Google acquires Facebook marketing startup

Toro, a startup that helps developers promote their apps on Facebook, just announced that it’s been acquired by Google.

The company was originally known as Red Hot Labs, and it’s led by Amitt Mahajan and Joel Poloney.

They previously co-founded MyMiniLife, which played a key role in the creation of FarmVille (and was acquired by Zynga).

In its announcement, Toro writes that joining Google will give team members access to more resources and distribution, allowing them to “continue our mission of making the lives of app developers easier.”

The company says it will continue to optimise campaigns and provide reports for existing customers, but it won’t be creating new campaigns: “We recommend working with an alternative Facebook PMD for new campaigns going forward.”

The announcement does not disclose the financial terms of the deal.

Toro had raised $1.5 million in funding from investors, including Andreessen Horowitz, Greylock Partners, SV Angel, General Catalyst, Keith Rabois, Chris Dixon, Bill Tai and Guitar Hero co-creators Charles Huang and Kai Huang.

A Google spokesperson confirmed the news and said Toro will be joining the mobile ads team.