PayPal Launches PassPort to Help Small Businesses Around the World Increase Global Sales
Online Resource Provides Research, Tools to Help Retailers Tap the Expected $10 Billion In Sales on Singles Day
SINGAPORE, June 13, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, PayPal launched PassPort( http://www.paypal.com/passport ), a website designed to educate and empower small businesses with free tools to expand their global sales. PassPort provides country-specific guidance on seasonal sales peaks, including holidays and events; cultural customs, taboos and trends; shipping and distribution logistics; currency exchange and fees; and customs procedures and taxes.
"Small business owners know that reaching a global market can exponentially increase their sales, but many aren't sure where to start," explained Carey Kolaja, Vice President, Global Product Solutions, PayPal. "In 2013, global trade accounted for approximately 25 percent of PayPal's Total Payment Volume - so we understand the challenges and opportunities of international trade. We designed PassPort with our international insights to help small businesses tap into global sales opportunities as simply and seamlessly as possible."
Becoming a global retailer means looking beyond Valentine's Day, Mother's Day and Black Friday as peak selling days and addressing country-specific sales opportunities. Businesses using PassPort will gain insight into the traditions, trends and taboos surrounding Singles Day - the November 11 Chinese holiday that dwarfs Black Friday in ecommerce revenue and is "expected to easily exceed US"0 billion( http://gain.fas.usda.gov/Recent%20GAIN%20Publications/Singles%20Day%20and%20China%27s%20Growing%20Love%20for%20eCommerce%20_Shanghai%20ATO_China%20-%20Peoples%20Republic%20of_12-4-2013.pdf )" this year, according to a USDA report. Information on additional top global retail holidays - like Golden Week in Japan and Click Frenzy in Australia - will prepare businesses to expand their sales and reach more potential customers.
"PassPort removes perceived barriers by revealing cultural gift-giving traditions and taboos and helps to ease the complexity of shipping and customs," continued Kolaja. "By helping businesses understand when and how to best engage with international shoppers, we go far beyond the secure and simple payments our customers expect from us and enable them to tap into new revenue potential."
In addition to holiday-specific content, PassPort delivers PayPal's trusted expertise and resources. Buying and selling patterns around the globe and across key corridors is presented on PassPort to deliver a unique resource to small businesses looking to expand into new markets.
PassPort helps businesses start selling internationally quickly via direct links to eBay Marketplace tools. eBay, Inc., enables global connected commerce and is the quickest and easiest way for PayPal customers to start selling internationally.
"Realizing many of my customers live outside the US is what prompted me to shift almost entirely to PayPal's trusted and streamlined online payment process and I haven't looked back. Our shoppers love the magic of discovering unique pieces, especially those who live overseas. They rave about finding clothes and accessories on my site that they can't find at home. Twenty percent of my sales have come from cross border this year, and having access to PassPort will certainly help that number grow," said Jenn Crowder, owner of Boston Fashion House( http://www.bostonfashionhouse.com ). "Learning more about the holidays, buying patterns and gift-giving traditions of huge emerging economies like Brazil and China is a fantastic shortcut for me as I work to further expand sales of my luxury goods."
At PayPal, we put people at the center of everything we do. Founded in 1998, we continue to be at the forefront of the digital payments revolution, giving people direct control over their money. Through our innovations, we make life better for our over 148 million active accounts in 26 currencies and across 193 markets, processing more than 9 million payments daily. An eBay Inc. (NASDAQ: EBAY) company, PayPal is the faster, safer way to pay and get paid. The service gives people simpler ways to send money without sharing financial information, and with the flexibility to pay using their account balances, bank accounts or credit cards.
SpeechOne API Allows Verbal Communication with Digital Devices
Patent-Pending API from SpeechTrans Enables Real-Time Dictation, Translation and Unprecedented "Smart Home" Applications
LYNDHURST, N.J., June 12, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- SpeechTrans Inc., a provider of advanced translation technology, today launched SpeechOne API, a patent-pending application programming interface that will allow people to verbally communicate with digital devices that don't have microphones. Hewlett-Packard (HP) has already begun pilot testing the SpeechOne API with plans to add its functionality to the virtual meeting application HP MyRoom. Available for white labeling, the new API is also featured in Remote Mic, a feature new to SpeechTrans Ultimate for Windows 8.1.
The Future of Smart Devices
A patent-pending technology, SpeechOne API enables accurate voice recognition, transcription and translation on any device, in real-time. The API can handle conversations of any length in 44 different languages. The API has the unique ability to recognize voice commands via a smartphone or other device with a microphone and then transfer information to other digital devices via the cloud. Potentially, this will allow companies to develop 'Smart Homes' in which a smartphone or tablet can control lighting, ovens, microwaves, air condition and other appliances all by voice command.
"The API technology actually comes from SpeechTrans Ultimate for Hearing Impaired, which allows the hearing impaired to make phone calls without assistance from a human operator," explained Yan Auerbach, COO of SpeechTrans. "In conversation with our partners at Microsoft, we realized the base technology could be used for an extraordinary range of applications as an API. Now, our partners are discovering uses for it that we never considered. The most advanced applications could transform the way we interact with everything from cars, airplanes and industrial equipment to home appliances, vending machines and much more."
Remote Mic in SpeechTrans Ultimate
SpeechTrans Ultimate Windows 8.1 users can now activate a new Remote Mic feature that relies on SpeechOne API. While SpeechTrans normally limits translations to 55 seconds in length, the SpeechOne API enables any regular telephone to be used as a Remote Mic to record, transcribe and translate conversation of any length. This means that Remote Mic can be used to capture lectures, business meeting minutes, medical notes, court proceedings and much more. All dictations and translations are automatically backed up in the cloud for safekeeping.
SpeechTrans IntelliConference bridge allows the SpeechOne API to set up conference calls with up to 500 people. However, unlike typical conference calls which require people to dial in, a single person can enter everyone's number and send an outgoing call that lets everyone join the bridge simultaneously. This reduces the chances of missed meetings, tardiness and time wasted getting everyone onto the call. The conference then automatically gets transcribed and emailed to all the participants.
Hewlett-Packard Pilot Testing
The SpeechOne API has now undergone testing at HP. The company already uses a SpeechTrans API to power translations on MyRoom, a virtual meeting application. In addition to the benefits described above, HP would be able to make MyRoom truly mobile. The current version requires a microphone plugged into a computer, but a version with SpeechOne API would simply require a smartphone or tablet. The recording would then be saved in the cloud and available from any device.
SpeechOne API is currently available on the Windows Azure marketplace. SpeechTrans can host SpeechOne API for OEM clients, or they may use their own Windows Azure cloud services.
The SpeechOne API is optimized for use with the SpeechTrans Bluetooth Wristband Watch, which is designed for hands free conversation and dictation. In the near future, users will be able to submit speech-to-text translations for review by a human interpreter for a low cost, guaranteeing 100 percent accuracy.
Currently, Remote Mic is available for $39 per month on SpeechTrans Ultimate for Windows 8.1. iOS, Android and Windows Phone 8 editions of SpeechTrans will soon include this feature.
About SpeechTrans
SpeechTrans is the world's most advanced speech-to-speech translator. Used by the U.S. Army, governments, educators, physicians, lawyers, international businesses and consumers worldwide, SpeechTrans offers real-time translation with outstanding clarity and minimal processing delay. SpeechTrans services are available on PCs, smartphones, tablets, social networks, telephones, wearable devices and more. As a member of the ngConnect Program and a Microsoft Managed Partner, SpeechTrans works closely with the Microsoft development teams and has partnered with HP, Dell, Nokia, Intel, Nuance, VerbalizeIT and Spoken Translation to eliminate language barriers worldwide. Learn more at http://www.speechtrans.com.
Carlsbad health-tech company innovates ultimate activity-tracking device
CARLSBAD, Calif., June 12, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Forever pushing the limits of employee-facing health-tech software, Carlsbad-based Sonic Boom Wellness has developed a revolutionary activity-tracking device - which debuts this month on a national scale. Frustrated by the shortcomings of activity trackers currently on the market, the fresh-thinking corporate-wellness company decided to develop its own - one that lives up to its unparalleled standards for accuracy, reliability, and unprecedented functionality.
"Boomerang ups the ante, raising the bar on what people will expect from activity trackers," says Sonic Boom CEO and co-founder Danna Korn. "It's the first device to integrate an entire wellness program, smartwatch, two-way messaging, and activity tracking all in one. It tracks all types of physical activity - including swimming since it's waterproof - and it brings smartwatch functionality with the Sonic Boom platform to an interactive touchscreen on members' wrists. It's already the smartest activity tracker on the planet, and we've only just begun!"
Developed in conjunction with Bay-area based Striiv, Inc., Boomerang is the first four-in-one device to hit the ever-competitive corporate-wellness market. In addition to tracking members' steps, activity time, calories, and distance, Boomerang also tracks sleep patterns and non-impact activities such as swimming and cycling. It also functions as a smartwatch, displaying the current time, date, and local weather - and members can even receive phone calls and text notifications if they choose.
But that's not all. Korn adds, "Corporate wellness has always faced a challenge reaching employees who don't have computer access. Boomerang changes all that." With two-way messaging, employers can now communicate with employees by sending short messages and surveys directly to their wrists - and members can respond directly from their Boomerangs. "Email and computer access are no longer necessary for employees to participate in high-tech wellness programming. And, unlike consumer-driven devices, our mobile app allows one-to-many offloads - so an unlimited number of employees can play along from a single wireless receiver." Just as importantly, Sonic Boom supports its devices if there are issues. Most wellness programs practice "device agnosticism," but those firms don't actually support the devices. Members are left high and dry for troubleshooting. "We fully support Boomerang with a Total Client Happiness(TM) guarantee. This is a game-changer," said Korn.
Boomerang pushes the idea of wearable wellness to the next level, allowing Sonic Boom to deliver its admittedly "wacky" wellness software to clients through fun and socially motivating features. As the lone self-funded player in the big-leagues of corporate wellness, Sonic Boom is not only keeping up - it's setting the pace.
About Sonic Boom
First-to-market with the gamified approach to corporate wellness in 2007, Sonic Boom is the innovative market leader in socially contagious challenge variety, customization options, incentive-management flexibility, co-branding opportunities, and Total Client Happiness(TM) - all in support of its mission to improve members' DAILY health habits. For more information, please contact Ross Gensler at (760) 438-1600 or ross@sbwell.com.
The Fantasy Soccer Revolution is Here: Fantasygol.com
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., June 12, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Fantasygol.com is a website that allows individuals to play fantasy soccer for free or for real money on a daily and weekly basis. We are the only site in the world exclusively dedicated to soccer in which real profits can be made.
Fantasygol.com customers act as general managers, choosing different players from teams around the world in order to build their dream line-ups. Each chosen team then participates in contests against teams from other customers. Based on the real-life performance of their selected players, customers add up points that translate into real cash earnings.
Fantasygol.com is incorporated in the United States and serves the North American market. We are a group of soccer fanatics who have turned our passion into a business, and we're extremely excited for the opportunity to share what we've built with soccer fans worldwide. In addition to the World Cup, we offer real money fantasy soccer contests for the English Premier League, Liga BBVA, MLS, MX, and the Champions League. Soccer is the most popular sport in the world, and fantasygol.com is on its way to becoming the most popular fantasy soccer platform of its kind.
Legrand Reveals a Future Concept at Futur en Seine: Flocoon, Gentle Gestures for Controlling your Home
LIMOGES, France, June 12, 2014 /PRNewswire/ --
At "Futur en Seine", the 5th edition of the International Digital Festival, Legrand
presents their newest visionary project, Flocoon. This family of conceptual products
creates a new relationship between home controls and end users and offers a simple and
intuitive experience through gentle gestures.
Electric commands enter a new era
Like a concept car, the Flocoon family of home controls shows the direction of future.
Technology takes back stage and gives space to an intuitive interactive experience where
the focus is on the relationship between human and product.
The fluid design of the objects suggests the user to interact with natural gestures
through intuitive shapes. Dressed with a soft silicone they invite to be touched. The
controls themselves offer simple basic functionalities that can then be enhanced through
the use of a smart phone or tablet.
Inspired by nature, the Flocoon family creates a new design language for home
controls. They become a kind of a second skin that delicately dresses the walls. They
offer a natural and easy interface that blends seamlessly together with the lifestyle of
today.
A variety of futuristic products
The Flocoon family gives freedom to the user to place the commands anywhere they want
: on the wall, on furniture, in wet spaces ...Each product has a specific shape related to
its functionality:
PAD - A gentle tap on the surface of the product is enough to activate the control.
UP-DOWN - an intuitive dimmer control that not only works as an on | off control, but
offers a smooth dimming functionality through a sliding motion.
WARM-ME - an intuitive thermostat that responds to natural gestures. To warm up a
space, the user needs to cover the control for a moment with their hand to indicate that
they desire a slight increase in temperature. If the need is to cool down the area, they
can gently blow on the surface.
SKY-VIEW - the ultimate mood enhancer of any space. This unit can project animated
images on the ceiling of the space to reflect the weather outside or liven up the
atmosphere of a special event by abstract images according to the theme.
MASTER TREE - The branches of the tree connect to different spaces of the home and can
be individually controlled. At the root of the tree lies the master switch that can turn
all controls on and off all at once.
HyperSound Directed Audio To Be Showcased At InfoComm 2014
HyperSound® directional audio speakers to be showcased at Stampede Presentation's Booth, #C7336
SAN DIEGO, June 12, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Turtle Beach Corporation (NASDAQ: HEAR), a leading audio technology innovator, today announced that its line of HyperSound directed audio speakers will be showcased in the Stampede Presentation Products Booth (#C7336) at InfoComm 2014, June 18-20, at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
HyperSound is an innovation in audio that generates an ultrasonic beam of sound, similar to how a flashlight controls a ray of light. Unlike traditional loudspeakers, sound is confined to a specific location, creating a precise audio zone. When an individual enters the beam's radius, they hear immersive 3D audio, which enhances experience and increases message effectiveness.
According to Todd Savitt, vice president of HyperSound sales and marketing at Turtle Beach Corporation, "HyperSound's highly-directional audio gives systems integrators the ability to add audio to visual displays without sound bleed, which is crucial, especially in acoustically challenging environments."
"When coupled with out-of-home digital advertising, HyperSound effectively enhances customer experiences by making messages more attention-grabbing, engaging, and memorable," said Stampede President and COO Kevin Kelly. "We are pleased to continue offering this focused audio system as an innovative, practical solution for retail, digital signage, kiosk, casino, and trade show applications."
In February, Turtle Beach Corporation announced the appointment of Stampede to distribute HyperSound in the United States, Canada, and Latin America, expanding its footprint across Stampede's network of more than 11,500 Pro-AV resellers.
About Stampede
Known for its value-added distribution, Amherst, New York-based Stampede is the leading distributor of presentation equipment including LCD/DLP projectors and flat panel displays. Stampede provides a complete range of brand name presentation equipment to a variety of audio/video, computer, and home theater resellers and integrators in the United States, Canada and Latin America. These resellers rely on Stampede for value-added services in distribution, marketing and solution- based sales. Stampede annually produces the "Big Book of AV," a 1000-page catalog and companion website (http://www.BigBookofAV.com) providing hundreds of sales, installation and spec tips for Stampede's dealers in addition to product details on more than 5,000 SKUs. For more information on Stampede, log onto http://www.stampedeglobal.com.
About Turtle Beach Corporation
Turtle Beach Corporation (http://www.turtlebeachcorp.com) designs audio products for consumer, commercial and healthcare markets. Under the brand Turtle Beach (TurtleBeach.com), the company markets premium headsets for use with video game consoles, including officially-licensed headsets for the next-generation Xbox One and PlayStation®4, personal computers and mobile devices. Under the brand HyperSound (HyperSound.com), the company markets pioneering directed audio solutions that have applications in digital signage and kiosks, consumer electronics and healthcare. The Company's shares are traded on the NASDAQ Exchange under the symbol NASDAQ:HEAR.
Stern Pinball Opens its Vault to Reintroduce Iron Man Pinball
World's Leading Maker of Arcade-Quality Pinball Games Announces First Stern Vault Release With Iron Man Pro
MELROSE PARK, Ill., June 12, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Stern Pinball, Inc., the world's oldest and largest producer of arcade-quality pinball games, announced today it is opening the Stern Vault for re-release of Iron Man(TM) Pro. The Iron Man pinball machine features visuals, speech, music and sound effects from the Marvel blockbuster films Iron Man and Iron Man 2. After numerous requests from the pinball community, Stern is re-introducing this exceptional game.
Originally released in 2010, the Iron Man Pro model continues to bring the battle between billionaire industrialist, Tony Stark/Iron Man, and his enemies to the fingertips and flippers of pinball players. With non-stop action, Iron Man Pro Vault Edition heightens the excitement, bringing back a classic game for the players of any age and skill level.
Iron Man Pro Vault Edition features technological and manufacturing upgrades utilized by Stern in its current Pro models. Among the improvements is all LED playfield lighting. Iron Man is manufactured with Stern's updated modern metal and wood back box with red t-molding and with a decaled cabinet and speaker housing. The Iron Monger, War Machine and Whiplash figures have been molded in one piece construction for improved strength.
"Operators tell us Iron Man is a great earning pinball game, and enthusiasts tell us it's a great playing game. We didn't make enough," said Gary Stern, founder, CEO and chairman of Stern Pinball.
Look for future Stern Vault Editions.
Pricing and Availability:
Pro Version: $5,495 (MSRP)
About Stern Pinball, Inc.
Stern Pinball, Inc., headquartered just outside Chicago, Illinois, is the oldest and largest producer of arcade-quality pinball games in the world. Stern's highly talented creative and technical teams design, engineer and manufacture a full line of popular pinball games, merchandise and accessories. Recent Stern titles include Mustang, Star Trek, Metallica, The Avengers, X-Men, AC/DC, Tron, Transformers, Avatar, Iron Man, Batman, Spiderman and many more! All of Stern's pinball games are crafted by hand and assembled by Stern's expert team. Both pinball enthusiasts and casual players around the globe enjoy Stern's games. For more information, please visit http://www.sternpinball.com.
All trademarks and product names are the property of their respective companies.
Media Contact
Alexandra O'Leary
FortyThree, Inc.
831.401.3175
SternPinball@43pr.com
World Cup Predictions as Mobile Geofencing/iBeacons Emerge
LONDON, June 12, 2014 /PRNewswire/ --
As the 2014 FIFA World Cup kicks off, it promises to have made huge technological
strides. Featuring goal-line technology for the first time, seven cameras on each goal,
the ball will be tracked in 3D and when it crosses the line referees will be notified via
a vibrating watch. Safety and security of the crowd is to be managed using
remote-controlled robots, drones and face recognition technology. And while in isolated
parts of the globe some fans will have their first visual access via expanding telecoms
links, in other more-developed regions, viewers will be watching on ever-larger smart TV
screens, or not missing a minute on new tablets or smartphones.
But what about the influence of changing mobile technology in the next four years?
What can we expect in 2018? You may not even be aware of geofencing
[http://moball.tv/geo-fence ] and iBeacon [http://moball.tv/ibeaconintro ] mobile
technology this year but by then, Warbler Digital CEO Richard Counsell predicts, every
organization will be using it in "many wonderfully impressive ways to reach out to you via
your mobile phone using platforms such as Moball [http://moball.tv ]".
"Mobile phones afford direct access to customers, as a result we are amid a revolution
in the way organizations communicate. The latest highly-sophisticated mobile app software
such as Moball [http://moball.tv ]'s user-friendly geofencing [http://moball.tv/geo-fence
] and iBeacon management systems will become commonplace," he said.
According to Google search analysis, football (or soccer in the US) is the largest and
most connected global sporting event across the globe. Its popularity is unrivalled by any
other sporting event. To give you an idea just how popular the World Cup is, the number of
worldwide Google searches for the FIFA World cup trump the Super Bowl and the summer
Olympics combined. The sport is most popular in South America, where most searches take
place, but stateside interest is growing rapidly on account of its growing Hispanic
population and the sport's inclusion in the Olympics.
There's already been a step change in the use of mobiles in the run up to this year's
World Cup versus the last. According to Google, just 18% of relevant searches took place
on a mobile device in the World Cup final back then. During the UEFA Champions League
semi-final match earlier this year, 63% of searches were via mobile. Google's noted
behavioural changes in searches too; more searches now occur during a match, peaking after
a goal is scored, whereas in the 2010 World Cup, where less tablets and mobiles were on
hand, search volume fell during the game.
"For marketers looking to target fans, the opportunity to engage directly to their
palms really couldn't be any better," said Counsell.
"On the Moball [http://moball.tv ] content management system 'geofences' can be built
quickly on a standard computer simply by dropping pins in a map. This creates a 'hot
zone', which might fit with franchise zones, training ground boundaries, bars, shops or
indeed a sports stadium. An organization can then send out rich push messages to its
mobile ap users. 'Rich' means those messages can be more sophisticated than text; they can
contain video, photographs & animations for example."
"The capability of sending video in rich push messages is a point not to be missed,"
continues Counsell. "The opportunities to savvy advertisers of rich push messaging with
video content are phenomenal." And Google stats appear to back-up his claims - Four of the
ten ads on the April TouTubeAds Leaderboard relate to the World Cup. According to Google,
Nike has two of the top ads, and they're not even an official sponsor. 'The top five most
watched soccer videos in the US right now were all published by brands'. This is a
brand-new phenomenon, Google states, reporting that in May of 2010, only one of the top
videos was branded (an ad for Brazilian food company Seara). And before the games had even
begun, this year's top videos already have 4.6x more views on YouTube than the top five in
2010.
Imagine then 2018, a scene where you pass into the stadium's virtual geofenced zone
and are personally welcomed with a video message from your team's manager to your mobile
phone outlining team preparations, injuries, line-up and game plan or perhaps an interview
with the Captain. On the way to the game, geofences could help you avoid traffic hang-ups
with live information. You could also avoid any violence as real-time information feeds to
your phone. Prices of food, drink and merchandize might even fall in a freer market as
companies compete for your custom using localized voucher deals.
"As well as sports clubs and sports brands, Moball [http://moball.tv ] is improving
first generation apps of restaurant, bar and hotel group franchises with plug-ins to its
technology. This allows them to access all the advanced features of Moball without
rebuilding. Furthermore, Moball can be 'white labelled', this means agencies working for
brands large and small can offer their clients a high volume solution without fear of
delivery."
The technology will also give a boost to fundraising by footballing heroes, according
to Counsell.
"We've developed technology with other sport celebrities in the US raising money for
charitable causes. For example, we're putting together a Moball [http://moball.tv ]
geofence app for a US major league baseball player who supports a cancer charity. If
anybody with his app passes into the geofenced region of one of his sponsors, they could
receive a video message for example saying: 'Hi, if you test drive a car at my sponsor
(you are about to pass it), they will donate $25 to my charity'. If the app user carries
through the request they could receive a personal video 'thankyou' to their phone."
iBeacons, meanwhile, allow mobile apps to be truly micro-location aware, that means
you can deliver information, personalised offers, loyalty, advertising and payment options
via rich push notifications to smartphones and other iOS 7 devices in close proximity to
the beacon.
FIFA could use iBeacons as assistants guiding those lucky enough to have a ticket to
the correct stadium entrance as they pass the palm-sized transmitters en route. When a
ticket-holder gets to the turnstile an electronic ticket could be pushed to the front of
their phone screen. Virgin Atlantic
[http://blog.virgin-atlantic.com/t5/Our-Future/Virgin-Atlantic-lights-the-way-with-Apple-s-iBeacon-technology/ba-p/26359#.U4h6Fy9q5sU ]
is piloting such a scheme at Heathrow
Airport, where its first class airline customers receive their boarding passes onscreen on
arrival at the departure gate.
The technology is not just going to benefit those attending matches though. At home,
your personal home iBeacons [http://moball.tv/ibeaconintro ] could turn-on your beer
chiller as you open your front door or quick launch your 'remoteapp' as you take your
place on the couch. An automatic timer app could fire-up as you open the oven door
preventing you burning your World Cup snacks. And don't worry Moball has installed 'cool
down' technology so that you are not bombarded with recurring messages as you walk in and
out of zone, so preventing the technology becoming an irritant.
Over the next month Moball is running web-based training courses and demonstrations of
geofencing [http://moball.tv/geo-fence ] and iBeacon [http://moball.tv/ibeaconintro ]
technology where you can feel free to ask any 'silly questions' or discuss how the
technology could be of use to you (no commitment required). The sessions are currently
free! Please contact Helen.lancaster@warblerdigital.com if you would like to book a
time slot.
If you are a member of the Press, Warbler Digital would be glad to provide quotes or
background information on the subject of iBeacons [http://moball.tv/ibeaconintro ],
iBeacon management, geo-fencing, rich-push messaging and video content.
Contact:
Helen Lancaster, Head of Communications, Warbler Digital Tel: +44(0)845-0176-386 Mob:
+44(0)7968006632 email Helen.Lancaster@WarblerDigital.com
Richard Counsell, CEO Warbler Digital, Tel: +44(0)845-0176-386 or email
richard.counsell@warblerdigital.com
Mark Dunlap, Snr Vice President North America, Direct: +1-312-924-1056
Moball is part of the Warbler Digital Group [http://warblerdigital.com ], a global
organization headquartered in the UK, with offices in the US (Chicago & Dallas), South
Africa (Johannesburg) & Vietnam (Hanoi). VideoDirect [http://videodirect.tv/how ], a video
production company, is also part of the group.
Allin Interactive Delivers Premium ITV Solution to Station Casinos' Red Rock Resort and Green Valley Ranch Resort
PITTSBURGH, June 12, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Allin Interactive announced today that it is delivering its DigiHD(TM) ITV solution to Station Casinos' two luxury resorts: Red Rock Resort and Green Valley Ranch Resort. The project will be the first deployments of the DigiHD ITV solution in the Las Vegas market and the third and fourth activations of DigiHD ITV in the casino resort market. Previously, Allin has installed DigiHD ITV at The Borgata Casino Resort & Spa and The Water Club in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Allin ITV is also available in over 110,000 cruise ship cabins worldwide, on leading cruise brands such as Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Carnival Cruise Line.
The DigiHD ITV solution provides a branded high-definition interactive interface that optimizes the real estate of today's high-resolution screens. Interactive content is managed on-site via the Allin DigiManager(TM) content management portal. As a result, guests will have access to quality on-demand content provided by Cox Business/Hospitality Network as well as real-time resort information provided by Station Casinos. Efficient and easy navigation enhances the ITV experience with services such as pay-per-view movies, restaurant information and menus, daily activity and casino events schedule, spa information, and account review. Real-time information and on-demand videos are distributed over the properties' existing IP network.
"We are very pleased to be working with Cox Business/Hospitality Network in the delivery of news and entertainment content to resort guests," stated Brian Blair, President of Allin Interactive. "The Allin premium ITV platform together with the Cox Business/Hospitality Network high-speed data infrastructure is a great enhancement to the guest experience at Station Casinos."
"Adding Allin's ITV product to our video on demand solution at the Red Rock and Green Valley Ranch properties is a combination that will maximize the guest VOD viewing experience," said Derrick Hill, vice president of Cox Business/Hospitality Network in Las Vegas. "And we are delighted to deliver that experience to Station Casinos."
About Allin Corporation
Allin Corporation is a leading provider of interactive application development, technology consulting and platform integration services. Allin Interactive, based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, specializes in deploying turn-key integrated interactive television and interactive mobile applications to the hospitality marketplace, based on its innovative browser-based DigiManager(TM) content management solution. Allin leverages its experience and custom development capabilities to deliver the most functionality and flexibility of any interactive hospitality solution in the world. The Company maintains offices in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. For additional information about Allin, visit the Company's Internet site on the World Wide Web at Allin.com.
About Cox Communications
Cox Communications is a broadband communications and entertainment company, providing advanced digital video, Internet and telephone services over its own nationwide IP network. The third-largest U.S. cable TV company, Cox serves approximately 6 million residences and businesses. Cox Business is a facilities-based provider of voice, video and data solutions for commercial customers, and Cox Media is a full-service provider of national and local cable spot and new media advertising. Cox is known for its pioneering efforts in cable telephone and commercial services, industry-leading customer care and its outstanding workplaces. For eight years, Cox has been recognized as the top operator for women by Women in Cable Telecommunications; Cox has ranked among DiversityInc's Top 50 Companies for Diversity nine times, including the last eight years. More information about Cox Communications, a wholly owned subsidiary of Cox Enterprises, is available at http://www.cox.com and http://www.coxmedia.com.
Hospitality Network (HN), a product of Cox Business in Las Vegas, provides state-of-the-art video-on-demand, high-definition, digital cable and interactive television services as well as wired and wireless data solutions to approximately 110,000 guest rooms in the world's largest gaming hotels and resorts. Clients are located in Nevada, New Jersey, Mississippi and other areas of the United States. HN also features iGuestbookSM, a high-tech, in-room interactive guest resource. Visit http://www.coxhn.com.
SOURCE Allin Corporation
Allin Corporation
CONTACT: BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CONTACT: John D. Troutwine, SVP, Business Development, Allin Interactive, Phone: (954) 630-1057, Telefax: (954) 975-2929, E-mail: John.Troutwine@allin.com; or INVESTOR CONTACT: Dean C. Praskach, Chief Financial Officer, Allin Corporation, Phone: (412) 928-8800, Telefax: (412) 928-0225, E-mail: Dean.Praskach@allin.com
Barracuda Enables K-12 Institutions to Securely Implement Mobility Initiatives with New Barracuda Mobile Device Manager
Cloud-Based Mobile Device and Application Management Service Helps Easily Manage iOS Devices
CAMPBELL, Calif., June 12, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Barracuda Networks, Inc. (NYSE: CUDA), a leading provider of cloud-connected security and storage solutions, today announced the launch of the new Barracuda Mobile Device Manager (MDM), a free cloud-based mobile device and application management service. The Barracuda MDM enables K-12 educational institutions to easily manage 1:1 mobility initiatives by centrally administering and monitoring iOS mobile phones and tablets.
"At Barracuda, we have a 10-year history of working with customers to better understand their network requirements and have evolved our product suite to provide end-to-end protection across multiple threat vectors," said Stephen Pao, GM Security, Barracuda. "We believe mobile device management is an integral part of this broader security solution, particularly for educational institutions looking to leverage mobile technology in the classroom.
"The Barracuda MDM integrates seamlessly with a number of Barracuda solutions and is accessed in the Barracuda Cloud Control, which provides a single-pane of glass for customers to manage their security infrastructure," Pao continued. "Overall, mobile is a natural progression, providing a simple, easy-to-use and affordable way for customers to extend their content and network security policies right down to their mobile users."
The Barracuda MDM simplifies management of iOS devices from a centralized console integrated into the Barracuda Cloud Control portal. Using the service, administrators easily can:
-- Set device security policies including revoke access and device
restrictions such as passcode policies and global proxy settings
-- Deploy and manage applications including other Barracuda mobile
applications such as Safe Browser, Copy and SignNow to enforce browsing
policies, improve workflow between teachers and students, and manage the
document signing process for parents
-- Remotely manage and monitor mobile devices in a consolidated view via an
intuitive, easy-to-use dashboard
Pricing and Availability
Barracuda Mobile Device Manager is provided at no cost for existing Barracuda customers and can be accessed through the Barracuda Cloud Control portal. Once a service account is provisioned, mobile devices easily can be enrolled with the service from any location. Administrators can send users an email invitation with enrollment information through the service. Optionally users can download the Barracuda Mobile Device Companion app from the iTunes App Store. The service also supports zero-touch enrollment and inventory management through the Apple DEP program.
About Barracuda Networks, Inc. (NYSE: CUDA)
Barracuda provides cloud-connected security and storage solutions that simplify IT. These powerful, easy-to-use and affordable solutions are trusted by more than 150,000 organizations worldwide and are delivered in appliance, virtual appliance, cloud and hybrid deployments. Barracuda's customer-centric business model focuses on delivering high-value, subscription-based IT solutions that provide end-to-end network and data security. For additional information, please visit http://www.barracuda.com.
Barracuda, Barracuda Networks and the Barracuda Networks logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Barracuda Networks, Inc. in the U.S. or other regions. Other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements, including statements regarding the functionality and benefits of Barracuda Mobile Device Manager. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that are, in some cases, beyond the Company's control and that could cause the Company's results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could materially affect the Company's business and financial results are set forth in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including under the caption "Risk Factors" in the Company's filings with the SEC. The Company expressly disclaims any intent or obligation to update the forward-looking information to reflect events that occur or circumstances that exist after the date of this press release.
Hammacher Schlemmer Introduces The HD Video Recording Monocular
NEW YORK, June 12, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Continuing its 166-year history of offering the Best, the Only and the Unexpected, Hammacher Schlemmer introduces The HD Video Recording Monocular, a device that captures close-up 1080p videos of subjects in the distance.
The HD Video Recording Monocular has a coated BK-7 glass lens and roof prism that deliver sharp 8X optical magnification with a 100' field of view at 1,000 yards.
"The HD Video Recording Monocular allows users to view and record birds or landmarks in the distance at crystal-clear, high-definition resolution," explained Hammacher Schlemmer's General Manager Fred Berns.
Subjects can be seen through the device's eyepiece or on a flip-out 2.4" TFT color display--a push of a button activates a 5-megapixel CMOS sensor that records video at 30 fps. Content is saved on a microSD card and can be downloaded to a computer or viewed on a TV.
The HD Video Recording Monocular has manual focus adjustment from -5 to +5 diopters, it also takes still pictures, and its rechargeable li-ion battery provides 60 minutes of recording time on a full charge--ideal for an afternoon spent sightseeing.
The HD Video Recording Monocular is available from Hammacher Schlemmer for $249.95. For more information about this product, please visit http://www.hammacher.com/84741 or contact Trish Hammond at (847) 581-8987 or via e-mail at pr@hammacher.com.
About Hammacher Schlemmer
Hammacher Schlemmer is America's longest running catalog, offering the Best, the Only and the Unexpected since 1848. The company provides unique products that solve problems or represent the only one of their kind, backing all products with The Hammacher Schlemmer Lifetime Guarantee. Hammacher Schlemmer's innovative offerings are available through its catalog, website, and its famed landmark store at 147 E. 57th Street in New York City.
Worldwide Launch of Second Screen App 'Layzapp'- With Integrated Selfie Competition "The Loudest Fans"
Zurich, Switzerland, June 12, 2014 /PRNewswire/ --
- Get real-time statistics, scores and background infos during the football
world cup
- The Loudest Fans: interactive selfie taking allows to cheer for favorite
soccer team
- Layzapp is now available for all smartphone and tablet users worldwide
After the successfull launch of the tablet beta version in Germany, Austria and
Switzerland in April 2014, the second screen App called Layzapp ( http://www.layzapp.com) is now available for free for smartphones and tablets
worldwide. The App provides its users with detailed real-time information around every
game of the football world cup in Brazil, such as statistics, scores and player profiles
by scoreradar (http://www.scoreradar.com) - and much more. Layzapp gathers relevant
articles, Facebook posts, videos and more from the web, all you have to do is download the
App and tune in.
Thanks to the integration of Twitter, users can exchange opinions around the ongoing
games. Any content seen via Layzapp can be shared through the native sharing function or
bookmarked to be read later.
The interactive game "The Loudest Fans" (http://www.theloudestfans.com) allows
fans to cheer for their favorite soccer team. Fans are encouraged to cheer as loud as
possible for five seconds until a selfie is taken automatically. Meanwhile, a real-time
graph displays the cheering volume and the equivalent score that they earn for their
favourite team.
Meanwhile, Layzapp plans to go big: "We plan to release other interesting features in
the near future and also cover TV stations from all over the world," says Lukas Hotz,
co-founder and CEO of Layzapp. "With the current Layzapp version we intend to make the TV
experience more exciting and keep sports fans updated at all times. So tune in - AND
LAYZAPP!"
About Layzapp:
Layzapp (http://www.layzapp.com [http://layzapp.com/), ]) is a second screen App, that
aggregates and provides additional information to the current TV program. The App either
links with the current TV program via audio recognition or check in and collects
information from the web and social networks by means of custom-developed algorythms.
6.1-inch smartphone now available for pre-order at 299.00 USD on GetHuawei.com
PLANO, Texas, June 12, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Huawei, a leading global information and communications technology (ICT) solutions provider, today made the Huawei Ascend Mate2 4G LTE available for pre-order in the U.S., exclusively through the company's new ecommerce site, GetHuawei.com.
Together, GetHuawei.com and the Ascend Mate2 offer consumers a smart way to purchase their next smartphone: A convenient online shopping experience with exclusive deals, premium services, and a great, unlocked device at an accessible price - $299 USD.
"This year, Huawei is ready to challenge the status quo by delivering premium experiences, well-made and well-priced devices in a totally new way," said Mr. Zhiqiang Xu, President of Huawei Device USA.
GetHuawei.com special offers
GetHuawei.com is a new venture for Huawei Device USA. The site offers consumers an opportunity to purchase the unlocked Ascend Mate2 and take advantage of special offers and premium services exclusive to GetHuawei.com customers.
For the launch of the Ascend Mate2, consumers who pre-order a device between now and June 22 will receive a SIM card with a free month of service and an additional bonus - a phone case to protect their Ascend Mate2. In addition to the SIM card and phone case, consumers purchasing an Ascend Mate2 will also receive lifetime 20GB of online storage free from Bitcasa.
"With the Ascend Mate2, you just pop your SIM card in and you are ready to go," Mr. Xu said. "No need to worry about contracts or restrictions. You get a 4G LTE-ready device right out of the box."
A Hybrid of "Bests"
Announced at the Consumer Electronics Show this year, the 4G LTE-enabled Ascend Mate2 was designed with today's constantly connected consumer in mind.
"We put everything we know into the Mate2," Mr. Xu said. "This device has what it takes to help you live large: big power, big screen, big camera. The Mate2 has more of everything you want in a smartphone."
The Ascend Mate2 features a powerful quad-core 1.6 GHz processor and a long-lasting 3900mAh lithium polymer battery that lets you enjoy a half-day of web surfing on a single charge. Featuring unique power-saving technology that improves performance by more than 30 percent versus other smartphones in its class, a single charge can let you:
-- Stream three movies in a row;
-- Surf the web for 12 hours;
-- Talk for 25 hours;
-- Or, listen to 100 hours of music.
With a large 6.1-inch, Corning® Gorilla® Glass 3 IPS screen, and lightning-fast LTE Cat4 connectivity, the Mate2 is perfect for non-stop entertainment.
The 13-megapixel BSI rear-facing camera, features a 2.0 aperture, making it easy to take crystal clear, professional-quality photos. Turn the phone around and its 5-megapixel front-facing camera, offers both panoramic mode and Auto Face Enhancement, so you get a wider view to help you create amazing selfies and groufies.
"We're going beyond the idea of great selfies to deliver something new," Mr. Xu said. "After all, your life is big, the Mate2 is big, so your selfies and groufies should be big too. Our panoramic feature turns everyday groufies into something epic."
Running Android(TM) 4.3, the Ascend Mate2 comes in black and white, and features Huawei's proprietary Emotion UI 2.0 Lite, for easy customization. Despite the large screen, the Ascend Mate2's 9.5mm slim shape, and the ergonomic designed casing make it comfortable to hold and operate.
To learn more about the HUAWEI Ascend Mate2 4G LTE, visit GetHuawei.com.
About Huawei Consumer Business Group
As at the end of 2013, Huawei's products and services are deployed in over 170 countries, serving more than one third of the world's population. Huawei ranked third in global smartphone shipments in 2013. Huawei has also established more than 16 R&D centers around the world in countries such as the United States, Germany, Sweden, Russia, India, and China. One of Huawei's three business groups, Huawei Consumer Business Group (BG) provides a range of products including mobile phones, mobile broadband (MBB) devices, home devices and cloud services. With more than 20 years of rich business expertise in the information and communications technology (ICT) sector, an extensive global network, vast global business operations and partners, Huawei Consumer BG is dedicated to bringing the latest technology to consumers, offering a world of possibilities and creating extraordinary experiences for people everywhere.
For more information, visit Huawei Consumer BG online: consumer.huawei.com/us
For regular updates on Huawei Consumer BG, follow us on:
Official 2014 FIFA World Cup app Available to Download for Free
ZURICH, June 12, 2014 /PRNewswire/ --
The official FIFA World Cup(TM) app has launched with exclusive coverage from Brazil
2014, meaning fans can take the world's biggest event with them wherever they go. The app,
first released in December 2013, has been fully updated ready for the opening match of the
tournament.
The official app for Brazil 2014 is the essential companion, featuring live coverage
from all 64 games. Fans can stay connected with the latest news, photos, videos, real-time
voting on the official Man of the Match plus the chance to win the actual kick-off ball
from the games.
The app is the virtual ticket for smartphone users to #joinin FIFA's Global Stadium -
the social, online and mobile hub for the World Cup. During the matches, fans can engage
with friends, worldwide fans, players, coaches and celebrities from the in-app social
media feed and could see themselves in the Global Stadium, by adding #WorldCup to their
posts.
Fans can also keep track of all the tournament stats, the FIFA/Coca-Cola World
Ranking, 197 world leagues and explore how FIFA brings to life its passion for developing
the game and building a better future with stories from our worldwide projects.
Matt Stone, FIFA Head of Digital, commented: "The official 2014 FIFA World Cup app is
your virtual ticket to the global stadium. It's the best way to #joinin with the biggest
conversation on the planet - only the World Cup and digital can make this happen. It's the
perfect companion both for TV viewers and for audiences on the move."
About FIFA's digital platforms
FIFA.com is the world's official digital home of the World Cup and the online heart of
football. It is also a one-stop shop for retail, event ticketing, accommodation and
hospitality.
Via our official app and social media accounts, we encourage the billions of football
fans to #joinin and share the excitement of the #WorldCup in FIFA's Global Stadium.
Constantly updated, FIFA.com offers the latest news, live scores from 197 world
leagues, video highlights, historical data, exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes access
and - through the free FIFA.com Club - a global meeting point for people who love
football.
TripAdvisor Launches Free Mobile City Guides For Brazilian Host Cities
10 New Apps Available for City Guides for Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo, Completing the 12 Host Cities in Brazil
TripAdvisor City Guides Offer Offline-Accessible Travel Information, Including Traveler Reviews and Opinions of Hotels, Restaurants and Attractions
NEWTON, Mass., June 12, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- TripAdvisor(®), the world's largest travel site*, today announced the launch of 10 new free Mobile City Guides for iPhone and Android for Brazilian host cities: Salvador, Belo Horizonte, Fortaleza, Brasilia, Curitiba, Porto Alegre, Recife, Cuiaba, Natal and Manaus. These 10 new apps add to the ones already available for Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, ensuring travelers to all 12 host cities in Brazil can benefit from TripAdvisor City Guides.
TripAdvisor City Guides offer convenient, offline-accessible smartphone access to a wealth of detailed destination information, including traveler reviews on hotels, restaurants and attractions.
The Mobile City Guides apps are automatically synced with the freshest TripAdvisor content available, so users can access the latest traveler reviews and opinions on the go. Additionally, the Mobile City Guides offer insider tips that can be viewed on the app without a data connection. Access to offline information is particularly useful for travelers abroad, who can download the apps before they go, sparing them from expensive roaming charges.
"Travelers need easily accessible travel information to guide them around the cities they visit and the TripAdvisor City Guides allow users to access TripAdvisor content on the go, upload photos and reviews, and gain insider tips of each city - all while offline, free of expensive roaming charges," said Nathan Clapton, vice president of Mobile Partnerships at TripAdvisor. "We are excited to bring 10 new Brazilian cities into our app portfolio, completing availability for all 12 host cities to ultimately help all soccer fans make the most of their trip to Brazil."
TripAdvisor Mobile City Guides apps are currently available for a total of 92 destinations (including these 10 new cities). The Mobile City Guides are available worldwide in English for free in the Google Play store for Android devices and shortly in the Apple App store, as is the free TripAdvisor app. To date, more than 100 million people have downloaded the various TripAdvisor apps across all platforms.
About TripAdvisor
TripAdvisor(®) is the world's largest travel site*, enabling travelers to plan and have the perfect trip. TripAdvisor offers trusted advice from real travelers and a wide variety of travel choices and planning features with seamless links to booking tools. TripAdvisor branded sites make up the largest travel community in the world, reaching nearly 260 million unique monthly visitors**, and more than 150 million reviews and opinions covering more than 4 million accommodations, restaurants and attractions. The sites operate in 41 countries worldwide, including China under daodao.com. TripAdvisor also includes TripAdvisor for Business, a dedicated division that provides the tourism industry access to millions of monthly TripAdvisor visitors.
New 3D Systems Printers Available from RS Components Bring Faster Print Speeds and Higher Resolution to Consumers and Professionals
Cube(R) 3 and CubePro(TM) third generation 3D printers now available to pre-order from RS in Australia and New Zealand
SYDNEY, June 12, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- RS Components( http://australia.rs-online.com ) (RS), the trading brand of Electrocomponents plc( http://www.electrocomponents.com ) (LSE:ECM), the global distributor for engineers, has expanded its 3D print offering( http://au.rs-online.com/web/c/computing-peripherals/printers-printing-supplies/3d-printers ) with the introduction of the latest 3D printers from 3D Systems, a leading provider of 3D printing centric design-to-manufacturing solutions including 3D printers, print materials and cloud sourced on-demand custom parts for professionals and consumers. The new Cube(R) 3 and CubePro(TM) 3D printers are now available to order from RS in Australia and New Zealand, with delivery expected to start in July.
Cube 3 and CubePro offer multi-colour and multi-materials, ultra-high resolution settings of 70-micron thin print layers to give smoothness and fine detail, faster print speeds, and printing on-the-go from a smartphone app to be released by 3D Systems when product shipments begin. Both printers feature a colour touchscreen with an intuitive user interface and LEDs highlighting prints in action, and are equipped with fast Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity.
Cube 3 is the only dual material, plug-and-play, child-safe IEC 60950 certified 3D printer that is easy to use. The printer is supplied with two starter cartridges in neon green and white, and 25 designs to start printing quickly. Cube 3 delivers up to two times faster print speed and accuracy than other printers on the market for printed parts up to 6" cubed. It prints in two materials and up to two colours, simultaneously using compostable PLA and recyclable ABS plastics. Both materials are available in 23 different colour cartridges. Instant material loading makes it easier than changing an ink cartridge. The new non-clog technology and moisture-lock cartridges ensure long shelf life and total material usage, improving print quality and sustainability.
The professionally capable CubePro is the only triple material, controlled print chamber engineer's desktop 3D printer. It prints 2.5 times larger than any other desktop prosumer and hobbyist printer (10.8" x 10.45" x 9.5" or 275 mm x 265 mm x 240 mm), and guarantees faster, more precise prints with easy feed cartridges for prolonged material life. In addition to ABS and PLA plastic, CubePro also supports a new engineering grade nylon material, perfect for end-use applications.
Cube is a registered trademark of 3D Systems Corporation. CubePro is a trademark of 3D Systems Corporation.
About RS Components
RS Components and Allied Electronics are the trading brands of Electrocomponents plc, the global distributor for engineers. With operations in 32 countries, we offer around 500,000 products through the internet, catalogues and at trade counters to over one million customers, shipping more than 44,000 parcels a day. Our products, sourced from 2,500 leading suppliers, include semiconductors, interconnect, passives and electromechanical, automation and control, electrical, test and measurement, tools and consumables.
Electrocomponents is listed on the London Stock Exchange and in the last financial year ended 31 March 2014 had revenues of GBP1.27bn.
Panasonic Announces LUMIX DMC-FZ1000 - The World's First Digital Compact Camera with 4K Video Recording Capability
One-Inch, High Sensitivity MOS Sensor and 16x Optical Zoom for the Ultimate Picture Quality
NEWARK, N.J., June 12, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Panasonic announced today the new LUMIX DMC-FZ1000 (FZ1000) -- the world's first digital compact camera to offer 4K video recording capability*. The FZ1000 boasts a one-inch, High Sensitivity MOS Sensor and 4K video recording capability. The latest member of the popular LUMIX FZ series, the FZ1000 will be available at http://www.shop.panasonic.com and select channel partners in late July with an MSRP of $899.99.
The integration of a newly developed LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT 16x optical zoom lens achieves high resolution edge to edge. It also produces stunningly beautiful defocus together with the large-sized MOS Sensor.
The 1-inch large 20.1-megapixel High Sensitivity MOS Sensor dramatically improves S/N (signal to noise) ratio, making it possible to capture a clear image with minimum noise even when it is shot at a high ISO. The Venus Engine is also newly developed to feature multiple noise reduction systems such as Multi Process NR, Random Filter and Aperture Filter, to achieve high color reproduction and high image quality with a natural look.
The FZ1000 incorporates 4K (QFHD 4K: 3840x2160, up to 30 fps in MP4) video recording capability for the first time with a digital compact camera*(1). Panasonic is also proposing a new solution to capture 3840x2160 8-megapixel equivalent images from the 4K video footage which is normally difficult to photograph. Also, videos can be recorded in full-HD 1,920 x 1,080 60p in AVCHD Progressive (MPEG-4 / H.264) format or MP4 at 60p. A powerful 16x optical zoom with 5-step speed control enables smooth zoom adjustment even while video recording. The 5-axis HYBRID O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer)+ with Active Mode effectively compensates for vibration. Creative Video mode, High Speed video in full-HD at 120fps, Time Lapse Shot and Stop Motion Animation are all available for a variety of video effects..
The FZ1000 also features DFD (Depth From Defocus) technology, for its focusing accuracy and improved Light Speed AF of approx. 0.09 sec*(2). Together with the quick start-up time of approx.0.66 sec, the DMC-FZ1000 never misses a shooting opportunity. High speed burst shooting can be shot at 12 fps in 20.1-megapixel full resolution. It also offers a max.1/4,000 (mechanical) and 1/16,000 (electronic) shutter speed.
The FZ1000 boasts a high-precision, high-speed OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) LVF (Live View Finder). With 0.39-inch 2,359k-dot high resolution in 4:3 aspect ratio, the new LVF boasts approx.1.88x / 0.7x (35mm camera equiv.) magnification and 100% field of view. The 3.0-inch 921k-dot free-angle LCD with its wide-viewing angle rotates 180° to the side and tilts 270° up and down. Operability is also improved with a newly added zoom lever, zoom ring and drive mode dial for more intuitive operation. For more creative freedom, Creative Control, Creative Panorama and Photo Style are available.
The FZ1000 integrates Wi-Fi® connectivity (IEEE 802.11 b/g/n) with NFC (Near Field Communication) to offer a more flexible shooting experience and instant image sharing with a simple operation. The FZ1000 also comes with a 3.5mm jack for an external microphone connection. In addition, RAW data can be processed in camera.
*(1 )As of June 12, 2014
*(2 )Based on the CIPA standard, when using Live View Finder.
1. Bright Leica DC Lens 25-400mm F2.8-4.0
Panasonic newly developed LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens system (F2.8-F4.0) with 16x optical zoom (35mm camera equivalent: 25-400mm). Comprised of 15 elements in 11 groups, including 4 ED lenses and 5 aspherical lenses with 8 aspherical surfaces, this advanced lens unit achieves high MTF value.
2. Large 1-inch 20.1MP MOS Sensor for Amazing Defocus Control
The DMC-FZ1000 incorporates a 1-inch large High Sensitivity MOS Sensor with 20.1-megapixel high resolution. The new 1-inch sensor is 4x larger than conventional 1/2.3-inch sensor in size. This new large MOS Sensor improves S/N ratio, resulting in dramatic reduction of noise even when shooting at ISO 12,800.
The Venus Engine image processor was developed for the DMC-FZ1000 to dramatically boost its performance with a new quad-core CPU providing high speed signal processing required for rich 4K video recording . The advanced Multi-process NR (Noise Reduction) applies effective noise reduction and detail processing according to each component frequency. Plus, newly added Random Filter granulates chromatic noise to be blended into the image even more naturally.
3. The World's First Digital Compact Camera Recording High Quality Video in 4K
The LUMIX FZ1000 is not only for capturing still images but also high quality video in 4K. It features outstanding 4K video recording capability (QFHD 4K: 3840x2160, up to 30 fps (NTSC) / in MP4*(3). Users can enjoy recording video in ultra high definition and even grab an 8-megapixel frame as still image. After recording video in 4K, users can cut out a single frame to choose the best still image in rich resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels. The FZ1000 should be used with UHS Speed Class 3 (U3). The UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) guarantees a constant minimum write speed of 30MB/s to respond to market needs for 4K video.
*(3) 4K video can be recorded up to 29 minutes 59 seconds. Use SDXC/SDHC Memory Card compatible with UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) when using high bitrate video recording mode of 100 Mbps or greater.
4. Super-fast LUMIX DFD Focusing Technology
For even faster response and higher mobility, the FZ1000 newly integrates a dedicated motor into the focus system to achieve extremely fast focusing. In addition, the Light Speed AF is further enhanced with an adoption of DFD (Depth From Defocus) technology which even shortens the time to set focus. It calculates the distance to the subject by evaluating 2 images with different sharpness level while consulting the data of optical characteristics of the current lens in a moment. As a result, the DMC-FZ1000 achieves ultra high speed AF of approx.0.09 sec*(4) at wide end and even approx.0.17 sec at tele-end.*(5) Together with the quick start-up of approx.0.66 sec and short release time lag, the DMC-FZ1000 never lets photographers miss fleeting shooting opportunities.
*(4 )Based on the CIPA standard, when using Live View Finder.
*(5 )Panasonic in-house examination (infinity to 2m shooting time lag)
5. Integrated Smartphone/Tablet Wi-Fi® for Remote Imaging Control
The FZ1000 integrates Wi-Fi® connectivity (IEEE 802.11 b/g/n) with NFC (Near Field Communication) technology camera to offer more flexible shooting experience and instant image sharing. With the Panasonic "Image App", remote shooting of both stills and video is possible by using the smartphone/tablet for a remote shutter with a monitor. You can release the shutter, zoom, focus and set shutter speed, aperture, exposure compensation with a smartphone / tablet.
6. Other Features
3cm Macro Shooting
Stunning macro shots can be shot with minimum focusing distance of 3cm.
Highlight/Shadow Control
The Live View function is also advanced digitally making it possible to adjust highlight / shadow separately with the front/rear dial. 3 patterns of settings can be customized in addition to 3 patterns of preset.
RAW data development in Camera
The FZ1000 is capable of processing RAW images in camera.
Level Gauge
The DMC-FZ1000 is equipped with Level Gauge to detect the horizontal / vertical angle of view.
iA+ (Intelligent Auto Plus) Mode for Photo and Video
For beginners, iA (Intelligent Auto) mode supports taking beautiful pictures with a variety of shooting-assist functions including AF Tracking, Intelligent Scene Selector, Face Recognition, Intelligent ISO Control and Food Recognition.
Optional Accessories
A GN58 powerful External Flash (DMW-FL580L) is newly added to the LUMIX optional accessories which allow high speed charging of approx.1.7 sec. Not only wireless control but also LED video light functions are available. The Stereo / Shotgun Microphone (DMW-MS2) which enables stereo/shotgun switch. The 62mm diameter of ND Filter (DMW-LND62), PL Filter (DMW-LPL62) and MC Protector (DMW-LMCH62) are also offered for more creative freedom.
-- The "AVCHD" is a high definition (HD) digital video recording / playback
format jointly established by Panasonic Corporation and Sony
Corporation.
-- "AVCHD Progressive", "AVCHD", the "AVCHD Progressive" Logo and the
"AVCHD" Logo are trademarks of Panasonic Corporation and Sony
Corporation.
-- Android and Google Play are trademarks or registered trademarks of
Google Inc.
-- IOS is a trademark or registered trademark of Cisco in the U.S. and
other countries and is used under license.
-- All other company and product names are trademarks of their respective
corporations.
-- This unit is compatible with both SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory Cards. You can
only use SDHC/SDXC Memory Cards on devices that are compatible with
them. You cannot use SDHC/SDXC Memory Cards on devices that are only
compatible with SD Memory Cards. (When using an SDHC/SDXC Memory Card on
another device, be sure to read the operating instructions for that
device.)
-- SDHC Memory Cards and SDXC Memory Cards can be used only in equipment
that is compatible with their respective formats.
-- If the computer being used does not support SDXC Memory Cards, a message
prompting you to format may appear. (Doing so will cause recorded images
to be erased so do not choose to format.) If the card is not recognized,
please refer to the below support site. http://panasonic.net/avc/sdcard/information/SDXC.html [Open New Window]
-- Some accessories are not available in some countries.
-- The use of recorded or printed materials that are protected by copyright
for any purpose other than personal enjoyment is prohibited, as it would
infringe upon the rights of the copyright holder.
-- Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.
To learn more about Panasonic's line of LUMIX Digital Cameras and other consumer electronic products please visit http://www.shop.panasonic.com and http://www.lumixlounge.com. You can also follow Panasonic on Twitter (@PanasonicUSA) and Facebook.
About Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company
Based in Newark, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Electronics, a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American Subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC) and the hub of Panasonic's U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations, offers a wide-range of consumer solutions in the U.S. The Company's portfolio of innovative consumer products ranges from VIERA Full HD 3D Televisions, Blu-ray Disc players, LUMIX Digital Cameras, Camcorders, Home Audio, Cordless Phones, Home Appliances, Wellness, Personal Care and Beauty products.
National Rollout of Wireless Charging - by Duracell Powermat - Begins in Starbucks
100,000 'Powermat Spots' to be Deployed in Participating Starbucks and Teavana Fine Teas + Tea Bars
SEATTLE and NEW YORK, June 12, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Duracell Powermat and Starbucks today announced that they have begun a national rollout of Powermat wireless charging in Starbucks beginning with stores in San Francisco's Bay Area. The companies will expand Powermat to additional major markets in 2015, with a full national rollout in Starbucks company-operated stores and Teavana Fine Teas + Tea Bars planned over time. Initial pilots in Europe and Asia are expected within the year.
"From WiFi and the in-store Starbucks Digital Network to mobile payment and digital music downloads, we have always tried to anticipate our customers' needs early in the adoption curve and provide a world-class solution. We are thrilled to offer our customers that next level of convenience with Powermat wireless charging. Rather than hunting around for an available power outlet, they can seamlessly charge their device while enjoying their favorite food or beverage offering right in our stores," said Adam Brotman, chief digital officer at Starbucks. "We were pleased with the customer response to the pilot tests, and we're now expanding this offering nationally to provide our customers a quality and reliable experience as they use our stores as their respite, their office away from home or as a gathering place with their friends and family."
Stores will be equipped with 'Powermat Spots' - designated areas on tables and counters where customers can place their compatible device and charge wirelessly. Select Starbucks stores in Boston and San Jose offer Powermat today and the broader rollout can be tracked at http://www.powermat.com/locations.
"Powermat Spots in Starbucks are the result of almost a decade of scientific research spanning material sciences, magnetic induction and mesh networking," said Ran Poliakine, CEO of Powermat Technologies. "The two-pronged power-plug dates back to the era of the horse drawn carriage, so that today's announcement marks the first meaningful upgrade to the way we access power in well over a century."
Powermat Spots comply with the open standard set by the PMA - whose members include AT&T, Blackberry, HTC, Huawei, LG, Microsoft, Qualcomm, Samsung, TI and ZTE - resulting in a growing universe of devices and accessories that will charge seamlessly in Starbucks.
"Starbucks is a highly regarded global brand and its decision to rollout a Powermat network is both empowering and transformative for consumers and the mobile industry as a whole," said Jeff Howard, vice president, Mobile Devices and Accessories, AT&T Mobility. "Many of our newer devices have compatible technology either embedded or available as an added feature to give consumers the freedom to charge wirelessly. Today's announcement marks an important time for our customers - they will have the freedom to stay charged effortlessly in Starbucks stores nationwide over time."
"Starbucks is transforming the way consumers get power to their phones, in much the same way it made WiFi a standard amenity in public places. This endeavor is a critical step in Duracell's vision to make dead battery anxiety a thing of the past," said Stassi Anastassov, President of Duracell at Procter & Gamble. "When Starbucks introduced WiFi in their stores in 2001, 95 percent of devices didn't have WiFi, and multiple standards hampered the industry. The rest is history. Starbucks' plans to offer Powermat nationally is likely to settle any lingering standards questions, and usher wireless power into the mainstream."
About Duracell Powermat
Duracell Powermat is the joint venture between Procter & Gamble's Duracell brand and Powermat Technologies. Duracell Powermat provides real-life power solutions for consumers both at-home and on-the-go at select retailers and at http://www.duracellpowermat.com. As part of the Procter & Gamble Company (NYSE: PG), Duracell has been powering people around the world for more than 40 years. Powermat Technologies is a pioneer and leader of the wireless power industry, and its technology forms the basis of the open standard set by the PMA - the platform of choice for such global leaders as AT&T, DuPont, Duracell, General Motors and Starbucks. To learn more please visit http://www.powermat.com, and follow Powermat via Facebook, and Twitter.
About Starbucks
Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting high-quality arabica coffee. Today, with stores around the globe, the company is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the world. Through our unwavering commitment to excellence and our guiding principles, we bring the unique Starbucks Experience to life for every customer through every cup. To share in the experience, please visit us in our stores or online at http://www.starbucks.com. For more information on this news release, contact us.
One2Touch Shows World's First NFC Mobile Gaming Controller at E3
SAN FRANCISCO, June 11, 2014 /PRNewswire/ --
Mobile peripheral innovator One2Touch showed a prototype of the world's first NFC
mobile game controller at E3 today.
Ultra-responsive, battery-less and instantly pairable, the One2Touch NFC gaming
controller adapts to fit around NFC-equipped smartphones, providing precise tactile
control and button feel for mobile gamers. A pro model and a casual gamer model are both
in development.
Rapid Response
Instant touch response is at the core of every gaming experience. One2Touch's five
years as a leader in NFC engineering enables its NFC gaming controller to set new
standards for speed and feel between the peripheral and the mobile device.
100% battery-free
The One2Touch NFC gaming controller uses the company's proprietary power-harvesting
technology for a completely battery-less experience.
First developed for the company's portable NFC keyboards in 2013, One2Touch's power
harvesting technology allows the controller to draw a very low amount of power from the
smartphone. The One2Touch NFC gaming controller never runs flat, never needs a battery
change, and has a negligible impact on the smartphone battery life. In addition, the lack
of battery assembly allows a lighter, slimmer physical profile and a lower material cost.
Instant pairing
Mobile gaming, both casual and serious, is exploding in popularity. NFC technology
allows true 'pick up and play' pairing between controller and smartphone, and NFC's low
power requirements help ensure battery drain is as low as possible.
One2Touch CEO Morten Wiese spoke about the products from One2Touch's head office in
Oslo, Norway today: "Mobile gaming is the future of gaming, and NFC is a perfect
technology to create a physical, instant fit between console and smart device," Wiese
said.
"One2Touch has spent five years innovating and engineering NFC-based solutions, in
addition to combination NFC/BLE systems. Our team is uniquely positioned to be a first
mover in this exciting new NFC gaming console space."
"We're excited to be at E3 speaking with prospective partners about OEM/ODM
development opportunities for these products", Wiese added.
To see the One2Touch NFC gaming controller prototype at E3, contact One2Touch VP
Strategic Alliances Nils Knagenhjelm or contact the company at http://www.one2touch.com
About One2Touch
One2Touch is an award winning Norwegian-based company responsible for the world's
first NFC based keyboards and mobile gaming consoles. A true mobile-first company,
One2Touch develops products that create great user experiences when paired with mobile
handsets.
A venture-backed company established in 2009, and with HQ and R&D offices in Norway,
One2Touch is an OEM provider with key functions in-house and manufacturing partners in
China.
The company's products utilize the short distance wireless capabilities of NFC /
FeLiCa enabled mobile phones to achieve Touch & Type functionality in its peripherals.
Images:
Microsoft retail stores celebrate the arrival of Surface Pro 3
Microsoft Stores to host a series of in-store events and experiences June 20-28.
REDMOND, Wash., June 11, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Microsoft Corp. on Wednesday announced details for in-store events and experiences in the more than 90 Microsoft retail stores in the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico, to celebrate the launch of the tablet that can replace your laptop: Surface Pro 3. Starting now, and continuing through launch day on June 20 and beyond, Microsoft Stores are offering the best way to experience, pre-order and celebrate the arrival of Surface Pro 3. Everyone is encouraged to come in and check out the excitement for themselves and get expert tips and advice on Surface Pro 3 directly from the company that created it.
Get hands-on with Surface Pro 3 in store and pre-order now
Customers can go in store or online at MicrosoftStore.com now to pre-order Surface Pro 3, and can visit any Microsoft retail store to be among the first to have a hands-on experience with Surface Pro 3 and the latest accessories -- including a Microsoft Store exclusive red type cover -- before they're available to the public on June 20. Each store will have multiple devices to try along with a team of store experts dedicated to delivering the best choice, quality and service with every technology purchase.
Launch morning events in all stores on June 20
To celebrate the arrival of the Surface Pro 3, all Microsoft retail stores in the U.S. and Canada will host launch day activities starting when stores open on Friday, June 20, including VIP white-glove pre-order pickup, giveaways, music, food and more. Attendees will have the opportunity to win dozens of giveaways and prizes, including a family vacation to Honolulu, Hawaii, for four. See https://microsoft.promo.eprize.com/surfacepro3 for full official rules.
People can join the event at the Microsoft Store Facebook page to get the latest information, and additional details will be posted at http://www.microsoftstore.com as they become available. You can also visit your local Microsoft retail store to find out more.
Surface Summer Celebration events on June 28
The fun continues the following week with Surface Summer Celebration events taking place in Microsoft retail stores on Saturday, June 28. All stores will have summer-themed activities and giveaways, then attendees at 10 select stores will enjoy a family-inspired afternoon of fun featuring food, games, and the chance to meet local sports celebrities as well as the newest member of the Surface family, Surface Pro 3. Events will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. local time at the following stores:
-- Bellevue Square, Bellevue, Washington
-- Aventura Mall, Aventura, Florida
-- Westfield San Francisco Centre, San Francisco
-- Westfield Garden State Plaza, Paramus, New Jersey
-- Scottsdale Fashion Square, Scottsdale, Arizona
-- Woodfield Mall, Schaumburg, Illinois
-- The Fashion Centre at Pentagon City, Arlington, Virginia
-- Square One Shopping Centre, Mississauga, Ontario
-- South Coast Plaza, Costa Mesa, California
-- The Shops at La Cantera, San Antonio
About Surface Pro 3
Surface Pro 3 is the tablet that can replace your laptop. Powerful, portable and designed to maximize productivity, Surface Pro 3 brings the best of a laptop and the best of a tablet together in one sleek device. With a large, 12" ClearType Full HD color-calibrated display, multi-position kickstand, increased processing power, a new Surface Pen, front- and rear-facing cameras, and weighing only 1.76 lbs, Surface Pro 3 is light yet powerful, delivering the power, portability and productivity you need.
About Microsoft retail stores
Microsoft continues to expand its existing retail footprint in the U.S., offering an assortment of best-in-class products, including Windows 8.1 PCs, Surface Pro 3, Windows Phones, Xbox One, Microsoft Office 365 and more. Customers also receive end-to-end service with an Answer Desk and knowledgeable staff to answer questions, make recommendations, and help with PC setups and other services, so they can walk out the door with a product that's ready to run. More information can be found at http://www.microsoftstore.com.
Badgeville announces next generation engagement solution for internal employee and external customer communities
Badgeville for Communities provides out-of-the-box integration with leading community & collaboration platforms
REDWOOD CITY, Calif., June 11, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Badgeville, the global leader in gamification, today announced the launch of Badgeville for Communities, its next generation solution to add game, reputation, and social mechanics to leading community and collaboration products. The new Badgeville for Communities product will easily integrate with the popular enterprise social network and collaboration products, including Yammer, Jive, Lithium, Telligent and SharePoint.
In recent years, companies have invested in online communities to facilitate employee collaboration and customer self-service, but many organizations struggle to keep their customers, partners and employees engaged. Gartner reports that nearly 72 percent of customers never log in to online communities, and that by 2014, 70 percent of online communities are predicted to fail.
Badgeville's newest product offering, Badgeville for Communities, is the ideal solution to encourage employees and customers to contribute to online communities and improve the quality of conversations and interactions. Badgeville allows businesses to easily discern and reward desired behavior patterns to significantly boost engagement.
"Since layering Badgeville's Behavior Platform on top of our existing Jive community network, we saw a 21% increase in overall user engagement. Furthermore, we found that community users spend 240% more on average than non-community members. Most importantly, Badgeville has really given us the ability to understand the reputation and value of individual community members, and to hone in on and reward champions of our brand," says Brace Rennels, Director of Social Community Strategy at EMC, a leading provider of IT storage hardware solutions.
By adding Badgeville for Communities to existing popular social collaboration platforms like Yammer and Jive, businesses can create momentum in online communities that are struggling by rewarding quality content and meaningful collaboration.
Booz Allen Hamilton, a leading provider of management and technology consulting services, is implementing the new Badgeville for Communities product as a key component of their Digital Workforce initiative.
"An increasingly diverse and mobilized workforce presents immense challenges for organizations trying to engage their employees in a meaningful way," said Walton Smith, Principal at Booz Allen. "We are implementing Badgeville on top of our Yammer community to not only drive engagement and participation, but to also supply a lens into the individual specialties in our workforce."
The next-generation Badgeville for Communities platform features:
-- Extensive Platform Support: Easily compatible with the popular corporate
collaboration platforms Jive, Lithium, Yammer, and SharePoint
-- Portable Reputation Across Multiple Communities: Ability to combine
customer and employee communities with portable reputations and transfer
existing profile reputations to new communities
-- Out-of-the-Box Setup: Simple configuration for community use cases
including Social Enterprise, Conversation Starter, Forum Expert and
Content Creator
-- Unparalleled App Support: Broadest app support for enterprise
collaboration communities in the industry
Badgeville President & CEO Jon Shalowitz said there has been a groundswell of customer interest in driving engagement and reputational awareness in online community investments.
"Badgeville for Communities is an all-encompassing solution that allows businesses to identify and reward the reputational value of individual community members," said Shalowitz. "This is a key area of technical investment for us. We are thrilled to be working with the leading community/collaboration solution vendors to drive more success for their customers."
About Badgeville
Badgeville, The Behavior Platform, is the world's leading cloud-based gamification technology. With hundreds of global customers, Badgeville brings Game Mechanics, Reputation Mechanics, and Social Mechanics to industry leaders and innovators including American Express, Oracle, Samsung, Bell Media, Kendall Jackson, Philips Electronics, and more. Founded in 2010, Badgeville is based in Redwood City, Calif., and has offices in New York and Europe. (To learn more follow @Badgeville or visit http://www.badgeville.com)
SOURCE Badgeville
Badgeville
CONTACT: Sarah Hilmer, 317-588-3999, shilmer@sspr.com
Fabula Football Makes a Splash with Live Fab Pools
TEL AVIV, Israel, June 11, 2014 /PRNewswire/ --
The social sports trading game reinvents office sweeps just in time for the World Cup
Independent mobile games developer Fabula Gaming announced today the release of its
"Fab Pools" feature, an exciting addition to their highly successful Fabula Football game
format that will allow players to compete in dynamic and exciting pools during live World
Cup matches.
Fabula Football is a unique virtual currency sports game that combines the excitement
of live football betting with the stock market. With already over a million virtual bets
being placed every month, Fabula has delivered a new and thrilling second screen
experience for football fans all over the world. Players place a bet and then watch live
as its value goes up or down, depending on the action. In its newly released edition for
the World Cup, players score points according to their performance and will compete with
friends in a league table over the course of the 4-week tournament.
"We're breathing new life into static World Cup office pools," says Fabula CEO Yoav
Pilosof. "Players now can react instantly to any event in the match, they can buy, sell or
hang on until the final whistle. It's a dynamic and engaging game - just like football."
The app, available for iPhone, Android and WP, is integrated with Facebook and packed
with features, stats and analytics that enable players to play on all football leagues and
tournaments worldwide, while they track their lifetime progress.
About Fabula Gaming
Fabula Gaming was founded in January 2013 by a small team of developers, financial
market experts and sports fans with the aim of becoming the first company to successfully
combine the excitement and immediacy of virtual money games with the thrill of live sports
betting. Using proprietary pricing algorithms, Fabula Gaming has managed to create an
original online sports betting game that keeps its users fully transfixed... before,
during and after the match.
SAN FRANCISCO, June 11, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- TouchPal (http://www.touchpal.com), an innovative and award-winning keyboard developer, today announced that it made the first 3(rd)-party keyboard running on iOS 8. It also released a video demonstrating the beta version running on iOS with gesture input.
TouchPal is a popular touchscreen keyboard app on Android, with over 150 million users worldwide. It is also one of the most downloaded keyboards on Google Play. It is the winner of 2009 GSMA Global Innovation Award and Top 6 Finalist of TechCrunch Disrupt. As the inventor of mistyping correction, mixed language input, adaptive learning and sentence-based gesture input, TouchPal has over 50 patents issued or pending.
iOS 8 is the first iOS system that supports third-party keyboard. Many keyboard developers claimed to be working on iOS 8, but TouchPal took the leading place in the game by successfully running its keyboard app on iOS 8 before anyone else. In the demo video, it runs smoothly with sliding input, which is missing from iOS for a long time. Users can slide over the letters on the keyboard to form a word, slide up for a number, and slide down for a symbol.
"We are excited to share this good news to our users and partners," said Michael Wong, CEO of TouchPal. "It shows that TouchPal is a leading innovator in the text input area. We will continue to provide the best experience to our end users."
TouchPal is calling for beta testers for its iOS 8 version. The beta program will be invitation-only and will be open to a limited number of users, selected from its twitter followers (@touchpal).
IBM Launches New Cloud Data Centers for Government Workloads
SoftLayer Data Centers Designed for FedRAMP and FISMA Compliance to Deliver Greater Control, Security and Availability, Expands Access to Growing Cloud Ecosystem
WASHINGTON, June 11, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- IBM (NYSE: IBM) today announced the availability of new IBM Cloud Services data centers, designed for the enterprise, providing SoftLayer cloud infrastructure-as-a-service built to meet US Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP) and Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA) requirements.
Through the new data centers and development programs, IBM is also opening the market for the SoftLayer ecosystem, enabling business partners to deliver over 100 applications and services such as security, desktop virtualization and geospatial services directly to government clients.
IBM is providing government agencies the ideal platform for creating hybrid and private cloud environments that integrate on-premise and cloud-based workloads through the new data centers. Hybrid clouds provide agencies more security, control and opportunity to continue leveraging existing private cloud investments. According to IDC, hybrid and private clouds are expected to make up 80 percent of federal cloud deployments.
The first of the new data centers will open in Dallas, Texas, this month, with a companion center opening in Ashburn, Virginia, later this year. The highly secure SoftLayer data centers will have initial capacity for 30,000 servers and share an isolated, robust private network with 2,000 gigabytes per second of connectivity.
IBM Cloud Services and its SoftLayer infrastructure-as-a-service are designed for the enterprise, supporting:
-- Data: enabling clients to mine their data as their most valuable
resource while protecting its privacy and security
-- Open Integration: rapidly combining existing and new services and data
to drive new innovations for organizations
-- Control: helping clients decide, manage and secure where their data and
apps reside
Data is an abundant resource across government and agencies are challenged with using it to gain insights and transform with speed. Acting in the business moment requires the ability to harness all available data and apply the full power of analytics on a massive scale, privately and securely.
IBM is also building a dedicated Security Operations Center for the new data centers to provide government clients with added security, availability and incident response capabilities. Through its customizable solutions, agencies can achieve optimized application performance and responsiveness via SoftLayer, and faster application development, deployment and delivery.
"Government clients will find SoftLayer services delivered via these new centers give them the ideal platform for the mission critical workloads they are moving to the cloud, or new web-centric workloads," said Anne Altman, General Manager, US Federal, IBM. "We've designed these centers with government clients' needs in mind, investing in added security features and redundancies to provide a high level of availability. With business partners enabled to deliver cloud solutions via the new SoftLayer centers for the Federal government, we are fostering an ecosystem of innovation."
The new data centers come as part of IBM's $1.2 billion commitment to expand its global cloud operations for IBM Cloud Services in all major geographies and financial centers. By the end of 2014, IBM will operate 40 data centers across five continents, and will double SoftLayer cloud capacity. Fifteen new data centers will be added to the existing fleet of 25, in locations including China, Hong Kong, London, Japan, India, Canada, Mexico City and Dallas.
The SoftLayer platform provides single-tenant and multi-tenant cloud servers and storage. SoftLayer bare metal servers--dedicated, single-tenant servers--provide added control and enhanced performance predictability, ideal for government workloads focused on high performance computing and advanced analytics such as those used by federal research, healthcare and academic organizations.
SoftLayer also features a high-speed private network between data centers, and a single, exhaustive API that covers all facets of the platform. With these features, government clients get full security, access, control and visibility for their cloud infrastructure, allowing agencies to build cloud environments to their specific compliance and security needs.
As part of today's announcement, IBM launched the Bluemix(TM) Platform-as-a-Service Acceleration Program for US Federal, which is designed to enable a cloud-based ecosystem of developers, Independent Software Vendors and Federal Systems Integrators. The program will launch new education and tools for in-house developers in federal agencies and business partners. Built on SoftLayer's cloud infrastructure, Bluemix will help federal developers rapidly build, test, scale and manage apps for mobile, social, analytics and more. The Bluemix platform, which is based on Cloud Foundry and open standards, will also allow federal developers the open integration and connections necessary to deploy apps across different systems and legacy infrastructures. In addition to the new tools available, the program will also feature education events, contests, workshops and certification opportunities for federal developers.
One year ago, IBM made a strategic acquisition of SoftLayer for $2 billion. Since July 2013, SoftLayer has flourished as the foundation of IBM's cloud computing business by winning clients, attracting new partners, expanding IBM's cloud footprint and driving new innovations. In the past year with SoftLayer, IBM has generated 50%+ rate of growth in cloud computing and record earnings of $4.4 billion in cloud revenue in 2013.
About IBM Cloud Computing
IBM is the global leader in cloud with an unmatched portfolio of open cloud solutions that help clients to think, build or tap into it. No other company has the ability to bring together unique industry knowledge and unmatched cloud capabilities, that have already helped more than 30,000 clients around the world. Today, IBM has more than 100 cloud SaaS solutions, thousands of experts with deep industry knowledge helping clients transform and a network of 40 data centers worldwide.
Since 2007, IBM has invested more than $7 billion in 15 acquisitions to accelerate its cloud initiatives and build a high value cloud portfolio. IBM holds 1,560 cloud patents focused on driving innovation. IBM holds 1,560 cloud patents focused on driving innovation and has topped the annual list of US patent leaders for 21 consecutive years. IBM processes more the 5.5M client transactions daily through IBM's public cloud. IBM expects to achieve $7 billion in annual cloud revenue by 2015. For more information about cloud offerings from IBM, visit http://www.ibm.com/cloud.
Stratasys 3D Printing and Legacy Effects Suit Robocop
MINNEAPOLIS and REHOVOT, Israel, June 11, 2014 /PRNewswire/ --
Stratasys Objet Connex multi-material 3D printing technology integral to production of
iconic RoboCop suit and helmet created by Legacy Effects
Stratasys Ltd. [http://www.stratasys.com ] (Nasdaq:SSYS), a leading global provider of
3D printing and additive manufacturing solutions, today announced that the company's
multi-material Objet Connex
[http://www.stratasys.com/3d-printers/design-series/precision/objet-connex500 ] 3D printing
technology has played a leading role in the production of the iconic RoboCop suit created
by Legacy Effects for the main character in this year's blockbuster movie.
Tasked with realizing the 3D designs from the Robocop production designer for the
ultra-sleek RoboCop suit was Hollywood special effects company, Legacy Effects. Their use
of Stratasys 3D printing technology has helped bring to life a number of recognizable
movie characters on the big screen.
Using Stratasys' high resolution Objet Connex multi-material 3D printing technology,
Legacy Effects produced every aspect of the RoboCop suit - from helmet, to boots - as
master mold patterns. These pieces were then molded and cast into other materials to
create variants of the suit depending on the requirements of each scene.
In addition, some versions of the suit used in the movie were composed of as much as
90 percent actual Stratasys 3D printed parts. For example, the striking visor, which forms
part of the helmet on the black version of the RoboCop suit, features a gleaming red
strip; the entire visor used in the movie is 3D printed with Stratasys transparent
(VeroClear) material.
Stratasys 3D printing technology the only option for reproducing fine detail
According to Jason Lopes, Lead Design Engineer, Legacy Effects, RoboCop's chest-armour
piece perhaps best exemplifies how the use of 3D printing technology overcomes certain
challenges that can affect production methods.
"First, in terms of the size of RoboCop's chest piece specifically, only Stratasys' 3D
printing technology would allow us to print something at the actual size; the part
virtually fills the entire build-tray," Lopes explains.
"Second, the same part comprises a blend of smooth areas, as well as other areas that
feature an extremely high level of detail, such as the police badge and other logos, which
we needed to retain for the molding process. There isn't a technology currently available
beyond that provided by Stratasys that affords us this level of intricate detail, together
with the hard surface modeling of the shells all together in one print."
In addition to creating the Robocop suit, Legacy Effects was also involved in 3D
printing both master molds and prototype parts for the 'Exo-suit' featured in the movie.
These prototype pieces included fully-functional spring-operated fingers that were printed
in a single build using multi-materials on the company's Stratasys Objet Connex 3D
Printers.
Smoother workflow and greater flexibility over traditional production methods
Using Stratasys' 3D printing technology the team at Legacy Effects is able to work
much faster and more efficiently than it could in the days when it produced parts by hand.
"Doing everything by hand meant that we couldn't run tests as it would have taken
forever," recalls Lopes. "Also, 3D printing allows us to work in symmetry, which enables
us to build an entire left side of a suit, then mirror it and output the right side as
well, all from one file with the click of a button. You can't do that by hand."
Despite the recent economic downturn still having an impact on studio budgets, high
expectation from customers requires shorter production times, regardless of the
all-to-commonplace eleventh-hour changes. For Lopes, 3D printing's ability to speed up
processes, as well as the capability to make late changes has revolutionized the way
Legacy Effects operates.
"This is where 3D printing comes to the fore by meeting such pressures head on," says
Lopes. "If we see something's not working, or we're asked to make a design change, we can
make another iteration, go to an open 3D printer and be printing two simultaneous tests
within an hour. We go to lunch, come back and it's done. It doesn't get better than that!"
"Legacy Effects' use of multi-material 3D printing as its solution of choice is
indicative of how the technology is becoming increasingly integral to filmmaking," says
Bruce Bradshaw, Director of Marketing, Stratasys North America. "The ability to rapidly 3D
print all materials together in one single print run meets the film industry prerequisite
to save time and money. But the real show-stealer is Stratasys' ultra-fine 16 micron-layer
3D printing. In the special effects world, fine detail and true-to-life models and parts
are the industry standard and our Connex multi-material 3D printing technology continues
to be a top performer among designers and engineers."
Watch an exclusive interview with Jason Lopes from Legacy Effects describing his
experience creating the suits and helmets for the RoboCop movie using Stratasys 3D
Printing. [http://youtu.be/sMEDln3Wex8 ]
Stratasys Ltd. (Nasdaq:SSYS), headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota and Rehovot,
Israel, is a leading global provider of 3D printing and additive manufacturing solutions.
The company's patented FDM(R), PolyJet(TM), and WDM(TM) 3D Printing technologies produce
prototypes and manufactured goods directly from 3D CAD files or other 3D content. Systems
include 3D printers for idea development, prototyping and direct digital manufacturing.
Stratasys subsidiaries include MakerBot and Solidscape, and the company operates the
RedEye digital-manufacturing service. Stratasys has more than 1900 employees, holds over
550 granted or pending additive manufacturing patents globally, and has received more than
25 awards for its technology and leadership. Online at: http://www.stratasys.com or http://blog.stratasys.com
Stratasys and Objet are registered trademarks, and Objet500, Connex, Connex3, PolyJet,
Digital Materials, VeroCyan, VeroMagenta, VeroYellow, TangoBlack, and TangoBlackPlus are
trademarks of Stratasys Ltd. and/or its subsidiaries or affiliates.
Certain information included or incorporated by reference in this press may be deemed
to be "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation
Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, and Section 21E of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements are often characterized by the
use of forward-looking terminology such as "may," "will," "expect," "anticipate,"
"estimate," "continue," "believe," "should," "intend," "project" or other similar words,
but are not the only way these statements are identified. These forward-looking statements
may include, but are not limited to, statements relating to the company's objectives,
plans and strategies, statements regarding the expected performance and impact of our
products, statements that contain projections of results of operations or of financial
condition (including, with respect to the MakerBot acquisition) and all statements (other
than statements of historical facts) that address activities, events or developments that
the company intends, expects, projects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the
future. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are
subject to risks and uncertainties. The company has based these forward-looking statements
on assumptions and assessments made by its management in light of their experience and
their perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments
and other factors they believe to be appropriate. Important factors that could cause
actual results, developments and business decisions to differ materially from those
anticipated in these forward-looking statements include, among other things: the company's
ability to efficiently and successfully integrate the operations of Stratasys, Inc. and
Objet Ltd. after their merger as well as MakerBot after its acquisition and to
successfully put in place and execute an effective post-merger integration plans; the
overall global economic environment; the impact of competition and new technologies;
general market, political and economic conditions in the countries in which the company
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government regulations and approvals; changes in customers' budgeting priorities;
litigation and regulatory proceedings; and those factors referred to under "Risk Factors",
"Information on the Company", "Operating and Financial Review and Prospects", and
generally in the company's annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2013
filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and in other reports that the
company has filed with the SEC. Readers are urged to carefully review and consider the
various disclosures made in the company's SEC reports, which are designed to advise
interested parties of the risks and factors that may affect its business, financial
condition, results of operations and prospects. Any forward-looking statements in this
press release are made as of the date hereof, and the company undertakes no obligation to
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QMotion Develops First of its Kind Trackless, Wireless Motorized Drapery Rod
Offering Elegant Window Options for the Home and Office
It's quiet, elegant and runs on standard, alkaline batteries tucked out of sight--an industry game changer
PENSACOLA, Fla., June 11, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Motorized drapery systems no longer need an unattractive track. Nor do they need unsightly wires and motor boxes.
QMotion Advanced Shading Systems has developed the industry's first - and only -track-less motorized drapery rod. The next generation of motorized window fashions now adds seamless elegance to any residential or commercial space.
The new wireless drapery rod goes even further, removing noise, external motors and wires. The patent-pending, battery-operated motors are tucked away inside QMotion's drapery rod and are easily accessible for those infrequent times when you may need to change out the standard alkaline batteries--another industry first.
In addition, QMotion's drapery rod is equipped with an exclusive manual override feature, called Touch Wand Activation. Users gently 'tap' the wand to open or close draperies via movement sensing technology.
The drapery rods come in six finishes, with optional finials that are available in six designer styles. Drapery hardware can be mixed and matched and paired with decorative draperies to create a personalized drapery rod system that adds a distinctive look to your office or home.
The trackless motorized drapery rod is the latest creation by QMotion, a U.S.-based company known for remarkable innovation and design. QMotion created the first automated shade featuring a patented manual override option and it won the Window Covering Manufacturing Association award for "Best New Technical Innovation" in 2012 for a system that significantly extends battery life and reduces noise. QMotion was most recently recognized with a Gold Quest for Quality Award for excellence in customer service from CE Pro. The distinction was awarded based on votes from CE Pro readers in the industry.
To see this revolutionary product in action or for more information about becoming a certified QMotion dealer, selling QMotion's motorized drapery rods, or for dealer training opportunities visit QMotionShades.com or call 877-849-6070.
About QMotion Advanced Shading Systems
QMotion automated window coverings are assembled in the United States and sold around the world by a network of premium dealers and partners. QMotion products require no re- wiring and are able--using standard D-cell alkaline batteries--to last years longer than competitors' battery-operated systems.QMotion products are environmentally friendly,can help reduce energy costs and are safer for homes with small children and pets.Qadvanced automated window shades are the only automated shades on the marketthat feature a patented manual override. In 2014, QMotion was recognized with CE Pro's Gold Quest for Quality award for excellence in customer service. Learn more about QMotion products anddealer opportunities at qmotionshades.com.
Sharp Expands A4 Product Line With New Color Desktop Printer
MX-C300P offers a space-saving compact design, flexible connectivity and high quality output
MAHWAH, N.J., June 11, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, introduced the MX-C300P color desktop printer, the latest model in its expanding line of compact desktop document systems. The new 30 page-per-minute color printer joins two compact desktop color MFPs announced in December, and offers advanced features that include both wireless and wired networking as well as direct USB printing. The device also offers convenient printing from popular mobile devices with Sharpdesk(®) mobile, a free downloadable app. The MX-C300P is built on Sharp's newest compact color engine and is designed to fit into tight office spaces without compromising performance or reliability.
"The new MX-C300P is a powerful color desktop printer that is big on features and small on size," said Mike Marusic, Senior Vice President, Marketing and Operations. "Sharp's space-saving design enables this device to be placed in virtually any size office or workgroup, helping users to work more efficiently."
The new MX-C300P color desktop printer is available immediately for purchase via authorized Dealers and direct sales.
About Sharp Electronics Corporation
Sharp Electronics Corporation is the U.S. subsidiary of Japan's Sharp Corporation, a worldwide developer of one-of-a-kind home entertainment products, appliances, networked multifunctional office solutions, solar energy solutions, LED lighting and mobile communication and information tools.
About Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America
Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America, a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, markets the advanced, color MX Pro Series document systems that help companies manage workflow efficiently and increase productivity. Sharp document systems feature the Sharp OSA(® )development platform, which seamlessly integrates network applications to create a personalized MFP that can meet virtually any business need, and Scan(2) technology, which scans two-sided documents in a single pass to enhance scanning reliability and preserve document integrity. To keep documents safe from unauthorized users, Sharp is a leader in the MFP industry in security by offering the most secure suite of MFP applications.
For more information about the complete line of Sharp workgroup document systems, contact Sharp Electronics Corporation, Sharp Plaza, Mahwah, N.J., 07495-1163. For online product information, visit http://www.sharpusa.com/documents.
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CONTACT:
Sarah Sanzari
Peppercomm for Sharp
212.931.6174
SSanzari@peppercomm.com
Sharp and related trademarks are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sharp Corporation and/or its affiliated companies. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Fabula Football Makes a Splash with Live Fab Pools
TEL AVIV, Israel, June 11, 2014 /PRNewswire/ --
The social sports trading game reinvents office sweeps just in time for the World Cup
Independent mobile games developer Fabula Gaming today announced today the release of
its "Fab Pools" feature, an exciting addition to their highly successful Fabula Football
game format that will allow players to compete in dynamic and exciting pools during live
World Cup matches.
Fabula Football is a unique virtual currency social sports game that combines the
excitement of live football betting with the stock market. With already over a million
virtual bets being placed per every month, Fabula has delivered a new and thrilling second
screen experience for football fans all over the world. Players place a bet and then watch
live as its value goes up or down, depending on the action, before selling at the right
moment, or choosing to hang until the final whistle. In its newly released launched
edition for the wWorld cCupFab Pools, players score points according to their performance
and will compete with friends in a league table over the course of the 4-week tournament.
"We're breathing new life into static World Cup office pools," says Fabula CEO Yoav
Pilosof. "Players now can react instantly to any event in the match, they can buy, sell or
wait and see hang on until the final whistle. It's a dynamic and engaging game - just like
a football match."
The Fabula Football app, is available for iPhone, Android and WP, isP. It's integrated
with Facebook and packed with features, stats and analytics that enable players to play on
all football leagues and tournament worldwide, while they track their lifetime progress.
About Fabula Gaming
Fabula Gaming was founded in January 2013 by a small team of developers, financial
market experts and sports fans with the aim of becoming the first company to successfully
combine the excitement and immediacy of virtual money games with the thrill of live sports
betting. Using proprietary pricing algorhythms, Fabula Gaming has managed to create an
original online sports betting game that keeps its users fully transfixed... before,
during and after the match.
Hands-Free Device Simultaneously Monitors Vital Signs, Activity Parameters and Geolocation in Real Time and Transmits Encrypted Data to Mobile Devices and the Cloud for Viewing and Sharing
DALLAS and BERN, Switzerland, June 11, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Sensogram Technologies, a global research and development company, will introduce SensoTRACK(TM) today at the InvenSense Developers Conference in Santa Clara, Calif. Founder, chairman and chief technology officer Dr. Vahram Mouradian will announce the device's pre-commercial (beta) availability in a Profile Session at the Santa Clara Convention Center, Main Conference Room, 3:45-5:00 p.m. PDT.
Beta testing is ongoing with the commercial prototype. Early adopters may request a beta device - or preorder the commercial version - at http://www.sensogram.com.
SensoTRACK combines state-of-the-art data collection and analytics in an ear-worn device designed for individual wellness, fitness and health. Its aural positioning increases accuracy by reducing the motion-induced artifacts extremity-positioned devices incur compared to wrist-worn or pendant-like devices. Further, within the ear, integrated optical, thermal, mechanical and proximity biosensors can capture more precise data from branches of the temporal artery. Bluetooth 4.0 transmits SensoTRACK's encrypted digital data to mobile devices such as smartphones, tablets or PDAs.
SensoTRACK features include
-- Lightweight, easy-to-use and available in five colors. Size/dimensions:
2.5" x 1.7" x 0.9"; Weight: 15g; Memory: approximately 48 hours; Battery
life: approximately 8 hours.
-- Developed on an iOS platform, supporting iOS 8; compatible with all
Apple mobile products. Android platform compatibility available in fall
2014.
-- Downloadable application, available at App Store on July 1, allows
mobile devices to display graphs, numbers, derivative data and more
within the context of geographic location, altitude and time.
-- Syncing mobile applications with Sensogram's Cloud Management System
allows data upload over the Internet and sharing with user-approved
coaches/trainers/friends via a secure protocol.
-- Allows total hands-free training and eliminates the need for multiple
capture devices.
-- Collected parameters include blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen
saturation, respiration rate, body temperature, posture, fall detection,
step count, distance, speed/pace, location, altitude, calories burned
and activity level, among others.
-- Offers individual thresholds, historical data analysis, real-time
monitoring and virtual wellness coach, among others.
Dr. Mouradian said, "SensoTRACK is a breakthrough product, combining technological advances that enable one device to capture health-related data and fitness parameters simultaneously. These additional data allow more comprehensive computational models, yielding a level of precision never before available. Using hydration, respiration and oxygenation levels in heart recovery rate computation, for example, yields a truer measurement that can inform training protocols. Beyond unparalleled precision, the device offers real-time monitoring of data trends and alerts users when exceeding acceptable ranges/preset values."
Full commercial production will begin in October 2014. Anticipated market price is approximately $245.
About Sensogram Technologies
Sensogram Technologies, a global research and development company, designs, produces and markets intuitive, easy-to-use wireless mobile devices. Its innovative biosensors allow real-time, continuous, remote and mobile monitoring of human vital signs and biological parameters. Visit our website at http://www.sensogram.com or call ÂÂÂÂÂÂÂÂÂÂÂÂÂÂÂÂÂÂÂÂÂ+1 469-955-3500.
CodeFutures Launches AgilData to Turn Big Data into a Dynamic Stream for the Real-time Enterprise
Breakthrough technology shatters limitations of Big Data solutions - commercial and open source
NEW YORK, June 11, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- CLOUD EXPO -- (BOOTH #424) CodeFutures (http://www.codefutures.com), a provider of agile Big Data technologies, today announced AgilData, a new Big Data platform designed to remove the complexity and limitations of current data management approaches. It features high-performance stream processing that supports the real-time, data-driven enterprise, and allows organizations to quickly and efficiently harvest meaningful data that is increasingly hard to access for large-enterprise, online gaming, interactive-mobile and other high-volume, Web 2.0 applications.
"The era of Big Data is upon us and will continue to accelerate rapidly, bringing a host of new challenges for organizations looking to gain a competitive advantage by extracting meaning and value from data in a fast and efficient manner," said Cory Isaacson, CEO of CodeFutures. "AgilData provides an easy-to-deploy, streaming technology framework that allows organizations to view data as a real-time stream. This is a fundamental shift from current approaches that view databases as a static repository - one that grows in complexity, is hard to manage and requires a continuous escalation of resources to maintain, let alone mine strategic value."
Viewing and managing data as a real-time stream allows organizations to overcome Big Data challenges with a new level of ease, flexibility and performance. AgilData provides high-performance stream processing, real-time dynamic views, real-time aggregation and support for SQL. It integrates with third-party DBMS engines (starting with MySQL), and can turn any data source into an easily definable, real-time stream with familiar SQL-like syntax. Easy to deploy, it can be up and running in minutes in a variety of environments and configurations - including "datacenter-to-cloud" and "cloud-to-cloud."
AgilData leverages open source streaming tools for process flows, in conjunction with its high-performance data engine dubbed AgilEngine. This is a key component for creating a high-performance, fully reliable data infrastructure, with flexible data structures. The flexible data structures are enabled through MapDB, a new open source tool supported by CodeFutures that provides a very fast Java database engine. Together, they provide support for advanced features, such as scalability, automatic redundancy, transactions and persistent query-able streams.
"We are excited about the potential of AgilData for our clients," said Sushil Prabhu, CEO for OpenCrowd. "Increasingly our financial services clients want custom dashboards with real-time analytics generated as events occur. AgilData's new approach of stream processing and aggregating information from multiple sources will drastically simplify the work of information processing in our custom real-time dashboards."
AgilData allows developers to match application needs exactly through desired stream processing, with query-able views - providing the ability to "query the stream" in real time. Using the platform developers can support data structures for virtually any type of application requirement, without having to handcraft voluminous code for data interaction. For managers, AgilData provides real-time executive dashboards that show statistics from one or more back-end systems, for financial or other reporting systems, with real-time aggregate values "as it happens," based on source transactional systems.
AgilData is being introduced today at Cloud Expo in New York City. The product is available through a private beta program. For more information and to apply for participation in the beta, please visit http://www.codefutures.com.
Tweet this: #CodeFutures brings #Agile to #bigdata with #AgilData platform. Makes data available through a real-time stream - #gamechanger.
About OpenCrowd
OpenCrowd is a design & technology services firm that builds custom applications for enterprise clients and start-ups on-premise and in the cloud. For the last 10 years they have helped clients innovate and launch products ranging from 360 View Dashboards, Search Powered Applications to Business Social Applications. For more information, please visit (http://www.opencrowd.com).
About CodeFutures
CodeFutures is a Boulder, Colo.-based provider of agile data and streaming database technologies. Its database products are used by leading enterprises, including FedEx, HSBC, T-Mobile, Lehman Brothers, General Electric, JP Morgan Chase, Walt Disney, Wells Fargo Bank, Kraft Foods, Bank of America, Lockheed Martin, ABN AMRO Bank, Verizon, Compass Bank, Siemens and United Airlines. It is developing the first agile data platform that provides instant, easy access to meaningful data as a means of driving the real-time enterprise. CodeFutures enables new levels of dynamic modeling, streaming data processing, predictive analytics and the ability to scale as fast as data volumes increase. For more information, please visit (http://www.codefutures.com).
Contact:
Terri Douglas
Catapult PR
tdouglas@catapultpr-ir.com
(303) 581-7760