Vivante Multicore GPU IP Solutions Extend Performance Leadership
Ultra-Low Power Multicore GPUs Reach Over 1 GHz in Silicon Product Implementations
SUNNYVALE, Calif., Dec. 20, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Vivante Corporation, a leading provider of consumer multimedia and computing IP, today announces an important milestone for its Scalarmorphic architecture with Vivante licensees' multicore silicon implementations reaching over 1 GHz in silicon. Vivante has been licensing multicore versions of its industry-leading GC series architecture during the past fourteen months with the initial customer SoC implementations sampling today. The Sunnyvale-based company's latest multicore GPUs have been proven in multiple tier-one SoC vendors' products which will drive next generation game consoles, tablets, smartphones, automotive displays and home entertainment applications.
Vivante's multicore GPUs are ultra-threaded extensions of the product proven single core GC series architecture first launched in 2007. These product-proven multicore GPUs are capable of delivering well over 200M triangles per second on industry standard GPU benchmark polygon throughput feature tests in currently licensed customer configurations. Vivante's multicore GC-series are complete GPU solutions for the most demanding graphics applications with conformant hardware and driver support for a wide range of industry standard graphics APIs including Khronos Group conformant OpenGL ES 2.0/1.1, OpenVG 1.1, OpenGL 3.0/2.1, as well as Microsoft certified DirectX 11 feature level 9_3, Direct2D and DirectFB 1.4. Vivante GPUs are designed to enable robust support for the OpenCL 1.1 embedded profile for next generation general purpose computing applications in the GPU pipeline (GP-GPU).
"The Vivante GC-series architecture is designed from the ground up to deliver breakthrough performance levels in power constrained applications," said Wei-Jin Dai, President and CEO of Vivante. "Our leading edge customers demand the highest GPU performance on demanding consumer applications as well as leadership in performance and quality on industry standard graphics benchmarks. Our multicore GPUs deliver the ultimate graphics performance, well within the typical power budget of a few hundred milliwatts, with the GPU running complex applications at maximum speed."
About Vivante GC-Series Products
The Vivante GC-series GPU product family currently licensed to over 40 SoC companies consists of twelve turnkey GPU IP solutions ranging from the best in class GC400 ~ GC800 single core GPUs, to the ultra-high performance multicore GC1000 ~ GC4000. Vivante multicore GPUs offer performance up to 10 times Vivante's industry leading GC800 single core GPU. Multicore GPUs are available in configurations with up to 64 compute elements in 2 to 8 pipelines. Vivante also licenses the GC350 fixed function OpenVG 1.1 compliant GPU, as well as the industry standard GC300 programmable Composition Engine GPU. All Vivante GPUs ship with the same consumer product proven unified software stack with a selection of available embedded and desktop APIs and operating system support running on all major CPUs.
About Vivante Corporation
Vivante is a leader in turnkey licensable semiconductor IP solutions for multimedia and GPGPU compute applications, providing best in class performance and power characteristics. Vivante's portfolio of GPU IP cores are designed into leading consumer electronics products across a range of consumer electronics platforms running thousands of graphics applications. Vivante's corporate headquarters are in Sunnyvale, California, with an R&D center in Shanghai, China. For more information, visit http://www.vivantecorp.com.
Mind Technologies, Inc. to Begin Selling EEG Headset
CARDIFF, Calif., Dec. 20, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Mind Technologies, Inc. (http://mindtechnologiesinc.com) (Pink Sheets: JEDM), announced today that the Company will begin selling the Emotiv EEG headset in addition to the thought-controlled software applications the Company develops. Mind Technologies, Inc. is officially an Emotiv wireless headset reseller and beginning January 1st, 2011, website visitors will be able to purchase the headset directly from Mind Technologies for $299, the same price as it is sold by Emotiv. The Company plans to increase its marketing next year and expects a boost in revenue from sales of both the hardware and software developed.
The investor conference call held last week on December 15, exceeded all expectations with 77 individuals who called into the conference. "The conference call with investors and other interested parties went extremely well. We plan on holding these calls with our investors quarterly. This is an effort to open up our company and our management team to become more transparent to the investing community and other interested individuals," said Brent Fouch, CEO and President of Mind Technologies, Inc.
"We also realize that our investors have great ideas as well and we want to expand and improve our communication with them to become part of the Mind Technologies team. We are a publicly owned company and are going to conduct our business with our shareholders in mind, which puts us head and shoulders above most of our peers in that respect," Fouch concluded.
About Mind Technologies, Inc.
Mind Technologies, Inc. develops software for thought controlled technologies, allowing the user to interact with the computer and other machines through the power of the mind. The technology involves the use of a wireless headset, which detects brainwaves on both the conscious and non-conscious level. This revolutionary neural processing technology makes it possible for computers to interact directly with the human brain. The Company creates medical applications and video games that are controlled by the power of your mind.
Safe Harbor:
From time to time, the Company may issue news releases that contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and is subject to the safe harbor created by those sections. This material may contain statements about expected future events and/or financial results that are forward-looking in nature and subject to risks and uncertainties. For those statements, the Company claims the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking statement provisions contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and any amendments thereto. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, goals, assumptions, or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements." "Forward-looking statements" are based upon expectations, estimates and projections at the time the statements are made that involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated.
SOURCE Mind Technologies, Inc.
Mind Technologies, Inc.
CONTACT: Jeff Dashefsky of Mind Technologies, Inc., +1-760-635-2595, Contact@MindTechnologiesInc.com
New Buy.com® Apple iPhone® App Features Barcode Scanning and Speech Recognition for Faster Mobile Search and Price Comparisons
Holiday shoppers can quickly compare brick-and-mortar store pricing to online discounts; state-of-the-art voice technology reduces need to type
ALISO VIEJO, Calif., Dec. 20, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading online retailer Buy.com® today launched its new app for Apple iPhone® and iPod® Touch. Using innovative barcode technology and the world's most advanced voice-recognition platform from MeMeMe, Inc., the Buy.com app makes mobile shopping easier and faster than ever before.
Last-minute holiday shoppers scrambling at busy stores can utilize the app to scan product barcodes and confirm if a better deal is available at Buy.com. In addition, they can use voice search to pull up product information from Buy.com - freeing them to multitask while on the go.
With Buy.com's new iPhone app, consumers also will be able to:
-- Price-compare and purchase nearly 9 million products from third-party
retailers, via the extensive Buy.com Marketplace
-- View product reviews and thousands of BuyTV videos, directly on product
pages and via their own video browse pages
-- Readily access Buy.com's "Top Sellers," the "Deal of the Day," "Weekly
Specials" and "What's Shakin" lists
Within just the first few weeks of its beta introduction this holiday season, the Buy.com iPhone app has already reached nearly 20,000 downloads.
"By making it simpler and faster to shop on-the-go, consumers can take advantage of our deals from anywhere - and make better decisions even when standing in the aisle of a brick-and-mortar store," said Neel Grover, CEO and president of Buy.com.
MeMeMe's speech recognition is implemented in a state-of-the-art utility computing center that provides the best available scale, speed, and reliability. Providing one of the most accurate speech recognition experiences on the market, MeMeMe delivers 5-to-10 times greater speech recognition accuracy for any user, on any device, and in the future will automatically adjust over time to the voice characteristics of the user.
The Buy.com iPhone app is available for download now in the Apple App Store.
About Buy.com
With more than 18 million customers, Buy.com is a leading retail marketplace, focused on providing its customers with a great shopping experience and a broad selection of retail goods at everyday low prices. Buy.com offers millions of products in a range of categories, including consumer electronics, computer hardware and software, cell phones, books, music, DVDs, games, toys, bags, fragrance, home and outdoor, baby, jewelry, shoes, apparel, wine and sporting goods. Founded in June 1997, Buy.com is headquartered in Aliso Viejo, Calif, and owned by Rakuten, Japan's leading Internet Company. Together, Rakuten and Buy.com represent one of the world's largest online retail marketplaces, offering consumers more than 70 million products from nearly 35,000 merchants around the globe.
Buy.com® and The Internet Superstore(TM) are trademarks of Buy.com Inc.
SOURCE Buy.com
Buy.com
CONTACT: Elaine Ordiz, +1-213-438-8710, eordiz@golinharris.com, for Buy.com
TelePacific Communications Expands Service Portfolio With TelePacific Mobile, Wireless Services for Business Customers
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 20, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- TelePacific Communications, the largest California-based CLEC providing integrated voice and data telecommunications services to the small and medium-sized business ("SMB") customer segment in California and Nevada, announced today that it has launched mobile wireless services. TelePacific customers can add mobile service to their TelePacific account, with one point of contact and one bill for voice, data and now mobile wireless services.
Adding mobile wireless services to TelePacific's portfolio is a move to meet the demands of an increasingly mobile workforce that needs access to company data anytime, anywhere. By offering both landline and mobile wireless services, TelePacific aims to simplify account management for its customers and create value with bundled services.
"TelePacific Mobile is a logical extension of our current landline voice and data services to provide our customers with a 'one-stop shop' for all telecommunications needs," said David Zahn, vice president of marketing. "Consolidating service with TelePacific allows customers to manage their telecommunications services in one place using our OneCentral billing portal, and it also extends our outstanding customer service to the mobile market."
Initial mobile offerings include data cards and Novatel's MiFi 2200 hotspot device for high-speed wireless access. MiFi uses Wi-Fi to connect up to five devices to the Internet and can provide back-up Internet access. Both data card options--the award-winning Novatel MC760 Data USB Modem and the Sierra Wireless AirCard® 402 2-in-1 data card, along with the MiFi hotspot, provide customers with 3G connectivity via Verizon's Cellular Data Network.
Along with a basic feature Motorola cell phone TelePacific also introduced the BlackBerry® wireless solution and BlackBerry smartphones. TelePacific will be offering the BlackBerry® Curve(TM) 8330 smartphone, part of the popular BlackBerry Curve series. The BlackBerry Curve 8330 smartphone provides solid technology value with the ability to manage up to 10 personal email accounts, calendars, and contacts. TelePacific has also launched the BlackBerry® Tour(TM) smartphone which allows customers to stay seamlessly connected - across town and around the world. It supports high-speed 3G EV-DO Rev. A networks in North America, as well as 3G UMTS/HSPA (2100Mhz) and quad-band EDGE/GPRS/GSM networks abroad. The BlackBerry Tour smartphone also provides the industry's leading mobile solution for email, messaging (BBM(TM), IM, SMS, MMS) and social networking together with built-in GPS and advanced multimedia capabilities, enabling customers to make the most of both their personal and professional time.
"Our customers communicated a need to easily access email, phone, instant messaging, Internet, and other business applications from a mobile device," said Zahn. "We believe BlackBerry is the best-in-class mobile solution available today to increase productivity and effectiveness for our small and medium business customers."
The company plans to release additional wireless solutions as part of its mobile service lineup in early 2011. A new wireless backup product will provide hardware-level protection to ensure business continuity in the event of a landline network failure. If wired connections fail, wireless backup is automatically initiated to provide always-on Internet access.
TelePacific's wireless mobility product suite is the latest in its expanding portfolio of enhanced business services, which includes managed network and desktop security, data protection, equipment leasing, web hosting and more. For more information on TelePacific Mobile visit http://www.telepacificmobile.com.
About TelePacific Communications
TelePacific Communications is a competitive carrier that serves customers throughout California and Nevada. Headquartered in Los Angeles, the Company is the leading competitive carrier in its footprint, with customer care centers in Los Angeles and Stockton in California and Las Vegas in Nevada. In business since 1998, TelePacific provides services through a combination of TelePacific-owned switches and network infrastructure, including its own and leased robust fiber-optic network assets. Offering local and long distance voice, dedicated Internet access, private networking and data transport services as well as bundled voice and Internet solutions and wholesale services, TelePacific manages more than 38,000 customer accounts with more than one million access lines in service. For more information on TelePacific visit http://www.telepacific.com.
The BlackBerry and RIM families of related marks, images and symbols are the exclusive properties and trademarks of Research In Motion Limited.
SOURCE TelePacific Communications
TelePacific Communications
CONTACT: Rebecca Rosen of TelePacific, +1-213-213-3622
AT&T Expands Mobile Broadband Wireless Capacity in Suffolk County
Additional Spectrum Expected to Improve Connectivity and Performance of Mobile Broadband Data and Voice Connectivity
DEER PARK, N.Y., Dec. 20, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- AT&T* today announced the completion of a key initiative in its ongoing efforts to enhance the wireless capacity and performance of its mobile broadband network in Suffolk County. As a result of this upgrade to 40 cell sites, local customers in many areas including Brentwood, Bayshore, Centereach, South Beach, Lake Ronkonoma, Medford, Deer Park, Shirley, and Mastic Beach are expected to experience improved mobile broadband wireless data and voice connectivity and performance, especially during peak hours.
The network enhancement adds new layers of frequency, also known as "carriers," to more efficiently manage available spectrum and increase mobile broadband capacity at local cell sites. The expansion is part of previously announced investment to help manage ever-growing demand for mobile broadband services by allocating more network resources for AT&T's mobile broadband network.
"Delivering dependable wireless coverage for consumers and businesses who need to stay connected is our ultimate objective," said Hal Lenox, AT&T's New York President. "Our ongoing investments in the Empire state will help ensure that our customers have access to the wireless services that help drive economic growth."
"Our goal is pretty simple: we want you to have an extraordinary experience when you make a call, check e-mail, download a song or video, or surf the Internet on your AT&T device," said Tom DeVito, vice president and general manager for AT&T in New York and New Jersey. "As part of the Suffolk County community, we're always looking for new opportunities to provide an enhanced customer experience and our investment in the local wireless network is just one way to accomplish this."
AT&T's mobile broadband network is based on the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) family of technologies that includes GSM and UMTS, the most widely used wireless network platforms in the world. AT&T has the best international coverage of any U.S. wireless provider, providing access to voice service in more than 220 countries and data service in more than 200 countries. AT&T also offers voice and data roaming coverage on more than 140 major cruise ships, as well as mobile broadband services in more than 125 countries.
AT&T also operates the nation's largest Wi-Fi network** with more than 23,000 hotspots in the U.S. and provides access to more than 125,000 hotspots globally through roaming agreements. Most AT&T smartphone customers get access to our entire national Wi-Fi network at no additional cost, and Wi-Fi usage doesn't count against customers' monthly data plans.
For more information about AT&T's coverage in New York or anywhere in the United States, consumers can visit the AT&T Coverage Viewer. Using the online tool, AT&T customers can measure coverage quality of coverage from a street address, intersection, ZIP code or even a landmark.
For updates on the AT&T wireless network, please visit the AT&T network news page.
*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.
** Largest based on company branded and operated hotspots. Access includes AT&T Wi-Fi Basic. A Wi-Fi enabled device required. Other restrictions apply. See http://www.attwifi.com for details and locations.
About AT&T
AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates - AT&T operating companies - are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. With a powerful array of network resources that includes the nation's fastest mobile broadband network, AT&T is a leading provider of wireless, Wi-Fi, high speed Internet and voice services. A leader in mobile broadband, AT&T also offers the best wireless coverage worldwide, offering the most wireless phones that work in the most countries. It also offers advanced TV services under the AT&T U-verse® and AT&T | DIRECTV brands. The company's suite of IP-based business communications services is one of the most advanced in the world. In domestic markets, AT&T Advertising Solutions and AT&T Interactive are known for their leadership in local search and advertising. In 2010, AT&T again ranked among the 50 Most Admired Companies by FORTUNE®magazine.
Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com. This AT&T news release and other announcements are available at http://www.att.com/newsroom and as part of an RSS feed at http://www.att.com/rss. Or follow our news on Twitter at @ATT. Find us on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/ATT to discover more about our consumer and wireless services or at http://www.Facebook.com/ATTSmallBiz to discover more about our small business services.
Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
Information set forth in this press release contains financial estimates and other forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results might differ materially. A discussion of factors that may affect future results is contained in AT&T's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. AT&T disclaims any obligation to update and revise statements contained in this news release based on new information or otherwise.
SOURCE AT&T Inc.
AT&T Inc.
CONTACT: Ellen Webner of AT&T, +1-973-775-1321, ellen.webner@att.com
AT&T Expands Mobile Broadband Wireless Capacity in Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Union, Middlesex, Somerset and Hunterdon Counties
Additional Spectrum Expected to Improve Connectivity and Performance of Mobile Broadband Data and Voice Connectivity
UNION, N.J., Dec. 20, 2010 /PRNewswire/ --AT&T* today announced the completion of a key initiative in its ongoing efforts to enhance the wireless capacity and performance of its mobile broadband network throughout Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Union, Middlesex, Somerset and Hunterdon Counties. As a result of this upgrade to more than 130 cell sites, local customers in these areas are expected to experience improved mobile broadband wireless data and voice connectivity and performance, especially during peak hours.
The network enhancement adds new layers of frequency, also known as "carriers," to more efficiently manage available spectrum and increase mobile broadband capacity at local cell sites. The expansion is part of a previously announced investment to help manage ever-growing demand for mobile broadband services by allocating more network resources for AT&T's mobile broadband network.
"Delivering dependable wireless coverage for consumers and businesses who need to stay connected is our ultimate objective," said J. Michael Schweder, AT&T President New Jersey. "Our ongoing investments in the state will help ensure that our customers have access to the wireless services that help drive economic growth."
"Our goal is pretty simple: we want you to have an extraordinary experience when you make a call, check e-mail, download a song or video, or surf the Internet on your AT&T device," said Tom DeVito, vice president and general manager for AT&T in New Jersey and New York. "As part of the Garden State community, we're always looking for new opportunities to provide an enhanced customer experience and our investment in the local wireless network is just one way to accomplish this."
AT&T's mobile broadband network is based on the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) family of technologies that includes GSM and UMTS, the most widely used wireless network platforms in the world. AT&T has the best international coverage of any U.S. wireless provider, providing access to voice service in more than 220 countries and data service in more than 200 countries. AT&T also offers voice and data roaming coverage on more than 140 major cruise ships, as well as mobile broadband services in more than 125 countries.
AT&T also operates the nation's largest Wi-Fi network** with more than 23,000 hotspots in the U.S. and provides access to more than 125,000 hotspots globally through roaming agreements. Most AT&T smartphone customers get access to our entire national Wi-Fi network at no additional cost, and Wi-Fi usage doesn't count against customers' monthly data plans.
For more information about AT&T's coverage in New Jersey or anywhere in the United States, consumers can visit the AT&T Coverage Viewer. Using the online tool, AT&T customers can measure coverage quality of coverage from a street address, intersection, ZIP code or even a landmark.
For updates on the AT&T wireless network, please visit the AT&T network news page.
*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.
**Largest based on company branded and operated hotspots. Access includes AT&T Wi-Fi Basic. A Wi-Fi enabled device required. Other restrictions apply. See http://www.attwifi.com for details and locations.
About AT&T
AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates - AT&T operating companies - are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. With a powerful array of network resources that includes the nation's fastest mobile broadband network, AT&T is a leading provider of wireless, Wi-Fi, high speed Internet and voice services. A leader in mobile broadband, AT&T also offers the best wireless coverage worldwide, offering the most wireless phones that work in the most countries. It also offers advanced TV services under the AT&T U-verse® and AT&T | DIRECTV brands. The company's suite of IP-based business communications services is one of the most advanced in the world. In domestic markets, AT&T Advertising Solutions and AT&T Interactive are known for their leadership in local search and advertising. In 2010, AT&T again ranked among the 50 Most Admired Companies by FORTUNE®magazine.
Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com. This AT&T news release and other announcements are available at http://www.att.com/newsroom and as part of an RSS feed at http://www.att.com/rss. Or follow our news on Twitter at @ATT. Find us on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/ATT to discover more about our consumer and wireless services or at http://www.Facebook.com/ATTSmallBiz to discover more about our small business services.
Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
Information set forth in this press release contains financial estimates and other forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results might differ materially. A discussion of factors that may affect future results is contained in AT&T's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. AT&T disclaims any obligation to update and revise statements contained in this news release based on new information or otherwise.
SOURCE AT&T Inc.
AT&T Inc.
CONTACT: Ellen Webner of AT&T, +1-973-775-1321, ellen.webner@att.com
Savtira Corporation Unveils Custom-Tailored Digital E-commerce Solutions
Savtira Corporation Announces Its Entry Into The Digital E-commerce Outsourcing Marketplace
TAMPA, Fla., Dec. 20, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Savtira Corporation, a new provider of outsourced e-commerce solutions to publishers, content owners, aggregators, distributors, streaming companies, netcasters, retailers and e-tailers, today announced its entry into the global marketplace.
Savtira Corporation creates customized online selling solutions built around the client's brand. The Savtira e-commerce platform, which supports sales of both downloadable and packaged goods, helps businesses add revenue streams without the time, expense and risk of deploying an advanced software system on a scalable, cloud-based environment.
"Currently, 80% of online digital stores are outsourced to other providers. However, the first generation distributors of downloadable products are like landlords with existing tenants that have built their platforms on 50 lbs per square foot foundations; now they need 200 lbs, but it's hard to tear down a building and start over with existing leases and tenants," said Timothy Roberts, CEO. "In many discussions with major partners, a common theme emerges: they desperately want a better solution. With our speedier download speeds and more intuitive marketing tools, we believe Savtira is well positioned to leap past existing legacy players, taking their customers with us."
Savtira's e-commerce stores have the capacity to distribute any type of downloadable product (software, games, movies, music, Internet TV & eBooks/audio books) as well as packaged goods. In addition to using the Savtira platform to distribute their own products, clients may also sell content from the Savtira Digital Catalog, which is filled with thousands of top-notch downloadable products from major publishers.
No two Savtira stores are alike. The platform is customized for clients, extra features and services are offered on an a la carte basis, and countless configurations can be assembled to meet the specific needs of clients.
Examples of Savtira Solutions:
-- A large fast-food chain would like to add a new revenue channel by
creating a digital store. They have an incredible amount of foot
traffic but no downloadable product catalog. Savtira builds a store
around the client's brand and populates it with content from the Savtira
Digital Catalog. Savtira also offers a free exclusive give-away to
enhance the client's marketing campaign and entice new customers to the
client's store, thus building a new-found reoccurring revenue stream for
little investment.
-- A Fortune 500 company with an extensive content catalog of video games,
music, movies and eBooks wants to distribute all their content in-house
without the considerable time and expense of developing an in-house
solution, rather than selling each type at different specialized online
outlets, such as iTunes or Netflix. Savtira builds a customized store
from which all types of downloadable goods are digitally distributed.
The client no longer loses branding or customer base to other
distributors.
-- A core game publisher outsources to Savtira for the cost-savings
involved with hosting and distributing large game files. The publisher
chooses to opt in to the Savtira Digital Catalog and opens up three new
revenue streams: (1) store revenue from direct sales; (2) store revenue
from Savtira Digital Catalog sales; and (3) revenue from indirect sales
of the publisher's content via the catalog in other Savtira-powered
stores.
-- The Savtira platform can be adapted for use in many other business
models, such as ticketing agencies, airlines, file hosting, employee
training, etc. The non-profit sector could also use the platform to
instantly disseminate media around the world for disaster response or
education in developing countries.
About Savtira Corporation
Based in Tampa, Florida, Savtira Corporation was founded in 2010 after 25 years of experience in the infrastructure world and the last 8 years in platform and backend development. We have invested the time and money to educate ourselves on solving the current problems in digital distribution, and offer our platform for low risk and little investment to major publishers, retailers and consumer brands in one turn-key solution. Savtira has a stellar executive management team with entrepreneurial as well as mass market experience in High Speed Network Infrastructure, Cloud-Based Software, Digital Media, Finance and Product Management. Key companies that Savtira's management team founded or worked with: Savvis, Terremark, MTV, Nickelodeon, Columbia/Tristar Pictures, Sony Playstation, Cisco, Comedy Central, Sony DADC, AT&T, Qoncert, et al.
New ZigBee Input Device Standard: Delivers Advanced, Battery Friendly Control for Human Interface Devices
Mice, touchpads, keyboards, wands or remote control pointers can now benefit from ZigBee control
SAN RAMON, Calif., Dec. 20, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- The ZigBee® Alliance, a global ecosystem of companies creating wireless solutions for use in energy management, residential, commercial and consumer applications, today announced the completion of ZigBee Input Device, the new global standard for human interface devices used in consumer electronics (CE) and computer accessories.
ZigBee Input Device gives consumers improved options to use mice, touchpads, keyboards, wands or remote control pointers from greater distances and even nearby rooms. It replaces 30 year-old infrared (IR) technology with a standard robust radio frequency (RF) solution. ZigBee Input Device enables innovative two-way communications between devices, making them smarter and capable of delivering more features than today's devices. Plus, devices built using ZigBee Input Device will require significantly fewer batteries during their lifetime, when compared to IR, making them greener.
The standard also delivers innovative functionality for these devices, including:
-- Ability to define special functions and enhanced performance beyond the
standard behavior of a mouse, keyboard or similar input device
-- Supports operation with existing ZigBee Remote Control equipped HDTVs,
set-top boxes and other devices as well as with existing computers
-- Native support for popular multi-touch and gesture commands, including
pinch or rotation for touch pad devices
-- Simple push-button pairing makes devices easy to use
-- Smart, over-the-air updates and programmability options allow new
features to be added to devices at any time
"ZigBee Input Device offers CE and computer accessory manufacturers a standard that makes their products greener and more intelligent," said Bob Heile, chairman of the ZigBee Alliance. "It builds on the existing ZigBee Remote Control standard, adding features to enable a richer entertainment experience. It also gives set-top boxes, HDTVs and other CE device manufacturers a significant additional market capability."
This standard is now available to all ZigBee Alliance members. It is the second standard designed specifically for the ZigBee RF4CE specification. Last year, the Alliance introduced ZigBee Remote Control for consumer electronic devices. This continued progress demonstrates strong interest from the market as CE manufacturers seek to integrate innovative technology in their products that deliver new features and a convenient experience for their customers.
ZigBee Input Device - The standard for advanced human input devices
ZigBee Input Device is the global standard for greener, innovative and easy-to-use mice, keyboards, wands, touchpads and other input devices used with computers and CE devices. It gives these devices non-line-of-sight operation, two-way communication, longer range of use, extended battery life, a broader range of capabilities and features. ZigBee Input Device is a standard designed especially for the ZigBee RF4CE specification. For more information, visit: http://www.zigbee.org/inputdevice.
ZigBee: Control your world
ZigBee offers green and global wireless standards connecting the widest range of devices to work together intelligently and help you control your world. The ZigBee Alliance is an open, non-profit association of approximately 400 organizations driving development of innovative, reliable and easy-to-use ZigBee standards. The Alliance promotes worldwide adoption of ZigBee as the leading wirelessly networked, sensing and control standard for use in consumer, commercial and industrial areas. For more information, visit: http://www.ZigBee.org.
CONTACT: Kevin Schader of ZigBee Alliance, +1-925-275-6672, kschader@inventures.com; or Katherine Manning of GolinHarris, +1-213-438-8788, kmanning@golinharris.com, for ZigBee Alliance
Kumho Tire USA Introduces Brand New, Revolutionary, FREE Multi-Car Racing Game App for Apple Products
RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif., Dec. 20, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Kumho Tire USA, one of the leading tire manufacturers in the world, announces the launch of "Kumho Tire Drive" - an All New, free racing game for video game and auto enthusiasts alike. With the launch of "Kumho Tire Drive", Kumho Tire USA becomes the first ever global tire manufacturer to develop and publish a multi-car racing game application for the iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, iPod Touch and iPad products.
Developed by Retired Astronauts Collective, best known for creating addictive interactive apps for iPhones, "Kumho Tire Drive" lets the gamer become a Kumho sponsored driver and race for points and worldwide recognition. Being a Kumho Tire Racer just went from a far-fetched dream to absolute reality as drivers get in, buckle up, and put the pedal to the metal for the ride of their lives. Gamers will feel the adrenaline pumping through their veins as they experience unbelievable speed and ultra high performance in their Kumho Tire equipped supercar.
Throughout the multiple levels of the game, Kumho racers can earn valuable points by successfully completing each world class track such as curvy city streets and a world famous proving ground in Germany. The unique garage feature lets racers use their accumulated points to upgrade from an entry level import tuner to the raw power of a classic muscle car to the limitless torque of an exotic dream car where the gamers' true racing skills will be put to the ultimate test. The customization features of "Kumho Tire Drive" let the racer create a unique game experience that other games can't offer.
The points can also be used to get the latest in vehicle modifications such as hood scoops and rear spoilers and also lets the racer choose custom paint and decals for their one-of-a-kind vehicle. The most unique feature of the game is the "Tire Selector" option in the Garage where racers can choose the perfect Kumho tires to match the track surface and the weather conditions. "Kumho Tire Drive" is not only about extreme racing, it's about racing with style - Kumho style.
Future Kumho sponsored drivers can download the full version of "Kumho Tire Drive" for free from the Apple Store. The app will be available in the first week of January 2011, and will be available shortly thereafter for all phones on the Android OS system.
"We're very excited about the launch of this new, exciting, revolutionary app. Whether you're a casual gamer or a true game enthusiast, "Kumho Tire Drive" will definitely grab your interest and allow you to immerse yourself in the various driving environments. The gamer will also learn that having the right Kumho tires for the right conditions will be very important to progress in the game. Best of all "Kumho Tire Drive" perfectly fits Kumho brand DNA of high performance, quality, and fun," commented Rick Brennan, Kumho's VP of Marketing.
Additional information on "Kumho Tire Drive" can be found on:
Anixter International Inc. Announces the Acquisition of Clark Security Products, Inc. and the Assets and Operations of General Lock, LLC
GLENVIEW, Ill., Dec. 20, 2010 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Anixter International Inc. (NYSE: AXE), a leading global distributor of communication and security products, electrical and electronic wire & cable, fasteners and other small parts, today announced that it has acquired all the outstanding shares of Clark Security Products, Inc. and the assets and operations of General Lock, LLC (collectively "Clark").
Clark, based in San Diego, California, is a distributor of security products and locksmith supplies to commercial, industrial and government entities throughout the United States, with major distribution centers in San Diego, CA; Dallas, TX; Sacramento, CA; Denver, CO; Lexington, KY; Silver Spring, MD; Phoenix, AZ; and Kent, WA. Clark's broad array of products includes locking hardware, access control devices, closed circuit television, along with various technical support services.
Anixter will pay consideration of approximately $36.6 million in cash for all the assets and operations of Clark. The final purchase price will be determined when the net asset balance of Clark is confirmed. Annual sales for Clark are expected to be approximately $115 million for 2010. Anixter expects the acquisition to be accretive to earnings in the first full year of ownership.
Commenting on the acquisition, Bob Eck, President and CEO of Anixter, said, "We are pleased to have Clark become part of Anixter and look forward to gaining their insight and partnering with the excellent team that has successfully led these two businesses. As a market leader, Clark immediately positions Anixter as a significant player in the access control market. Combined with Anixter's existing security business, we will continue to lead the security market as it increasingly migrates towards IP (Internet Protocol) based systems. By leveraging Anixter's geographical presence and logistics capabilities, we will first expand the reach of Clark's product set across North America and then into international markets, which is consistent with our stated strategic growth initiatives."
About Anixter
Anixter International is a leading global distributor of communication and security products, electrical and electronic wire & cable, fasteners and other small parts. The company adds value to the distribution process by providing its customers access to 1) innovative inventory management programs, 2) more than 450,000 products and over $950 million in inventory, 3) 218 warehouses with approximately 7 million square feet of space, and 4) locations in 260 cities in 50 countries. Founded in 1957 and headquartered near Chicago, Anixter trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol AXE.
Safe Harbor Statement
The statements in this news release that use such words as "believe," "expect," "intend," "anticipate," "contemplate," "estimate," "plan," "project," "should," "may," "will," or similar expressions are forward-looking statements. They are subject to a number of factors that could cause the company's actual results to differ materially from what is indicated here. These factors include general economic conditions, including the severity of current economic and financial market conditions, the level of customer demand particularly for capital projects in the markets we serve, changes in supplier sales strategies or financial viability, political, economic or currency risks related to foreign operations, inventory obsolescence, copper price fluctuations, customer viability, risks associated with accounts receivable, the impact of regulation and regulatory, investigative and legal proceedings and legal compliance risks, potential impairment of goodwill and risks associated with integration of acquired companies. These uncertainties may cause our actual results to be materially different than those expressed in any forward looking statements. We do not undertake to update any forward looking statements. Please see the company's Securities and Exchange Commission filings for more information.
Additional information about Anixter is available on the Internet at http://www.anixter.com
SOURCE Anixter International Inc.
Anixter International Inc.
CONTACT: Dennis Letham, Chief Financial Officer of Anixter International Inc., +1-224-521-8601, or at FD, Chris Kettmann, Investor and Media Inquiries, +1-312-553-6716, for Anixter International Inc.
Steve Madden Puts its Best Foot Forward with SWAGG
ATLANTA, Dec. 20, 2010 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Leading mobile commerce enabler Outlier Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Qualcomm Incorporated (Nasdaq: QCOM), today announced the significant expansion of designer footwear and accessory offerings with the addition of Steve Madden on Outlier's just released SWAGG(TM) mobile application. Steve Madden is the latest retail partner to join a growing list of merchants that feature SWAGG this holiday season.
"We are extremely pleased to add one of the nation's favorite retailers of designer shoes and accessories to our expanding lineup of merchants offering SWAGG," said Rocco Fabiano, president of Outlier. "Finding and purchasing the perfect pair of shoes just got easier for Steve Madden customers. They will be able to use SWAGG to receive targeted offers, as well as to give and receive gift cards for use initially at Steve Madden's online stores and ultimately at retail outlets."
"SWAGG is a great fit for our fashion-conscious customers who lead mobile lifestyles," said Andrew Koven, president of eCommerce and customer experience for Steve Madden.
"In reviewing the SWAGG app, it makes a lot of sense, and I can easily see our customers benefitting from it right away with the holiday season in full swing," said Lisa Safdieh, project leader for Steve Madden.
SWAGG is Outlier's direct-to-consumer offering, with "smart" technology that gives consumers the ability to purchase, personalize and exchange gift cards directly from a mobile device. SWAGG also provides consumers mobile access to account information, special offers and loyalty programs. The technology will change the way consumers transact with their favorite brands and shops. For more information on SWAGG, visit http://www.SWAGG.com.
About Outlier
Outlier Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Qualcomm Incorporated (NASDAQ: QCOM), is an important participant in the mobile commerce ecosystem. With its mobile domain expertise, Outlier is creating a fresh and exciting mobile revenue channel that will bridge relationships among consumers and retailers. Outlier's innovative technology creates easily accessible, branded and personalized mobile commerce channels that give consumers access to their accounts, offers and transactions while on the go. For more information about Outlier, visit http://www.OutlierInc.com.
SWAGG is a trademark of Outlier Inc. Qualcomm is a registered trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Outlier Contact:
Andy McGowan.
Phone: 1-678-507-2612
Email: amcgowan@qualcomm.com
CONTACT: Andy McGowan of Outlier, +1-678-507-2612, amcgowan@qualcomm.com, or Emily Kilpatrick, Corporate Communications, +1-858-845-5959, corpcomm@qualcomm.com, or Warren Kneeshaw, Investor Relations, +1-858-658-4813, ir@qualcomm.com, both of Qualcomm Incorporated
AT&T Agrees To Acquire Wireless Spectrum From Qualcomm
Spectrum to help AT&T continue to enhance the mobile broadband experience nationwide
DALLAS and SAN DIEGO, Dec. 20, 2010/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --AT&T* and Qualcomm Incorporated announced today that AT&T has agreed to purchase spectrum licenses in the Lower 700 MHz frequency band from Qualcomm for $1.925 billion. The move will bolster AT&T's ability to provide an advanced 4G mobile broadband experience for its customers in the years ahead.
Qualcomm currently uses the licenses to support the service business of FLO TV Incorporated, a wholly owned subsidiary of Qualcomm, and the sale follows Qualcomm's previously announced plan to evaluate strategic options for the FLO TV business. Qualcomm expects that the FLO TV business and network will be shut down in March 2011.
The spectrum covers more than 300 million people total nationwide: 12 MHz of Lower 700 MHz D and E block spectrum covers more than 70 million people in five of the top 15 U.S. metropolitan areas -- New York, Boston, Philadelphia, Los Angeles and San Francisco; 6 MHz of Lower 700 MHz D block spectrum covers more than 230 million people across the rest of the U.S.
As part of its longer-term 4G network plans, AT&T intends to deploy this spectrum as supplemental downlink, using carrier aggregation technology. This technology is designed to deliver substantial capacity gains and is expected to be enabled with the completion of 3GPP Release 10. AT&T expects to begin deploying this spectrum once compatible handsets and network equipment are developed.
As more fully described in its separate announcement today, Qualcomm intends to integrate carrier aggregation technology into its chipset roadmap, to enable supplemental downlink to address increased consumer demand for rich mobile media content. AT&T expects to deploy this technology, demonstrating its commitment to deliver a great mobile broadband experience -- now and in the future.
The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions, and AT&T and Qualcomm anticipate closing the sale during the second half of calendar year 2011.
*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.
About AT&T
AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates - AT&T operating companies - are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. With a powerful array of network resources that includes the nation's fastest mobile broadband network, AT&T is a leading provider of wireless, Wi-Fi, high speed Internet and voice services. A leader in mobile broadband, AT&T also offers the best wireless coverage worldwide, offering the most wireless phones that work in the most countries. It also offers advanced TV services under the AT&T U-verse® and AT&T |DIRECTV brands. The company's suite of IP-based business communications services is one of the most advanced in the world. In domestic markets, AT&T Advertising Solutions and AT&T Interactive are known for their leadership in local search and advertising. In 2010, AT&T again ranked among the 50 Most Admired Companies by FORTUNE®magazine.
Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com. This AT&T news release and other announcements are available at http://www.att.com/newsroom and as part of an RSS feed at http://www.att.com/rss. Or follow our news on Twitter at @ATT. Find us on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/ATT to discover more about our consumer and wireless services or at http://www.Facebook.com/ATTSmallBiz to discover more about our small business services.
Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
Information set forth in this press release contains financial estimates and other forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results might differ materially. A discussion of factors that may affect future results is contained in AT&T's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. AT&T disclaims any obligation to update and revise statements contained in this news release based on new information or otherwise.
About Qualcomm
Qualcomm Incorporated (Nasdaq: QCOM) is the world leader in next-generation mobile technologies. For 25 years, Qualcomm ideas and inventions have driven the evolution of wireless communications, connecting people more closely to information, entertainment and each other. Today, Qualcomm technologies are powering the convergence of mobile communications and consumer electronics, making wireless devices and services more personal, affordable and accessible to people everywhere. For more information, visit Qualcomm around the Web:
Except for the historical information contained herein, this news release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions. If such risks or uncertainties materialize or such assumptions prove incorrect, the results of Qualcomm could differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and assumptions. All statements other than statements of historical fact are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements, including the expected benefits and costs of the transaction; management plans relating to the transaction; the expected timing of the completion of the transaction; the ability to complete the transaction considering the various closing conditions, including any conditions related to regulatory approvals; any statements of the plans, strategies and objectives of management for future operations, including the development of supplemental downlink technology, the integration of supplemental downlink technology into Qualcomm's chipsets, the development of carrier aggregation technologies and the availability and deployment of carrier aggregation technologies; any statements of expectation or belief, including the benefits of supplemental downlink and carrier aggregation technologies; the expected timing for the shut down of the FLO TV business and network; and any statements of assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. Risks, uncertainties and assumptions include the possibility that expected benefits may not materialize as expected; that the transaction may not be timely completed, if at all; that supplemental downlink technology can be successfully developed and adequate quantities of chipsets implementing such technology will be available on satisfactory terms and in a timely manner; that carrier aggregation technologies can be timely developed and deployed; as well as the other risks detailed from time to time in Qualcomm's SEC reports, including the report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 26, 2010, and most recent Form 10-Q. Qualcomm undertakes no obligation to update, or continue to provide information with respect to, any forward-looking statement or risk factor, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
For more information, contact:
McCall Butler
For AT&T Corporate Communications
Phone: 917-209-5792
E-mail: mbutler@attnews.us
Kate Tellier
For AT&T Corporate Communications
Phone: 212-706-7879
E-mail: Ktellier@brunswickgroup.com
CONTACT: McCall Butler, +1-917-209-5792, mbutler@attnews.us, or Kate Tellier, +1-212-706-7879, Ktellier@brunswickgroup.com, both for AT&T Corporate Communications; or Emily Kilpatrick of Qualcomm Corporate Communications, 1-888-845-5959, corpcomm@qualcomm.com, or Warren Kneeshaw of Qualcomm Investor Relations, +1-858-658-4813, ir@qualcomm.com
Social Networking Application DateBid Joins Small Group Exclusively Accepting Facebook Credits Currency
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 20, 2010 /PRNewswire/ --
DateBid, a webcam auction-style dating game on Facebook,
announced today that it now exclusively accepts Facebook
Credits for the purchase of its in-game currency,
DateBid dollars. DateBid Limited, the game's parent
organization, has agreed with Facebook that it will make
the virtual currency the primary method of payment for
the social networking game. Currently, DateBid is one of
only 200+ applications (out of 550,000+) approved by
Facebook to use the Facebook Credits virtual currency
What: program.
DateBid is a webcam auction-style dating game where
members can bid for webcam dates with other players
using DateBid Dollars, the in-game currency used to
place bids, unlock features, and send virtual gifts.
DateBid also conducts Celebrity Charity Auctions where
fans can bid to win 10 min video chats with winning bid
How: amounts donated to the Celebrity's Charity of choice.
Facebook Credits are a virtual currency used to buy
virtual goods in many games and applications on or
connected to the Facebook platform. Inside Social Games
reports 93% of top Facebook games use Facebook Credits
in a growing marketplace of over 800 million game
sessions a month on Facebook. Reports have shown users
are 40-60% more likely to purchase online if their
credit card info is already stored. Facebook Credits can
be purchased with credit cards, PayPal, mobile payments
like Zong, as well as at Target, Best Buy, Game Stop and
7-Eleven retail stores via Facebook Gift Cards. For more
information on Facebook Credits go to: http://
About http://www.facebook.com/credits/.
Facebook
Credits:
DateBid Limited is a privately-held company, based in
the U.K., that brings innovative social network
entertainment to people online and on mobile devices.
DateBid combines social gaming and online dating in an
auction-style ice-breaker game for meeting new people.
For more information about DateBid, please visit http:/
/bit.ly/datebidprofile or the about pages within the
About game at http://www.datebid.com/.
DateBid
Limited:
For more information, please contact Kyle Loomis of
Global Results Communications at (949) 608-0276 or
Contact: datebid@globalresultspr.com.
SOURCE DateBid Limited
DateBid Limited
CONTACT: Kyle Loomis of Global Results Communications, +1-949-608-0276, datebid@globalresultspr.com, for DateBid Limited
Expands EarthLink Business Fiber Network and Customer Base in Northeast, Midwest and Mid-Atlantic Regions
ATLANTA, Dec. 20, 2010 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --
-- Builds on Deltacom Acquisition, Further Establishes EarthLink as a
Leading IP Infrastructure and Services Company
-- EarthLink Intends to Set New Quarterly Dividend Rate to Retain Financial
Flexibility for Additional Strategic Initiatives
EarthLink, Inc. (Nasdaq: ELNK) today announced a definitive merger agreement under which EarthLink will acquire One Communications Corp. (One Comm) for $370 million, which includes payment of approximately $285 million of One Comm net debt. One Comm stockholders have the right to elect to receive the net merger consideration in the form of cash or EarthLink common stock. The transaction purchase price represents a multiple of approximately 3.7x Adjusted EBITDA (a non-GAAP measure, see definition in "Non-GAAP Information for One Communications Corp." below) for the twelve months ended September 30, 2010, including $20 million in expected cost synergies and excluding one-time transaction costs. One Comm's shareholders will retain liability for all costs relating to One Comm's pending litigation with Verizon New York Inc. The merger has been approved by the Boards of Directors of both companies and the stockholders of One Comm.
The acquisition will provide EarthLink with:
-- a strong IP network footprint in the Northeast, Midwest, and Mid
Atlantic regions;
-- overlapping connection cities with EarthLink Business (formerly
Deltacom) long-haul routes in major markets including Washington, D.C.,
Baltimore, Philadelphia and New York City;
-- geographical expansion and scale for managed IP services product
strategy supported by a talented One Comm employee base; and
-- a solid foundation for potential future acquisitions of revenue bases in
the region.
One Comm, with corporate headquarters in Burlington, Massachusetts, and operational headquarters in Rochester, New York, is one of the largest privately held, multi-regional integrated telecommunications solutions providers in the United States. With approximately 1,500 employees, One Comm serves approximately 113,000 small and mid-sized business customers in 17 states across the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic and Upper Midwest, including the major metropolitan markets of Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore and the District of Columbia. One Comm's products include a wide range of data, voice (both traditional and VoIP) and integrated voice/data solutions that scale with bandwidths ranging from T1s to fiber-based speeds. One Comm's network consists of 629 collocations, connected by more than 11,700 route miles of fiber.
EarthLink plans to integrate One Comm into its newly established EarthLink Business division, which currently consists of products and capabilities of its former New Edge Network, Deltacom and EarthLink Business Solutions divisions. After the closing of this transaction, EarthLink Business will operate a nationwide IP network with underlying fiber assets in 30 of the top 50 MSAs in the country. The combined fiber network will span approximately 28,000 route miles across 27 states, with 923 collocations, 55 IP and circuit-based switches and 68 metro fiber rings. With the addition of One Comm, EarthLink will have nearly 3,500 employees nationwide.
"The acquisition of One Communications is a significant development in further transforming EarthLink into one of the largest IP services companies in the U.S. We will now have a fiber-based IP network that covers a substantial portion of the key business markets across the eastern half of the United States, as well as substantial revenue and EBITDA scale in our strategic line of business," said EarthLink Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Rolla P. Huff. "We fully recognize the declining trend line of One Comm's revenue and EBITDA as the company has struggled to deal with the uncertainty of their debt covenants and pending litigation. We have taken the opportunity to acquire their network assets and customer base at an attractive valuation multiple. We are confident that EarthLink's nationwide IP service offering, substantial free cash flow, strong balance sheet, and strong track record of customer service and operating excellence will add meaningful stability to the financial and operating performance of the company."
"As part of our evolution, our management team and Board of Directors have carefully evaluated our capital structure alternatives for our transformed business. Given the substantial opportunities we believe exist for continued value creation by investing in our strategic line of business, the Board of Directors has decided to adjust the EarthLink quarterly dividend rate to $0.05 per share. We are pleased that EarthLink will be uniquely positioned in this industry to offer its shareholders a dividend yield," added Huff.
EarthLink ended the third quarter of 2010 with $572 million in cash and marketable securities pro forma the recent closing of its $527 million acquisition of ITC^DeltaCom. EarthLink's share repurchase program has approximately $146 million available under the current authorization.
Pro Forma Financials
On a pro forma basis, for the 12-month period ended September 30, 2010, EarthLink and Deltacom together with One Comm would have generated approximately $1.64 billion in revenue, $1.15 billion of which is from its combined business services segments. During this period, One Comm generated $79 million in Adjusted EBITDA (a non-GAAP measure, see definition in "Non-GAAP Information for One Communications Corp." below). EarthLink expects to achieve annual cost synergies of approximately $20 million to be fully realized on a run rate basis by the end of the third year after closing.
All of One Comm's outstanding indebtedness will be paid by the shareholders of One Comm from the cash proceeds of the merger.
Transaction Terms and Structure
The agreement provides for EarthLink's acquisition of One Comm by means of a merger of a newly formed indirect subsidiary with and into One Comm, with One Comm surviving as an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of EarthLink. The agreement contains customary representations, warranties, covenants, closing conditions and escrow and indemnification protection.
The closing of the merger is subject to the satisfaction of several conditions, including receipt of required regulatory approvals from the Federal Communications Commission and certain state public utilities commissions and expiration or termination of the waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act. Subject to the fulfillment of these conditions, the transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2011.
Greenhill & Co. LLC acted as financial advisor to EarthLink and rendered a fairness opinion to the EarthLink Board of Directors in connection with the transaction. Houlihan Lokey Capital, Inc. also rendered a fairness opinion to the EarthLink Board. King & Spalding LLP was EarthLink's M&A legal counsel. Blackstone Advisory Services L.P. acted as financial advisor to One Comm, and Kelley, Drye & Warren LLP was its legal counsel.
Conference Call
EarthLink will host a conference call to discuss the transaction today at 8:45 a.m. Eastern Time Those wishing to participate in the call should dial 800-706-0730 (U.S. and Canada) or 706-634-5173 (international) approximately 10 minutes prior to the start of the call and reference the "EarthLink Conference Call."
A listen-only webcast will be available at http://ir.earthlink.net/index.cfm. A replay of the call will be available two hours after the call by dialing 800-642-1687 Passcode 33481648.
About EarthLink
EarthLink, Inc. (Nasdaq: ELNK) is a leading provider of Internet Protocol (IP) infrastructure and services to medium-sized and large businesses, enterprise organizations and over 1.5 million consumers across the United States. The company has been providing Internet access and communications services for decades and has earned an award-winning reputation for both outstanding customer service and product innovation. For consumers, EarthLink is a leading Internet Service Provider connecting people to the power and possibilities of the Internet. EarthLink Business(TM) provides voice, data, mobile and equipment services over a Southeast fiber network and MPLS-based services nationwide. For more information, visit EarthLink's website http://www.earthlink.net.
Cautionary Information Regarding Forward-Looking Statements for EarthLink, Inc.
This press release includes "forward-looking" statements (rather than historical facts) that are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described. Although we believe that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot promise that our expectations will turn out to be correct. Our actual results could be materially different from and worse than our expectations. With respect to such forward-looking statements, we seek the protections afforded by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These risks include, without limitation, the successful completion of the pending acquisition of One Communications Corp., including the receipt of required regulatory approvals; the ability to realize expected synergies, cost savings and growth opportunities; the possibility that the anticipated benefits from the acquisition cannot be fully realized or may take longer or present greater cost to realize than expected; our ability to successfully integrate the operations of One Communications Corp. upon its acquisition without detracting from our current operations; our ability to execute our acquisition strategy; and other unforeseen difficulties that may occur. These risks and uncertainties also include (1) that the continued decline of our consumer access subscribers, combined with the change in mix of our consumer access subscriber base from narrowband to broadband, will adversely affect our results of operations; (2) that we will have less ability in the future to implement cost reductions to offset our revenue declines, which will adversely affect our results of operations; (3) that we face significant competition which could reduce our profitability; (4) that adverse economic conditions may harm our business; (5) that we may not be able to execute our business strategy for our Business Services segment, which could adversely impact our results of operations and cash flows; (6) that our commercial and alliance arrangements may not be renewed or may not generate expected benefits, which could adversely affect our results of operations; (7) that our business is dependent on the availability of third-party telecommunications service providers; (8) that we may be unable to retain sufficient qualified personnel, particularly in light of recent workforce and cost reduction initiatives and in a recovering economy, and the loss of any of our key executive officers could adversely affect us; (9) that we may be unsuccessful in making and integrating acquisitions into our business, which could result in operating difficulties, losses and other adverse consequences; (10) that if we do not continue to innovate and provide products and services that are useful to subscribers, we may not remain competitive, and our revenues and operating results could suffer; (11) that our business may suffer if third parties used for customer service and technical support and certain billing services are unable to provide these services or terminate their relationships with us; (12) that interruption or failure of our network and information systems and other technologies could impair our ability to provide our services, which could damage our reputation and harm our operating results; (13) that government regulations could adversely affect our business or force us to change our business practices; (14) that privacy concerns relating to our business could damage our reputation and deter current and potential users from using our services; (15) that we may not be able to protect our intellectual property; (16) that we may be accused of infringing upon the intellectual property rights of third parties, which is costly to defend and could limit our ability to use certain technologies in the future; (17) that if we are unable to successfully defend against legal actions we could face substantial liabilities; (18) that our business depends on effective business support systems, processes and personnel; (19) that as a result of our continuing review of our business, we may have to undertake further restructuring plans that would require additional charges, including incurring facility exit and restructuring charges; (20) that we may be required to recognize additional impairment charges on our goodwill and intangible assets, which would adversely affect our results of operations and financial position; (21) that we may have exposure to greater than anticipated tax liabilities and the use of our net operating losses and certain other tax attributes could be limited in the future; (22) that we may reduce, or cease payment of, quarterly dividends; (23) that our stock price may be volatile; (24) that our indebtedness could adversely affect our financial health and limit our ability to react to changes in our industry; (25) that provisions of our second restated certificate of incorporation, amended and restated bylaws and other elements of our capital structure could limit our share price and delay a change of management; (26) that we may be unsuccessful in integrating our acquisition of ITC^DeltaCom, which could result in operating difficulties, losses and other adverse consequences; and (27) that we are exposed to additional risks specific to ITC^DeltaCom's business and industry, which could adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. These risks and uncertainties, as well as other risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to differ significantly from management's expectations, are not intended to represent a complete list of all risks and uncertainties inherent in our business, and should be read in conjunction with the more detailed cautionary statements and risk factors included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009 and our Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2010.
Non-GAAP Information for One Communications Corp.
Adjusted EBITDA is defined by One Comm as loss from continuing operations before interest expense and income, net, income taxes, depreciation and amortization, stock-based compensation expense, reversal of goodwill impairment and other income or loss.
Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial performance measure. It should not be considered in isolation or as an alternative to measures determined in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. This financial performance measure is not indicative of cash provided or used by operating activities and may differ from comparable information provided by other companies, and should not be considered in isolation, as an alternative to, or more meaningful than measures of financial performance determined in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. This financial performance measure is commonly used in the industry and is presented because EarthLink believes it provides relevant and useful information to investors. Management believes that excluding the effects of the items noted above enables investors to better understand and analyze the current period's results and provides a better measure of comparability.
Below is a reconciliation of this non-GAAP financial performance measure to the most comparable measure reported in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles:
ONE COMMUNICATIONS CORP.
Reconciliation of Loss From Continuing Operations to Adjusted EBITDA
(in thousands)
Twelve Months
Ended
September 30,
2010
----
Loss from continuing
operations $(53,670)
Interest expense and
income, net 57,657
Income tax benefit (3,837)
Depreciation and
amortization 104,715
Stock-based
compensation expense 6,284
Reversal of goodwill
impairment (35,000)
Other loss 2,941
-----
Adjusted EBITDA $79,090
=======
Slooh to Broadcast Live Feed of Total Lunar Eclipse through Sky in Google Earth
NEW YORK, Dec. 20, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- In an on going mission to provide a live view of the universe, Slooh, the online Space Camera, will deliver a live feed of tonight's total lunar eclipse through Sky in Google Earth. This will be the first total lunar eclipse in three years and will be an especially rare event, as the full moon will pass through the shadow of the Earth on the winter solstice, the first day of winter in the Northern Hemisphere. Stargazers all over the world are invited to simultaneously watch the total lunar eclipse unfold in what may be the largest ever online global star party.
The new live feed feature appears as a bubble in the Slooh Space Camera layer in Google Earth and will broadcast the entirety of the lunar eclipse over a three-hour period. The live feed can be accessed by clicking on the planets icon in the Google Earth toolbar to switch to Sky mode. In the layers panel, open the Current Sky Events folder and click on the Slooh Space Camera layer.
Launched in October 2010, the Slooh Space Camera layer in Google Earth is a live astronomy feature that brings the power of live space exploration to Google's global audience. The Slooh layer delivers a live stream of images from Slooh's worldwide network of powerful user-controlled robotic telescopes into Sky in Google Earth. Digital images of celestial objects taken by Slooh members with Slooh's patented instant imaging technology are automatically uploaded to Sky in Google Earth to share with the world.
"Slooh's powerful new live feed technology through Google Earth allows children and adults alike from around the world to share the view of the fascinating night sky through their computer screens," said Michael Paolucci, Founder of Slooh. "Viewers will not only be able to watch live coverage of tonight's total lunar eclipse, but will also encounter many other celestial events on future Slooh missions including transits, comets, and supernova discoveries, adding a totally new dimension to the Sky experience."
The live feed will be enhanced with audio narration by Slooh host and nationally renowned astronomy luminary Bob Berman. To listen to the audio narration and capture live photographic images of the lunar eclipse with the Slooh Space Camera, go to Slooh.com and sign up for a free Slooh membership.
The total eclipse of the moon will begin at 1:32 am Eastern Standard Time on December 21 and will be visible only throughout North America and Central America. The online broadcast of the eclipse will make viewing possible for people in Asia and throughout the rest of the world where it will not be visible.
In an effort to make live views of space widely available to as many people as possible, Slooh also announced today it is distributing a new live feed widget to anyone interested in helping share the view. By downloading and installing the widget, any website from personal blogs to social media profiles and online news sites can now display a live feed of space. The live feed offers web visitors the unique opportunity to watch celestial events such as eclipses, transits and comets live on-screen as they happen in real time. The widget is free and available for download at http://sharetheview.slooh.com.
To help Slooh share live views of space, the Astronomical Society of the Pacific (ASP) is promoting the widget to over 350 clubs in the Night Sky Network, a nationwide coalition of amateur astronomy clubs that bring the science, technology, and inspiration of NASA's missions to the general public. The ASP is also promoting the widget to Astronomy from the Ground Up, a nationwide network of informal science educators comprised of almost 700 individuals, representing over 450 institutions ranging from smaller science centers, nature centers, outdoor education centers, state, regional and national parks.
In addition to teaming up with Google to broadcast the total lunar eclipse through Sky in Google Earth, Slooh is also partnering with TSS Media to broadcast the eclipse on its 5,000 foot video screen in Times Square in New York City on Tuesday, December 21. Beginning at 3:13 am and ending at 3:18 am and interspersed with 30 second updates at 2:00 am and 2:40 am, the live feed will give residents and visitors the unprecedented opportunity to view the eclipse simultaneously as a group. The Digital Smart Sign is located at 1568 Broadway, between 46th Street and 47th Street. The Times Square lunar eclipse broadcast will be the first in a series of live feeds put together by Slooh and TSS Media in 2011.
About Slooh
In December 2003, Slooh launched the first Space Camera available to the public. Slooh has served more than 300,000 missions to members from 70 countries who have taken more than 1.1 million photographs to date. Slooh's patented instant imaging technology makes astronomical objects appear like Polaroid images over the course of 5-minute missions. Slooh pictures have resulted in community wide participation in several discoveries, including co-authorship with leading universities, including Cal Tech, of research regarding a recent supernova discovery.
Online Professional Networking Site Launches for Scots Worldwide
KILTR Brings Together the Scottish Diaspora Online
EDINBURGH, Scotland, Dec. 20, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- KILTR today announced the public beta launch of its international online platform for business professionals of Scottish descent at http://www.KILTR.com. KILTR brings together 40 million Scots worldwide to network online and tap into the vast knowledge, experience and opportunity offered by the Scottish community, which is renowned as canny and entrepreneurial in business. The company has recently closed a Series A round of financing with Par Equity of Edinburgh as the lead investor.
Unlike other social networks, where people may find themselves connected to strangers with no common interests, KILTR uses a built-in search and recommendation engine that pushes relevant opportunities to the users. The site is focused on delivering valuable business and networking opportunities to members. Professionals, entrepreneurs, companies, organizations, clubs and societies can immediately get started networking with others who have a known shared connection or affinity for Scotland.
KILTR CEO and co-founder Brian Hughes Halferty hatched the idea for the network during a trip to the United States. As soon as he began speaking with his Scottish lilt, he noticed how many people claimed a connection with Scotland, whether through direct heritage or simply love of the culture. That connection gave them an immediate bond.
"Diaspora networks -- groups of expatriates devoted to their culture and heritage -- are incredibly powerful for fostering business growth across global communities as well as back in the home country," Hughes Halferty says. "With KILTR, we can provide a one-stop resource for the tens of millions of people of Scottish descent around the world," Halferty said. "KILTR gives Scots the basis to form connections and business relationships across borders."
One of KILTR's advantages is its clean, uncluttered interface. "We use a 'concertina' navigational device across the site, which allows pages with large quantities of content to be organized into bite-sized chunks of information," says Hughes Halferty. "Users only see what they need to see, in context of the function they're performing, reducing a lot of the noise common with social media sites."
The interface also supports complex functions such as contextual posts, attachments in conversation replies, embedded multimedia and links, and tagging of post types for a specific user, group or organization.
"There are roughly seven times as many people of Scottish descent living outside of Scotland as there are living in Scotland," remarked Stewart Fraser, co-founder and CTO. "There are even more people who share an affection for or connection to Scotland. We have created a platform that allows everybody, from tech-savvy professionals to novices, to immediately jump in and begin opening doors to business opportunities."
SOURCE KILTR
KILTR
CONTACT: Susan MacTavish Best of Best Public Relations, + 1-415-505-0301 (Pacific Standard Time), susan@bestpr.net, for KILTR
Broadcastr, a New Social Media Platform for Location-Based Audio Content, Launches Beta
Broadcastr is a social media platform that enables the recording, organizing, listening, and sharing of audio content via a map-based interface. Just like in human memory, every story is bound to a place. Whether dishing last night's details to friends, uncovering local lore, perusing restaurant reviews, listening to travel guides, tuning in to citizen journalism, contemplating oral histories, or sharing hilarious anecdotes, Broadcastr's goal is to amplify all of our voices.
NEW YORK, Dec. 20, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Today the founders of Broadcastr, a new social media platform that enables the recording, organizing, listening, and sharing of audio, announced the service and kicked off an exclusive, private beta.
Broadcastr.com features a map-based interface for micro-podcasts on any and every subject under the sun, from a band's tour diary to real-time reporting from global hotspots.
On Broadcastr Mobile (coming in January to Android and iPhone), users will be able to take a GPS-enabled walk as stories connected to their surroundings stream into their headphones, like a museum tour of the entire world.
Users of Broadcastr can record their own content, create playlists, follow their friends, and share stories on Facebook and Twitter. "Social media is missing a verb," says Broadcastr co-founder Scott Lindenbaum. "We tweet. We blog. We YouTube videos, and we connect on Facebook. What about our voices?"
For the past three months, the Broadcastr team has been recording stories and sourcing archives from notable cultural figures, unique individuals, artists, performers, and organizations and pinning those stories to Broadcastr's interactive online map of the world. The service will launch with more than 3,000 stories in locations ranging from Antarctica to Zimbabwe.
A simple yet dynamic platform, Broadcastr is designed to change the way we perceive the world. "An earthquake in Haiti. Unrest in Iran. On Broadcastr, you can hear the testimonies of the people on the ground, in their own voices, in real time," says co-founder Andy Hunter.
Lindenbaum, formerly a sponsored snowboarder, emphasizes that much of the site's appeal will come from user-generated content. "From a tip about the best cliff drop a mile out of bounds, to a guided tour of the area's best bars, Broadcastr can do it. College students can follow their friends and listen to last night's debauchery while they walk to class in the morning, and tourists in NYC can learn the history of a park or neighborhood as they wander through it for the first time. The list goes on and on."
On Broadcastr, people can experience their world through the voices, anecdotes, and histories of the community that surrounds them. "The map is an intuitive way to discover stories," says Hunter, "but it's not essential; for example, you can search the world for love stories and listen to them all day, regardless of their location. We see Broadcastr as the evolution of talk radio. Just like YouTube changed video forever, Broadcastr lets us all participate as creators and curators."
Broadcastr expects to open the private beta to the public in early 2011, complete with an impressive roster of partners and users. Early content providers include Fodor's travel guides, USC Shoah Foundation Institute, the 9/11 Memorial Foundation, NYC Dept of Parks, UNICEF, as well as individuals such as Andrew Jenks (star of MTV's World of Jenks) and comedian Michael Showalter.
On December 20, 2010, http://www.broadcastr.com launches their private beta with a release party at SPiN NYC.
Contact:
Andy Hunter
323-839-6204
founders@broadcastr.com
SOURCE Broadcastr
Broadcastr
CONTACT: Andy Hunter, +1-323-839-6204, founders@broadcastr.com
National Technical Systems Completes Acquisition of Mechtronic Solutions, Inc.
Engineering Services Firm Adds Extensive Product Design, Development and Analysis Capabilities to NTS Portfolio; Increases Aerospace and Defense Customer Base
CALABASAS, Calif., Dec. 20, 2010 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --National Technical Systems, Inc. (Nasdaq: NTSC) (NTS), a leading provider of engineering services, announced today that it has completed the acquisition of privately-held Mechtronic Solutions, Inc. (MSI). With annual revenues of approximately $7.5 million, MSI is a multi-skilled engineering services company with an extensive customer base in the aerospace and defense industries. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Albuquerque, NM-based MSI was founded in 1993 as a mechanical engineering consultancy and has grown to a staff of sixty personnel offering mechanical, electrical and software engineering as well as in-house machining, electronics assembly and full system integration. While MSI's core competency is design engineering, the company also generates revenue through prototyping, short production runs and life cycle support for products originally engineered by MSI.
Under the leadership of its current management, MSI will continue to operate from its facilities in Albuquerque.
MSI has experience serving the needs of customers in a variety of industries and has performed extensive work for the Department of Defense and the Department of Energy as well as commercial customers. The company is currently developing several airborne sensor systems for deployment onboard both manned aircraft and Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). Sensor systems designed and built by MSI are currently deployed globally.
William C. McGinnis, NTS President and CEO, noted that NTS and MSI have previously partnered on several important projects and the experience of working together has given both organizations an excellent understanding of how their respective capabilities complement each other.
"The addition of MSI to the NTS family significantly advances our full-service integrated engineering services capabilities and provides us with additional established customers in the aerospace and defense industries," McGinnis said. "We now offer full product life cycle support for a broad range of our customers' product engineering requirements, making NTS a true single-source solution. In addition, this acquisition is a prime example of our ongoing initiative to grow and become a more diverse and capable company through strategic acquisitions."
John Spruce, CEO of MSI, agreed that the acquisition made strategic sense for both companies. "Our extensive experience in providing integrated engineering services coupled with the broad customer base and global reach of NTS will further fuel the growth both companies have experienced over the last few years. In addition, access to world-class test facilities and NTS subject matter experts will significantly strengthen our turnkey service offering. We are excited to join the NTS team and look forward to realizing the many synergies."
Derek Coppinger, NTS Senior Vice President of Corporate Development, said, "MSI is an excellent fit for NTS both strategically and culturally as part of our growth model and it significantly bolsters our combined capabilities in the defense and aerospace sectors. MSI's strong management team, its expert personnel and important customer base will be significant additions as we step up our drive to consistently increase our rate of growth."
About National Technical Systems
National Technical Systems, Inc. is a leading provider of engineering services to the aerospace, defense, telecommunications, automotive and high technology markets. Through a world-wide network of resources, NTS provides full product life-cycle support, offering world class design engineering, program management, compliance, testing, certification, supply chain management and quality registration. For additional information about NTS, visit our website at http://www.ntscorp.com or call 800-270-2516.
Forward-Looking Statements
The statements in this press release that relate to future plans, events or performance, are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, including risks associated with uncertainties pertaining to customer orders, demand for services and products, development of markets for the companies' services and products and other risks identified in the companies' SEC filings. Actual results, events and performance may differ materially. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. The companies undertake no obligation to release publicly the result of any revisions to these forward-looking statements that may be made to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.
"Safe Harbor" Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: Statements in this press release regarding National Technical Systems' business which are not historical facts are "forward-looking statements" that involve risks and uncertainties. For a discussion of such risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements, see "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Report or Form 10-K for the most recently ended fiscal year.
Contact: Allen & National Technical
Caron Inc Systems
Jill Bertotti Derek Coppinger
(investors) Aaron Cohen (corporate) (technical)
jill@allencaron.com aaron.cohen@ntscorp.com dcoppinger@ntscorp.com
Len Hall (media) (818) 591-0776 (800) 270-2516
len@allencaron.com
(949) 474-4300
SOURCE National Technical Systems, Inc.
Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20091001/NTSLOGO http://photoarchive.ap.org/
National Technical Systems, Inc.
CONTACT: Investors, Jill Bertotti, jill@allencaron.com, or Media, Len Hall, len@allencaron.com, both of Allen & Caron Inc, +1-949-474-4300, for National Technical Systems; or Corporate, Aaron Cohen, +1-818-591-0776, aaron.cohen@ntscorp.com, or Technical, Derek Coppinger, 1-800-270-2516, dcoppinger@ntscorp.com, both of National Technical Systems
UNIT4 Launches Mobile App to Support Dynamic Reporting
Enables Reporting and Querying of any Information From Agresso Business World Enterprise Resource Planning Suite
SLIEDRECHT, The Netherlands, December 20, 2010/PRNewswire/ -- UNIT4, the world's leading provider of ERP and financial management
software for fast changing organizations, today announced the availability of
its first mobile application to expand Agresso Business World's (ABW) dynamic
reporting capabilities on both iPhone and iPad.
Using the Agresso Reporting mobile app from UNIT4, close to two million
Agresso Business World users can access and query any information they have
access to, providing them with full control of their organization's data and
processes at all times.
"Unlike other reporting applications, which are often pre-defined and
restricted to a set of hand-coded reports, Agresso's Reporting app for the
iPad/iPhone allows for dynamic querying of any information, without extra
configuration," said Ton Dobbe, VP Product at UNIT4. "The Agresso VITA
architecture is the foundation for our iPad/iPhone reporting capabilities,
ensuring that any report or analysis is always in-sync with the
organization's actual business model and structure - irrespective of where
and how the data is presented. This provides huge value for users as they can
securely access critical, relevant and accurate business data from their ERP
system at any time, and respond to queries and external pressures quickly and
effectively."
The Agresso Reporting app enables users to create their own library of
relevant reports which can be populated by dragging and dropping columns as
required according to the user's access status in Agresso Business World. The
app also provides the ability for users to work offline and will save data
and reports from the user's last online session.
The Agresso Reporting app is available now as a free download from the
Apple App Store here:
UNIT4 (http://www.unit4.com/) is a global business software and services
company aimed at helping dynamic organizations to embrace change simply,
quickly and cost effectively in a market sector it calls 'Businesses Living
IN Change' (BLINC)(TM). The Group incorporates a number of the world's
leading change embracing software brands including Agresso Business World and
Coda financial management software.
Agresso Business World
(http://www.unit4.com/products/agresso-business-world) is our flagship ERP
suite for mid-sized services intensive organizations. It is widely
acknowledged for delivering ongoing, post-implementation changes without the
typical external IT costs and services that cost firms huge sums of money
each year. This is achieved thanks to its powerful VITA(TM) architecture
which is unmatched in the ERP world.
Coda Financials (http://www.unit4.com/products/coda) is our
award-winning suite of best-of-class financial management software designed
to integrate with your industry- and company-specific applications. Coda's
LINK(TM) architecture sets it apart from ordinary accounting systems by
providing a financial information backbone for companies with fast-changing
and mixed application environments. It is a global accounting solution for
mid-to large sized organizations, offering a "no compromise" approach to
financial modeling, process control and application choice.
UNIT4 is a top six mid-market ERP software player globally and
the 2nd largest European ERP supplier. With offices in 17 European countries,
as well as 7 countries across North America, Asia Pacific and Africa and
sales activities in several other countries, a revenue of EUR379.4 million
was realized in 2009. UNIT4 is headquartered in Sliedrecht, the Netherlands.
The company has 4,160 employees.
UNIT4 is listed on Euronext Amsterdam by NYSE Euronext and is included in
the Amsterdam Midcap Index (AMX). For more information on UNIT4 or any of its
operating companies, please visit the website at http://www.unit4.com.
SPB Software Collaborated With Fujitsu to Create the User Interface of NTT DOCOMO Smartphone REGZA Phone T-01C
TOKYO, December 20, 2010/PRNewswire/ -- SPB Software, a leading mobile software developer, was chosen by Fujitsu
to improve the user interface and expand the functionality for their new
Android Fujitsu REGZA Phone T-01C device. The new smartphone was designed to
combine fun and cutting-edge capabilities of a smartphone with the benefits
of conventional mobile phones. To meet the needs of users who want to have
the convenient and eye-thrilling interface, easy access to all frequently
used functions and follow the latest updates on their favorite social
networks Fujitsu invited SPB Software to develop the number of usability
tools.
Working in a strong cooperation with Fujitsu SPB Software aimed to
deliver to its users the outstanding mobile user experience to make the use
of the new device as pleasant and handy as possible. The solution includes
the NX!UI home-screen interface that is a featured replacement of default
Launcher. Through 16 pallets created in accordance with the Toshiba style
interface guidelines, it provides users with an instant and easy access to 16
different services and features such as calculator, RSS, calendar, most
visited sites and most used apps, calls history, bookmarks, emails and sms
services, popular social networks and others.
Exclusively for Fujitsu SPB Software has developed StarMemo - the
application to create, keep and share all kinds of notes which can contain
not only texts, but also other information: website news, map routes from a
train station, favorite Twitter (TM) tweets. StarMemo allows saving
handwritten and voice messages, photos and videos. All the saved StarMemos
can be uploaded directly to mixi, Twitter (TM) or Picasa (TM) accounts and
shared with friends. In addition to this SPB Software has created the set of
widgets for the quick access to the alarm, digital time and notes. Follow the
link to find the detailed information on this project: http://spb.com/oems/casestudies/fujitsu-regza-phone-t01c.html.
"The T-01C is our all-in-one Android-based smartphone which is available
in Japan from NTT DOCOMO. It employs NX!UI, an original, easy-to-use
interface. We turned to our long-term partner SPB Software, with their
extensive mobile UI engine expertise, to support us in creating optimized and
highly intuitive user interface for Home-screen with 16 palette types and
StarMemos," Hiroshi Nomura, General Manager, Fujitsu Toshiba Mobile
Communications Limited.
The detailed information on other SPB Software's projects with partners
can be found in case-studies section at SPB website:
Fujitsu is a leading provider of ICT-based business solutions for the
global marketplace. With approximately 170,000 employees supporting customers
in 70 countries, Fujitsu combines a worldwide corps of systems and services
experts with highly reliable computing and communications products and
advanced microelectronics to deliver added value to customers. Headquartered
in Tokyo, Fujitsu Limited (TSE:6702) reported consolidated revenues of 4.6
trillion yen (US$50 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2010.
SPB is a leading brand in mobile software, standing for a unique line of
popular consumer products and partnerships with the world's most innovative
handset makers and wireless carriers. SPB's software solutions deliver richer
smartphone experiences and enable subscribers to do more with their mobile
data connections. SPB Software is the maker of the world's single number one
best-selling mobile application - SPB Mobile Shell. For more information,
please visit http://www.spb.com
Celebrity 'Word Nuts' Reinvent the Online Crossword for Crisis at Christmas - and Raise Awareness of Homelessness Through Social Gaming
LONDON, December 20, 2010/PRNewswire/ -- Celebrity wordsmiths David Mitchell, Ian Hislop, Hardeep Singh Kohli and
Danny Wallace feature in a new online crossword published today to help
Crisis, the national charity for single homeless people, raise funds over
Christmas.
The game cleverly reinvents a much-loved format, challenging the player
though interactive celebrity video clues. Players attempt to solve five
rounds of clues that rise in degree of difficulty, starting with Hardeep
Singh Koli's 'Hazelnut' to Ian Hislop's 'Brazil nut' ('the hardest nut to
crack at Christmas!').
The game is the brainchild of Wordia.com, the world's first online video
dictionary that brings words to life though video and celebrity role model.
The game has been designed for social media and gaming channels - discreetly
raising awareness of homelessness and driving traffic and donations to the
Crisis At Christmas website.
The game will be featured on the Crisis website, Facebook and Wordia and
other social and causal gaming channels. The game will also be promoted to
the education sector, directly to 700 schools through the newly launched
Wordia Schools website.
Chief Executive of Crisis, Leslie Morphy said:
"We're delighted that such a fine stable of celebrity wordsmiths have
taken the time to help Wordia.com to create this online crossword to raise
funds for Crisis. It's fun and may well help the charity reach lots of new
people over the Christmas holidays."
Managing Director of Wordia, Edward Baker said:
"As the average age of someone playing online social games is 43 year
old*, we felt the much-loved online crossword could do with an update. Video
and interactivity opens up a new area in online social gaming and we're
excited about the impact this format could have in areas such as education,
through games-based learning and Wordia Schools. We jumped at the opportunity
to work with Crisis and such loquacious wordsmiths."
Wondershare Releases Video Converter Ultimate for Mac 1.0
SHENZHEN, China, Dec. 18, 2010 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- Wondershare Software Co., Ltd. announced the release of Wondershare Video Converter Ultimate for Mac. As the most powerful Mac software of Wondershare, it offers a complete solution to convert video and audio files, copy and burn DVDs, and download online videos with one click from video sharing sites. It's time for Mac users to release their disk space with one integrated program. This time, Wondershare takes a good step forward on Mac software technology.
"Besides the integration of various functions to settle the requirement of users, we also spent a lot of time designing friendly interface with suitable button locations, so as to deliver a great user experience," said the product manager, Mr. Ye. "Now, we are still working on this Video Converter Ultimate for Mac, and the next better version will be on soon."
Key Features of Wondershare Video Converter Ultimate for Mac:
-- Convert DVDs & videos: output videos with various formats for different
use, including HD formats;
-- Extract & convert audios: extract audios from videos and DVDs, and
convert as different formats;
-- Copy DVD: backup DVD movies on Mac or DVD disc with 100% original
quality;
-- Burn DVD: burn all videos into DVDs with DVD menus;
-- Download online videos: Download online videos from video sharing
websites with one click;
-- Edit video/audio: trim video/audio into multi-clips at a time, crop,
adjust video brightness, contrast and saturation, add watermark, special
effects, etc;
-- Friendly interface: directly drag & drop to complete conversion work
easily and quickly;
-- Real-time preview: preview the video and take snapshots, or pre-fade
listen the audio.
Price and Availability:
Wondershare Video Converter Ultimate for Mac 1.0 is priced as $69(USD), compatible with Mac OS X 10.5 or above and can be downloaded online for free from
Wondershare Software Co., Ltd. is an innovative consumer software player dedicated to bringing consumer software products and services in terms of multimedia, business and other ranges. The company has extended its business worldwide and has set up operations in the USA, Germany and Japan. Due to its persistent innovation, Wondershare has been named to Deloitte Technology Fast 500 Asia Pacific in 2010 and 2009. For more details, please visit: http://www.wondershare.com.
Wolf Unveils Online Kitchen Tool in Time for Holidays
New Kitchen Profiler allows cooks, entertainers to match equipment with cooking styles
MADISON, Wis., Dec. 17, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, Wolf Appliance, Inc., the industry leader in premium cooking equipment, has launched the Wolf Kitchen Profiler (http://www.wolfappliance.com/kitchenprofiler), a new tool that helps culinary aficionados customize their kitchen type and optimize their kitchen configuration based on their culinary preferences.
The Wolf Kitchen Profiler enables users to tailor-make their ideal kitchen based on responses to questions about their food preferences, frequency and quantity of food preparation, and overall approach to cooking. Users can share their kitchen profile "personality" through Facebook by registering their results on http://www.subzero.com.
"During the holidays, Americans spend more time in their kitchens than at any other time of the year. Wolf's Kitchen Profiler comes just in time for passionate cooks and entertainers to take another look at their kitchens," said Michele Bedard, vice president of marketing for Sub-Zero and Wolf. "Home chefs can use this tool to identify the right equipment for the perfect holiday meal."
In this year's Builder magazine survey, Wolf's cooking appliances took the No. 1 spot for quality in the Ranges/Cooktops category (as they have for four of the past five years) and No. 1 for quality in the Outdoor Kitchens/Grills/Barbeques category for the sixth straight year.
A third-generation family-owned company, Sub-Zero, Inc., acquired Wolf Gourmet in 2000. Sub-Zero and Wolf products are manufactured in the United States using only premium-quality materials that are proven to stand the test of time. Developed with and for the design community, Sub-Zero and Wolf products offer limitless design possibilities and more versatility than any other manufacturer.
About Sub-Zero and Wolf
Sub-Zero, Inc., is the leading manufacturer of American-made luxury refrigeration, freezers and wine storage units, and it leads in product design with its built-in and integrated lines. Founded in 1945, Sub-Zero is a privately held company in its third generation of family ownership. Headquartered in Madison, Wis., Sub-Zero, Inc., also operates a manufacturing facility in Goodyear, Ariz., and has over 1,400 employees. Specializing in food preservation, Sub-Zero pioneered the concept of dual refrigeration and prides itself on being the first company to store frozen foods at ultralow, "sub-zero" temperatures. Wolf Appliance, Inc., is the premier maker of ranges, ovens, cooktops and grills and was among the first to introduce the convection oven into the residential market. It is based in a state-of-the-art production facility in Fitchburg, Wis., and employs more than 300 people. Both Sub-Zero and Wolf products are available throughout the United States and internationally. For more information about Sub-Zero and Wolf, please visit subzero.com or wolfappliance.com, or call 800-222-7820. For guidance on how to incorporate energy- and cost-saving solutions into the kitchen, visit Sub-Zero and Wolf's GrowAGreenKitchen.com.
SOURCE Sub-Zero and Wolf
Sub-Zero and Wolf
CONTACT: Natalie Bond of The Richards Group, +1-214-891-4186, natalie_bond@richards.com, for Sub-Zero and Wolf; or Paul Leuthe of Sub-Zero and Wolf, +1-608-270-3273, paul.leuthe@subzero.com
JOC Sailings Refines Website for Customer Ease of Use
JOC Sailings undertakes initiative to improve jocsailings.com for an enhanced user experience
NEWARK, N.J., Dec. 17, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- JOC Sailings (http://www.jocsailings.com), a division of United Business Media Global Trade (UBM GT) and a leader in providing point-to-point sailing schedules and business news for the maritime industry, implemented search and architectural improvements as part of an ongoing plan to improve users' experience on http://www.jocsailings.com - an online resource for worldwide sailing schedules, carrier and vessel directories and timely maritime news.
JOC Sailings' business executives and web development team earlier this year devoted several months to the launch of a revised website, which took place in July 2010. Since then, they have continued to invest in analyzing and improving the site's value for its visitors. One result of these efforts has been a dramatic decrease in page load times. The team will continue to test and monitor progress for further development.
Perfecting the schedule search module that is the crown jewel of JOC Sailings is a top priority. Ocean transportation professionals, including port officials, freight forwarders and manufacturers, rely upon this tool daily to obtain port-to-port sailings schedules. Direct feedback from customers regarding their experiences with the newly redesigned website have led to some notable enhancements:
-- Allowing "All Origin Points" or "All Destination Points" as search
criteria. These options allow users to run a single search for all
vessels coming into or leaving a specific port--something that required
multiple "Region" searches in the past.
-- Adding "Container" as a separate Vessel Type search filter. Previously
included in the default "All" category, this new filter gives users
greater ability to define their searches and receive more relevant
results.
"Our continuous dedication to building upon the success of the JOC Sailings global sailing schedule module and the delivery of informative maritime industry news is based on our priority to keep customers happy and gain repeat business from our clients. We will do what we have to keep this positive relationship flourishing." said Ray Venturino, VP Global Seaports of JOC Sailings.
JOC Sailings provides NVOCC's, 3PL's, BCO's and other major players in the ocean shipping industry with a global sailing schedule module that accurately displays sailing schedules. Searches may be performed by region, country and ports, and refined by carriers, vessel types, departure dates and date ranges. Results include arrival dates, vessel names and voyage numbers, which can be sorted by column.
About JOC Sailings
JOC Sailings, a division of The Journal of Commerce, is a proprietary global sailing schedules database and industry news resource for professionals involved in the ocean transportation industry. JOCSailings.com's state-of-the-art search engine provides access to worldwide shipping schedules and related news on carrier rates, port developments and regulatory issues that affect containerized cargo and ocean transportation industry. For high-profile targeted advertising, enewsletter subscriptions and more information, please visit http://www.jocsailings.com.
About UBM Global Trade
UBM Global Trade is the leading provider of proprietary data, news, business intelligence and analytical content supporting commercial maritime, rail, trucking, warehousing and logistics industries worldwide. The company's portfolio of more than 100 online, print and interactive workflow business solutions includes The Journal of Commerce, Breakbulk, RailResource, PIERS Global Intelligence Solutions and an array of international trade and transportation databases and directories. UBM Global Trade, a subsidiary of United Business Media Limited, is headquartered in Newark, NJ, with offices throughout the United States. For more information, explore http://www.ubmglobaltrade.com or call 800-223-0243 (+1-973-848 outside the U.S. or Canada).
About United Business Media Limited
UBM (UBM.L) focuses on two principal activities: worldwide information distribution, targeting and monitoring, and the development and monetization of B2B communities and markets. UBM's businesses inform markets and serve professional commercial communities -- from doctors to game developers, from journalists to jewelry traders, from farmers to pharmacists -- with integrated events, online, print and business information products. The 6,500 staff in more than 30 countries is organized into specialist teams that serve these communities, bringing buyers and sellers together, helping them to do business and their markets to work effectively and efficiently. For more information, go to http://www.ubm.com.
SOURCE JOC Sailings
JOC Sailings
CONTACT: Ray Venturino, Vice President Global Seaports of The Journal of Commerce, +1-973-848-7207, rventurino@joc.com
More Wireless Data and Call Capacity Activated for San Diego, California
Verizon Wireless adds capacity to cell sites to stay ahead of demand for calls, e-mail, text and web surfing
IRVINE, Calif.,Dec. 17, 2010 /PRNewswire/ --Even moreSan Diego County residents, businesses and visitors can now enjoy improved high-speed wireless data and voice connections in University City on the east side of Genesee Avenue, thanks to recent Verizon Wireless network upgrades. Hundreds of upgrades since December 2009 have increased the company's 3G data and voice capacity by nearly thirty percent in Southern California. The increased capacity means more users are empowered to surf the web, download applications and content, and exchange e-mail and other messages.
"People expect their cell phones and wireless devices to work whenever and wherever they need them," said Bill D'Agostino, executive director of network for Verizon Wireless in Southern California. "That's why we continue to invest in our network. By meeting the growing demand for data services on our network, we empower each of our customers to Rule the Air in their own unique, individual way."
To learn more about how Verizon Wireless empowers its customers to Rule the Air, visit: http://tinyurl.com/2arpjjs
Businesses can tap into the power of Mobile Broadband
Mobile Broadband allows users to connect to the Internet wirelessly to download applications, business documents and music, as well as accessing e-mail and corporate data while on the go. Small business owners interested in Mobile Broadband can visit http://tinyurl.com/392334gwhere they can:
-- Watch videos about how mobile technologies can improve business results
-- Check out case studies and articles on business strategies to become
more productive
-- Learn about the latest promotions and discounts for small businesses
-- Read white papers about wireless security and connectivity options for
business
4G LTE services
Verizon Wireless launched its 4G Long Term Evolution (LTE) wireless network in the Los Angeles and San Diego metropolitan areas. In the Los Angeles area, 4G LTE coverage extends north to Pasadena, east to Chino, south to San Clemente and west to Woodland Hills. In the San Diego area, 4G LTE coverage extends north to Del Mar and Poway, east to Lakeside and south to Imperial Beach.
The company's ongoing aggressive network build includes launch in 38 major metropolitan areas, including 60 airports, covering more than 110 million people. The company will cover virtually all its current nationwide 3G footprint with the 4G network by the end of 2013.
About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless operates the nation's most reliable and largest wireless voice and 3G data network, serving more than 93 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with more than 79,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) and Vodafone (LSE, Nasdaq: VOD). For more information, visit http://www.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at http://www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.
SOURCE Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless
CONTACT: Ken Muche of Verizon Wireless, +1-949-286-8193, Ken.Muche@VerizonWireless.com
Metro Gold Line Foothill Extension Construction Authority Launches New Website
More robust site completed as Authority begins construction on $700 million Phase 2A project
MONROVIA, Calif., Dec. 17, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the Metro Gold Line Foothill Extension Construction Authority (Construction Authority) announces the launch of its new website - http://www.foothillextension.org.
The new site is intended to capture the aesthetic essence of the San Gabriel Valley in its design; while providing ease in navigation, robust information sharing, dynamic community calendar features, upgraded media content and more.
"Our new site was designed to be a one-stop shop of information about the program of projects underway at the Construction Authority," stated Habib F. Balian, CEO of the Construction Authority. "Community members, elected officials and others will now be able to easily access the latest construction notices, meeting announcements, and more for Phases 2A (Pasadena to Azusa), 2B (Glendora to Montclair) and Phase 2C (Ontario Airport Extension)."
The new website has been designed to provide the latest tools to facilitate information sharing in a quick and easy to use format. These include all-new pages for each construction phase of the project, a "Media Resources" page with project fact sheets, logos, maps and press releases; a redesigned "Headlines" page with relevant news stories and coverage; and an all new "Videos" page which contains multiple videos created by and relevant to the project. Each corridor city (from Los Angeles to Ontario) continues to have a page on the site, which includes important links to community specific information, and contact information is now available for all Construction Authority staff.
The site was designed by local marketing and design firm Pasadena Advertising, located in Pasadena, California.
About the Construction Authority
The Metro Gold Line Foothill Extension Construction Authority is an independent transportation planning and construction agency created in 1999 by the California state legislature. Its purpose is to plan, design and construct the Metro Gold Line light rail line from Union Station to the San Bernardino County Line. The first phase completed by the Construction Authority opened in 2003, connecting downtown Los Angeles and Pasadena.
Los Angeles County's Measure R half-cent sales tax increase will fully fund Phase 2A - the segment between Pasadena and Azusa. Additional funding is needed to complete the line's future planned extensions to Montclair and LA/Ontario International Airport (both extensions are currently under study).
More information about the project, Construction Authority and current procurements can be found on the Construction Authority's website - http://www.foothillextension.org.
SOURCE Metro Gold Line Foothill Extension Construction Authority
Metro Gold Line Foothill Extension Construction Authority
CONTACT: Lisa Levy Buch, Director, Public Affairs, +1-909-267-0161, +1-626-305-7004, Llevybuch@foothillextension.org
American Greetings Partners With Big-Dates Solutions, Inc. to Enhance Birthday Calendar Application on Facebook
Greeting Card Company Brings Award-Winning Creativity to Popular Facebook App
CLEVELAND, Dec. 17, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- More than 6 million Facebook users from around the globe rely on the helpful Birthday Calendar application from Big-Dates Solutions, Inc., and now those millions of consumers have even more to look forward to. American Greetings Corporation (NYSE: AM) is partnering with Big-Dates Solutions to enhance the experience of the popular application with all-new content and even more opportunities to connect.
The Birthday Calendar application offers everything you need to stay organized, with the ability to easily add birthdays, holidays, and special events to your personal Facebook calendar. Now American Greetings and Big-Dates Solutions are working together to pair the incredibly useful application with the award-winning creative content of the greeting card company to offer a great new experience for users.
The enhanced application, which is now available, is highlighted by a fresh look, added convenience, and special offerings to help celebrate any occasion and connect even more with family and friends. Some of the exciting new features include the opportunity to share the best-in-class e-cards and virtual gifts from American Greetings, as well as a special Daily Stamp that users can post on their or a friend's Facebook wall. These stamps include fresh and engaging content updated daily with facts on various celebrations from the major (like Christmas, Valentine's Day and Mother's Day) to the just plain fun, ("Talk like a Pirate Day," anyone?).
This exciting collaboration reflects the continued advancement of the American Greetings Interactive division in helping consumers connect from anywhere, as well as Big-Dates Solutions' continued focus on providing users with useful and entertaining services to help them celebrate special occasions.
"We are thrilled to bring our creativity and innovation to this hugely popular application and to work with Big-Dates Solutions to make this experience even more fun and useful for the millions who use it every day," said Sally Schriner, president, American Greetings Interactive. "We are very excited about the initial enhancements that we've introduced, and we have some really great features in store in the coming months that we can't wait to share."
"This partnership is something that we are very excited about because it allows us to offer our users even more ways to celebrate special occasions," said Paul Love, president of Big-Dates Solutions, Inc. "It's been great to work with American Greetings as they really understand what makes our application so popular, and their experience with e-cards and other forms of digital greetings, both on the web and on Facebook, is invaluable."
For more information, please visit the official Birthday Calendar Facebook application page.
About American Greetings Corporation
For more than 100 years, American Greetings Corporation (NYSE: AM) has been a creator and manufacturer of innovative social expression products that assist consumers in enhancing their relationships. The Company's major greeting card lines are American Greetings, Carlton Cards, Gibson, Recycled Paper Greetings and Papyrus, and other paper product offerings include DesignWare party goods and American Greetings and Plus Mark gift-wrap and boxed cards. American Greetings also has the largest collection of electronic greetings on the Web, including cards available at AmericanGreetings.com through AG Interactive, Inc. (the Company's online division). AG Interactive also offers digital photo sharing and personal publishing at PhotoWorks.com and Webshots.com and provides a one-stop source for online graphics and animations at Kiwee.com. In addition to its product lines, American Greetings also creates and licenses popular character brands through the American Greetings Properties group. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, American Greetings generates annual revenue of approximately $1.6 billion, and its products can be found in retail outlets worldwide. For more information on the Company, visit http://corporate.americangreetings.com.
About Big-Dates Solutions, Inc.
Big-Dates Solutions is a private company focused on providing consumers with unique and useful services for special occasions like birthdays and holidays. BigDates Solutions is also the leading provider of online Reminder Service Solutions, powering the gift reminder services at 1800Flowers.com (NASDAQ:FLWS), FTD.com (NASDAQ:UNTD) and others. It is also the creator of GreetingCardUniverse.com. Learn more at BigDates-Solutions.com.
SOURCE American Greetings Corporation
American Greetings Corporation
CONTACT: Frank Cirillo of American Greetings Corporation, +1-216-252-7300 x4806, frank.cirillo@amgreetings.com
Sideways Develops U.S. Fund for UNICEF Holiday Coloring Book iPad App
CLEVELAND, Dec. 17, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Sideways, a software company that transforms books, magazines and other publications into immersive experiences on mobile devices, today announced that it has provided the U.S. Fund for UNICEF with its technology for the organization's digital holiday images. TheU.S. Fund for UNICEF Holiday Coloring Book app enables children to color as many as nine holiday greetings on the iPad and then email them to friends and family. Sideways recently developed its coloring book functionality, which can be added to any children's book, and offered it to the U.S. Fund for UNICEF as a way to support the organization's brand and mission.
"In my mind, UNICEF is so closely linked to the childhood holiday experience, it made perfect sense to offer some of the organization's iconic images as color-your-own greetings for the iPad," said Eliza Wing, president and co-founder of Sideways. "At Sideways, we are continually looking for ways to develop apps that engage and delight. It's especially gratifying to provide this unique technology to an organization that works tirelessly year-round to take care of children across the world."
Sideways, the publisher of experimental app magazine Sideways, transforms print into immersive experiences on digital tablets and mobile devices. Leveraging unique multimedia capabilities, Sideways goes beyond ebook functionality, changing storytelling and the way we consume books and magazines. Developing original content with forward-thinking publishers and authors, the company's publishing platform augments text with rich media, adds multiple levels of reference, and enhances reading with mobile features and social media. Sideways takes advantage of interactivity to enrich both the solitary and social experience of reading - from fiction and non-fiction to "how to" and guides. Additionally, Sideways is the creator of Author App, a mobile application for authors designed to build their brands, engage their fans and expand their presence. Based in Cleveland, Sideways was founded in 2010 by Charles Stack and Eliza Wing. Stack started the first online bookstore in 1992 - Books.com - which was acquired by Barnes and Noble. Wing was formerly the CEO of Cleveland.com and editor at Rolling Stone, Books.com, and New York Woman. For more information, visit http://www.sideways.com.
Chevy Turns to Ham Radio Geek for Antenna Solution
Camaro Convertible is on his wavelength
DETROIT, Dec. 17, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- When spy shots surfaced of the pre-production version of the 2011 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible, an outcry went up among Camaro enthusiasts over the AM/FM whip antenna positioned on the rear deck lid.
Quite simply, they hated it.
Chevrolet was quick to respond, commissioning a self-described antenna freak named Don Hibbard to find a way to fix it. "Antennas are a beautiful thing to me," says Hibbard, an antenna test performance engineer.
Engineers working on Camaro are passionate to drive perfection into every aspect of the vehicle. Hibbard and colleague Gregg Kittinger had to do what some thought was impossible: conceal the AM/FM antenna without sacrificing radio reception, while not putting it inside the Camaro's windows. The two, who share three other patents, happily accepted the challenge.
"We weren't sure that it would be possible," said Kittinger. "Typically antennas are hidden in a vehicle's rear window, but with a retractable soft-top roof, that's not an option."
So they came up with a novel approach - hide the antenna inside the rear spoiler. No one had tried that on a Chevrolet before because of the hit to radio reception.
"We responded to a legitimate criticism from devoted Chevrolet Camaro enthusiasts and in 10 months found an innovative way to improve the overall aesthetics of the vehicle without sacrificing performance and quality," said Kittinger.
While the shark fin antenna that transmits XM Satellite Radio, OnStar and cellular signals is still present on the car's deck lid, the built-in spoiler antenna eliminates the need for a longer, separate whip antenna to receive AM and FM radio signals.
Hibbard, a lifelong Ham radio enthusiast, says the unorthodox placement of the antenna within the body of the vehicle created a number of technical challenges, such as balancing form by preserving the car's styling and function of unimpeded audio reception.
"Where other automakers have tried and failed, Chevy succeeded," said Hibbard. "We hope to take what we've learned with the Camaro Convertible, build on it and apply it to future vehicles."
The 2011 Camaro Convertible arrives in dealer showrooms this February.
Founded in Detroit in 1911, Chevrolet celebrates its centennial as a global automotive brand with annual sales of about 3.5 million vehicles in more than 130 countries. In the U.S., the Chevrolet portfolio includes: iconic performance cars, such as Corvette and Camaro; dependable, long lasting pickups and SUVs, such as Silverado and Suburban; and award-winning passenger cars and crossovers, such as Malibu, Equinox and Traverse. Chevrolet also offers "gas-friendly" solutions, such as Chevrolet Cruze Eco with an EPA-estimated 42 miles per gallon highway, and the Chevrolet Volt offering 35 miles of electric driving and an additional 344 miles of extended gasoline range, according to EPA estimates. Most new Chevrolet models offer OnStar safety, security, and convenience technologies including OnStar Hands-Free Calling, Automatic Crash Response, and Stolen Vehicle Slowdown. More information regarding Chevrolet models, fuel solutions, and OnStar availability can be found at http://www.chevrolet.com.
SOURCE General Motors
General Motors
CONTACT: Bill Grotz, Quality and Safety Communications, Mobile: +1-313-400-4458, william.grotz@gm.com, or David Caldwell, Chevrolet Communications, Mobile: +1-586-899-7861, david.caldwell@gm.com
Myriad Group Extends Strategic Partnership With Telefonica to Bring Social Networking to Vivo Brazilian Customer Base
-- New deal underpins expansion of Myriad-Telefonica 5-year strategic partnership to deliver innovative social networking solutions to more than 140 million customers in 13 countries across LATAM
-- Myriad Xumii Social Networking services to be rolled out under Telefonica's Brazilian mobile brand, Vivo
DUEBENDORF-ZURICH, Switzerland, Dec. 17, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Myriad Group AG (SIX Swiss Exchange: MYRN), a global leader in mobile technology having shipped over 3.7 billion software applications on more than 2.2 billion phones, today announces a new deal to extend the existing partnership with Telefonica to provide mobile social networking services to Telefonica's Vivo brand. The agreement reinforces Myriad's 5-year partnership with Telefonica announced earlier this year, and increases Myriad's addressable market from 80 million to 140 million subscribers across Latin America.
Under the new deal, Myriad will offer Vivo customers a richer social networking experience in offering its Xumii services, to be marketed under the Vivo brand. Vivo mobile subscribers across Brazil will be able to simultaneously access multiple social networks via mobile browsers, downloadable apps and other mobile technology. Providing smartphone experiences for mass-market phones, Myriad's Xumii services will aggregate updates from users' favorite social networks into a single inbox, enabling subscribers to send updates simultaneously to all of their social networks.
Telefonica controls 30% of the rapidly growing Brazilian mobile phone market, and with the social networking adoption rate in Latin America surpassing 80%, the extension of Myriad's Xumii services into Brazil further reinforces the company's momentum into the LATAM region.
"Myriad's entry into Brazil through Telefonica's Vivo brand serves to underpin our longer term projections for our partnership with Telefonica," states Simon Wilkinson, CEO of Myriad Group. "While we don't expect the Vivo deal to have a material impact on our 2011 numbers, Myriad is pleased to add this win to our strategic partnership with Telefonica."
About Myriad
Myriad Group AG is a global leader in mobile technology and has shipped over 3.7 billion software applications in more than 2 billion mobile phones. Its comprehensive portfolio includes browsers, messaging, Java, social networking, user interfaces and middleware for all types of mobile phones, from ultra-low cost handsets to advanced smartphones.
The company provides both individual components and complete solutions, which enable handset manufacturers and operators to deliver amazing experiences on mobile phones. Myriad also develops USSD-based customer self-care platforms that deliver over 10 billion messages a year to 220 million mobile users across more than 35 mobile operators worldwide.
Myriad was created from the combination of industry leading companies, Esmertec and Purple Labs. It operates worldwide, with offices in Switzerland, France, UK, USA, Mexico, China, South Korea, Taiwan, Japan and Australia. Headquartered in Dubendorf Zurich Switzerland, Myriad is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (SIX Symbol: MYRN). For more information, please visit http://www.myriadgroup.com.
SOURCE Myriad Group AG
Myriad Group AG
CONTACT: Kate Hamilton, or Jaime Tero, +1-415-989-9803, +44 1252 519 832, press@myriadgroup.com, both of Myriad