You'll remember we're big fans of Gigya, the new webmail service that allows users to add MySpace layouts and other decorative elements to email. You can, for instance, add RockYou slideshows, MySpace music players, YouTube videos, photos from Photobucket and other "blog bling".
Today it emerged that Gigya, launched in November 2006, has raised $4 million in first round funding from Benchmark Capital. It's good news for the company, and we think they're going to see a lot of traction with the MySpace crowd. Benchmark also funded Bebo, Pageflakes, Friendster, WeeWorld/WeeMee, GaiaOnline, Metacafe and lots of other successful social sites mentioned here previously.
Also note that Bebo recently added Bebo Mail Skins, a way to add flashy themes to your Bebo mail - it seems both companies are thinking along the same lines.
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