News

CrowdIt Applauds One-Year Anniversary Of President Obama Signing The Jobs Act As Major Milestone For Crowdfunding Industry

JOBS Act will have positive influence on job creation through equity-based crowdfunding and lead to a new wave of business startups

SPRINGFIELD, Mo., April 5, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- CrowdIt (http://www.crowdit.com), the crowdfunding site for the "New American Dream," today joins the crowdfunding industry in recognizing the one-year anniversary of the signing of the Jumpstart Our Business Startups (JOBS) Act by President Obama. The bill will allow entrepreneurs to fund small businesses through a new crowdfunding model that provides equity shares in startups. CrowdIt believes the JOBS Act will help spur small-business growth and be a catalyst for the New American Dream. The company recently launched its new site designed to help "dreamers" not only fund projects, but receive the support they need to succeed - including peer review, business networking and expert advice.

"The JOBS Act will help ignite economic growth by enabling startups to raise capital in a non-traditional way - essentially leveling the playing field for anyone with a great idea and the desire to succeed," said Jason Graf, CEO and co-founder of CrowdIt. "We applaud the government for taking this bold step toward job creation and economic independence."

The JOBS Act was passed in Congress on March 8, 2012, and originated from the Entrepreneur Access to Capital Act introduced by Rep. Patrick McHenry (R-NC). The legislation had strong bipartisan support throughout, passed with a 73 percent majority in Congress and was signed by President Obama on April 5, 2012. The law will allow businesses to raise up to $1 million in capital through crowdfunding, an industry expected to grow to $300 billion over the next few years.

Before the law takes effect, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) must first outline specific provisions for the JOBS Act. The deadline was originally set for Jan. 2013, but the bill still has not been finalized. Newly appointed SEC leader, Mary Jo White, has named the JOBS Act as a top priority during her term.

To learn more about the JOBS Act, please visit the Securities and Exchange Commission website at (http://www.sec.gov/spotlight/jobs-act.shtml). 

CrowdIt represents a new approach to crowdfunding through a flexible approach of giving "Dreamers" the option to fully or partially fund projects. All CrowdIt projects will initially use a rewards-based funding model, but the company plans to offer equity-based funding as outlined by the SEC. CrowdIt is now accepting crowdfunding projects at (http://www.crowdit.com), and early projects submitted to the site are available for preview now. The site will go fully live on June 4, 2013. CrowdIt also is contributing $10,000 to the project that reaches the highest amount of funding by Aug. 18, 2013, 75 days after the go-live date. For more information, please visit (http://www.crowdit.com).

Share this: The JOBS Act was signed by Obama a year ago for equity #crowdfunding and job creation. http://www.crowdit.com @DontJustDreamIt #JOBSAct

About CrowdIt
Based in America's heartland of Springfield, MO, CrowdIt (http://www.crowdit.com) is the crowdfunding site for believers of the New American Dream. Its crowdfunding site goes beyond just funding great ideas, but focuses on supporting success through peer and expert advisory support, business networking and sharing of best practices and knowledge. CrowdIt's belief is that crowdfunding will help drive the next wave in innovation and economic expansion, and underpins its mission to support small business growth. A start-up, CrowdIt is privately held and backed by venture capital firm Baron VC. For more information, please visit (http://www.crowdit.com).

Media Contact:
Terri Douglas
Catapult PR-IR
O: 303-581-7760, ext. 18
M: 303-808-6820
tdouglas@catapultpr-ir.com

SOURCE  CrowdIt

CrowdIt

Web Site: http://www.crowdit.com

Vir2o, a Highly Anticipated New Paradigm in Social Media, Launched in Beta Today

ATLANTA, April 5, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- East Coast Diversified Corporation (OTCBB: ECDCD) announces that its new social media engagement platform, Vir2o, launched in beta midnight this morning at 12:01am.

The highly anticipated beta launch of Vir2o, a fully interactive social media site that's been in development for more than 15 months, was launched as scheduled.

"Vir2o is finally in its beta release," said East Coast Diversified CEO, and creator of Vir2o, Kayode Aladesuyi. "Now, beta users can see for themselves what we've believed all along, that Vir2o is going to fundamentally alter the landscape for social media engagement. Users can expect the mobile application on iOS, Android and Blackberry will be following shortly."

Interested parties can go to http://www.vir2o.com to register as beta users where they will be able to experience the most engaging and interactive social media platform.

"I am excited to be in this moment," says Kirk Williams, CTO of ECDC. "Finally, Vir2o is the platform that will allow users to experience the internet in a truly engaging way. Multi-player gaming, movies, music and shopping are powered by our proprietary multi-user 'JoinMe' technology which will redefine 'social' on the web. We will introduce additional features such as Video room where users can watch movies and videos with friends or subscribe to live events, all powered by our 'JoinMe' technology. We will also launch VMaestro, a robust music service which will debut as part of the full launch of Vir2o." 

Vir2o allow advertisers to reach and engage users in a non-intrusive manner, unlike other social media sites. Vir2o offers very unique approach to advertising bringing product placement to the web as never seen before. Advertisers can send targeted, relevant messages to users to foster a mutually beneficial social experience.

"I've been waiting to get on Vir2o for myself for a long time," said former NFL defensive tackle DeMario Pressley, who played for the Super bowl champions New Orleans Saints and has agreed to act as advocate for Vir2o on Twitter and other social media outlets. "I saw bits and pieces and heard all about it, yes the newsfeed is there and the timeline is there but you have to experience 'JoinMe' to understand my excitement. Invite your friends to join Vir2o so you can experience it. I think this is the beginning of a real success story in social media."

About East Coast Diversified Corporation(OTCBB: ECDC) - ECDC is a holding corporation with a diversified group of technology companies. Its business portfolio includes companies offering technology for logistics and asset management, media entertainment, transportation safety and class attendance monitoring and social media applications.

For more information on ECDC and its group of companies, please visit: http://www.eastcoastdiversified.com.

SAFE HARBOR STATEMENT UNDER THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995: The statements contained in this release which are not historical facts are forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those set forth in or implied by forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include the Company's entry into new commercial businesses, the risk of obtaining financing, recruiting and retaining qualified personnel, and other risks described in the Company's Securities and Exchange Commission filings. The forward-looking statements in this press release speak only as of the date hereof, and the Company disclaims any obligation to provide updates, revisions or amendments to any forward-looking statement to reflect changes in the Company's expectations or future events.

East Coast Diversified Corporation
770-953-4184
866-503-9316
mediarelations@eastcoastdiversified.com

SOURCE  East Coast Diversified Corporation

East Coast Diversified Corporation

Web Site: http://www.eastcoastdiversified.com

TIMEX Launches "I Am A Runner" Campaign to Celebrate Runners of All Levels

MIDDLEBURY, Conn., April 5, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Timex, the leader in outdoor and sports performance timepieces, announced the launch of "I Am A Runner," the brand's new marketing campaign that celebrates every runner's unique personal story. Bringing to life the passion and motivation that unites all runners, regardless of skill level, "I Am A Runner" is an interactive initiative that provides a platform for consumers to share their running experiences and rewards them for sharing their stories.

The campaign kicked off with a series of media activities in New York City featuring Boston Marathon legend, Dick Hoyt. Hoyt, a longtime Timex ambassador, has competed in more than 1,000 endurance events along with his son, Rick, who suffers from cerebral palsy.  As Team Hoyt prepares for their 31(st) Boston Marathon later this month, they are hoping to inspire all runners with their uplifting message. 

Timex has created an "I Am A Runner" Facebook app, which will collect all runners' stories and will serve as a centralized host for submitted content and photos.  Individuals who share their stories via the hashtag #IMARUNNER will be eligible for opportunities to win Timex® IRONMAN® watches.  In addition, Timex will share inspiring stories of runners across its social media platforms, from everyday stories of triumph to content collected from the Timex Multisport team.   

"As a trusted training partner to runners everywhere, we continue to be inspired by the moments of personal triumph we've witnessed at marathons, triathlons and even three-mile loops around the lake," said Sam Martin, Timex Senior Brand Manager, Sports. " 'I Am A Runner' campaign represents our biggest commitment to honoring those men and women whose running experiences have been enhanced by one of our timing devices and whose inspirational stories help all of us push our way to the finish line, whatever that finish line might be."

Recent research by Timex shows that 54 percent of core runners do not wear sports watches, an essential piece of gear that allows runners to track and evaluate their workout in real time.  With the launch of the 'I Am A Runner' campaign, Timex is hoping to tap into this group of core runners.

Timex will introduce additional "I Am A Runner" activations throughout the summer, with the program culminating with a large-scale event at the New York City Marathon.

"I Am A Runner" will be supported online with advertising that will appear on relevant lifestyle websites as well as print insertions in Runner's World. 

For more information and to submit your #IMARUNNER photo or story visit https://apps.facebook.com/timex-imarunner/

About TIMEX Sports Watches:

Timex has an unparalleled heritage of creating innovative, technologically advanced and reliable timepieces for athletes of all fitness levels, having introduced the first licensed IRONMAN® brand watch in 1986. The Timex IRONMAN® brand legacy of leadership, innovation and style in international sport is evident in the brand's extensive anthology of elite training devices and fitness aids. Timex IRONMAN®  timepieces are worn by athletes on every continent and have been added to the Smithsonian National Museum of America.  Fans are invited to engage with the brand on http://www.Facebook.com/TimexSports.

Timex's presence in the fitness world has been evident for years via its partnership with the New York Road Runners in conjunction with the ING New York City Marathon, IRONMAN® Triathlon event series and several worldwide marathon sponsorships. With a wide array of wellness and training instruments priced at various levels, Timex has established a broad appeal to the millions of consumers who want to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

About IRONMAN:

The iconic IRONMAN(®) Series of events is the largest participation sports platform in the world.  Since the inception of the IRONMAN(®) brand in 1978, athletes have proven that ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE(®) by crossing finish lines at the world's most challenging endurance races. Recognized for excellence through distinguished events, world-class athletes and quality products, World Triathlon Corporation (d/b/a IRONMAN), owner and operator of the IRONMAN(®) Series, has grown from owner of a single race to a global sensation with nearly 190 events across five unique brands: IRONMAN(®), IRONMAN 70.3(®), 5150(TM) Triathlon Series, Iron Girl(®) and IronKids(®). For more information, visit http://www.ironman.com.

About the Timex Group

Timex Group designs, manufactures and markets innovative timepieces and jewelry globally. Founded in 1854, Timex is part of Timex Group, a privately-held company with numerous brands and over 5,000 employees worldwide. It is one of the largest watch makers in the world with companies and exclusive licenses worldwide.

SOURCE  Timex Group

Timex Group

CONTACT: Josh Green, jgreen@catalystpublicrelations.com, (212) 714-7905, or Dorie Sanders, dsanders@catalystpublicrelations.com, (212) 714-7932, both of Catalyst Public Relations

Web Site: http://www.ironman.com

NAB 2013: Axinom Announces SilverHD VoD and SilverHD DRM 5, a Brand-new Cloud Based Solution for Video-on-Demand Providers

Axinom simplifies deployment of multi-device strategies, announces public availability of global cloud based content protection and VoD solutions SilverHD DRM 5 and SilverHD VoD

LAS VEGAS, April 5, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --

    SilverHD VoD is Axinom's brand-new cloud based solution for Video-on-demand providers.
Integrated with Windows Azure and Windows Azure Media Services. The solution enables rapid
deployment of end-to-end solutions and covers the entire video workflow, from ingestion,
transcoding, meta data management, packaging, to distribution to all major client device
platforms.

    Axinom SilverHD DRM is an end-to-end content protection solution based on a leading
Digital Rights Management system: Microsoft PlayReady. One of its biggest value
propositions is the "protect once, watch everywhere" approach. Content protected with
SilverHD DRM can be consumed on the vast majority of consumer devices like PCs and Macs,
iPads, iPhones, Android devices, Windows Phones, as well as Smart TVs, set top boxes, and
game consoles.

    "Our product simplifies online video management and dramatically reduces integration
time and cost. One must see it in action. At our NAB booth we will be showcasing the
solution and visitors will be able to see how the entire workflow, from video acquisition
right down to delivery can be accomplished in only a few seconds" says Damir Tomicic,
Axinom's CEO. "It is not only reducing efforts, it's also future-proof. The seamless
integration with Windows Azure Media Services and leading CDNs provides our customers
virtually unlimited scalability."

    "Axinom's release of SilverHD product portfolio enables media customers to take
advantage of the latest features in Windows Azure," said Taras Bugir, managing director,
Worldwide Media & Cable Industry Solutions, Microsoft. "Microsoft delivers an entire
spectrum of services that help media companies bring their content and business into the
cloud, which helps streamline the creating, managing and distributing of premium protected
content using SilverHD and Windows Azure Media Services."

    About Axinom

    Axinom is a leading provider of software solutions for cloud based video management,
Digital Rights Management (DRM), and multi-platform delivery of premium content. Axinom's
digital media solutions serve major worldwide brands in Airline, IT, Telco, Retail, and
Media & Entertainment industry. Axinom is Microsoft Gold Certified partner, global media
platform partner and international vendor headquartered in Germany with subsidiaries in
the US and Estonia.

    Further details: http://axinom.com/nab

       
        Contact:
        Stefanie Kramer - Corporate Communications
        presse@axinom.de
        +49-911-80-10-90

Axinom GmbH

M-Edge Announces Cases and Accessories for HTC First

The Baltimore tech accessory company will launch cases for the HTC First in April

ODENTON, Md., April 5, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- After recently unveiling their first-ever collection of cases for new Android smartphones Samsung Galaxy S4 and HTC One, M-Edge announced today a line of accessories for the HTC First - the first smartphone optimized for Facebook. M-Edge's cases will be available soon at medgestore.com and wireless retailers nationwide.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130405/PH89194)

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120808/PH54051LOGO-b)

The initial case available for the HTC First is M-Edge's Echo Case.  The Echo is a dual layer case that consists of a co-molded hard outer shell and a soft interior, which offers twice the level of protection and absorbs shocks and drops. HTC fans will appreciate this case's seamless design, light weight, bright colors, and fashion-forward patterns.

M-Edge CEO Patrick Mish says, "After announcing our entrance into the Android smartphone category only last week, we are continuing to unveil additional wireless accessories with cases for the HTC First. Cases that offer protection are a given, but we offer more than that. We're about superior design, unconventional materials, jaw-dropping style, and attitude."

Ranked #91 on Inc. Magazine's list of 500 Fastest Growing Private Companies in 2012, M-Edge is expanding their offerings in the wireless category. M-Edge's HTC First cases will range in price from $35 to $50. Customers can sign up to be notified of these upcoming products here or follow M-Edge on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram for the latest announcements.

About M-Edge
Launched in 2006 out of a basement in Baltimore, M-Edge rapidly grew to offer a variety of tech accessories for the most popular devices available - Kindle, iPad, iPhone, laptop and Android devices. Using edgy materials and premium features, M-Edge gives the tech-crazed what they want:  protection, attitude, and boundary-pushing style.

Ranked #91 on Inc. Magazine's list of Fastest Growing Private Companies 2012, M-Edge products are currently available nationwide at AT&T, Best Buy, Staples, Target, Walmart, Nordstrom, and more.  M-Edge has been featured in publications such as InStyle, Us Weekly, Maxim, Good Housekeeping, The New York Times, TechCrunch, Mashable, and CNET, and The Today Show.

Sarah Windham
Associate Public Relations Manager
410.927.6256
sarahwindham@medgestore.com

SOURCE  M-Edge

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120808/PH54051LOGO-b
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130405/PH89194
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
M-Edge

Web Site: http://www.medgestore.com

Multiplayer Coming to theHunter

STOCKHOLM, April 5, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --

    The world's most advanced hunting simulation is about to get even better. This summer,
multiplayer gaming comes to theHunter, turning an already unique game into a one of a kind
experience.

    (Photo:
http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130405/607319 )

    Starting April 8, registered hunters can sign up for the alpha test. Multiplayer has
been the most requested feature for years, and space is limited, so a select number of
lucky players will be handpicked. Each game will feature up to 8 players, and the first
iteration is strictly co-op - just like real life. In future updates, competitive play
will also be supported.

    Expansive Worlds is not forgetting about the lone hunter. There are currently six
reserves and 14 species to hunt, including a serene winter landscape introduced this
March. With over 1,3 million players from 200+ countries, the singleplayer version of
theHunter is becoming a full blown phenomenon. But with the introduction of multiplayer,
competition is literally none - there are no other multiplayer hunting simulations.

    "theHunter is the most realistic simulation of hunting in the world," said Expansive
Worlds CEO Pim Holfve. "Since real-life hunting is a social experience, so should our
virtual counterpart be. Hunting with friends adds a greater depth than we could have
imagined. We will of course keep the single player experience, but once you've tried
multiplayer hunting, it's hard to go back."

    "It's with great pleasure that I follow the evolution of Expansive Worlds," commented
Christofer Sundberg, Co-Founder and CCO of Avalanche Studios. "As we set up the studio in
2010 after running theHunter internally for a year, we saw great potential - a potential
that is now becoming fully realized. The shifts in the videogame industry are often hard
to predict, and Expansive Worlds provides our company group with strength through
diversity. As one of few independent developers, we are now covering Free-to-Play, AAA
console games and mobile entertainment. Looking to the future, I could not be more pleased
with our position."

    About Expansive Worlds

    Expansive Worlds, an independently operated subsidiary of Avalanche Studios, is
focused on socially connected, online games distributed directly to gamers. In 2009,
Expansive Worlds released theHunter, a free roaming first-person hunting game. theHunter
is developed in close collaboration with its thriving community, and is continually
infused with new features and content updates.

    For more information, visit http://www.expansiveworlds.com and
http://www.thehunter.com.

    Photo:
    http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130405/607319

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130405/607319
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Expansive Worlds

CONTACT: For more information, please contact Expansive Worlds CEO Pim Holfve at pim@expansiveworlds.com, +46(0)709-311-520

The Ultimate Revision Pack for SBI PO 2013

MUMBAI, April 5, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --

    Attano and AIETS Launch Comprehensive eBook Package for Aspiring Bank Officers

    The State Bank India (SBI) is scheduled to conduct its PO Recruitment Exam on April
28, 2013. After a gap of 3 years (last conducted in 2010), this examination will recruit
just 1500 Probationary Officers (PO) from over 17 lakh aspirants for these coveted bank
posts.

    There are a number of study packages and tutorials in the market that target these SBI
PO aspirants. However, Attano, India's largest store for interactive educational eBooks,
has partnered with AIETS, a trusted and well-established publications company, to launch a
very affordable, comprehensive revision package, created by experts.

    The Ultimate Revision Pack for SBI PO 2013, has been designed to give students a
comprehensive revision of concepts followed by assessments of their understanding. Each
subject (Quantitative Aptitude, General Intelligence & Reasoning, English Comprehension
and General Knowledge & Awareness) is covered by core theory and quick chapter-level
questions. The pack also includes subject-level practice tests and a complete mock exam
which simulates the final exam.

    This is an offering with a difference. Concise and crisp, the theory and questions are
structured in a logical, well-thought-out way, focusing on the salient points that every
student needs to remember for the exam. Another advantage that this package presents is
that it can be downloaded and accessed from anywhere, at any time and used on Windows
PCs/Laptops, Android Tablets, Smartphones and iPads.

    As Soumya Banerjee, CEO, Attano, explains, "Attano and AIETS are conscious of the fact
that there are candidates in some parts of the country, outside of the metros, who don't
have access to the printed study material. We think that every aspiring student deserves a
chance and should not have to miss out on a career in the banking sector because they
didn't have the right tools. Our interactive eBooks specifically address this issue, and
we hope that our Ultimate Revision Pack for SBI PO 2013 is the leveller that allows for a
better harnessing of the potential our youth has today."

    Deepak Agarwal, Founder-Director, AIETS says, "We have used our years of knowledge and
experience of the Test Preparation industry to distill the essence of what is required to
succeed in this crucial examination. The 'Ultimate Revision Pack for SBI PO 2013' is a
manifestation of the same and we are confident that this new approach will give aspirants
the right springboard for their careers."

    The Ultimate Revision Pack for SBI PO 2013 is priced at a competitive Rs 249 and is
available exclusively on http://www.attano.com/sbipo

    About Attano:

    Attano is India's first Interactive Educational eBook store. The Attano marketplace
offers the most up-to-date and in-demand eBooks from leading publishers and digital
content owners. Attano's distribution network reaches over 100,000 students through its
web and app stores and tie-ups with some of India's largest electronic majors.

    With Attano eBooks, you can watch videos, take tests, read reports. Search, bookmark,
highlight, add notes, and experience more value at discounted prices. Carry a year's worth
of text books in a solution that is affordable, lightweight and mobile.

    Attano eBooks are available for iPads, Android devices and Windows PCs and laptops.

    For more information, please visit http://www.attano.com [http://www.attano.com ].

    Primary Media Contact: Priyanka Das, priyanka@galvanisepr.com, 91-80-50989699

    Secondary Media Contact: Gautham Gauruv Maediratta, gautham@attanocorp.com,
91-9820936726

Attano

CONTACT: PRN

Travel Oregon Unveils Tools to Facilitate Industry Collaboration

SALEM, Ore., April 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The Oregon Tourism Commission, dba Travel Oregon, has enhanced its industry website to provide members of the state's $8.8 billion travel and tourism industry the tools needed to help grow and sustain tourism in their communities.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130404/SF89220LOGO)

The website works to provide easy access to Travel Oregon's partnership opportunities, sales and marketing opportunities and tourism resources. Whether you are new to tourism or have worked in the industry for decades, the site showcases collaborative opportunities and resources for every level.

"Oregon's travel and tourism industry is unequaled in its spirit of collaboration. We all know our individual efforts are stronger when closely aligned with one another's," said Todd Davidson, Travel Oregon CEO. "So, it's imperative for us to elevate opportunities for our industry to work in partnership.  The more unified our message, the more impactful that message is in the marketplace."

Providing a way to help Oregon travel-related companies and communities become empowered and strengthen their businesses was a driving force behind the redesign of the website and the development of enhanced content.

In a featured video on the homepage of the website, Oregon Governor John Kitzhaber speaks to the power of travel and the importance of the travel and tourism industry to the state's economy and lifestyle.

"It's important for Oregonians to know that we all contribute to and represent the state, especially people in the tourism and hospitality industry," said Governor Kitzhaber. "These folks in particular work at Oregon's front door, and the work they do is extremely important."

The Governor also calls out how the travel and tourism industry supports other Oregon companies, like Intel and Nike, because growing international visitation supports the non-stop air service Oregon enjoys from Europe, Asia and Canada. In 2012, international visitation to Oregon grew 13% over 2011 and contributed nearly $300 million to the state's economy.

The video can be viewed in its entirety at Industry.TravelOregon.com.

For questions regarding the website or video, please contact Industry@TravelOregon.com.

The Oregon Tourism Commission, dba Travel Oregon, works to enhance visitors' experience by providing information, resources and trip planning tools that inspire travel and consistently convey the exceptional quality of Oregon. The commission aims to improve Oregonians' quality of life by strengthening economic impacts of the state's $8.8 billion tourism industry that employs more than 92,000 Oregonians. http://www.TravelOregon.com

SOURCE  Travel Oregon

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130404/SF89220LOGO
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Travel Oregon

CONTACT: Linea Gagliano, 503-729-6021, Linea@TravelOregon.com

Web Site: http://www.traveloregon.com

NII Holdings Announces Sale of Nextel Peru

-- NII agrees to sell Nextel Peru to Entel for $400 million

-- Transaction is consistent with NII's strategy to focus on its largest markets, Mexico and Brazil

-- Additional capital further improves NII's liquidity position as it focuses its investments on the expansion of its new next generation platform in its largest markets

RESTON, Va., April 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- NII Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: NIHD) today announced that it has agreed to sell its Peruvian operations to Empresa Nacional de Telecomunicaciones S.A. (Bolsa de Comercio de Santiago: ENTEL) for approximately $400 million.

(Logo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110919/FL70458LOGO)

The transaction, which is structured as a purchase of the shares of NII's indirect subsidiary, Nextel del PeruS.A. ("Nextel Peru"), is being entered into as part of NII's announced strategy to focus its capital and other resources in Mexico and Brazil, its two largest markets.  The proceeds received from this sale will provide additional liquidity as the Company continues to invest in the deployment of its next generation networks in Mexico and Brazil.  NII's next generation networks will enable the Company to provide the highest quality wireless experience to high value customers in those markets.       

"The sale of Nextel Peru is an important step in the evolution of our business and aligns with our strategic goal of increasing value for stockholders through focused investments on our new next generation network deployments," said Steve Shindler, NII's chairman and interim chief executive officer.  "The proceeds that we generate through this sale allow us to prioritize investments in our largest markets that offer the greatest opportunity for strong, long-term returns." 

"Nextel Peru has been an integral part of NII for fifteen years, and led the way on a number of key initiatives, including being the first of our markets to implement our new billing system and the first to deploy and launch our new next generation network and high performance push-to-talk service," added Shindler.  "We are grateful to all of our Peru employees and expect that Nextel Peru's outstanding management team will continue to thrive under Entel's direction."

The closing of the transaction is subject to certain conditions and is expected to occur in the second half of 2013.

The Company was advised by Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. and Jones Day.

About NII Holdings, Inc.
NII Holdings, Inc., a publicly held company based in Reston, Va., is a provider of differentiated mobile communication services for businesses and high value consumers in Latin America. NII, operating under the Nextel brand in Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Peru and Chile, offers fully integrated wireless communications tools with digital cellular voice services, data services, wireless Internet access and Nextel Direct Connect(® )and International Direct Connect(SM), a digital two-way radio. NII is a Fortune 500 and Barron's 500 company, and has also been named one of the best places to work among multinationals in Latin America by the Great Place to Work(®) Institute. The company trades on the NASDAQ market under the symbol NIHD. Visit the company's website at http://www.nii.com.

Nextel, the Nextel logo and Nextel Direct Connect and International Direct Connect are trademarks and/or service marks of Nextel Communications, Inc., and are used by NII's subsidiaries under license in Latin America.

Visit NII's news room for news and to access our markets' news centers: http://www.nii.com/newsroom.

About Entel
With annual revenues of US$ 3 billion, reported as of December 2012, Empresa Nacional de Telecomunicaciones S.A. provides mobile, internet, data and IT services, as well as local and long-distance telephony to both consumers clients and enterprises in Chile. The Company also has operations in Peru and is listed on the Chilean Stock Exchange (Bolsa de Comercio de Santiago) under the ticker symbol ENTEL. For more information please visit: http://www.entel.cl.

Safe Harbor Statement
This release includes "forward-looking statements" regarding the proposed sale transaction, future service offerings, business outlook and future performance, as well as other statements that are not historical or current facts. Forward-looking statements are qualified by the inherent risks and uncertainties surrounding future expectations generally and may materially differ from actual future results. Risks and uncertainties that could affect the forward-looking statements in this release include: the failure to successfully close the transaction contemplated by the sale purchase agreement, including due to a failure to meet closing conditions; unexpected costs or liabilities; the impact of more intense competitive conditions and changes in economic conditions in the Mexican and Brazilian telecommunications markets; the risk that our network technologies will not perform properly or support the services our customers want or need, including the risk that technology developments to support our services will not be timely delivered; the risk that customers in the markets we serve will not find our services attractive; and the additional risks and uncertainties that are described in NII's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012, as well as in other reports filed from time to time by NII Holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. This press release speaks only as of its date, and NII disclaims any duty to update the information herein, except as required by law.

Media Contacts:

NII Holdings, Inc.
1875 Explorer Street, Suite 1000
Reston, VA. 20190
(703) 390-5100
http://www.nii.com

Investor Relations: Tim Perrott
(703) 390-5113
tim.perrott@nii.com

Media Relations:Claudia Restrepo
(786) 251-7020
claudia.restrepo@nii.com

SOURCE  NII Holdings, Inc.

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110919/FL70458LOGO
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
NII Holdings, Inc.

Web Site: http://www.nii.com

Comwave announces a new ePhone App for iOS Devices

TORONTO, April 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Today Comwave launched a new version of ePhone for iOS devices (iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad) which is part of a string of Comwave Apps intended to take a bite of Skype's market share.  ePhone is different though, because the App includes a built-in telephone number that users can choose, allowing them to receive incoming calls from any telephone around the world. "Having a Toronto or New York phone number on your Smartphone is a powerful tool, especially when you travel and want to get around those costly roaming fees," said Yuval Barzakay, President.  ePhone also comes with tremendous cost savings for users because the App is absolutely FREE!  ePhone uses your 3G, 4G or WIFI connection so there is no need to worry about expensive roaming fees while traveling.  ePhone already includes free calling to the USA and Canada but you can add international minutes to your account in $5, $10 or $30 increments to call the world at the lowest rates, always guaranteed lower than Skype.  You can use ePhone anywhere in the world, so even if you are in Europe, you can use ePhone to call landlines in North America absolutely free.

(Logo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120522/NY10067LOGO )

ePhone bridges the gap between Smartphone users, computers, and landline phone users by allowing all of them to communicate for free regardless of whether they have ePhone or not.  "While other Apps seem to put up walled gardens confining you to the App, ePhone allows you to communicate for free to non-ePhone users as well.  Now, someone can be on their land line in New York calling an ePhone user across the globe for free," added Mr. Barzakay.

How does it work?

ePhone uses VoIP (Voice Over IP) which allows you to choose your own telephone number.  So let's say you choose a Toronto ePhone number and you happen to be travelling to Florida, first you would be able to call any phone number back home for free, and you would be able to receive calls from back home for free as well.  That's because your friends and colleagues back home could call Toronto ePhone number which is local to them.  The idea is to choose an ePhone number that is local to your home or office, this way you can travel anywhere and receive free calls.

ePhone is available for iOS (iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad), Android, Mac, PC and Blackberry Playbook.

About Comwave
Comwave is Canada's largest independent communications company and recipients of the 2012 and 2013 Consumer's Choice Award.  Comwave leads the Canadian industry for VoIP Home Phone lines, Hosted PBX solutions for offices and long distance savings for landlines and mobile phones.  Led by President and CEO, Yuval Barzakay, Comwave has become Canada's leader in VoIP solutions.  Comwave serves over 500 cities in Canada and over 1100 in the United States.

Our Focus:

    --  To improve on the customer experience and overall satisfaction
    --  Keep things simple
    --  Innovate
SOURCE  Comwave

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120522/NY10067LOGO
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Comwave

CONTACT: Darryl Singer, Director of Marketing, Digital, Ph: +1 416-663-9700 x 382, dsinger@comwave.net

Web Site: http://www.comwave.net

VGTel, Inc. Announces Asset Acquisition

NEW YORK, April 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- VGTel, Inc. (OTCQB: VGTL), closed its fiscal year (March 31) with a significant acquisition in the digital gaming industry of the assets of a company operating in multiple US markets.  With this acquisition, VGTel has operating income greater than $200,000 per month from existing operations. "This is a strong initial breakthrough," announced Company CEO, Peter Shafran. "We believe that we now have the resources and management team to fuel the rapid expansion of this business by at least 200% by the end of our second quarter," added Shafran.  In addition to the assets already in operation in the field, the acquisition included enough ready-to-be-shipped gaming equipment to supplement our customers' inventories, as well as provide for considerable expansion into other States and territories, as regulations allow.

Shafran explained, "When this opportunity became available to us, we acted swiftly to acquire the assets.  We are working with existing management and personnel to increase market share and penetration in new markets by identifying target customers, operators and distributors who fall within the company criteria and regulatory guidelines.  We intend to market our products throughout the US and have also been developing strategic alliances and partnerships with groups in other countries, where favorable."

VGTel had recently been in negotiations to acquire an Ohio-based company, Charitable Management and Capital Group, LLC (CMCG), but the parties were unable to reach a final agreement on terms. "Ultimately, it just may not have been the right fit for us," said Shafran, "as CMCG currently operates only in Ohio, and we were looking for a much larger target.  With our new acquisition, we will be starting on Day One with revenue from a whole host of markets, with the ability to expand even further in a very short time." VGTel seeks to acquire related companies in the near future, and will update its investors on all new developments as they occur.

About VGTel, Inc.
VGTel, Inc. is devoted to creating a multi-platform company offering products and support in the digital gaming industries.  In addition, VGTel is seeking other opportunities in the rapidly growing electronic gaming industry in those venues and states where allowed by regulation.  Our business outlook focuses on a strategy of growing and building business units through investments and acquisitions. For further information, go to http://www.360entertainmentandproductions.com.

Safe Harbor Statement
The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a safe harbor for forward-looking information made on the company's behalf.  All statements, other than statements of historical facts, which address the company's expectations of sources of capital or which express the company's expectation for the future with respect to financial performance or operating strategies can be identified as forward-looking statements.  Such statements made by the company are based on knowledge of the environment in which it operates, but because of the possibility of unknown factors, as well as other factors beyond the control of the company, actual results may differ materially from the expectations expressed in the forward-looking statement.  An investment in our common stock involves a significant degree of risk.  You should not invest in our common stock unless you can afford to lose your entire investment.  You should consider carefully all risk factors and other information in our annual report and quarterly filings before deciding to invest in our common stock.  If any of the following risks and uncertainties develops into actual events, our business, financial condition or results of operations could be materially adversely affected and you could lose your entire investment in our company.

Forward Looking Statements:
This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties, including statements regarding the outlook of the Company's business and results of operations. By nature, these risks and uncertainties could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated. Generally speaking, any statements using terms such as "will," "expect," "anticipate," or "may," or which otherwise predict or address future results or events, are likely to contain forward-looking statements. It is important to note that actual results may differ materially from what is indicated in any forward-looking statement. Readers should consider any forward-looking statements in light of factors that could cause actual results to vary. These factors are described in the Company's filings with the SEC, and readers should refer to those filings, including Risk Factors described in those filings, in connection with any forward-looking statements.  The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Investor Contact: Peter Shafran, CEO
VGTel, Inc. dba 360 Entertainment & Productions
Phone: (360) 8-360-ENT
petershafran@360entertainmentandproductions.com

SOURCE  VGTel, Inc. dba 360 Entertainment & Productions

VGTel, Inc. dba 360 Entertainment & Productions

Web Site: http://www.360entertainmentandproductions.com

Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. Extends Collaboration with Facebook to Enhance Performance of Facebook Home and Facebook for Android on All Qualcomm Snapdragon-Powered Devices

-- Improved Performance, Battery Life and Network Efficiency --

SAN DIEGO, April 4, 2013 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Qualcomm Incorporated (NASDAQ: QCOM) today announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., has been working with Facebook to optimize Facebook Homeand Facebook for Android across all Qualcomm Snapdragon(TM) processors. These Facebook Home optimizations are designed to enable better overall performance, lower power consumption and improved data efficiency for consumers using Facebook Homeand Facebook for Android.                             

"Qualcomm Technologies is very pleased with our technology collaboration with Facebook," said Cristiano Amon, executive vice president of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and co-president of Qualcomm Mobile and Computing. "Together, we are enabling existing and future Snapdragon-enabled mobile device owners to have the highest quality Facebook experience possible for their smartphone or tablet."

Qualcomm Technologies' technical collaboration with Facebook involved systems-level performance enhancements related to key Snapdragon processor technologies including GPU, CPU and 3G/4G modem.  The end result is a performance optimized solution that delivers a great Facebook experience while minimizing power and improving data efficiency.   

"By working with Qualcomm Technologies, a leader in the mobile industry, we are able to offer Facebook Home and Facebook for Android utilizing the capabilities of the Snapdragon platforms that power a large portion of commercial 3G/4G devices," said Vaughan Smith, vice president of mobile & corporate development for Facebook. "We are excited about our collaboration with Qualcomm Technologies and our ability to jointly improve consumers' Facebook experiences."

About Qualcomm Incorporated
Qualcomm Incorporated (NASDAQ: QCOM) is the world leader in 3G, 4G and next-generation wireless technologies. Qualcomm Incorporated includes Qualcomm's licensing business, QTL, and the vast majority of its patent portfolio. Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Qualcomm Incorporated, operates, along with its subsidiaries, substantially all of Qualcomm's engineering, research and development functions, and substantially all of its products and services businesses, including its semiconductor business, QCT. For more than 25 years, Qualcomm ideas and inventions have driven the evolution of digital communications, linking people everywhere more closely to information, entertainment and each other. For more information, visit Qualcomm's website, OnQ blog, Twitter and Facebook pages.

Except for the historical information contained herein, this news release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties, including the ability to successfully design and have manufactured significant quantities of components on a timely and profitable basis, the extent and speed to which Qualcomm Technologies and third parties are able to collaborate, changes in economic conditions of the various markets Qualcomm Technologies serves, as well as the other risks detailed from time to time in Qualcomm Incorporated's SEC reports, including the report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 25, 2012, and most recent Form 10-Q. Qualcomm Incorporated 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.

Qualcomm and Snapdragon are trademarks of Qualcomm Incorporated, registered in the United States and other countries.  Other products and brand names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. Qualcomm Snapdragon is a product of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.

Qualcomm Contacts:
Tina Asmar, Corporate Communications
Phone: 1-858-845-5959
Email: corpcomm@qualcomm.com

Warren Kneeshaw, Investor Relations
Phone: 1-858-658-4813
Email: ir@qualcomm.com

SOURCE  Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.

Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.

Web Site: http://www.qualcomm.com

Exciting Easynews Upgrades -- Checkout the New Easynews

PHOENIX, April 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- EASYNEWS, the world's original and unrivaled browser-based Usenet newsgroup provider, today announced the launch of several new features including a completely new site design, a new registration checkout system and, for the first time ever, doubled retention for its web-based Usenet access. 

The new Easynews.com gives visitors a fresh new experience.  Not only is it cleaner and easier to navigate, but also the new registration process has been implemented to give users a simpler and faster way to create an account.  Now with a transparent 4-step registration process, Easynews customers will be able to start browsing over tens of thousands of Usenet newsgroups right from the Easynews web-Usenet browser in no time. 

Easynews also announced today that it has invested heavily in its infrastructure build-out and will now offer increased retention for its web-based (HTTP) Usenet access.  Previously only available with its NNTP Usenet access, Easynews will now offer 2X the retention through its web-Usenet interface.  A testing phase will be conducted from April 4, 2013 to April 30, 2013 during which web retention will start at 400 days, which is double the current 200 days of retention (150 days for Classic subscribers), and will continue to slowly ramp up beyond 400 days of retention.  During this limited time only, all current subscribers will receive the increased retention for free.

Stay tuned as Easynews continues to deploy additional hardware and software upgrades benefiting customers worldwide.

About Easynews:
Easynews is the most versatile Usenet provider in the world and offers a unique, easy and fast browser-based newsgroup interface that eliminates the need for any third-party newsreader client software. Subscribers are able to search, preview and download files directly from their favorite web browser from any location in the world. With over 15 years of service and expertise, Easynews continues to provide premium and all-inclusive web based Usenet access to users worldwide.

For more information about Easynews and its Usenet service offerings, please visit http://www.Easynews.com or contact support@easynews.com.

SOURCE  Easynews.com

Easynews.com

CONTACT: Rob Culhane, +1-407-215-2426

Web Site: http://www.Easynews.com

G-Technology(TM) Launches Its Premier Channel Partner Program

New Premier Partner Program Places Strong Emphasis on Expanding, Supporting and Building Business with Resellers Dedicated to Serving the Creative Professional Market

SAN JOSE, Calif., April 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- G-Technology, a leader in delivering premium storage solutions for audio/video production, photography and the creative professional market, today announced the launch of its new Premier Partner Program in the U.S., offering more recognition and support to its strong and growing partner base. Targeting audio, video and photography-focused resellers, the new G-Technology Premier Partner Program gives resellers access to the tools, resources and expertise to help their customers better manage the exploding storage and performance requirements of today's digital workflows.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20121012/MM91100LOGO-b)

"G-Technology is dedicated to serving the creative professional storage market, so it's critical for us to continue to build and protect our partner ecosystem, and deliver reliable, high performing storage solutions that our customers demand," said Mike Williams, vice president and general manager, G-Technology/HGST. "Our partners made us who we are today, and we will continue to support them through new partner programs, new products and new tools to help them and our customers succeed."

"The new Premier Partner Program demonstrates G-Technology's continued commitment to motivate and reward the channel," said Pete Isgrigg, Senior Buyer, Tekserve. "We have worked with G-Technology since its inception and we see this new partner program as a way for everyone to benefit - creative professionals, partners and G-Technology. We look forward to growing our relationship with G-Technology and delivering premium, high-quality and high-performance storage solutions to our customers."

Using a three-tiered approach - Platinum, Silver and Blue - the Premier Partner Program encourages growth, and rewards partners for loyalty and long-term success while strengthening the G-Technology brand through demand generation activities and driving incremental sales. All Premier Partner Program members receive access to the G-Technology partner portal, which provides product information, marketing resources, toolkits and support as well as access to webinars and dedicated email communications. To sign up for the program, please visit http://www.G-Technology.com.

Stay connected with G-Technology:
G-Technology's roots are deeply ingrained in delivering premium storage solutions for audio/video production, photography and the professional content creation market. From storing, transferring, editing and distributing content, G-Technology makes the workflow simpler, better and faster. G-Technology's high-performance portable and desktop drives, flexible transfer/edit solutions and fast RAID systems are all built for professional content creation environments where performance and reliability are paramount. Because G-Technology holds itself to the highest standards, its products can be found in premier post-production facilities worldwide.

Tumblr®: G-Technology
Facebook®: G-Technology
Twitter®: @GTechStorage
YouTube®: GTechStorage

About HGST
HGST (formerly known as Hitachi Global Storage Technologies or Hitachi GST), a Western Digital company (NASDAQ: WDC), develops advanced hard disk drives, enterprise?class solid state drives, innovative external storage solutions and services used to store, preserve and manage the world's most valued data. Founded by the pioneers of hard drives, HGST provides high?value storage for a broad range of market segments, including Enterprise, Desktop, Mobile Computing, Consumer Electronics and Personal Storage. HGST was established in 2003 and maintains its U.S. headquarters in San Jose, California. For more information, please visit the company's website at http://www.hgst.com.

G?Technology external hard drives serve as an element of an overall backup strategy. It is recommended that users keep two or more copies of their most important files backed up or stored on separate devices or online services.

G?Technology is a trademark of HGST, a Western Digital company. Western Digital, WD, and the WD logo are registered trademarks of Western Digital Technologies, Inc. All other trademarks are properties of their respective owners.

    For more information contact:

    Erin Hartin                                       Chris Knight

    HGST/G-Technology                                 Atomic PR

    Cell: 303-601-8035                                Cell: 415-786-9226

    erin.hartin@hgst.com                              g-team@atomicpr.com

SOURCE  G-Technology

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20121012/MM91100LOGO-b
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
G-Technology

Web Site: http://www.g-technology.com

SurfaceInk makes key contributions to OUYA device product development

SAN JOSE, Calif., April 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- SurfaceInk, established as the leading provider of consumer device engineering and product development services since 1999, upon the shipping of production devices by OUYA, revealed that it has been a key contributor to product development of the OUYA console and controller devices.

"SurfaceInk was instrumental in the development of OUYA.  We relied heavily on their product development expertise," said Julie Uhrman, CEO and Founder of OUYA. "Our product would not be the same without them - they helped us deliver on a beautiful and powerful game console and controller."

In an effort led by Uhrman and the reactor-grade energy of the OUYA Team, in partnership with Yves Behar and the fuseproject team, SurfaceInk was engaged to protect the design intent for the OUYA console and controller devices throughout the engineering and manufacturing phases of development.

"Surface Ink's talent and hard work has ensured a high level of quality and integrity in the final design, as well as an attainable price-point. This is the kind of outcome we have come to expect when we partner with the Engineers at SurfaceInk," commented Yves Behar of fuseproject.

Success of the OUYA development program began with a highly publicized Kickstarter launch with committed shipping dates and relied heavily on the agility created by working in partnership with fuseproject, the award winning Industrial Design and Branding firm.

"We are pleased to have had the opportunity to tackle the task of engineering this challenging and delightful design on a very aggressive schedule," said Giles Lowe, CEO of SurfaceInk. "This program allowed our Team to shine in the collaborative development effort, leveraging expertise and established relationships, in the interest of delivering the highest value to OUYA from the development process. We are proud of the effort and reveled in the opportunity to collaborate with OUYA and fuseproject."

About SurfaceInk
SurfaceInk provides high impact, strategic, product development consulting.  By way of a well-defined and robust product development philosophy, SurfaceInk's experienced team executes client projects in Research and Development, Proof of Concept Development and Full Cycle Product Development for consumer and business-to-business product markets.  SurfaceInk has collaborated on over 300 products ranging from desktop and laptop computers, to medical devices, toys, and a variety of consumer electronics.  For more information, please visit: http://www.surfaceink.com.

SOURCE  SurfaceInk

SurfaceInk

CONTACT: Rich Tangney, +1-408-293-3010, rich_tangney@surfaceink.com

Maxell Professional Announces Launch of Professional Plus SD Card

--   16GB and 32GB Professional SD Cards Provide Broadcast, Video, and Post Industries with Reliable, Durable Media Storage Options --

WOODLAND PARK, N.J., April 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Maxell Professional Media expands its line of professional-grade products with the introduction of a Professional SD Card, furthering its dedication to supplying the professional broadcast, video, and post markets with storage media of the highest standard. The SDHC UHS-I (Speed Class 1) Card, for DSLRs and Professional HD video cameras, debuts this spring, rounding out Maxell's Professional Plus line of media storage products specifically developed to meet the stringent needs of broadcast, video, and post-production professionals who require storage options.

This Ultra High Speed UHS-I (Speed Class 1) SDHC Memory card, is a full Class 10 with read speeds up to 95MB/s and write speeds up to 45MB/s*. It is faster, smarter and more robust than current SDHC cards and has been fully optimized for professional use.

"It is crucial that our customers be provided with data storage options that are optimized for professional use," said Patricia Byrne, senior marketing manager for Maxell. "The SDHC UHS-I cards accomplish that goal on every performance level, and we are happy to add it to Maxell's family of broadcast products."

Maxell's robust SDHC Cards, available in 16GB and 32GB, will ensure that the quality of a user's content remains true to the original source throughout the process of capturing, editing and transmission.

List pricing for the Professional SD Cards is $37.83 for the 16GB and $72.99 for the 32GB.

Hi-res images and spec sheet available upon request. For more information, visit http://www.maxellpromedia.com.

About Maxell
Maxell Corporation of America, a technology and marketing leader, is a full line manufacturer of digital media products for professional, data storage and consumer markets. Maxell has been recognized for over forty years for delivering a comprehensive line of digital tape and disc-based recording media products. The company offers a full line of optical and tape based media storage products including SD Cards, Flash Memory and a complete line of accessories.

*Performance may vary according to different hardware configurations and operating system.

SOURCE  Maxell Professional Media

Maxell Professional Media

CONTACT: Maxell Contact: Patricia Byrne, Maxell Corporation, Professional/Commercial Products Group, 201.794.5922, pbyrne@maxell.com; Media Contact: Lee Groeger, SGW, 973.263.5481, Lgroeger@sgw.com

Web Site: http://www.maxellpromedia.com

Maxell Introduces External Hard Disk Drive for Professional Applications

-- Multi-Interface External HDD Has Up to 3TB Capacity to Meet Archiving Needs of Video, Broadcast, and Post-Production Professionals --

WOODLAND PARK, N.J., April 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Maxell Corporation of America introduces the Multi-Interface External Hard Disk Drive (HDD), which has been specifically designed to address the large files associated with HD environments, including audio/video editing, digital photography, and animation. Part of Maxell's Professional Plus series of professional-grade storage media, the Multi-Interface HDD provides video, broadcast, and post-production professionals with the capacity, durability, and overall performance necessary to easily and cost-effectively archive and back up HD, 3D and other large files.

Maxell offers Multi-Interface HDD in three capacities - 1TB, 2TB, and 3TB. To accommodate large files and ensure high transfer rates, the Multi-Interface drives support USB 3.0, eSATA, Firewire 400, and Firewire 800, and has a hot plug and play function for simple connection. It spins at 7200 RPM and has at least 16MB of cache. The drives support Apple Mac OS X 10.5 (or later), Microsoft Windows Vista 7, 8, and Windows Server 2003, 2008.

"High definition and 3D have created an archiving and backup challenge for video, broadcast, and post-production professionals," said Patricia Byrne, senior marketing manager for Maxell. "Our introduction of the Multi-Interface External HDD provides professionals with a means to reliably, quickly, efficiently, and cost-effectively transfer HD files and footage."

Specifically designed for professional environments, the Multi-Interface HDD has a durable aluminum housing and features excellent shock resistance. The drive also has a wide temperature range of -20 degrees C to 60 degrees C, and is RoHS compliant, making it environmentally friendly. Measuring 5.61 x 1.38 x 8.52 (inches), the Multi-Interface HDD can be positioned vertically or horizontally, so it can fit into tight configurations often associated with post-production suites.

List pricing for the Multi-Interface External HDD is $213.00 for 1TB, $276.00 for 2TB and $351.00 for 3TB.

About Maxell
Maxell Corporation of America, a technology and marketing leader, is a full line manufacturer of digital media products for professional, data storage and consumer markets. Maxell has been recognized for over forty years for delivering a comprehensive line of digital tape and disc-based recording media products. The company offers a full line of optical and tape based media storage products including SD Cards, Flash Memory and a complete line of accessories.

For more information, visit http://www.maxellpromedia.com.

SOURCE  Maxell Professional Media

Maxell Professional Media

CONTACT: Patricia Byrne, Maxell Corporation, Professional/Commercial Products Group, 201.794.5922, pbyrne@maxell.com; or Lee Groeger, SGW, 973.263.5481, Lgroeger@sgw.com

Web Site: http://www.maxellpromedia.com

Rachel Roy Launches Digital Magazine And Video Series The Life On rachelroy.com

NEW YORK, April 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Rachel Roy today launched a new digital experience called The Life. Exclusively on http://www.rachelroy.com, The Life is a hub of lifestyle content created and curated to inspire women to design the life they want to live.

(Photo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130404/NY87720)

The magazine features five sections, LEARN, STYLE, GIVEBACK, RR/TV and ABOUT, that give viewers an inside look at Rachel's view on fashion, beauty, travel, food and philanthropy. Launch topics include "How-to get a new spring beauty look," "I'm Loving: Festival Fashion," "Rachel's spring playlist" and a story from guest editor Jacquie Aiche on combining spirituality with her jewelry business.

Rachel Roy said, "I've always believed in designing the life you want to live. Advice and stories from my friends on how they have pursued their dreams and goals have really helped me and I am excited to help bring those stories to a larger audience and inspire other women. We are not alone in our journeys, and I wanted to create something that illustrated this."

Launching as a companion program to the magazine, The Life video series contains stories of female entrepreneurs who share their personal stories and tips for starting a business or pursuing their dream careers. Released on a monthly basis, the videos include: founder of FEED projects Lauren Bush Lauren, celebrity fashion stylist Elizabeth Stewart, E! Entertainment host Catt Sadler, fashion journalist Melissa Magsaysay, jewelry designer Jacquie Aiche, celebrity wellness Coach AJ Johnson and vintage shop owner Esther Ginsberg.

The digital launch of The Life underscores Rachel's commitment to creating content that engages and connects women online and dovetails her digital runway show that debuted exclusively on Facebook during February's New York Fashion Week.

For more information, please visit rachelroy.com/THELIFE.

Rachel Roy is a division of The Jones Group (NYSE: JNY).

About Rachel Roy:
Rachel Roy, designer, entrepreneur, philanthropist and mother, designs to inspire women to feel smart, confident and individual.

Inspired by the working women she knew, the Rachel Roy New York collection debuted in 2005. The Rachel Roy collection is available at select Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom and top specialty stores worldwide. In 2009, RACHEL Rachel Roy launched with a downtown, youthful affordable contemporary sportswear brand essence and has quickly become a destination brand at Macy's.

Giving back is one of Rachel's greatest passions and one of the founding principles of the Rachel Roy brand. From her work with OrphanAid Africa to the Kindness Is Always Fashionable charitable bag program, Rachel looks to create opportunities to give women and children in need a voice.

Rachel is a member of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) and continues to be actively engaged in the evolution and integrity of the fashion industry.

For more information on Rachel and to shop the collections, please visit the digital flagship, RACHELROY.COM

About The Jones Group Inc.:
The Jones Group Inc. (http://www.jonesgroupinc.com) is a leading global designer, marketer and wholesaler of over 35 brands with product expertise in apparel, footwear, jeanswear, jewelry and handbags.  The Jones Group has a reputation for innovation, excellence in product quality and value, operational execution and talent.  The Company also markets directly to consumers through branded specialty retail and outlet stores, through concessions at upscale department stores and through its e-commerce sites.

The Company's internationally recognized brands and licensing agreements (L) include: Nine West, Jones New York, Anne Klein, Kurt Geiger, Rachel Roy (L), Robert Rodriguez, Robbi & Nikki, Stuart Weitzman, Brian Atwood (L), Boutique 9, Easy Spirit, Carvela, Gloria Vanderbilt, l.e.i., Bandolino, Enzo Angiolini, Nine & Co., GLO, Joan & David, Miss KG, Kasper, Energie, Evan-Picone, Le Suit, Mootsies Tootsies, Grane, Erika, Napier, Jessica Simpson (L), Givenchy (L), Judith Jack, Albert Nipon, Pappagallo and Rafe (L). 

SOURCE  Rachel Roy

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130404/NY87720
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Rachel Roy

CONTACT: Andrew Young, Full Picture, 212.995.2147

Web Site: http://www.rachelroy.com/THELIFE

AT&T Joins with HTC and Facebook to Launch HTC First, the Only Smartphone Designed Around Facebook Home

Facebook's Newest Mobile Experience Available Exclusively on the Nation's Fastest 4G LTE Network

DALLAS, BELLEVUE, Wash. and MENLO PARK, Calif., April 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- AT&T*, HTC and Facebook have teamed up to develop and launch the HTC First(TM), the first and only smartphone built to feature Facebook Home, which puts your friends at the heart of your phone. Facebook Home is the first mobile experience designed to give you your friends' latest updates right on your home screen and messages that reach you no matter what you're doing.

HTC First will be available for pre-order today for $99.99 with a two-year commitment and available exclusively in AT&T stores and online starting April 12.  To pre-order, visit http://www.att.com/facebookhome.

The HTC First runs on AT&T 4G LTE, the nation's fastest 4G LTE network.**  In addition, independent mobile research firm RootMetrics® has published a special report on 4G LTE in the U.S. which notes that AT&T wireless customers in our 4G LTE markets that were tested by RootMetrics have access to the fastest mobile speeds on their smartphones.  AT&T also has the nation's largest 4G network, covering 288 million people.

"The HTC First will offer the best Facebook Home experience on mobile, right out of the box.  That's why we're committed to this phone and making it exclusive in our stores," said Ralph de la Vega, president and CEO, AT&T Mobility.  "Because AT&T offers the fastest 4G LTE** in the nation, it's the best network for Facebook Home.  And the best device for Facebook Home is the HTC First."

"HTC has a track record of providing beautiful hardware design, and of being first-to-market with smartphone innovations," said Peter Chou, CEO, HTC Corporation. "The HTC First continues that track record, providing AT&T customers with a unique home experience that puts a user's friends and family at the center of their mobile experience."

"Home is a completely new experience for your phone," said Mark Zuckerberg, Facebook's Founder and CEO.  "With Home available right out of the box, you're getting the best quality experience for connecting with your friends."

Facebook Home brings your News Feed to the surface, immediately giving you the content you care about right on your home screen when you turn on your phone without having to open an app or access a mobile website. Just sign into your Facebook account and begin using Home - no need for download or configuration.  Facebook Home connects you directly with your friends, whether it's their real-time updates and newest photo uploads being streamed on your cover feed or the ability to chat with friends without jumping in and out of apps.

Facebook Home is built around your friends and puts them at the center of your phone:

    --  Cover feed: A constant, fresh stream of photos and updates from your
        newsfeed, cover feed is always present when you wake up your phone.  It
        lets you stay up-to-date on your friends' latest activities in
        real-time, all the time.  You can swipe through to see more photos and
        updates, double tap to "like" a post and comment right from cover feed.
        To learn more about cover feed, check out this video.
    --  Notifications: Notifications from apps and friends appear right on your
        home screen.  It's easier to see when you have a missed call, calendar
        reminder or new message. Open a notification with a double tap or clear
        them away to see your Cover Feed. To learn more about notifications,
        check out this video.
    --  Chat Heads: The mobile messenger lets you jump in and out of
        conversations while you do other things, like watch a video and browse
        the web.  Reply right from chat heads, or move them around if you're not
        ready to respond. Plus you can send and receive texts and Facebook
        messages from the same spot. To learn more about chat heads, check out
        this video.
    --  App Launcher:  See your favorite apps and post right to Facebook from
        the same spot. You choose what's on your app launcher--press and hold an
        app then drag it anywhere.
    --  Instagram:  HTC First is the only phone that comes with Instagram
        pre-loaded.
HTC First will be available in four colors: black, white, red and pale blue.  The hardware is thin, modern and seamless, with soft edges to draw your attention to the updates from friends and family on the 4.3-inch glass display. Inside, the smartphone runs Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean) with the new Facebook Home experience and incorporates a Qualcomm Snapdragon(TM) 400 processor with dual-core CPU and 3G/4G world and multimode LTE so you can enjoy the richest content on AT&T's blazing fast 4G LTE network.

For more information, or to pre-order HTC First, please visit http://www.att.com/facebookhome.

*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.

**Limited 4G LTE availability in select markets. LTE is a trademark of ETSI. Claim based on a comparison of U.S. national carriers' average 4G LTE download speeds for Android(TM) and Windows smartphones and iPhone 5. 4G speeds not available everywhere.

About AT&T
AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) is a premier communications holding company and one of the most honored companies in the world. Its subsidiaries and affiliates - AT&T operating companies - are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and internationally. With a powerful array of network resources that includes the nation's largest 4G network, AT&T is a leading provider of wireless, Wi-Fi, high speed Internet, voice and cloud-based services. A leader in mobile Internet, AT&T also offers the best wireless coverage worldwide of any U.S. carrier, 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.

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.

About HTC
Founded in 1997, HTC Corp. (HTC) is the creator of many award-winning mobile devices and industry firsts. By putting people at the center of everything it does, HTC pushes the boundaries of design and technology to create innovative and personal experiences for consumers around the globe. HTC's portfolio includes smartphones and tablets powered by the HTC Sense® user experience. HTC is listed on the Taiwan Stock Exchange (TWSE: 2498). For more information, please visit http://www.htc.com.

© 2013 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. 4G not available everywhere. AT&T, the AT&T logo and all other marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners.

HTC and HTC First are trademarks of HTC Corporation.

SOURCE  AT&T Inc.

AT&T Inc.

CONTACT: Mari Melguizo, AT&T Corporate Communications, (212) 803-2622, mm094q@att.com

Web Site: http://www.att.com

Nitto Tire U.S.A. Inc. Launches New Ambassador Program as Latest Addition to Social Engagement and Community Building Efforts

CYPRESS, Calif., April 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Nitto Tire, a leading innovator in high performance tires, has launched a new Ambassador program as the latest extension of its dynamic community building efforts. The program is part of Nitto's overall social strategy for 2013 and focuses on engaging with its extensive community of followers and advocates. The announcement follows on the heels of the brand achieving a milestone of 3 million fans on Facebook to become the third most followed Japanese company, behind Nissan and Sony.

"Our social media team has built an amazing community around Nitto fans and enthusiasts," said Tomoshige Mizutani, President of Nitto Tire U.S.A. Inc. "As such, we are constantly looking for new ways to create opportunities for our fans to engage with us and benefit from their involvement with our brand."

The Ambassador program offers Nitto's most loyal enthusiasts the opportunity to become leaders and influencers within their peer groups. Membership in the program brings access to special Nitto and automotive content like videos, articles, images, interviews and more. Members can then share that information through their personal social media channels on Facebook, Twitter, etc., and gain rewards points, with a leaderboard tracking the most influential members in the community. Members can also post their own content onto the site and share it with others in the community.

"Because the online social landscape is always evolving and there is no way of controlling EdgeRank, Facebook's algorithm responsible for brands' share of voice and reach, we have to explore new ways to facilitate communication with our 3.2 million loyal fans," said Mizutani. "Our Ambassador program helps take back a measure of control and at the same time strengthens our social presence."

Each month, members with the five highest reward point totals earn Nitto swag. And all members are entered for a chance to win a set of Nitto tires at the end of the year. In addition, special limited edition prizes will be offered throughout the year to encourage members to stay active and check back to the site to accumulate points.

The program is being supported by a yearlong promotional campaign, including a robust blog with ever-changing automotive content and videos plus onsite activation at events.

Information on Nitto Tire U.S.A. Inc. and its products can be found on the web at http://www.nittotire.com, on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/NittoTire and on Twitter at @NittoTire.

About Nitto Tire U.S.A. Inc.
Nitto Tire (http://www.nittotire.com) develops performance tires for all uses, including racing, off-road and street.  Using state-of-the-art manufacturing and testing facilities in Japan and the United States, Nitto provides innovative and high-quality performance tires for the most demanding automotive enthusiasts. For more information, visit the company's website or contact the company directly.  Nitto is a registered trademark of Nitto Tire U.S.A. Inc., 5665 Plaza Drive, Ste. 250, Cypress, Calif., 90630.

SOURCE  Nitto Tire U.S.A. Inc.

Nitto Tire U.S.A. Inc.

CONTACT: Rachel Reenders, KCOMM, +1-949-294-5095, rachel@kcomm.com

Web Site: http://www.nittotire.com

Neverwinter(TM) Open Beta Dated

Neverwinter MMORPG Opens to All April 30, 2013; Beta Weekend 4 Added to Thank Committed Founders

REDWOOD CITY, Calif., April 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Perfect World Entertainment Inc. and Cryptic Studios are pleased to announce that on April 30, 2013, the free-to-play action MMORPG Dungeons & Dragons® Neverwinter is heading into Open Beta, allowing millions of players unrestricted access to the game world.

To view the multimedia assets associated with this release, please click http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/neverwinter-open-beta-dated-201466111.html  

"The direct response and support from the Neverwinter community during our Closed Beta Weekends have pushed us to make Neverwinter the best free-to-play MMORPG anyone has yet seen," said Cryptic Studios Executive Producer and COO, Craig Zinkievich. "On April 30, we go into Open Beta. That's when the world we've labored for years to build comes to life -- that's when every gamer can login and play what we've worked so hard to create. We could not be more excited."

Recent winner of MMORPG.com's Most Anticipated Award at PAX East 2013, and recipient of dozens of other awards and much critical acclaim, Neverwinter is Cryptic and Perfect World's proof that Western free-to-play games, when built from the ground up, can compete with even the biggest boxed subscription titles. On April 30, the companies invite all gamers to put that claim to the test. There will be no character wipes or restricted access after the start of Open Beta.

As an added thank you to the committed Founders who have helped make Neverwinter possible, beginning 12:00 p.m. (PDT) on Friday, April 12, Founders will get the first opportunity to experience Neverwinter's professions system as part of a newly added 60-hour Beta Weekend 4. Founding members may simultaneously pursue four different professions: Leadership, Mailsmithing, Platesmithing and Leatherworking.

"We've never been in a better place launching a game," said Jack Emmert, CEO, Cryptic Studios. "While the entire team is focused on launching Neverwinter's Open Beta on April 30, we still wanted to thank those committed Founders who stuck with us. Since the beginning of Neverwinter's Beta Weekends, our Founders have shown us that Neverwinter offers engaging game mechanics, unique features and a gameplay experience that is parallel to subscription or paid games. They have become our biggest supporters and we wanted to give them Beta Weekend 4 as a token of our appreciation."

Players can still become Founders through Neverwinter's Founder's Pack Program. Benefits include exclusive access to Beta Weekend 4, permanent in-game items that are unique to Founders, early access to Open Beta, and VIP perks.

To take advantage of these benefits and to gain exclusive access to Neverwinter's Beta Weekend 4, players may visit: http://nw.perfectworld.com/founderspack/

To download and view the brand new "What is Neverwinter?"trailer and screenshots in anticipation of the imminent Open Beta launch on April 30, please visit: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/u3t4eg9qwrq9xa5/hdW5Fib4P9

ABOUT PERFECT WORLD ENTERTAINMENT INC.

Perfect World Entertainment is a leading North American online games publisher specializing in immersive free-to-play MMORPGs. Founded in 2008, Perfect World Entertainment has published 10 popular titles, including Blacklight Retribution, Forsaken World, Perfect World International and Star Trek Online. The company works closely with its American development teams and partners such as Cryptic Studios, developer of the highly anticipated MMORPG Dungeons & DragonsNeverwinter, and Runic Games, developer of the hit Torchlight series, to provide unparalleled quality of service and game experiences to its players. A subsidiary of Perfect World Co., Ltd. (NASDAQ: PWRD), Perfect World Entertainment is headquartered in Silicon Valley, California. For more information, please visit: http://www.perfectworld.com

ABOUT CRYPTIC STUDIOS, Inc.

Cryptic Studios, Inc. is a leading developer of online games committed to delivering the next level of gameplay. Cryptic Studios, Inc. develops AAA titles for PC and is rapidly diversifying its portfolio of games to expand beyond the traditional MMORPG genre. In addition to its successfully launched "Champions Online: Free for All"and "Star Trek Online", Cryptic Studios, Inc. is now developing "Dungeons & Dragons: Neverwinter"and other unannounced projects. Cryptic Studios, Inc., a subsidiary of Perfect World Co., Ltd. (NASDAQ: PWRD), is located in Los Gatos, CA.

Dungeons & Dragons, Neverwinter, their respective logos, Forgotten Realms, and all character names are trademarks of Wizards of the Coast LLC in the U.S.A. and other countries. All rights reserved.

Related Links:
Neverwinter Official Website 
Become a Neverwinter Founder Today!

CONTACT:
Christine Yeo
Perfect World Entertainment, Inc.
(650) 590-7732
christine.yeo@perfectworld.com

 

 

SOURCE  Perfect World Entertainment

Video:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/neverwinter-open-beta-dated-201466111.html
Perfect World Entertainment

Web Site: http://www.perfectworld.com

Utherverse Launches Newest 3D Internet Version: 'WebWorlds.com'

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, April 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Utherverse Digital Inc., the architect behind the 3D internet platform, today announced it is expanding its contribution to the 3D web space with the launch of its newest version, WebWorlds.com.

Similar to the company's 2009 Virtual World Web release, which combines the practicalities of the flat web but integrates video game technology to create a 3D internet experience, WebWorlds offers a platform that is appropriate for anyone, ages 13 and up.   

"This is a significant step forward for the 3D internet world," said Utherverse CEO Brian Shuster.  "It opens up the incredible opportunities of the 3D Web to both the academic and business worlds --- sectors that were previously reluctant because of the 18+ age restriction of the original Virtual World Web."

WebWorlds.com is a family-friendly version of the Virtual World Web - a different kind of Internet in which "sites" are actually immersive, video-game-style environments. Users are represented with avatars within the Web Worlds and can walk through virtual worlds to visually and physically interact with surroundings, objects and other users. 

According to Shuster, the new version will allow the company to dramatically expand its user type and audience. "We already have interest from universities, real estate developers and convention planners who are preparing to launch Web Worlds on the platform to augment their real-world and flat-web presences," Shuster said.

Online learning, Shuster explained, is an area that has already garnered success on the existing Virtual World Web through UtherAcademy, which launched in 2011. In this setting, rather than opening up Web CT and browsing through flat uploaded documents, students are able to sit in 3D-style classrooms, participate in discussions and pose questions via voice or written chat.

Similarly, realtors are now finding 3D capabilities to be much more efficient and forward thinking when compared to flat, 2D listing sites, Shuster said. "Virtual open houses can help potential buyers view a virtual replica of a home they are interested in, ask a realtor questions, and quickly gain an understanding of the dimensions of a space by walking as an avatar through it," he said.

For more information, visit http://www.utherverse.net.

About Utherverse.net

Utherverse is the leading developer of the 3D Web, the Virtual World Web (VWW), which currently consists of more than 110,000 independently, operated virtual business-worlds and millions of personal virtual worlds. The company was formed in 2002 with the goal of supplementing the flat web with a 3D web that could bring a new kind of efficiency to businesses and users, in entertainment, education, commerce and charity.

Among Utherverse's offerings are the Virtual World Web -TheVWW.com - which provides simple software that enables anyone to create their own Virtual World; UtherAcademy, which provides education and tutoring across a wide range of subjects; UtherInteriors, a next-generation real-estate sales tool and interior design platform; and 3DTunes, a music and karaoke devoted virtual world.

For more information, please see http://www.utherverse.net.

SOURCE  Utherverse Digital Inc.

Utherverse Digital Inc.

CONTACT: Jake Katz, SS|PR, 847-415-9303, jkatz@sspr.com

Web Site: http://www.utherverse.net

Verizon Introduces FiOS Quantum Internet Speeds With Southern California Flair

'FiOS SoCal Experience' Benefits Local Communities, Taps Residents' Creativity for Chance to Win Custom Prizes

LONG BEACH, Calif., April 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Southern Californians are firmly in the Internet fast lane with Verizon's FiOS Quantum Internet service, and the company is spreading the word through the FiOS SoCal Experience, which will support local community causes and reward people's creativity.  To access the Multimedia News Release, visit: newzbee.com/VerizonFiOSSoCal.

(Photo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130404/CG88569)

FiOS Quantum Internet offers consumers and small businesses some of the nation's fastest mass scale Internet speeds available, featuring download/upload speeds of 50/25, 75/35, 150/65 and 300/65 megabits per second (Mbps).  (This FiOS Internet speed grid shows specific examples of the benefits of faster downstream and upstream speeds.)

Verizon's FiOS SoCal Experience team will meet Southern Californians where they work, live and play in uniquely designed, tech-laden FiOS SoCal Experience vehicles.  The Experience teams and vehicles will make appearances at Southern California community events, festivals, business mixers and residential neighborhoods through the summer of 2013.   Discover daily locations of the FiOS SoCal Experience fleet; find ways to support local community causes; and learn how to win by conquering creativity through custom design by visiting http://www.Verizon.com/FiOSSoCal.

The Experience fleet includes an iconic 1965 Volkswagen van that has been transformed into a mobile entertainment experience, custom-fitted with FiOS Internet and FiOS TV capability, along with 42-inch HDTVs.  At each vehicle-based event, visitors can participate in all aspects of the FiOS SoCal Experience, including:

Influencing Local Change
A key facet of the FiOS SoCal Experience is support for local causes, and Verizon and the local community will team up to support its non-profit organizations.  Verizon will donate at least $5,000 each, in addition to volunteer time to a variety of local organizations.  The local community will play an integral role in deciding exactly how the charities will use their funds.

Conquering Creativity, Winning Prizes
As a salute to the Southern California way of life, the FiOS SoCal Experience offers locals a unique opportunity to design and win SoCal staples.  The "Conquer Creativity" sweepstakes enables participants to virtually design graphics for a beach bike, skate or surfboard, and enter those designs in the sweepstakes.  With a unique, computer-based design template, users can integrate colors, personal photos and text into their designs.   

Each week, one sweepstakes entry will be randomly selected, and the winner will receive the item he or she entered - a surfboard, skateboard or beach cruiser - with graphics inspired by their design.  The winning sweepstakes items will be custom-made by local craftsmen, including surfboard shaper Josh Oldenburg and skateboard company SK8 Factory. 

To learn more about life at Quantum speed, visit http://www.Verizon.com/FiOSSoCal. To learn when the team will be in your neighborhood, follow us on Twitter @VerizonCA and like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/VerizonCA.

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ), headquartered in New York, is a global leader in delivering broadband and other wireless and wireline communications services to consumer, business, government and wholesale customers.  Verizon Wireless operates America's most reliable wireless network, with more than 98 million retail connections nationwide.  Verizon also provides converged communications, information and entertainment services over America's most advanced fiber-optic network, and delivers integrated business solutions to customers in more than 150 countries, including all of the Fortune 500.  A Dow 30 company with nearly $116 billion in 2012 revenues, Verizon employs a diverse workforce of 183,400.  For more information, visit http://www.verizon.com.

Media contacts:
Jarryd Gonzales, Verizon
213-337-1118
jarryd.gonzales@verizon.com

Ashley Pabst, Marketing Werks
312-784-1667
apabst@marketingwerks.com

SOURCE  Verizon Communications Inc.

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130404/CG88569
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Verizon Communications Inc.

Web Site: http://www.verizon.com

Panasonic Announces 2013 Consumer Phone Lineup

SECAUCUS, N.J., April 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America today introduced three new DECT 6.0 Plus telephone models for the 2013 lineup of consumer telephones. Designed for ease-of-use, the KX-TG684x , KX-TG787x and KX-TG422x series of models offer an array of new features including enhanced Link2Cell® functions, simplified handset and base layouts, noise reduction capabilities, advanced answering machine options and a USB port for charging function.

The new 2013 KX-TG787x series of consumer telephones has added enhanced functions related to Panasonic's popular Link2Cell feature which links up to two cell phones to a Panasonic Cordless Telephone, allowing consumers to make and receive cell calls anywhere in the home using the DECT 6.0 Plus cordless phone handsets.  When the cell phone is placed in an area where reception is generally the best, users can exchange clear communication with others throughout the home using the cordless handset.  A user can even enjoy long telephone conversations while charging their cell phone with the base unit's new, convenient USB port, eliminating the worry of the cell phone battery running out mid-conversation.  The enhanced Link2Cell feature also includes SMS alert, which allows a DECT handset to audibly alert users when they receive SMS text messages on their cell phone.  Users can also easily transfer phonebook entries and ringtone settings from their cell phones.

Both the new Panasonic KX-TG787x and KX-TG684x series of models include a new noise reduction function that detects and reduces background noise of the other party, producing crisp, clear voice communication.  An advanced answering machine function on both models alerts users in the home with an alarming sound and sends audible messages to a pre-registered cell phone when a new message is being recorded onto the answering machine. Lastly, to ensure long-lasting conversations, both models' cordless handsets feature Panasonic's Power Back Up feature which allows up to three hours of usage even when electricity has been lost.

"As a market leader in cordless telephones, Panasonic focuses on producing innovative telephone systems that provide easy-to-use and convenient features for consumers," said Desirae Dolphin, Product Manager of Communications, Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America. "Our goal is to enhance the home telecommunication experience through efficiency and outstanding connectivity."

A new optional Key Detector accessory, the KX-TGA20, is compatible with both the KX-TG684x and KX-TG787x series of models.  The Key Detector simply attaches to frequently misplaced items, such as car keys, and uses the Panasonic DECT cordless handset to find them quickly and easily from up to 656 feet away.  With the push of a button, the LCD display on the DECT handset alerts users to how far away the misplaced item is and sets off an alarm sound from both the handset and the key detector.  Each phone model is compatible with up to four key detectors which can be registered by names, designating each Key Detector to specific misplaced items.

The new Panasonic KX-TG422x series offers consumers a telephone option with a simplified and clean layout with easy-to-use, large operation buttons on the handset and base, a small footprint base unit and an easy-to-read 1.4 inch LCD backlight display. With the phone's Intelligent Eco Mode, users can also lower the power consumption when using the handset close to the base unit. This new cordless handset conveniently allows consumers to store up to fifty phonebook entries.

Each of the new 2013 Cordless telephone models are expandable up to six handsets and embedded with Panasonic's DECT 6.0 PLUS technology, which allows the phones to deliver superb sound quality and an extended transmission range. As a result, consumers can enjoy conversations with reduced interference.

Additional features of the 2013 Panasonic Cordless telephone models include:

    --  Talking Caller ID - announces Caller ID information in between rings
        which allows users to screen and avoid any unwanted incoming calls.
    --  Voice Equalizer - allows users to adjust the tone of incoming calls to
        enhance clarity or to accommodate for hearing impairments, making voices
        easier to understand.
    --  Call Block - Users can block up to 250 unwanted calls by entering Caller
        ID information into the phone's memory.
    --  Silent Mode - allows consumers to turn the ringer off on any handset
        during specific hours.
The new phones are now available at Best Buy, Target, Walmart, Sam's Club, Costco and Amazon.com with the following suggested retail prices:

    --  KX-TG7875S Link2Cell® Bluetooth® Cellular Convergence Solution (5
        handsets)  $169.95; KX-TG7874S (4 handsets) $149.95; KX-TG7873S (3
        handsets) $129.95; KX-TG7872S (2 handsets) $109.95.
    --  KX-TG4225N expandable digital cordless answering system (5 handsets)
        $119.95; KX KX-TG4224N (4 handsets) $99.95; KX-TG4223N (3 handsets)
        $79.95; KX-TG4222N (2 handsets) $59.95; KX-TG4221N (1 handset) $39.95.
    --  KX-TG4753B expandable digital cordless answering system with three
        handsets: $109.95.
    --  KX-TG7733S Link2Cell® Bluetooth® Convergence Solution ((3 handsets)
        $99.95; KX-TG7732S (2 handsets) $79.95; KX-TG7731S (1 handset) $59.95.
    --  KX-TG7745S Link2Cell Bluetooth Convergence Solution with dial key pad on
        base (5 handsets): $149.95; KX-TG7743S (3 handsets) $109.95; KX-TG7742S
        (2 handsets) $89.95; KX-TG7741S (1 handset) $69.95.
    --  KX-TG4771B expandable digital cordless answering system with 1 corded
        and 1 cordless handset $69.95; KX-TG4772B (2 cordless handsets) $89.95;
        KX-TG4773B (3 cordless handsets) $109.95.
For more information about Panasonic telephones, please visit http://www.panasonic.com/phonestuff.

About Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America

Based in Secaucus, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America, a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American Subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC) and the hub of Panasonic's U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations, offers a wide-range of consumer solutions in the U.S. and Canada. The Company's portfolio of innovative consumer products ranges from VIERA Full HD 3D Televisions, Blu-ray players, LUMIX Digital Cameras, Camcorders, Home Audio, Cordless Phones, Home Appliances, Wellness and Personal Care products and more.

Panasonic is pledged to practice prudent, sustainable use of the earth's natural resources and protect our environment through the company's Eco Ideas programs. In the 2012 Interbrand Annual Best Global Green Brands ranking, the Panasonic brand jumped four spots to number six: http://www.interbrand.com/en/best-global-brands/Best-Global-Green-Brands/2012-Report.aspx. Follow Panasonic on Twitter @panasonicusa, and additional company information for media is available at http://www.panasonic.com/pressroom.

SOURCE  Panasonic

Panasonic

CONTACT: Lori Chiazzo (Panasonic), 201-392-4178, Lori.Chiazzo@us.panasonic.com; or Blayne Murphy (Cohn & Wolfe), 212-798-9763, blayne.murphy@cohnwolfe.com; or Kaianna Sessoms, (Panasonic), 201-348-7135, kaianna.sessoms@us.panasonic.com

Web Site: http://www.panasonic.com

SPRING FORWARD WITH A NEW PC 

Latest Innovations from Intel Can Help You Refresh Your Technology This Spring

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: Audio, hard copy requests, contact information and more available at: http://multivu.prnewswire.com/broadcast/60911/press.html

NEW YORK, April 4 /PRNewswire/ -- THIS MULTIVU SPECIAL REPORT IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY INTEL.

SPRING IS A TIME TO START FRESH, AND ALONG WITH CLEANING OUT THE CLOSETS, SOMETIMES IT'S GOOD TO REFRESH YOUR TECHNOLOGY.

ONE-THIRD OF PC'S IN THE U.S. ARE NOW MORE THAN FOUR YEARS OLD. MANY COMPLAIN ABOUT THEIR PC TAKING TOO LONG TO BOOT UP, AND FREEZING WHEN RUNNING MULTIPLE APPLICATIONS.

IF THESE ISSUES SOUND FAMILIAR, YOU COULD HAVE A LOT TO GAIN FROM GETTING A NEW PC, ESPECIALLY IF IT'S ONE OF THE NEW ULTRABOOKS POWERED BY INTEL.

NEESHA DESAI, INTEL:

"Intel technology advancements are transforming the way we use computers. Today's Intel-powered Ultrabooks and PCs are on average three times faster than PCs from four years ago. They're lighter and thinner, and have double the battery life of many older PC's. They're also less expensive than in the past, averaging 200 dollars less than models from just a few years ago."

IF YOU HAVE A TAX REFUND THIS SPRING, A NEW INTEL-POWERED PC COULD BE A GREAT INVESTMENT.

FOR MORE VISIT INTEL.COM.

I'M DAN MARRIN.

Audio: http://multivu.prnewswire.com/broadcast/60911/press.html
Source: INTEL

    AUDIO PROVIDED BY: INTEL

            CONTACT:

            FOR STORY INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL: MultiVu Media Relations,1-800-653-5313, EXT. 3 OR EMAIL RADIO@MULTIVU.COM

            Web site:

            http://www.intel.com

Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Network Expands In Chautauqua County

JAMESTOWN, N.Y., April 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --

    WHO:            Verizon Wireless, operator of the nation's largest 4G LTE network and
                    largest, most reliable 3G network

    WHAT:           Verizon Wireless recently activated new 4G LTE coverage on three sites in
                    Chautauqua County, expanding and filling in coverage on the high-speed data
                    network it launched locally in August 2012. 4G LTE lets Verizon Wireless
                    customers use their 4G LTE-enabled devices to surf the Web, post status
                    updates and photos, share music, and download files at speeds up to 10 times
                    faster than customers on 3G networks.

    WHERE:          New 4G LTE sites are located in Kennedy, Portland and Sinclairville. For
                    street-level detail of coverage and more, please visit
                    http://www.verizonwireless.com/4GLTE.

    BACKGROUND:     Two years after its launch, the Verizon 4G LTE network is available to more
                    than 273 million people across the U.S. - close to 89 percent of the U.S.
                    population.

                    For additional details on the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network visit http://
                    verizonwireless.com/lte. To see how the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network is
                    impacting customers and businesses across the country, visit the Verizon
                    Wireless News Center.

    MEDIA CONTACT: John O'Malley

                   Verizon Wireless

                   585.321.7264 or 585.261.5899

                   John.omalley@verizonwireless.com

                   http://twitter.com/VZWjohno

About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless operates the nation's largest 4G LTE network and largest, most reliable 3G network. The company serves 98.2 million retail customers, including 92.5 million retail postpaid customers.  Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with more than 73,000 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

Web Site: http://www.verizonwireless.com

Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Network Expands In Cayuga County

AUBURN, N.Y., April 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --

    WHO:            Verizon Wireless, operator of the nation's largest 4G LTE network and
                    largest, most reliable 3G network

    WHAT:           Verizon Wireless recently activated new 4G LTE coverage on three sites in
                    Cayuga County, expanding and filling in coverage on the high-speed data
                    network it launched locally in August 2011. 4G LTE lets Verizon Wireless
                    customers use their 4G LTE-enabled devices to surf the Web, post status
                    updates and photos, share music, and download files at speeds up to 10 times
                    faster than customers on 3G networks.

    WHERE:          New 4G LTE sites are located in Port Byron (two sites) and Sterling. For
                    street-level detail of coverage and more, please visit
                    http://www.verizonwireless.com/4GLTE.

    BACKGROUND:     Two years after its launch, the Verizon 4G LTE network is available to more
                    than 273 million people across the U.S. - close to 89 percent of the U.S.
                    population.

                    For additional details on the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network visit http://
                    verizonwireless.com/lte. To see how the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network is
                    impacting customers and businesses across the country, visit the Verizon
                    Wireless News Center.

    MEDIA CONTACT: John O'Malley

                   Verizon Wireless

                   585.321.7264 or 585.261.5899

                   John.omalley@verizonwireless.com

                   http://twitter.com/VZWjohno

About Verizon Wireless   
Verizon Wireless operates the nation's largest 4G LTE network and largest, most reliable 3G network. The company serves 98.2 million retail customers, including 92.5 million retail postpaid customers.  Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with more than 73,000 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

Web Site: http://www.verizonwireless.com

Discretix and VisualOn Introduce SecurePlayer 2.0 at NAB Show

The new mobile video player integrates studio-approved DRM to provide a secure and enhanced multimedia experience across smartphones and tablets

LAS VEGAS, April 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Discretix, Inc. and VisualOn, Inc. today announced the release of SecurePlayer(TM) 2.0 at the NAB Show. SecurePlayer 2.0 is a media player for smartphones and tablets offering DRM security and high-quality video and audio playback for protected content.

SecurePlayer 2.0 provides a unified multimedia experience across Android and iOS devices. The player is commercially available and set to distribute video-on-demand and live content for a range of global OTT services. Utilizing hardware enhancements where available, the player supports Smooth Streaming, HLS, and MPEG-DASH delivery protocols. SecurePlayer 2.0 protects premium content with studio-approved, user-friendly Microsoft® PlayReady® content access technology. Additional advanced features include subtitles, multi-language audio, analytics, and ad insertion support.

"VisualOn offers seamless multimedia content delivery and playback with the highest quality video and audio experience on a multitude of connected devices," said Coby Sella, CEO of Discretix. "The combination of the player's powerful capabilities and Discretix's content protection results in an unrivaled solution for multiscreen service providers."

"We chose to partner with Discretix because of their expertise in mobile device DRM security," said Yang Cai, CEO of VisualOn. "We're experts in navigating the disjointed device market to provide high-quality, scalable solutions. Integrating DRM capabilities is what our customers need to navigate the current content delivery landscape."

SecurePlayer 2.0 features the technology behind VisualOn's OnStream(TM) MediaPlayer+ and Discretix' client-side DRM security:

    --  OnStream MediaPlayer+ provides a scalable, quick-to-market solution for
        content providers and device manufacturers to offer high-quality visual
        and audio content delivery - alleviating the challenges of a fragmented,
        multi-platform mobile ecosystem.
    --  Discretix's content protection solutions are trusted by service
        providers and content owners across the globe and deployed on more than
        100 million mobile devices - manufactured by the largest smartphone and
        tablet vendors.
Discretix and VisualOn will be demonstrating SecurePlayer 2.0 at NAB in Las Vegas from April 8-11. They are located in booth #SU17109. To schedule a meeting, please email events-dx@discretix.com.

About Discretix
Discretix' security solutions are deployed in a wide range of consumer electronics devices enabling services and applications, while protecting the device and its contents. Discretix' products include embedded security co-processors and a broad range of security applications. The solutions are tightly integrated into the device, enhancing security without compromising the user experience. Discretix, a privately-owned company, serves the needs of some of the world's best-known semiconductor and device manufacturers and has been consistently ranked among the leaders of the embedded security market. For more information, please visit http://www.discretix.com.

About VisualOn
VisualOn, Inc. is a Silicon Valley-based multimedia software company that enables rich entertainment experiences across smartphones, tablets, laptops, connected TVs, and other mobile and convergent devices. VisualOn's unique patented technology is designed to be platform agnostic for ease of integration, with optimized quality, performance, and minimal power consumption. VisualOn supports streaming, VOD, mobile TV, and other multimedia applications with quality levels rivaling hardware-based solutions. For more information, please visit http://www.visualon.com.

DISCRETIX PRESS CONTACT:
Amit Shofar

+972 (73) 255 8800
marketing-dx@discretix.com

VISUALON PRESS CONTACT:
Kali Fry

650-691-7312
fry@airfoilgroup.com

Products and trade names mentioned herein are the trademarks of their respective owners

SOURCE  VisualOn, Inc.

VisualOn, Inc.

Web Site: http://www.visualon.com

Turkcell and UNDP Showcase Lifesaving Technology for Disasters and Crises

NEW YORK, April 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Innovative mobile technology can help save lives when conflicts and disasters strike in emerging countries, according to experts at today's high-level panel discussion organized by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Permanent Mission of Turkey to the United Nations. 

Recent disasters show that the Government of Turkey and Turkcell - the leading communications and technology company in Turkey - are helping to lead the way in this important area.

"In countries prone to disaster or conflict, rapid information sharing about preventative measures can save lives and property," said Rebeca Grynspan, UNDP Associate Administrator at the event, which showcased examples of how information technology - particularly mobile phones - have been used in the prevention, response and recovery from conflict and disasters around the world.

"Mobile technology enables citizens to connect to each other and authorities, spreading critical information in times of crisis," she added.

Grynspan, representatives of the Turkish Government and other UN officials discussed disaster recovery measures and mobile communication continuity systems enacted by Turkish mobile phone company Turkcell in the aftermath of the devastating Van Province earthquake that struck eastern Turkey in October 2011.

At the event, Grynspan also praised Turkcell for the role it played in the transmission of life-saving SOS messages as well as its contribution to post-disaster recovery and fundraising.

"It is in times of disaster that corporations can - and must - activate their resources and innovative spirit to come to the aid of citizens," said Sureyya Ciliv, CEO of Turkcell. "Our experience in Van earthquake proved once more that readiness, decisiveness and speed, when met with the power of mobile technologies can save lives."

Turkcell says it helped send more than 10,000 text messages requesting emergency assistance during the quake. In addition, with support from Turkey's Ministry of Education and in association with Turkish Education Foundation, Turkcell created the "Money-Box for Van" fundraising initiative that raised millions of dollars to rebuild quake-resistant housing for teachers and student dormitories. 

"I believe that innovation is the transformation of an idea, product or process into social and economic benefit. With its transparent and accountable structure, Turkey's Money Box is an innovative idea whereby public support has been mobilized through technology," added Ciliv. "We hope not only to share our story, but inspire other companies to respond similarly, around the world."

"In the aftermath of the Van earthquake, Turkcell facilitated ICT access enabling people to send SMS messages and request help to be rescued," said Grynspan. "There is no doubt that Turkcell's actions - encouraged and enabled through public policy - saved people lives and livelihoods." 

"I am confident that today's event will give us ample opportunity to learn from Turkey's and UNDP's experience," added Grynspan. "I also hope that these examples will give us food for thought about what can be replicated elsewhere in the world."

The event held at UN headquarters featured His Excellency Omer Dincer, Former Minister of National Education of Turkey and Member of Parliament for Istanbul; Yasar Halit Cevik, Permanent Representative of Turkey to the United Nations; Rebeca Grynspan, UNDP Associate Administrator; M. Emin Zararsiz, Undersecretary of the Ministry of National Education of Turkey; and Mr. Atila Celik, Director General of Communications, on behalf of Habip Soluk, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Transportation, Maritime Affairs and Communications of Turkey. The panel - moderated by Cihan Sultanoglu, UNDP Assistant Administrator and Director, Regional Bureau for Europe and the CIS - included Jordan Ryan, Director, UNDP Bureau for Crisis Prevention and Recovery; Sureyya Ciliv, CEO of Turkcell; and Yildiz Gunay, General Manager of Turkish Education Foundation (TEV).

For more information, please contact:
Davia Temin or Trang Mar, Temin and Company, at +1 212-588-8788 or news@temin.co
Vincenzo Pugliese, UNDP, at +1 212-906-5296, vincenzo.pugliese@undp.org

ABOUT TURKCELL:
Turkcell is the leading communications and technology company in Turkey, with 35.1 million subscribers as of December 31, 2012. Turkcell is a leading regional player, with market leadership in five of the nine countries in which it operates with its approximately 69.2 million subscribers as of December 31, 2012. It has become one of the first among the global operators to have implemented HSPA+. It has achieved up to 43.2 Mbps speed using the Dual Carrier technology, and is continuously working to provide the latest technology to its customers, e.g. 84 Mbps in the near future. Turkcell Superonline, a wholly owned subsidiary of Turkcell, is the one and only telecom operator to offer households fiber broadband connection at speeds of up to 1,000 Mbps in Turkey. As of December 31, 2012, Turkcell population coverage is at 99.17% in 2G and 84.02% in 3G. Turkcell reported a TRY10.5 billion (US$5.9 billion) revenue with total assets of TRY18.7 billion (US$10.5 billion) as of December 31, 2012. It has been listed on the NYSE and the ISE since July 2000, and is the only NYSE-listed company in Turkey. Read more at http://www.turkcell.com.tr.

ABOUT UNITED NATIONS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME (UNDP):
UNDP partners with people at all levels of society to help build nations that can withstand crisis, and drive and sustain the kind of growth that improves the quality of life for everyone. With offices in more than 170 countries and territories, we offer global perspective and local insight to help empower lives and build resilient nations. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

SOURCE  Turkcell; United Nations Development Programme

Turkcell; United Nations Development Programme

Web Site: http://www.turkcell.com.tr

The Wait Is Over: Skullcandy Unveils Crusher Headphones with Bass You Can Feel

Pioneering Sound, Fit and Durability--So Powerful It Deserves a Warning Label

PARK CITY, Utah, April 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Skullcandy, Inc. (Nasdaq: SKUL), a high-growth, performance lifestyle audio brand has truly pioneered the advancement of design and performance with its highly-anticipated Crusher headphone launching today at select retailers nationwide. The brand unveiled a video on its homepage this morning featuring Kevin Durant and Wale experiencing the revolutionary bass sensation that only the Crusher can deliver.

Completely redesigned and re-engineered by Skullcandy's in-house product development team, the Crusher offers a unique bass sensory experience derived from "dual driver" technology.  Powered Sensation55(TM) drivers housed in each earcup deliver Attacking Bass while Supreme Sound is supplied via separate custom REX40(TM) drivers.  The proprietary Sensation55(TM) drivers provide more than bass you can hear; they deliver bass you can feel.  A slider located on the left earcup grants the listener the ability to adjust the sensation levels to his/her preference or playlist. Users can even turn the bass off completely and still enjoy the REX40(TM) driver's premium acoustics, minus the powered bass boost.

The Crusher is designed with premium materials and is engineered to emphasize fit, comfort and durability. The headphone features a flexible headband, an amplifier and a battery in the ear cup to drive the level-adjustable subwoofer, removable/replaceable cables and collapsible earcups for easy stashing with satin travel bag. The Crusher is also equipped with an auto on/off smart circuit that senses when music has stopped playing and turns off the amp automatically. This greatly improves battery life and removes the need for a power switch.

"The Crusher doesn't just play music, it delivers a complete audio experience that you can feel from the moment you put it on," said Hoby Darling, CEO of Skullcandy. "This headphone replicates that live concert feeling. Pair this sensory experience with an accessible price point and a style that's unmistakably Skullcandy and you've got the Crusher. Don't take my word for it though... You really have to feel it to believe it."

The Skullcandy Crusher launches at retail today.  For more information about Crusher and to watch Kevin Durant, Wale and the rest of the Skullcandy family feel the bass, please visit: http://www.skullcandy.com/crusher

About Skullcandy, Inc.
Skullcandy is a global designer, marketer and distributor of performance audio and gaming headphones and other accessory related products under the Skullcandy, Astro Gaming and 2XL by Skullcandy brands. Skullcandy became one of the world's most distinct audio brands by bringing color, character and performance to an otherwise monochromatic space; helping to revolutionize the audio arena by introducing headphones, earbuds and other audio and wireless lifestyle products that possess unmistakable style and exceptional performance. The Company's products are sold and distributed through a variety of channels in the U.S. and approximately 80 countries worldwide.  Visit skullcandy.com, or join us at facebook.com/skullcandy or on Twitter @skullcandy.

SOURCE  Skullcandy, Inc.

Skullcandy, Inc.

CONTACT: Leland Drummond, Consumer Media, 646-490-2945, Leland@azionepr.com

Web Site: http://skullcandy.com