contributing to lower user churn and increased app revenue. Masao Oshimi, President and CEO of CRI, stated that “as mobile game apps continue to feature high-definition graphics, it is crucial to reduce file sizes without compromising quality.”
The second initiative involves expanding sales channels in Europe and North America. CRI has signed a distribution agreement with DICO Deutschland GmbH, a German game developer with a strong track record in the global market. This agreement will allow CRI to promote its middleware brand, “CRIWARE®”, to DICO’s extensive global network.
Matias Sanchez Elsner, CEO of DICO Deutschland GmbH, commented, “It is a great honor to be part of the first step in bringing CRI’s proven audio and video technology from Japan to the global game market. This partnership will undoubtedly help elevate game development worldwide to the next level.”
The third initiative involves strengthening connections with game developers worldwide through presentations and booth exhibits at the international Game Developers Conference (GDC) 2025, held in San Francisco, USA in March 2025. CRI Fellow, Hiroyuki Masuno, shared insights on game sound development and showcased CRI’s technological capabilities to game developers from around the world.
CRI aims to expand its middleware brand, with a focus on CRI Sofdec, in order to enrich content worldwide through sound and video. The company has also established the Global Business Development Office with the goal of increasing the overseas sales ratio of its game business and contributing to the global market.
CRI’s corporate philosophy is “Enriching society through sound and video.” The company provides technologies and solutions aimed at improving usability and quality, supporting developers in solving their challenges while also enhancing the user experience for end users.
For inquiries regarding this release, please contact CRI Middleware, Inc. Public Relations at 080-8439-1505 or through their web form.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.