CVS Caremark Launches Android Application for Caremark.com
Android users can now access prescription drug information and CVS Caremark plan members can manage their prescriptions
WOONSOCKET, R.I., Oct. 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- CVS Caremark (NYSE: CVS) announced today the release of the Caremark.com Droid application. Available at no cost at the Android Market, this new application provides Android users with the ability to access the Drug Information Database to learn more about various prescription drugs and allows CVS Caremark plan members to log-in and securely manage their prescriptions on-line. The application can be used with Android 2.1 OS and above phones. Caremark.com has had an iPhone application available since July of 2010, and this new Android application further broadens CVS Caremark members' mobile access to their prescription information.
"At CVS Caremark we continue to find ways to engage and communicate with our members using new technologies to manage their prescriptions and keep them connected," said Tim Kurth, vice president, eBusiness at CVS Caremark. "The availability of an Android app enables us to provide our plan members with convenient access to their Caremark.com accounts through their preferred mobile devices."
Any Android user can download the application and use the Drug Information function. This function will connect users to the Drug Information Database where they can research particular prescription medications, get information about how to take them, learn about available generic drug alternatives, see an image of the drug, learn about side effects and precautions, and much more.
CVS Caremark PBM members can use the application to register on Caremark.com or log-in securely to their existing Caremark.com accounts from their Androids. Once they are logged in, members can perform a variety of functions, including:
-- Refill a Prescription
-- Check Prescription Order Status
-- View Prescription History
-- Easy Mail Service Prescription Refills
-- Online New Prescription Requests
-- Check Drug Coverage and Cost
-- Locate a Network Pharmacy
About CVS Caremark
CVS Caremark is the largest pharmacy health care provider in the United States with integrated offerings across the entire spectrum of pharmacy care. We are uniquely positioned to engage plan members in behaviors that improve their health and to lower overall health care costs for health plans, plan sponsors and their members. CVS Caremark is a market leader in mail order pharmacy, retail pharmacy, specialty pharmacy, and retail clinics, and is a leading provider of Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plans. As one of the country's largest pharmacy benefits managers (PBMs), we provide access to a network of approximately 65,000 pharmacies, including more than 7,200 CVS/pharmacy® stores that provide unparalleled service and capabilities. Our clinical offerings include our signature Pharmacy Advisor(TM) program as well as innovative generic step therapy and genetic benefit management programs that promote more cost effective and healthier behaviors and improve health care outcomes. General information about CVS Caremark is available through the Company's website at http://info.cvscaremark.com/.
Media Contact:Christine CramerCVS Caremark(401) 770 3317ckcramer@cvs.com
Usually concealed behind the fortress-like protection of mantraps, CCTV,
security guards and biometric scanning, Interxion gave limited access to key
areas across its data centres in order to show how its facilities act as the
technology backbone of some of Europe's most successful businesses.
The data centre images captured in the photographs illustrate different
aspects of high-availability data centre infrastructure, such as power,
cooling, connectivity and security, all of which are essential to ensure
24/7 availability. The infrastructure shown has attracted a number of
customer communities or 'hubs' across the financial, cloud, digital media
and gaming sectors. Interxion's hubs allow businesses to generate revenue by
interconnecting with other customers and building new relationships with
organisations operating in similar sectors while providing them with access
to one of Europe's largest pool of businesses and private customers.
Kevin Dean, CMO at Interxion commented, "Data centres have become
pervasive, touching every facet of our lives. They provide the foundation
that underpins much of our interaction between businesses, with friends and
with family. These images show what it takes to really enable services that
we take for granted, from share trading in the City to IP TV or online music
streaming."
Interxion is a leading provider of carrier-neutral colocation data
centre services in Europe, serving over 1,200 customers through 28 data
centres in 11 European countries. Interxion's uniformly designed,
energy-efficient data centres offer customers extensive security and uptime
for their mission-critical applications. With connectivity provided by 350
carriers and ISPs and 19 European Internet exchanges across its footprint,
Interxion has created content and connectivity hubs that foster growing
customer communities of interest. For more information, please visit http://www.interxion.com.
Aiseesoft Releases iPhone 4S Movie Converter: Enjoy Your Latest Apple Technology!
BEIJING, Oct. 13, 2011 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- In order to help Apple fans better enjoy iPhone 4S, Aiseesoft's newly released iPhone 4S Movie Converter, a multi-functional and user-friendly iPhone 4S video converter to give iPhone 4S users wonderful user experience.
Aiseesoft iPhone 4S Movie Converter has defined profiles for iPhone 4S's 1080p HD video recording feature, including iPhone 4S MPEG4 Video, iPhone 4S H.264 Video, iPhone 4S H.264 HD Video, iPhone 4S MOV (640*480) and iPhone 4S M4V Video. Through owning this iPhone 4S MP4 converter tool, users can easily convert 1080p HD video clips to various video or audio formats at random, such as MP4, M4V, AAC, AIFF, M4A, MP3, WAV, etc. Also, users can convert iPhone 4S 1080p video to many other mainstream video format to share with other friends on the internet or other video players, even iPad, iPod touch 4, etc.
What's more, depending on the proper graphics card, users can choose corresponding converting acceleration technology from AMD APP and NVIDIA® CUDA(TM) GPU Processing acceleration technology to get faster converting speed and superior output quality.
Key features of Aiseesoft iPhone 4S Movie Converter:
1. Convert any video to iPhone 4S MPEG4, H.264, MOV, AVI, M4V and so on;
2. Edit any source file to create customized video or audio files;
3. Preview and take snapshot images from any loaded video files;
4. Ultra-high converting speed and superior output quality.
In a word, this iPhone 4S video converter is easy-to-use and versatile. With it, iPhone 4S users can enjoy a more amazing iPhone without any confusion and trouble. For more details and to free download its trial version, please visit: http://www.aiseesoft.com/iphone-4s-movie-converter/
System Requirements
OS Supported: Windows NT4/2000/2003/XP and Windows Vista, Windows 7
Hardware Requirements: 800MHz Intel or AMD CPU, or above; 512MB RAM or more
About Aiseesoft Studio
As a professional multimedia software provider, Aiseesoft Studio is dedicated to developing the best multimedia desktop applications to help the Windows and Mac users smoothly convert, edit and transfer various video/audio files. In order to meet users' various requirements, Aiseesoft Studio constantly brings in new ideas, technologies, etc. To Aiseesoft Studio, Users' satisfaction is a consistent pursuit. For more information, please visit: http://www.aiseesoft.com.
SOURCE Harbour Software
Harbour Software
CONTACT: Alva Jones of Aiseesoft Studio at +86-134-6675-9823 or pr@aiseesoft.com
Entertainment Everywhere: Sony Network Entertainment's Video Unlimited Service Arrives on Sony Tablet S
One of the Largest Digital Entertainment Networks Now Delivers Tens of Thousands of Premium Videos Instantly To Sony Tablet S
FOSTER CITY, Calif., Oct. 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Network Entertainment ("SNEI") today announced that its "Video Unlimited(TM)" digital video service is now available for Sony Tablet S. The "Video Unlimited" service is part of the Sony Entertainment Network that delivers popular digital entertainment conveniently and instantly on Sony and third-party connected devices.
"Sony Entertainment Network is the ultimate digital entertainment destination," said Tim Schaaff, President, Sony Network Entertainment. "Bringing 'Video Unlimited' services to Sony's Tablet S, in addition to PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system, BRAVIA HDTVs, PCs and other devices gives users access to their entertainment anytime, anywhere."
The "Video Unlimited" service, which is available for Sony's Tablet S worldwide(i) today, offers access to over 40,000 premium movies and TV episodes from major studios and distributors. Including new releases as well as a wide variety of blockbusters, classic movies, local language movies, and hit TV shows, with many in high-definition, "Video Unlimited" gives users convenient and easy access to their favorites to purchase or rent.(ii)
In addition to Sony's Tablet S, users can access the "Video Unlimited" services on a wide variety of network-enabled Sony devices including 2010 and 2011 models of network-enabled BRAVIA® HDTVs, Blu-ray Disc(TM) players and Blu-ray Disc Home Theater systems as well as PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system, PSP(TM) (PlayStation®Portable), personal computers including VAIO® personal computers and compatible Sony Ericsson Android-based mobile phones.
Sony Network Entertainment International LLC (SNEI), a subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America, is the premier provider of digital entertainment. Through the Sony Entertainment Network portal, consumers around the world are able to access their favorite digital entertainment conveniently and instantly on their favorite connected devices. SNEI offers the latest and highest quality music, video, and game content through Sony Entertainment Network as well as PlayStation Network while also delivering third-party services. In addition, SNEI provides a compelling consumer experience through innovative content discovery features and a simple user interface that is globally consistent, yet locally relevant.
"Video Unlimited(TM)," "BRAVIA®," "VAIO®," "Music Sync(TM)" are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sony Corporation
"PlayStation®" and "PSP®" are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
"Blu-ray Disc(TM)" is a trademark of the Blu-ray Disc Association
(i) Excluding Australia.
(ii) Rental prices for SD content start from $2.99, 2.49 pounds Sterling, 350 yen, and euro 2.99. Purchase prices start at $9.99, 6.99 pounds Sterling, 800 yen, and euro 7.99.
SOURCE Sony Network Entertainment
Sony Network Entertainment
CONTACT: Robin Schultz of Voce Communications, +1-650-291-7809, rschultz@vocecomm.com, for Sony Network Entertainment; or Greg Belloni of Sony Network Entertainment, +1-650-295-6446, greg.belloni@am.sony.com
Will Use Funding to Increase Adoption of its Award-Winning CloudArray® Cloud Storage Gateway and Solution Ecosystem
NATICK, Mass., Oct. 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- TwinStrata, Inc., the leading innovator of cloud-based data storage, backup and disaster recovery solutions, today announced that it has closed an $8 million Series B round of financing. Avalon Ventures is the lead investor. TwinStrata will use the investment to expand sales and marketing efforts for its CloudArray® solution.
"With this funding, our investors have demonstrated their continued confidence in the market growth opportunity for TwinStrata's cloud storage gateway solutions," said Nicos Vekiarides, CEO of TwinStrata. "Our recently announced distribution partnerships with DataCore and Veeam are a testament to the growing interest in cloud storage and cloud backup solutions."
Available in both virtual and physical appliance configurations, the TwinStrata CloudArray cloud storage gateway connects customers' applications and backup infrastructure to the cloud, enabling them to enjoy limitless storage capacity, escape the cost, complexity and risk of off-site infrastructure or tape, and recover data instantly to any location. CloudArray supports the broadest ecosystem of public and private cloud storage providers including AT&T, Amazon, RackSpace, OpenStack, EMC Atmos, Mezeo, Nirvanix, PEER1, and Scality. Other features such as dynamic caching, in-flight/at-rest data encryption, deduplication, bandwidth optimization, in-cloud snapshots, high availability and ability to access restored data from anywhere make it easy for businesses to deploy and use.
"TwinStrata's unique technology and open partner ecosystem have enabled them to emerge as a dominant player in the cloud storage space," said Rich Levandov, managing director at Avalon Ventures. "We are excited about the momentum building around CloudArray and are confident that TwinStrata has the management expertise and technological capabilities to build on its success and solidify its leading position in this market."
About TwinStrata,Inc.
TwinStrata is an innovator in enterprise-class data storage, data protection and disaster recovery/business continuity solutions using cloud storage. With TwinStrata CloudArray®, companies of all sizes can simply and economically leverage the scalability and efficiency of cloud storage while maintaining the availability, performance and security of local storage. CloudArray software and hardware solutions support all file and operating systems, and deliver substantial advantages over traditional off-site storage solutions, including a pay-as-you-go model, unlimited elastic capacity, local performance, in-cloud snapshots and disaster recovery, dynamic caching, automated policies, AES256 encryption, and continuous access to data. For more information about TwinStrata and CloudArray software and hardware solutions visit http://www.twinstrata.com.
Press Contacts:
Laura Nelson or Bree Bolognese
SVM Public Relations
(401) 490-9700 or (760) 754-7025
laura.nelson@svmpr.com or bree.bolognese@svmpr.com
JHA Payment Processing Solutions Offers smsGuardian Text Alerts for Fraud Prevention
- New solution utilizes SMS-enabled mobile devices to notify financial institutions and their customers about potentially fraudulent financial transactions -
MONETT, Mo., Oct. 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Jack Henry & Associates, Inc. (NASDAQ: JKHY), a leading provider of technology solutions and payment processing services primarily for financial services organizations, today announced that its JHA Payment Processing Solutions® (PPS) division will offer smsGuardian(TM), an anti-fraud text alert notification service. In addition to PPS customers, smsGuardian is now available for the credit unions supported by Jack Henry & Associates' Symitar(TM) division, and banks using the jhaPassPort(TM) EFT platform provided by its Jack Henry Banking(TM) division.
The smsGuardian service sends transaction alerts directly to a cardholder's mobile phone or other SMS-enabled device. If the cardholder rejects the unauthorized activity, the information is immediately routed to a Jack Henry & Associates' fraud analyst who blocks the card and follows up with the cardholder by phone.
Financial institutions using smsGuardian can choose to send messages for every transaction, or they can predefine rules that designate when a cardholder is alerted, such as when transactions exceed $100 or when they occur outside of the United States.
John Postle, general manager of PPS, said, "With smsGuardian, fraudulent activity can be recognized and stopped right away, which significantly reduces the likelihood that subsequent unauthorized transactions will occur. We expect that our credit union and bank clients and ultimately their customers and members will benefit from the added layer of security and the peace-of-mind this solution offers."
About JHA Payment Processing Solutions (PPS)
JHA Payment Processing Solutions® provides payment solutions to the financial industry including ATM, debit, and credit card solutions. These innovative solutions include one of the largest switch processors in the United States, access to one of the credit union industry's largest surcharge-free ATM networks, online real-time transaction authorization and processing, signature and PIN-based processing, in-house and outsourced fraud prevention and detection solutions, cardholder awards programs, card program management and profitability solutions, card manufacturing and personalization, instant issue and activation, marketing materials and programs, and renowned customer service. JHA Payment Processing Solutions are sold to financial institutions regardless of core processing platform, cross sold to the core credit union clients supported by Symitar(TM), and select products are sold to the core bank clients supported by Jack Henry Banking(TM). Additional information is available at http://www.weknowpayments.com.
About Jack Henry & Associates, Inc.
Jack Henry & Associates, Inc. (Nasdaq: JKHY) is a leading provider of technology solutions and payment processing services primarily for financial services organizations. Its technology solutions serve more than 11,300 customers nationwide, and are marketed and supported through four primary brands. Jack Henry Banking supports banks ranging from de novo to mid-tier institutions with information processing solutions. Symitar is the leading provider of information processing solutions for credit unions of all sizes. ProfitStars® provides highly specialized products and services that enable financial institutions of every asset size and charter, and diverse corporate entities to mitigate and control risks, optimize revenue and growth opportunities, and contain costs. iPay Technologies(TM) operates as a leading electronic bill pay provider supporting banks and credit unions with turnkey, highly configurable retail and small business electronic payment platforms. Additional information is available at http://www.jackhenry.com.
Statements made in this news release that are not historical facts are forward-looking information. Actual results may differ materially from those projected in any forward-looking information. Specifically, there are a number of important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by any forward-looking information. Additional information on these and other factors, which could affect the Company's financial results, are included in its Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings on Form 10-K, and potential investors should review these statements. Finally, there may be other factors not mentioned above or included in the Company's SEC filings that may cause actual results to differ materially from any forward-looking information.
SOURCE Jack Henry & Associates, Inc.
Jack Henry & Associates, Inc.
CONTACT: Analyst contact, Kevin D. Williams, Chief Financial Officer, +1-417-235-6652; or Media, John San Filippo, Marketing Manager, +1-206-352-3500
Introducing MTV Iggy, a New MTV Brand That Brings Global Pop Music and Culture to America
MTV IGGY TO CONNECT U.S. AUDIENCES TO GLOBAL ARTISTS AND TRENDS INCLUDING K-POP, BOLLYWOOD, DANCEHALL, SCANDINAVIAN POP, AND MORE ON MULTIPLE PLATFORMS
MTV IGGY CELEBRATES LAUNCH WITH FAN-VOTED SEARCH FOR BEST NEW BAND IN THE WORLD
NEW YORK, Oct. 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- MTV World, a unit of Viacom Inc. (VIA.A, VIA.B), today announced the launch of MTV Iggy, a multi-platform global music brand connecting America with artists and pop culture phenomena trending around the world. Channeling a music revolution driven by globally minded youth through social media, MTV Iggy is a dedicated platform for international superstars and genres ranging from Brazilian baile funk to Norwegian heavy metal and everything in between.
"Today's music fans live in an astoundingly connected world where pop music is without borders; Latin American audiences love K-Pop and rappers from the Congo are finding fans in Belgium," said Nusrat Durrani, Senior Vice President and General Manager of MTV World. "MTV Iggy offers a U.S. stage for artists who are catching fire around the globe. We hold a mirror to a new kind of music revolution driven by young people everywhere who know that good music can come from anywhere."
At launch, MTV Iggy content will be available across multiple platforms, including online, on-air and social media outlets. On October 17th, MTV Iggy will premiere its first episode of The MTV Iggy Show, a weekly showcase of the best new music from around the world. The thirty-minute global music showcase will air on mtvU at 8:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. CT, with other editions of the show airing across MTV television networks including MTV and MTV2 as well as MTV.com.
Added Amy Doyle, MTV's EVP of Music & Talent Programming Strategy, "The launch of MTV Iggy reinforces our commitment to supporting an eclectic mix of artists and further extends our music strategy. Great new artists from around the world will have a home base in the U.S., our audiences will discover fresh sounds on MTV, and hopefully we will create great opportunities for collaboration with US acts."
MTVIggy.com will exist as MTV Iggy's home base and is accessible from anywhere in the world, providing music fans the same experience regardless of their country or region. At launch, MTVIggy.com offers a vast library of globally cleared content, including live performances, music videos, interviews, articles, reviews, and original photography.
To celebrate the launch, MTV Iggy initiated Best New Band in the World, a program that features 10 breakthrough acts from countries including the U.K., Australia, Jamaica, Malaysia, Pakistan, U.S.A. and South Korea. The Best New Band in the World, as determined by global fan vote, will be announced on November 10th with an opportunity to perform at an MTV Iggy Live taping in MTV's Times Square studio and promoted on MTV U.S.A. platforms. Since MTVIggy.com launched in beta in late September, the competition has already attracted votes from 159 countries and territories.
MTV Iggy also taps into the social media conversation around global music and pop trends through its Facebook page (facebook.mtviggy.com) and Twitter handle (@MTVIggy), further empowering fans to share, engage and discover new artists.
ABOUT MTV WORLD
MTV World connects globally minded millennials with music and pop culture trends and creates original programming for targeted audiences across multi-platform brands. The division includes MTV Iggy, featuring emerging music from around the world, MTV K, devoted to global K-Pop, and MTV Desi, focused on South Asian music and pop culture. It also creates innovative content and programs for advertising partners. MTV World is a unit of Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA.A, VIA.B).
SOURCE Viacom
Viacom
CONTACT: Kevin Turner, Text 100 for MTV, kevin.turner@text100.com, +1-212-331-8422; Mark Jafar, mark.jafar@mtvstaff.com, +1-212-846-8961
Activision Announces All-New Men In Black(TM) Video Game - Revealing the Next Chapter of the Global Franchise
The Galactic Gumshoes Arrive Spring 2012
NEW YORK, Oct. 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ --Activision Publishing, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI), in partnership with Columbia Pictures, today announced an all-new Men In Black(TM) video game, launchingas a standalone title to coincide with the global theatrical release of Men In Black III in Spring 2012. True to the spirit of the franchise, the original title will feature action-packed, yet light-hearted gameplay mixed with edge-of-your-seat shooting excitement from the universe's most elite peacekeeping force.
"The Men In Black franchise is an unbeatable starting point to deliver a genre-bending gaming experience with a level of production value on par with Hollywood," said David Oxford, Executive Vice President of Activision Publishing, Inc. Mark Caplan, Vice President of Licensing at Sony Pictures Entertainment, stated, "With Activision bringing the Men In Black universe to life on next gen consoles for the first time, the Men In Black video game will be both familiar to fans, an exciting beginning for the uninitiated, and revolutionary for the franchise."
The films' unique blend of action, humor, and eye-popping special effects will fuel the Men In Black's gameplay experience. Utilizing the rich mythology of the Men In Blackuniverse, the game's original story will build on the history of the series to bring back familiar faces, while also introducing new foes. More details on gameplay features and characters will be revealed soon!
The all-new Men In Black video game is planned to launch Spring 2012 for consoles and handhelds, and is rated "RP" (Rating Pending) by the ESRB. For more information, please visit http://www.activision.com.
About Sony Pictures
Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) is a subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America, a subsidiary of Tokyo based Sony Corporation. SPE's global operations encompass motion picture production and distribution; television production and distribution; home entertainment acquisition and distribution; a global channel network; digital content creation and distribution; operation of studio facilities; development of new entertainment products, services and technologies; and distribution of entertainment in more than 140 countries. Sony Pictures Entertainment can be found on the World Wide Web at http://www.sonypictures.com/.
About Activision Publishing, Inc.
Headquartered in Santa Monica, California, Activision Publishing, Inc. is a leading worldwide developer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment and leisure products.
Activision maintains operations in the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Sweden, Spain, Norway, Denmark, the Netherlands, Australia, South Korea, China and the region of Taiwan. More information about Activision and its products can be found on the company's website, http://www.activision.com.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-looking Statements: Information in this press release that involves Activision Publishing's expectations, plans, intentions or strategies regarding the future are forward-looking statements that are not facts and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Activision Publishing generally uses words such as "outlook," "will," "could," "would," "might," "remains," "to be," "plans," "believes," "may," "expects," "intends," "anticipates," "estimate," future," "plan," "positioned," "potential," "project," "remain," "scheduled," "set to," "subject to," "upcoming" and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause Activision Publishing's actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements set forth in this release include, but are not limited to, sales levels of Activision Publishing's titles, shifts in consumer spending trends, the impact of the current macroeconomic environment, the seasonal and cyclical nature of the interactive game market, Activision Publishing's ability to predict consumer preferences among competing hardware platforms, declines in software pricing, product returns and price protection, product delays, retail acceptance of Activision Publishing's products, adoption rate and availability of new hardware (including peripherals) and related software, industry competition including from used games and other forms of entertainment, litigation risks and associated costs, rapid changes in technology, industry standards, business models including online and used games, and consumer preferences, including interest in specific genres such as music, first-person action and massively multiplayer online games, protection of proprietary rights, maintenance of relationships with key personnel, customers, licensees, licensors, vendors, and third-party developers, including the ability to attract, retain and develop key personnel and developers that can create high quality "hit" titles, counterparty risks relating to customers, licensees, licensors and manufacturers, domestic and international economic, financial and political conditions and policies, foreign exchange rates and tax rates, and the identification of suitable future acquisition opportunities and potential challenges associated with geographic expansion, and the other factors identified in the risk factors sections of Activision Blizzard's most recent annual report on Form 10-K and any subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. The forward-looking statements in this release are based upon information available to Activision Publishing and Activision Blizzard as of the date of this release, and neither Activision Publishing nor Activision Blizzard assumes any obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements believed to be true when made may ultimately prove to be incorrect. These statements are not guarantees of the future performance of Activision Publishing or Activision Blizzard and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond its control and may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations.
Blake Griffin Hosts Star-Studded Event as SOUTH Becomes L.A.'s First 3D Sports Bar, Powered by VIZIO
Santa Monica's Hottest Sports Bar Becomes an Exclusive Hot-Spot for All Things 3D Including Sports Content, Movies and Gaming
IRVINE, Calif., Oct. 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- VIZIO, America's #1 LCD HDTV company*, announced today the unveiling of SOUTH powered by VIZIO, L.A.'s First 3D Sports Bar. Blake Griffin, Josh Duhamel, Kevin Loveandother Hollywood celebrities will invade the popular Santa Monica bar tonight to attend the exclusive red carpet launch event, highlighted by VIZIO's Theater 3D(TM) passive 3D technology.
VIZIO is outfitting SOUTH with 33 VIZIO Theater 3D LED HDTV's ranging in size from 42" - 65", as well as numerous VIZIO 3D Blu-ray Players, Soundbars and Tablets. Providing guests with an optimal viewing environment, the unique venue boasts three complimentary 3D experiences. Guests will watch the Cal vs. USC football game in 3D, lounge in a VIZIO 3D Home Theater and test their skills in the 3D gaming room.
"As 3D technology becomes more prevalent, we wanted to give curious consumers a way to experience VIZIO's Theater 3D technology, allowing them to clear up any misconceptions for themselves," said Bart Brown, VIZIO Vice President, Market Development. "Powering a venue such as SOUTH, already one of the hottest sports bars in Los Angeles, with the latest in 3D technologies is just another step VIZIO is taking to provide Entertainment Freedom For All."
Walking through the doors of SOUTH, guests will be greeted with lightweight, attractive VIZIO Theater 3D eyewear. Unlike other 3D HDTV's that utilize Active 3D technology, VIZIO has tapped into Passive 3D which provides viewers with a bright, crystal clear, flicker-free 3D picture using battery-free, stylish eyewear. Compared to the bulky, heavy, battery-operated glasses of Active Shutter 3D HDTVs, VIZIO's Theater 3D eyewear is significantly more affordable, do not need to be charged and can be worn comfortably at the bar, in movie theaters and at home during family 3D movie night.
"I like what VIZIO is doing here with L.A.'s first 3D sports bar," said Blake Griffin, pro-basketball player. "It's a lot easier to get to see the technology in a social atmosphere like this than to go in to the store and be overwhelmed by options. SOUTH gives people a real opportunity to check out 3D at its best."
Sharing a unique passion to bring the compelling 3D experience to the masses, the VIZIO and SOUTH partnership not only revolutionizes the way individuals watch sports, but also to allows those curious about 3D technology the ability to get a real life feel in a very hands on way.
"SOUTH has always been a great gathering place for sports fans and friends to catch up and watch their favorite games," said Adam Milstein, Owner/Operator, SOUTH. "Now that we've teamed up with VIZIO, I'm excited for SOUTH to move forward as a leader in 3D sports viewing, giving people the chance to experience 3D technology in an immersive, social setting."
Further adding to the experience and solidifying the fact that SOUTH is now truly powered by VIZIO, many of the technical elements of the bar can be controlled through specially programmed VIZIO Tablets. With a built-in, universal remote app, the VIZIO Tablets are able to control the satellite programming and channel selection for every Theater 3D HDTV in the bar. For this special event, the Tablet has been enhanced to manage SOUTH's audio by providing direct access to the bar's music library and volume settings. Even the lighting system is fully synced up to the Tablet, putting the power to dim and switch lights on and off in the hands of the VIZIO Tablet user.
With Theater 3D passive 3D technology headlining every element of the launch event, VIZIO took the detailing one step farther by incorporating the theme into SOUTH's drink menu. On the evening of the exclusive launch, guests will be able to enjoy 3D Shots, designed by world-renowned architect, Christian Light who is also a personal friend of VIZIO Chief Executive Officer, William Wang.
For more information about VIZIO and Theater 3D technology, visit http://www.VIZIO.com and to experience L.A.'s first 3D Sports Bar and to learn more about SOUTH powered by VIZIO visit http://www.SOUTHSantaMonica.com.
* Source: IHS iSuppli Corporation Research Q3 2011 Market Tracker Report of Q1 & Q2 2011.
About VIZIO
VIZIO, Inc., "Entertainment Freedom For All," headquartered in Irvine, California, is America's #1 LCD HDTV Company. In Q2 2007, VIZIO skyrocketed to the top by becoming the #1 shipping brand of flat panel HDTVs in North America and in Q3 2007 became the first American brand in over a decade to lead in U.S. LCD HDTV shipments. Since 2007 VIZIO LCD HDTV shipments remain in the top ranks in the U.S. and were #1 for the total year in 2009 and 2010. VIZIO is committed to bringing feature-rich consumer electronics to market at a value through practical innovation. VIZIO offers a broad range of award winning consumer electronics. VIZIO's products are found at Costco Wholesale, Sam's Club, Walmart, Target, BJ's Wholesale, and other retailers nationwide along with authorized online partners. VIZIO has won numerous awards including a #1 ranking in the Inc. 500 for Top Companies in Computers and Electronics, Fast Company's 6th Most Innovative CE Company of 2009, and made the lists of Ad Age's Hottest Brands, CNET's Editor's Choice, CNET Best of CES 2011 - Television, IGN Best of CES - Television, Bluetooth.org Best of CES, Good Housekeeping's Best Big-Screens, PC World's Best Buy, Popular Mechanics Editor's Choice and OC Metro's 10 Most Trustworthy Brands among many other prestigious honors. For more information, please call 888-VIZIOCE or visit on the web at http://www.VIZIO.com.
The V, VIZIO, VIZIO Internet Apps (V.I.A.), Theater 3D, Full Array TruLED, Edge Lit Razor LED, 240Hz SPS, 480Hz SPS, Entertainment Freedom and Entertainment Freedom for All names, logos and phrase are registered or unregistered trademarks of VIZIO, Inc. All other trademarks may be the property of their respective holders.
CONTACT: Jim Noyd of Noyd Communications Inc., +1-310-951-3768, jim.noyd@noydcom.com; or Charley Fitzwilliam of Leader Enterprises, +1-949-579-0405, cfitzwilliam@leaderenterprises.com, both for VIZIO
Universal Music Group (UMG) Expands Digster.fm With Rdio, Putting Music Discovery at the Forefront
Dynamic Fan-Facing Music Playlist Service Allows Users to Listen & Discover Content Outside Of Their Music Libraries
LOS ANGELES, Oct. 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Continuing to redefine the online music experience across a variety of services and platforms, Universal Music Group Distribution (UMGD), a division of Universal Music Group, the world's leading music company, has expanded Digster.fm (http://www.digster.fm) to now include Rdio, the on-demand social music discovery service from the creators of Skype. The announcement was made today by Jim Urie, President & CEO of UMGD, Mitch Rotter, Senior Vice President, Marketing & Product Development of the company, and Drew Larner, CEO of Rdio.
Digster.fm, UMG's dynamic fan-facing music playlist service, was launched in beta in July, supporting Spotify's U.S. subscription service. With the addition of Rdio, Digster.fm will now publish playlists across a wide variety of musical genres and artists which fans can listen to through the service. All of the content is chosen by UMGD employees and uses music from all record companies offered within the Rdio service, not just UMG. Digster's playlists are curated exclusively by UMG, regularly updated, and available to all Rdio's users.
"Rdio's innovation and recognition as a leader in social music makes it a perfect fit for Digster," stated Mr. Rotter. "As more consumers migrate towards subscription services for their online and mobile music experiences, one of the biggest challenges is what to listen to. Digster.fm surfaces numerous playlists curated by in-house editors, artists and taste makers, which makes it easy for fans to listen to and discover content outside of their own music libraries. We plan to incorporate as many additional services and features as possible in order to provide fans an unparalleled playlisting service through Digster.fm."
"We're thrilled that Rdio has been integrated into the Digster site," said Drew Larner, Rdio CEO. "Now, with Digster's curated playlists, Rdio users have another way to listen to and discover new music, while Digster users have access to Rdio's catalog of over 12 million songs. This combination of Rdio, a service built from the ground up with social music discovery in mind, and Digster is a great example of how developers can utilize our API to bring popular Rdio features, such as playlists and sharing, to their users."
About Universal Music Group
Universal Music Group is the world's leading music company with wholly owned record operations or licensees in 77 territories. Its businesses also include Universal Music Publishing Group, the industry's leading global music publishing operation.
Universal Music Group's record labels include A&M/Octone, Decca, Def Jam Recordings, Deutsche Grammophon, Disa, Emarcy, Fonovisa, Geffen Records, Interscope Records, Island Records, Lost Highway Records, Machete Music, MCA Nashville, Mercury Nashville, Mercury Records, Polydor Records, Motown, Universal Music Latino, Universal Republic and Verve Music Group as well as a multitude of record labels owned or distributed by its record company subsidiaries around the world. The Universal Music Group owns the most extensive catalog of music in the industry, which includes the last 100 years of the world's most popular artists and their recordings. UMG's catalog is marketed through two distinct divisions, Universal Music Enterprises (in the U.S.) and Universal Strategic Marketing (outside the U.S.). Universal Music Group also includes Global Digital Business, its new media and technologies division; Bravado, its merchandising company; and Twenty-First Artists, its full service management division.
Universal Music Group is a unit of Vivendi, a global media and communications company.
About Rdio
Rdio is the ground-breaking digital music service that is reinventing the way people discover, listen to, and share music. With on-demand access to over 12 million songs, Rdio connects people with music and makes it easy to search for and instantly play any song, album, artist or playlist without ever hearing a single ad. Discover what friends, people with similar tastes, recording artists and more are listening to in real-time and share across Twitter and Facebook. Build a digital music collection that's available everywhere - on the web, in-home or in-car, on an iPad or smartphone, and even offline.
Launched in August 2010, Rdio is headquartered in San Francisco and was founded by Janus Friis, one of the creators of Skype. Currently available in the US and Canada, Rdio is funded by Atomico, Janus Friis through his investment entities, Skype and Mangrove Capital Partners. For more information and to sign up, visit http://www.rdio.com.
SOURCE Universal Music Group
Universal Music Group
CONTACT: Peter Lofrumento, or Maria Ho-Burge, maria.ho-burge@umusic.com, both of Universal Music Group, +1-212-331-2569
With Gamers in Mind, Betabrand Creates Couch Commando Pants
Four New Pants Designed With Military Precision For Optimal Zombie-Slaying, Including A Camouflage Edition Inspired By Old School 8-Bit Graphics
SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. military includes more than 1 million active duty personnel. But that number is dwarfed by America's at-home army of first-person shooters.
Now, an online clothing company based in San Francisco is aiming to outfit this massive fighting force. With this week's release of Couch Commandos, Betabrand has taken traditional military cargo pants and tailored them to the needs of the most demanding Recliner Rambos.
Couch Commandos are available in Black-Ops Black, Olive Drab, and Desert Khaki ($85) as well as a limited-edition mash-up of modern digital camouflage and graphics inspired by old-school, 8-bit video games ($125 custom pre-order). These simulated-combat-ready trousers are made of 100% French-twill cotton, so they're light and incredibly comfy. But make no mistake: Betabrand tailored these trousers for intense virtual combat. They come equipped with six big pockets, including two oversized gusseted cargos that can accommodate several grenades or an emergency ration of Pop-Tarts. Other features include drawstring ankle cinches and an extra-sturdy inseam to survive harrowing missions to and from the microwave.
"While Couch Commandos are designed to meet the rigorous requirements of the U.S. Armchair Forces, we think they're great for all leisurely operations this fall and winter," Lindland says. "Wear them while watching football, making beer runs -- or, of course, mowing down fire-breathing Commie cyborgs."
San Francisco-based Betabrand is an online-only company that produces unique and clever clothing in small batches. Our products have been covered in major media around the world and enjoyed by the likes of Stephen Colbert, director Paul Feig, and other distinguished gentlemen. For more information on Betabrand, Couch Commandos, or anything else we make or do, please contact Anthony Jaffe at anthony@betabrand.com.
Betabrand / 3435 Cesar Chavez #224A / San Francisco, CA 94110 / 800.694.9491
SOURCE Betabrand
Betabrand
CONTACT: Tiffany Spencer of Betabrand PR, +1-310-795-1806, Tiffany@betabrand.com
Kobo Announces Partnership with Leading UK Retailer WHSmith to Deliver the Kobo eReading Platform and eReaders to Customers
Brings Best-in-Class Kobo eReaders to UK Consumers
Largest Global Bookstore with over 2.5 Million Titles and over 1
Million Free Books
TORONTO, Oct. 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ - Kobo, a global leader in eReading with
over 5 million users worldwide, announced today a partnership with
WHSmith to sell Kobo eReaders in over 750 High Street, airport, and
railway stores across the United Kingdom - as well as online at http://www.whsmith.co.uk. This partnership builds on the recent news announcement that Kobo has
launched in France, expanding on the Kobo strategy of delivering
eReading globally, with the objective of delivering local content and
an immersive reading experience to more readers, in more countries
around the world.
"Readers in the UK have been looking for an eBook service that
encompasses an end-to-end eReading experience, best-in-class eReaders,
and a world class catalogue - we are excited to be able to partner with
WHSmith and fulfill that need. This announcement expands on several
recent partnership announcements from Kobo building on our
international strategy to secure top-tier retail partners", said Michael Serbinis, CEO of Kobo. "As we continue our expansion into Europe, WHSmith was Kobo's first
choice to bring our best-in-class eReader to UK stores. We value our
partnership and look forward to delivering a superior reading
experience to UK consumers."
Kate Swann, CEO of WHSmith, said: "WHSmith is pleased to be working with Kobo to bring its world class
eReaders and eBookstore to the UK and Irish markets. The partnership
with Kobo further extends our presence in this developing market whilst
complementing our physical books business".
Starting on October 17, 2011, WHSmith will offer two models of the Kobo
eReader; the Kobo Wi Fi and the Kobo Touch to provide customers with a
choice of devices that best meets their reading needs. The eReaders,
starting at just £89.99, are available in an array of colors and debut with a line of stylish
accessories, making them the perfect gift for the upcoming Holiday
season.
Kobo has developed a line of eReaders that are focused on delivering an
easy, simple, reading experience - intuitive navigation, with a
contemporary design to allow for a clutter free reading experience.
All Kobo devices are designed with the signature Kobo quilted back, to
provide the optimal in reading comfort. Kobo eReaders are light and
stylish, and make the perfect travel companion, as they fit easily into
a purse or suit pocket. Plus, consumers can easily connect easily with
Wi Fi to shop and browse the Kobo eBook store on the go. With a
selection of fonts and font sizes, consumers can customize their
experience to best meet their reading needs.
THE KOBO WI FI FOR THE LOW PRICE OF £89.99 - Everything the booklover
needs!
-- Single D-pad navigation - easily navigate books with the soft
navigation pad
-- Includes 100 pre-loaded free and engaging classic reads
-- Easy-on-the eyes - E Ink screen lets you read comfortably, even
in bright sunlight
-- Holds up to 1,000 eBooks - up to 10,000 eBooks with a 32 GB SD
memory card
-- Comes in three stylish colors: Lilac, Silver and Onyx
THE KOBO TOUCH EDITION £109.99 - Ultimate reading experience: lighter,
faster, and with touch!
-- Simple and intuitive touch screen navigation, that is just like
reading a book with Real Touch(TM) technology
-- Free Previews - free excerpts of 15 popular books ready to read
-- Newest E Ink Screen with Pearl Technology and featuring 16
level grey scale for the sharpest reading experience
-- Holds up to 1,000 eBooks - Expandable storage for up to 30,000
books
Comes in four stylish colors: Lilac, Silver, blue and Onyx
Earn awards just for reading - with Reading Life!
ACCESS MILLIONS OF TITLES
The Kobo global store offers one of the largest content catalogues -
with a selection of over 2.5 million eBooks, newspapers and magazines
with bestselling titles, the hottest new releases, thrillers, romance,
and more. In addition to its global store, Kobo has locally
merchandised English language stores in the US, Canada, Germany
(localised), UK, France, Australia, New Zealand and Hong Kong.
WHSmith consumers will have access to the largest eBook catalogue in UK
with over 2.2 million titles- featuring a rich assortment of local
content, merchandised to the tastes and preferences of readers across
England, with the latest releases and bestsellers from popular English
authors.
Plus, Kobo offers over 1 million free engaging contemporary and classic
titles from Jane Austin's Pride and Prejudice, to Dracula - for
consumers to download and read for free.
BUILT ON AN OPEN PLATFORM
Kobo believes that open standards for eBooks are best for consumers,
publishers, retailers and hardware manufacturers. Kobo proudly supports
EPUB and encourages our users to read a Kobo-purchased eBook on their
smartphone, laptop, Kobo eReader (other eReaders using open standards),
or other popular devices they choose.
With Kobo users can read ePUB, PDF and MOBI format eBooks; view JPEG,
GIF, PNG, BMP and TIFF images; review TXT, HTML and RTF materials; and
enjoy CBZ and CBR comic book formats. Consumers can also easily borrow
and read eBooks from the local public library. Kobo is dedicated to an
open cloud-based platform, enabling users to read on any device, and
with open standards that give users the freedom to build their lifetime
libraries as they choose.
TOP RANKED EREADING APPS
As part of the partnership WHSmith consumers will be able to access free
Kobo eReading apps so users can read across the most popular devices
such as desktops, laptops, tablets, Android(TM) phones, iPhones® , iPads® , Blackberry® Smartphones and PlayBooks. They
can easily sync and read from one device to another and pick up from
the page they last read.
INDUSTRY FIRST SOCIAL READING PLATFORM - READING LIFE
Kobo will also offer popular social program - Reading Life to WHSmith
consumers. Reading Life is a leading, industry-first social experience
that lets passionate readers track and share their love of reading.
With Reading Life, users can connect with friends or book clubs and
discuss their favorite books on Facebook, they can track their
statistics which provide a tally of their library and reading activity
- an insightful way for users to learn about their reading habits.
Plus, users can earn awards - just for spending time reading.
About Kobo, Inc.
Kobo is a global eReading service with more than 2.5 million eBooks,
magazines and newspapers - one of the largest eReading catalogues in
the world. Read freely - Kobo believes consumers should have the
freedom to read any book on any device and has attracted millions of
readers from over 100 countries across the globe. Kobo has top ranked
eReading applications for iPad, iPhone, BlackBerry, Android, Windows
and MacOS, and is the eReading application of choice for leading tablet
OEMs. The Kobo Wireless eReader and the Kobo eReader Touch Edition are
available at leading retailers, including Indigo, Walmart, Best Buy,
Target, WHSmith, Collins Booksellers and Whitcoull's. Kobo's
innovative Reading Life is an industry-first comprehensive social
eReading experience - Kobo users can earn awards simply for time spent
reading and encouraging others. Kobo is backed by majority shareholder
Indigo Books & Music Inc, Cheung Kong Holdings, and institutional
investors.
About WHSmith
WHSmith currently operates from over 1100 stores in the UK and a growing
number of international locations, including Melbourne, Delhi and
Oman. WHSmith High Street comprises of more than 600 stores and sells
a wide range of stationery, books, newspapers and magazines. WHSmith
Travel comprises of over 560 travel retail units in airports, railway
stations, hospitals, workplaces and motorway service areas and sells a
tailored offer to meet the needs of people on the move. Customers can
discover the full range of Kobo eReaders and accessories at WHSmith.co.uk/kobo and browse the eBook range at WHSmith.co.uk/eBooks.
# # #
iPad, iPhone and iPod touch are registered trademarks of Apple, Inc. App
Store is a service mark of Apple, Inc. Android is a trademark of
Google Inc. BlackBerry is a registered trademark of Research In
Motion. PlayBook and BlackBerry App World are trademarks of Research
In Motion.
Level 3 Selected by North Georgia Network Cooperative to Bring Broadband and Network Services to Rural Georgia
Federal Funding Enables Gigabit-Speed Broadband and Advanced Network Services to Support IP-Based Applications
BROOMFIELD, Colo., Oct. 13, 2011/PRNewswire/ -- Level 3 Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ: LVLT) today announced that it has signed an agreement with Habersham Electric Membership Corporation (EMC), a sub-recipient of the funding for the North Georgia Network Cooperative (NGN), to interconnect with the organization's regional network, assisting efforts to improve broadband connectivity and network services in the communities and rural areas of northern Georgia.
NGN, whose stakeholders include two rural electric cooperatives, Habersham EMC and Blue Ridge Mountain EMC, was the one of the first recipients of the Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP), a part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) in 2009. With more than $41 million in grants and matching funds, NGN's 1000-mile regional fiber-optic network will extend from Atlanta to many northern Georgia communities, reaching over 50,000 homes, businesses, government, education and medical institutions. The agreement will provide rural Georgia markets with direct access to Level 3's advanced network services and expansive international reach. NGN will be the conduit for transporting gigabit speed broadband to and from the Level 3 network.
"Our organization is dedicated to improving broadband connections and network services in north Georgia," said Bruce Abraham, president of NGN. "Along with our regional economic development partners, we believe that our relationship with Level 3 will usher in a new era of advanced applications and connectivity for our rural communities."
The combined fiber networks will enable NGN stakeholders and service providers to deliver advanced communication services to help stimulate economic growth, create jobs and allow local enterprises to compete in a rapidly evolving global marketplace. Additionally, homeowners, businesses and communities will have access to new, affordable services and unique applications that facilitate online education, telemedicine and energy conservation initiatives.
Among the new services, Habersham EMC is deploying an IP-based, energy management solution that enables the utility and its customers to monitor and control energy consumption and costs on a real-time basis from a PC or smart phone. This will enable them to manage the increasing demand for electricity as well as related generation and distribution costs. EnerSphere, a communications service provider, is helping Habersham EMC with this solution roll-out by deploying broadband infrastructure, reducing peak energy demand costs and delivering services to customers. These types of energy management systems and the underlying technologies requires reliable and secure broadband communications infrastructure, such as Level 3's advanced fiber-optic network, to facilitate potentially millions of simultaneous interactions.
The value proposition of this joint effort is powerful. Rural electric cooperative members and customers will be able to receive relevant information that they can immediately take action on to conserve energy and reduce costs; the utility will benefit by shifting electricity demand during peak periods to reduce its costs; and society avoids or defers construction of additional energy generation facilities, saving billions of dollars and reducing carbon emissions that pollute the atmosphere.
"In addition to providing electricity, Habersham continually evaluates technology and communications that can be leveraged to improve operations and deliver more value to our members," said Todd Pealock, CEO of Habersham EMC. "Utilizing NGN's fiber network to extend Level 3's international reach and high-capacity broadband connectivity into north Georgia accelerates the availability of affordable, high-speed Internet access, competitive voice and video services, plus applications that can improve the way our communities and residents conduct business. We appreciate the investment of capital and resources that NGN, Level 3 and EnerSphere are making to introduce new communication alternatives, promote energy conservation, and help Habersham and its members reduce energy costs."
"The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act outlined the goal of providing extensive broadband access for all Americans, particularly aiming to improve broadband coverage among rural communities," said Andrew Crouch, president of Sales for Level 3. "By interconnecting with NGN, we are working to help the organization and its partners maximize the impact of their broadband stimulus funding. We are delighted that through this agreement rural communities in north Georgia will have access to an international network dedicated to providing cutting-edge communications services."
For more information on Level 3's advanced network services, visit http://www.level3.com.
About The North Georgia Network (NGN)
The North Georgia Network (NGN) is a non-profit company that is building and managing a 1000-mile fiber optic network to deliver high-speed broadband access to thousands of businesses, community institutions including public schools, universities, hospitals and government facilities and homes in an eight-county area of north Georgia. This initiative was chartered by the Economic Development Authorities of Lumpkin, Dawson, Union and White Counties, together with Blue Ridge Mountain EMC, Habersham EMC and North Georgia College & State University to stimulate economic growth by improving the broadband infrastructure in the region.
About Level 3 Communications
Level 3 Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ: LVLT) is a premier international provider of IP-based communications services to enterprise, content, government and wholesale customers. Over its reliable, scalable and secure network, Level 3 delivers integrated IP solutions, including converged, data, voice, video and managed solutions to help enable customers' growth and efficiency. Level 3 operates a unique global services platform anchored by owned fiber networks on three continents in more than 45 countries, connected by extensive undersea facilities. For more information, visit http://www.level3.com.
Some of the statements made in this press release are forward looking in nature. These statements are based on management's current expectations or beliefs. These forward looking statements are not a guarantee of performance and are subject to a number of uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside Level 3's control, which could cause actual events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the statements. The most important factors that could prevent Level 3 from achieving its stated goals include, but are not limited to: the company's ability to successfully integrate the Global Crossing acquisition, the current uncertainty in the global financial markets and the global economy; a discontinuation of the development and expansion of the Internet as a communications medium and marketplace for the distribution and consumption of data and video; and disruptions in the financial markets that could affect Level 3's ability to obtain additional financing. Additional factors include, but are not limited to, the company's ability to: increase and maintain the volume of traffic on its network; develop effective business support systems; manage system and network failures or disruptions; develop new services that meet customer demands and generate acceptable margins; defend intellectual property and proprietary rights; adapt to rapid technological changes that lead to further competition; attract and retain qualified management and other personnel; successfully integrate future acquisitions; and meet all of the terms and conditions of debt obligations. Additional information concerning these and other important factors can be found within Level 3's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Statements in this press release should be evaluated in light of these important factors. Level 3 is under no obligation to, and expressly disclaims any such obligation to, update or alter its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.
Contact Information
Media: Investors:
Jon Paul McLeary Mark Stoutenberg
Medallia Launches Mobile Feedback Solution for iPhone, Android, and BlackBerry
Extending the Lead in Unifying Mobile Functionality with Customer Experience Management Platform
PALO ALTO, Calif., Oct. 13, 2011/PRNewswire/ -- Medallia, the global leader in SaaS Customer Experience Management (CEM) solutions, today announced Medallia Mobile Feedback, a solution that makes it easier than ever for customers to provide feedback on their phones. The solution works across multiple platforms, including iPhone, Android, and BlackBerry.
With Medallia Mobile Feedback, customers can fill out surveys without having to download any apps. Companies can launch one survey, without needing to create different versions for each mobile platform. The new solution provides a mobile-friendly experience for customers that is consistent with companies' brand and visual identities. As with all Medallia products, Mobile Feedback Solution empowers companies to take immediate action, such as acknowledging a high score or responding to an unhappy customer.
"Mobile is increasingly how we communicate," said Borge Hald, CEO and co-founder of Medallia. "There are more than a billion mobile devices and hundreds of millions of smartphones in use today. Medallia Mobile allows businesses to incorporate this key channel into their CEM programs. It collects, analyzes, and reports customer feedback across the most common mobile platforms."
Medallia Mobile Feedback also works with speech-to-text-enabled smartphones, such as the newly introduced iPhone 4S, so customers can speak their survey responses into their phones. "Because Medallia Mobile Feedback is so easy to use, more customers will complete a survey on their mobile devices while their experience is still fresh," said Hald.
In addition to Medallia Mobile Feedback, Medallia is introducing enhancements to its previously announced mobile reporting applications, Medallia Mobile for iPhone and iPad. New features include push notifications of alerts, which will encourage more frontline employees to use the mobile app.
About Medallia
Medallia (http://www.medallia.com), the global leader in SaaS customer experience and enterprise feedback management, provides solutions to Global 2000 companies. More than 50,000 businesses and business units around the world use the Medallia system to track customer satisfaction. Medallia's solutions enable companies to gather, monitor, and act on feedback from customers, partners, and employees. Customers include global financial services, retail, high-tech, business-to-business, and hotel companies. The company is headquartered in Silicon Valley.
For more information about Medallia's Customer Feedback Management services or platform, visit http://www.medallia.com.
Media Contact:
Jasmine Teer
LEWIS Pulse PR for Medallia
jasmine@lewispulse.com
+1 415 321 2348
T-Mobile Rolls Out the Magenta Carpet in NYC for the Launch of the New Android-Powered Samsung Galaxy S II and HTC Amaze 4G
Khloe Kardashian, Chace Crawford, Emma Roberts, Ed Westwick, and The Black Keys Celebrated the Launch of T-Mobile's Next Generation 4G Smartphones and Tablet Running on America's Largest 4G Network
BELLEVUE, Wash., Oct. 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Last night, T-Mobile USA, Inc., celebrated the national launch of the new Samsung Galaxy S(TM) II, and HTC Amaze(TM) 4G and Samsung Galaxy Tab(TM) 10.1 with an exclusive, VIP event that celebrated T-Mobile's next generation of 4G devices and featured a special musical performance by the GRAMMY Award-winning artists, The Black Keys, which was live streamed on T-Mobile's Facebook page.
The event brought to life a futuristic 4G factory with interactive environments featuring T-Mobile's newest Android(TM)-powered 4G smartphones and tablet that were curated by innovators such as fashion mavens Hillary Kerr and Katherine Power of Who, What, Wear, photo phenom Mazdack Rassi of Milk Studios and New York nightlife aficionado Nur Khan of Electric Room.
More than500guests celebrated the launch of the fastest and newest T-Mobile devices. The star-studded event was attended by A-list celebrities, including Chace Crawford, Jason Sudeikis, Kristen Wiig, Ed Westwick and Emma Roberts.
Music by DJ Harley Viera-Newton got the party started as guests checked-in by entering their name, photo and personal message on Samsung Galaxy S IIand HTC Amaze 4G, which was projected throughout the event to announce their entrance in style.
Khloe Kardashian stopped by the HTC Amaze Photo Gallery to watch Brent Bolthouse take pictures using the new device's advanced 8-megapixel camera, which features five distinct shot features. The HTC Amaze 4G photos were displayed alongside the professional Milk Gallery images to create a slideshow of art work for guests to enjoy.
Iconic club favorites Kryoman robots lit up the night with T-Mobile and Android inspired magenta and green laser light show that illuminated the dance floor as DJ Questlove provided the beats and guests rocked to the music and danced the night away.
Fans at home were able to follow the celebration through real-time social media engagement through updates via the Twitter® hashtag #4GFactoryLive and T-Mobile's Facebook page. Celebrity guests also shared their experience with fans by sending tweets, photos and videos from their new T-Mobile 4G devices.
The HTC Amaze(TM) 4G and Samsung Galaxy S(TM) II will be T-Mobile's fastest smartphones and the first smartphones to take advantage of T-Mobile's faster 4G (HSPA+ 42) network technology. The new smartphones will deliver the best experience yet from T-Mobile for watching video, surfing the Web and creating and sharing content on the go. Both smartphones are available now at T-Mobile retail stores nationwide and online.
T-Mobile's ultra-thin, 4G-capable Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 weighs in at just 1.24 pounds and features a spectacular 10.1-inch HD touchscreen display for a widescreen viewing experience. The Android-powered Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 is one of the thinnest and lightest 10-inch tablets on the market and will enable customers to enjoy their home Web and entertainment experiences virtually anywhere.
T-Mobile's HSPA+ 4G network not available everywhere. See coverage details at http://www.t-mobile.com.
About T-Mobile USA:
Based in Bellevue, Wash., T-Mobile USA, Inc. is the U.S. wireless operation of Deutsche Telekom AG (OTCQX: DTEGY). By the end of the second quarter of 2011, approximately 128 million mobile customers were served by the mobile communication segments of the Deutsche Telekom group -- 33.6 million by T-Mobile USA -- all via a common technology platform based on GSM and UMTS and additionally HSPA+ 21/HSPA+ 42. T-Mobile USA's wireless products and services help empower people to connect to those who matter most. Multiple independent research studies continue to rank T-Mobile USA among the highest in numerous regions throughout the U.S. in wireless customer care and call quality. For more information, please visit http://www.T-Mobile.com. T-Mobile is a federally registered trademark of Deutsche Telekom AG.
CONTACT: Tania Kingsrud, +1-310-854-4774, cell, +1-818-489-6107, tania.kingsrud@pmkbnc.com, or Carlos Manzanillo, +1-310-967-7263, cell, +1-858-344-8620, carlos.manzanillo@pmkbnc.com, or Dana Berkowitz, cell, +1-516-220-6202, dana.berkowitz@pmkbnc.com, all of PMK*BNC for T-Mobile USA, Inc.
Kodak Innovation Illuminates the Path to Retail Profit In-Store and on the Web
New Software Enhances Consumer Photo Retail Options with Connectivity, Creativity and Convenience
ROCHESTER, N.Y., Oct. 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Eastman Kodak Company (NYSE: EK) is announcing enhancements to its KODAK Picture Kiosk software that allows consumers to use images from their own, as well as from their friends' shared photo albums on FACEBOOK (according to FACEBOOK privacy rules) and on imaging sites such as GOOGLE PICASA and KODAK Gallery, to create personalized premium photo products right at the KODAK Picture Kiosk. The enhanced FACEBOOK application is the flagship feature of the new KODAK Picture Kiosk software version 5.0 currently being rolled out to retailers worldwide.
"With new applications and the continued explosion in online sharing, Kodak continues to advance what's possible at retail with breakthrough innovations like social network connectivity, transforming the photo retail experience," said Larry Trevarthen, vice president of worldwide marketing, Retail Systems Solutions, Eastman Kodak Company. "Kodak pioneered social connectivity at the photo kiosk and we continue innovate to meet consumers' evolving needs while also expanding profit potential for our retail customers."
Improved Photo Book Creation Tools
The new software suite also features KODAK SmartFit Technology, which automatically creates a photo book in seconds. SmartFit quickly organizes and places photos in a photo book template, then let's the consumer decide to print immediately or personalize the Photo Book layout further. The new software also supports customizable captions and an improved photo book project preview that shows virtual pages displayed as they will appear in the actual book.
"Delivering a richer consumer experience is key to driving photo retail profit. These new enhancements offer consumers easier access to their images, better tools for creating personalized products, and more choice and convenience in how they order and receive products," added Trevarthen.
Additional KODAK Picture Kiosk Software 5.0 Features
The new software features several additional enhancements and new tools to align with evolving consumer demand and support new retail business opportunities, including:
-- Extended KODAK Express Book Portfolio: Offers more consumer options for
retail KODAK Photo Book creation including three preferred formats:
Standard Single-Sided format, which features rich KODAK XTRALIFE Paper,
a waterproof and stain-resistant laminated paper designed to last that
provides Kodak-quality photographic detail; Standard Duplex format,
which allows consumers to create beautiful, double-sided Photo Books;
and Premium Duplex format, which delivers the best of both: the vibrant,
borderless pages of KODAK XTRALIFE Photo Book Paper along with
double-sided printing.
-- Includes output from the new KODAK D4000 Duplex Photo Printer, a
flexible, compact double-sided printer capable of producing
high-quality borderless premium photo products and the KODAK DL2100
Duplex Printer, which delivers the unique combination of
Kodak-quality prints and high-speed performance while minimizing
capital investment.
-- The streamlined workflows include separate Photo Book creation
settings for Duplex Photo Books that allow the operator to customize
specific binding edge, cover picture dimensions and maximum page
parameters.
-- Enhanced Designs: Stylish new background designs, including portrait and
square designs, to improve customization and align with design trends
and consumer preferences. KODAK Photo Book sizes now include: English
inch: 6x8, 8x8, 8x10 and 8x12 (Landscape); 10x8 and 12x8 (Portrait);
Metric cm: 15x20, 20x20, 20x25 and 20x30.5 (Landscape); 25x20 and
30.5x20 (Portrait).
-- KODAK Archive DVD support: Media storage solution that offers a
convenient way for consumers to save and share photo files and digital
videos, creating a safe back up of both original and edited files. With
the tool, consumers can archive images from digital camera USB drives
and memory cards as well as from social sharing sites such as FACEBOOK
on a 4GB DVD, which can be viewed via personal computers, DVD players
and at the KODAK Picture Kiosk.
About Kodak
As the world's foremost imaging innovator, Kodak helps consumers, businesses, and creative professionals unleash the power of pictures and printing to enrich their lives.
Kodak Invites Consumers to Print Photos From Their FACEBOOK Account and Their Friend's Albums at a KODAK Picture Kiosk for Free
ROCHESTER, N.Y., Oct. 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Eastman Kodak Company (NYSE: EK) today announces Free KODAK Prints Week, an opportunity for customers to print photos from their FACEBOOK Account for free directly from a KODAK Picture Kiosk October 17 through October 23. To enhance and share their memories, consumers can now easily access and print images from their friends' FACEBOOK albums (in compliance with FACEBOOK Privacy Rules), in addition to their own albums, directly from the KODAK Picture Kiosk. This increased social connectivity enables consumers to create KODAK Photo Books, KODAK Personal Greeting Cards, Calendars and other creative projects, ultimately bringing a new dimension to social image sharing.
"Kodak is dedicated to providing customers unique solutions to help create and share their memories," said Larry Trevarthen, vice president of worldwide marketing, Retail Systems Solutions, Eastman Kodak Company. "There are billions of photos stored on FACEBOOK and there is a strong desire to convert these photos into personalized memories. Through our Free Prints Week, we are providing customers an easy and convenient solution to free their FACEBOOK photos at no cost by visiting one of our exceptional retail partners."
To celebrate Free Prints Week, Kodak has partnered with popular Tumblr, My Parents Were Awesome (MPWA) to host a contest, as a way to encourage people to print and share recent photos and those of the past. MPWA was designed as a forum to celebrate family history through photography by inviting users to submit vintage photos of their parents from their youth. Both MPWA and Kodak not only provide consumers unique and convenient ways to expand their social imaging capabilities but also share their memories with photos from the present and the past, where and when they like.
Retail partners participating in Free Prints Week from October 17 through October 23 include CVS/pharmacy locations across North America, as well as select Bartell Drugs, Discount Drug Mart, Lewis Drugs and Ritz Camera locations. By "liking" Kodak on FACEBOOK during this time period and opting in to receive emails from Kodak in the future, FACEBOOK users will be able to download a coupon to print up to twenty (20) free 4x6 instant prints from FACEBOOK at a Kiosk.
About Kodak
As the world's foremost imaging innovator, Kodak helps consumers, businesses, and creative professionals unleash the power of pictures and printing to enrich their lives.
New Cloud Security and Compliance Solutions Added to the Akamai Intelligent Platform
Akamai DDoS Defender and Compliance Management Modules address increasingly complex challenges of doing business online
BOSTON, Oct. 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Akamai Edge 2011 Customer Conference -- Akamai Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: AKAM), the leading cloud platform for helping enterprises provide high-performing user experiences on any device, anywhere, today introduced two new solutions to the Akamai Intelligent Platform(TM) - Akamai® DDoS Defender and Akamai Compliance Management Modules. Businesses extending their sites and applications onto Akamai's Intelligent Platform expect exceptional availability of their mission-critical Web sites and applications along with assistance in meeting the stringent data compliance requirements associated with data privacy. These two new offerings are designed to help customers avoid the potential of millions of dollars in fines and other related costs, including downtime and irreparable damage to brand reputation.
In addition, through a new relationship with Evidon, also announced today, Akamai will be able to offer its customers easy access to advanced privacy and compliance services for the management of the Industry Self-Regulatory Program in the US, the European ePrivacy Directive, and its corollary self-regulatory effort for Online Behavioral Advertising.
As enterprises push more of their business transactions to the Internet, they expose critical data and operations to the threat of a distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attack. These attacks are becoming more sophisticated -- exploiting different layers of security vulnerabilities and rendering traditional security controls ineffective. Moreover, the unique nature of each DDoS attack makes planning, monitoring, mitigation and post-incident analysis complex and can cause a significant resource drain on any organization. To address these challenges, Akamai introduced AkamaiDDoS Defender which builds on the Company's massively distributed platform and proven ability to protect key online assets and prevent DDoS attacks from making Web sites unavailable.
Akamai DDoS Defender bundles multi-layered security capabilities with Akamai's team of world-class DDoS service professionals to provide a unified approach to counteracting the growing number of DDoS attacks. The solution offers an evolving set of Akamai's industry-leading cloud security capabilities designed to protect against a variety of DDoS attacks. It also includes services to support customers in all phases - before, during and after DDoS attacks to ensure rapid execution and efficient response.
"Distributed denial-of-service attacks attempt to make a Web site unavailable to their intended users. In recent months we've seen a significant increase in the number, size, and sophistication of these types of attacks -- the impact of which can extend long past the immediate loss of revenue, resources and productivity to cause damage to brand equity and customer trust," explained Andy Ellis, chief security officer, Akamai. "Our ability to protect our customers from DDoS attacks is a major differentiator for Akamai, and it is a result of the capabilities built into our highly distributed Akamai Intelligent Platform, which is designed to allow us to meet assaults closer to where they are originating and absorb malicious traffic before site performance is impacted."
Also newly available to customers are the Akamai Compliance Management solutions. These offerings are intended to help customers reduce the complexity and associated costs of ensuring their companies are in compliance with information security standards and regulations. Consisting of five distinct modules, the service provides supporting tools and documentation to streamline compliance initiatives within the following industry frameworks:
-- HIPAA - Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act
-- PCI DSS - Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard
-- FISMA - Federal Information Security Management Act
-- ISO - International Organization for Standardization Code of Practice
for Information Security Management (ISO 27001/27002)
-- BITS - The Financial Services Roundtable Technology Policy Division
"With the increasingly sophisticated and malicious attempts to breach IT security, industry standards and regulatory statutes to protect data have become more complex, making the compliance process much more demanding," continued Ellis. "Akamai's Compliance Management solutions are designed to help our customers simplify the process of meeting these often arduous information security reporting and auditing requirements."
At the foundation of both new offerings is the Akamai Intelligent Platform, which delivers as much as 30 percent of global Web traffic on any given day. By transforming the chaos of the Internet into a predictable, scalable, and secure platform for business, Akamai provides the security, scalability, and visibility customers require to more easily and cost-effectively secure web properties and assist in complying with industry standards as they move more mission-critical applications to the cloud.
For more information about Akamai's security and compliance management capabilities, please visit the Akamai® DDoS Defender Product Page, the Akamai® DDoS Defender Security Microsite or http://www.akamai.com/compliance.
About Akamai
Akamai® is the leading cloud-based platform for helping enterprises provide secure, high-performing user experiences to any device, anywhere. At the core of the Company's solutions is the Akamai Intelligent Platform(TM) providing extensive reach, coupled with unmatched reliability, security, visibility and expertise. With solutions for connecting an increasingly mobile world, supporting 24/7 consumer demand for commerce and entertainment, and enabling enterprises to securely leverage the cloud, Akamai empowers its customers to transform and reinvent their online businesses. To learn more about how Akamai is accelerating the pace of innovation in a hyperconnected world, please visit http://www.akamai.com and follow @Akamai on Twitter.
Akamai Statement Under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act
This release contains information about future expectations, plans and prospects of Akamai's management that constitute forward-looking statements for purposes of the safe harbor provisions under The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by these forward-looking statements as a result of various important factors including, but not limited to, failure of Akamai services to operate as expected or to address intended market needs, a failure of Akamai's network infrastructure, and other factors that are discussed in Akamai's Annual Report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, and other documents periodically filed with the SEC.
Contacts:
Rob Morton Natalie Temple
Media Relations Investor Relations
617-444-3641 617-444-3635
rmorton@akamai.com ntemple@akamai.com
SOURCE Akamai Technologies, Inc.
Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100225/AKAMAILOGO http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Akamai Technologies, Inc.
Trimble Outdoors Launches Backpacker Map Maker App for iPad
New App Helps Hikers Plan Trips, View Detailed Topo Maps and Find Places to Explore
SUNNYVALE, Calif., Oct. 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Trimble (NASDAQ: TRMB) and Backpacker magazine today released Backpacker Map Maker, a mapping and trip planning app for the Apple iPad. Now, from the touch-screen of an iPad, hikers and backpackers can find wild places, plot GPS points and plan their next adventure over seamless topographical maps.
"Our readers absolutely love maps. As avid backcountry explorers and GPS users, they like to view, create and annotate their topos, and with Map Maker, they can now harness the beauty and power of their tablets to experience maps in an extraordinary and dynamic way," said Jonathan Dorn, editor-in-chief of Backpacker, and vice president, AIM Outdoor Group. "Map Maker is a portable, practical tool for hikers, a great way to relive their adventures, and the perfect complement to GPS Trails, our smartphone navigation app for in-the-field use."
Backpacker Map Maker begins with best-in-class maps for hikers in the U.S. and Canada. In addition to aerial, hybrid, street and terrain maps, the app provides access to more than 68,000 USGS topo maps stitched together and enhanced by MyTopo. The app has a full-line of other features for the hiker, including:
Place search: Find popular peaks, campgrounds, trailheads, mountain passes, creeks, lakes and more from a list of more than 10 million places.
Dual maps: Turn on dual map mode and view two map types at once for more precise trip planning. For instance, view street maps to find access roads to the trailhead then fade to topo maps to check out the detailed topography.
Cloud-based trips: Save trips to a backpacker.com account and access them from anywhere with an Internet connection. Hikers can also plan trips in Map Maker and then open and navigate in the Backpacker GPS Trails app, an in-field navigation app for iPhone and Android.
Mark waypoints: Simply drag-and-drop GPS waypoints onto the map. Add notes too.
Ruler tool: Measure how far it is from the trailhead to your campsite to a mountain summit and beyond.
Digital compass: See a full-screen translucent compass overlaid on the maps.
GPS coordinates: Display latitude/longitude coordinates in three formats: DD, DDM and DMS. Or, view coordinates in UTM, the metric-based coordinate system preferred by the U.S. military and Backpacker editors. Backpacker publishes trail-based coordinates for nearly every destination article in the magazine.
"We are excited to add an iPad product to the successful line of Backpacker outdoor adventure apps. Backpacker readers can surf gorgeous topos and plan out trips in any park or wilderness in the U.S. and Canada, and then carry that trip with them using GPS Trails on their iPhone or Android smartphone," said Rich Rudow, general manager for Trimble Outdoors.
Backpacker Map Maker for the Apple iPad and iPad2 is available for download now from the Apple App Store at: http://www.backpacker.com/mapmaker.
About Backpacker
Backpacker brings the outdoors to readers' doorsteps, inspiring and empowering them to get out and enjoy nature more often. The authority on active adventure, Backpacker is the world's first GPS-enabled magazine, and the only magazine whose editors personally test the hiking trails, camping gear, and survival tips they publish. Backpacker is published by Active Interest Media (http://www.aimmedia.com), has a circulation of 340,000, and is published nine times per year. http://www.Backpacker.com.
About Trimble Outdoors
Trimble Outdoors, a Trimble business, develops GPS-enabled mobile apps and map solutions for fitness and outdoor enthusiasts. Its popular apps--Trimble Outdoors(TM), AllSport GPS(TM), Geocache Navigator(TM), Cabela's Recon(TM) Hunt, and Backpacker GPS Trails--run on more than 300 mobile devices worldwide and help consumers navigate on trails and off-road, track fitness workouts, find caches and more. Trimble Outdoors is also a leading provider of print and digital maps for hikers, hunters, and campers via the MyTopo brand. By leveraging Trimble's 30 years of commercial expertise in GPS, software, and communications, Trimble Outdoors delivers cost-effective and convenient position-based services that promote consumers' well-being, security and active lifestyles. For more information about Trimble Outdoors, visit http://www.TrimbleOutdoors.com.
About Trimble
Trimble applies technology to make field and mobile workers in businesses and government significantly more productive. Solutions are focused on applications requiring position or location--including surveying, construction, agriculture, fleet and asset management, public safety and mapping. In addition to utilizing positioning technologies, such as GPS, lasers and optics, Trimble solutions may include software content specific to the needs of the user. Wireless technologies are utilized to deliver the solution to the user and to ensure a tight coupling of the field and the back office. Founded in 1978, Trimble is headquartered in Sunnyvale, Calif.
CONTACT: Media, Aly Saxe, Ubiquity Public Relations, +1-602-268-6849 , aly@ubiquitypublicrelations.com, or Lea Ann McNabb, Trimble, +1-408-481-7808, leaann_mcnabb@trimble.com, or Investors, Willa McManmon, Trimble, +1-408-481-7838, willa_mcmanmon@trimble.com; or Media, Andrew Matranga, Backpacker magazine, +1-303-625-1600, amatranga@aimmedia.com
Global IP Telecommunications Releases Free Plug & Play Solution for VoIP Services that Enables VoIP Even in Restricted Networks
Plug & Play Solution for voice over IP in challenging network environments, at restricted WLAN-Hotspots or 3G mobile networks inland as well as abroad
SCHOEFFENGRUND, Germany, Oct. 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Global IP Telecommunications releases a free plug & play software to supplement SIP VoIP services in order to make unobstructed telephony available at WIFI hotspots, in hotels and other restricted networks. The product SSC, "Simple SIP Channel," provides for unprecedented freedom in telephony. The actual VoIP service provider can be chosen freely.
"Our VoIP telephones can now be used as simply as plugging a classic phone into a wall socket, picking it up and making calls!" says Michael Best, CEO of Global IP Telecommunications. Mr. Best adds "...[T]he solution makes VoIP data appear as if a user was browsing web pages in order to bypass firewalls in complicated network environments. Users are even enabled to make calls to and from so-called 'VoIP Blocking Countries!'Users are further free to select a specific SSC access point and to turn SSC on or off."
The development took two years from concept to realization. The quality and speed of the data transport mechanism have been the focus of the tap-proof point-to-point encryption of voice data. SSC is freely available to every interested person from today. A Linux and Windows variant of the software can be downloaded from http://www.globaliptel.com. There is no limitation of use. SSC can be used with all Ninja Software Telephones from Global IP Telecommunications. Implementation of the relevant functionalities in third-party hardware and software is stipulated as well.
"Companies will particularly take advantage of the simple and very convenient way to connect mobile computers to their fixed PBX. What in the world is more satisfying than to start a piece of software and have everything work perfectly?" says Bernd Roellgen, CTO of Global IP Telecommunications.
Global IP Telecommunications is a leading manufacturer of auto provisioning-capable softphone applications for Voiceover-IP. Global IP Tel. products are being sold worldwide through leading PC-, USB- and headset manufacturers, Internet service providers, Telcos as well as international sales partners.
Print-Rite Makes A Revolutionary Change in Printer Cartridge Application Systems by Introducing Groundbreaking Compatible Laser Toner Cartridges with its Own Patented Technology
HONG KONG, Oct. 13, 2011 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- Print-Rite, the world's leader in the aftermarket printer consumables industry, announces a groundbreaking technological application in printer cartridges - "Smart Jump VP", which gives rise to extra high page yielding printer cartridges with better fusing, ultra-low toner waste and no backgrounding performance under extreme weather conditions, hence radically casting out the typical defects of aftermarket cartridges.
"Smart Jump VP" uses Print-Rite's own patented switching system to enable contact development process cartridges to work in the prevailing jump development printing environment. Printer cartridges developed using this unique technology has been protected by worldwide patent registration. Also, IP due diligence has been conducted with favorable and positive opinion. As a result, Print-Rite will be using its state-of the-art patented technology in developing a series of environmental friendly printer cartridges with lower cost per page and higher printing performance. The new technology also features a toner reuse system and higher transfer efficiency, resulting in an almost doubling of OEM page yield using the same toner load as OEM printer cartridges. It will further help to alleviate green house gas effects through lower net CO2 emission from incinerated waste toner.
Print-Rite will make the first series of printer cartridges developed using "Smart Jump VP" available by the end of 2011.
ABOUT PRINT-RITE
Print-Rite Holdings Limited ("Print-Rite") is a holding company for operating companies that invest in, develop and manufacture products in the aftermarket printer consumable industry. Print-Rite's subsidiaries provide more than 4,000 products, including ribbons, inks, inkjet printer cartridges, laser printer cartridges, toners, OPC, rollers, and chips. The aftermarket laser printer consumable products are provided by Print-Rite's subsidiaries within an extensive supply chain network unique in this sector. From components to finished products, they all are produced in modernized and well-equipped plants accredited with ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and IECQ HSPM QC 080000 standards. Print-Rite also takes pride in the registration of over 1,400 patents worldwide by its six subsidiary companies, made possible via their substantial investment in R&D.
For Business Inquiry
Ms. Iris Ngo
sales@utec.com.mo
For Media Contact
Mr. Jimmy Chan
+852-2140-9388
pressrelease@print-rite.com
SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Revel Systems teams up with Telequip to help restaurants increase efficiency and revenue with automatic coin dispenser machines. The customer orders off the iPad and Revel's point of sale software and change is dispensed automatically after paying with cash. Popeye's of Massachusetts uses the T-Flex coin dispenser, which saves time and generates an additional $10,800 dollars in sales per month. The proof is in the numbers, you can view the case study here: http://www.telequip.com/testimonials/Popeyes-MA.pdf.
With Revel's innovative iPad POS, companies can increase efficiency, which in turn increases profits - the bottom line for all businesses. The Revel POS with T-Flex coin dispenser can dramatically decrease the average checkout time, a serious competitive advantage during the lunch rush. Check out a live video of the coin dispenser in action: http://revelsystems.com/coindispenser.php.
Available Topic Expert(s): For information on the listed expert(s), click appropriate link.
Visionary Thought Leaders From Panarea Digital at International Book Fairs
MIAMI, Oct. 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Panarea Digital, a premier interactive content developer and production house, participated in a discussion of the future of digital publishing at the Frankfurt Book Fair on Monday October 11, 2011 in Frankfurt, Germany. Emiliano Abramzon, USA Country Manager for Panarea Digital, spoke with other panelists for a session titled "Multi-Lingual Digital Platforms: The future of global children's publishing."
Emiliano addressed the evolution of children's multi-lingual digital books, touching on Panarea Digital's extensive experience in children's digital publishing and their recent launch of the "Green is Verde" bilingual app for the iPad. "We are honored to be part of this panel with other thought leaders in the industry," said Emiliano. "It is exciting to see the momentum around creating multilingual experiences for children. Words come to life on the new platforms through sight, sound, and engaging interactions. At Panarea Digital we are always looking for new ways to bridge pedagogy and technology to enhance the way people learn."
In addition, Panarea Digital's co-founder and CEO, Guido Kovalskys, recently spoke at the Liber Digital in the Madrid International Book Fair on October 5th, 2011. The topic was the educational e-book market in Latin America: the situation today and its future development.
About "Green is Verde"
"Green is Verde" is the first in a series of interactive Spanish and English bilingual apps that introduces children to a new language. Two to four year olds will love the animations and coloring activities as they learn names of animals and colors in two languages. The beautiful animations come to life on each page to delight and engage young children; story words light up as they are read, and animal words light up when the animals animate on screen. The "Green is Verde" app is available in the App Store for the iPad, or at http://www.itunes.com/apps/GreenisVerde.
About Panarea Digital
In Panarea Digital we create engaging interactive products for children and adults for the latest consumer technology platforms to enhance the way people learn and work. Our portfolio includes e-books, iPhone & iPad applications, web applications, mobile applications, games and a wide range of back-end systems. We partner with top-tier consumer-focused and business-to-business companies including Barnes & Noble, LeapFrog, Nickelodeon, salesforce.com, American Express and many more. For more information, please see http://www.panareadigital.com/read
CONTACT: Carlos Carrascal, +1-510-277-0073, ext. 3336
RS Components Wins 'Best eCommerce Marketing Initiative' at the eCommerce Awards for Excellence
OXFORD, England, October 13, 2011/PRNewswire/ --
RS Components (RS), the trading brand of Electrocomponents plc
(LSE:ECM), the world's leading high service distributor of electronics and
maintenance products, has won 'Best eCommerce Marketing Initiative' at the
eCommerce Awards for Excellence 2011. The award was presented for the
company's successful Search Engine Marketing (SEM) strategy. RS was also
highly commended in the 'International e-Retail Award' and 'Best Customer
Service Award' categories. The competition for the awards included ASOS,
Coast, Hostelbookers.com, Shop Direct Group and Wiggle.
Keith Reville, General Manager eCommerce at Electrocomponents, said:
"This is a real achievement for our business, not only to be recognised by
one of the world's leading industry bodies for eCommerce, but also to see
our brand out there competing and winning eCommerce awards against very well
known B2C brands. This acknowledges the significant achievements we have
made with our website and online services in order to meet our customers'
needs."
As part of its customer-focused eCommerce strategy, RS has implemented a
successful SEM initiative that has catalysed a dramatic cultural shift in
the company. RS is working to become more ubiquitous in key outlets like
Google and SEM has become a vital channel for RS customers. The SEM strategy
has realised a significant rise in search marketing revenue and search
traffic, as well as increased investment and continuously improving
performance.
RS boasts 60 websites across the world, with the majority in respective
local languages. A recent transformation of its eCommerce website has
significantly enhanced the online experience for its customers. The
company's eCommerce strategy has driven significant business growth;
eCommerce revenue grew by around 27% in the first half of the Group's
financial year and now represents around 54% of Group sales. RS is
continuously improving its eCommerce offering through further customer
engagement via the website, its call centre, and online tools.
The eCommerce Awards for Excellence recognise and celebrate companies in
the UK that are driving the eCommerce industry forward. The awards cover all
parts of the eCommerce process from mobile commerce and payment solutions to
customer service, marketing and start-up companies.
About RS Components
RS Components and Allied Electronics are the trading brands of
Electrocomponents plc, the world's leading high service distributor of
electronics and maintenance products. Through operations in 32 countries and
17 warehouses, the Group serves 1.6 million customers worldwide and
distributes 550,000 products ranging from semiconductors and optoelectronics
to power tools and protective clothing. The product and service portfolio
supports the entire product lifecycle from R&D through pre-production to
maintenance and repair. The Group ships more than 46,000 parcels on the same
day the orders are received.
Electrocomponents is listed on the London Stock Exchange and in the last
financial year to 31 March 2011 had revenues of GBP1.18bn.
CorDEX Instruments Welcomes International Safety Certification Which Will Boost Global Sales
MIDDLESBROUGH, England, October 13, 2011/PRNewswire/ --
CorDEX Instruments is gearing up for significant sales of its
intrinsically safe thickness monitoring device after receiving international
certification from a global regulator on explosive environments and safety
equipment.
The UT5000 Intrinsically Safe Thickness Gauge has been assessed and
approved by IECEx, the globally recognised IEC System for Certification to
Standards Relating to Equipment for Use in Explosive Atmospheres.
The hand-held device, which is designed to measure the thickness of
pipelines and materials in hazardous areas using non-destructive techniques,
has already achieved ATEX certification and is approved for use in the
European market.
Tony Holliday, CEO of CorDEX Instruments, the leading manufacturer of
intrinsically safe and non-destructive testing products for the oil and gas
industry, welcomed the IECEx certification and aims to market the device to
an international industry audience.
He said: "Receiving IECEx certification for the UT5000 is an important
step in delivering the device to the global marketplace. We are pleased the
thickness gauge has come through the thorough examination process the
certification assessment requires.
"We now have ATEX and IECEx certification for the UT5000 which will make
it possible to market it to companies around the world. Asset integrity and
corrosion testing is of the utmost importance for the oil and gas industry
and this tool has the potential to transform the way operators work.
"Our equipment fits with what the energy sector seeks to do in relation
to ageing assets and without the need to wait for a shutdown to conduct
testing provides the opportunity for more comprehensive and regular
inspections to be carried out."
The UT5000 is currently being used by researchers at the University of
Aberdeen to provide a new model for corrosion assessment to enhance oil and
gas safety.
The aim of the ground-breaking research is to shed light on how
corrosion develops spatially on steel pipelines and vessels to improve
replacement decisions and integrity management and the UT5000 will give
companies the ability to establish a predictive maintenance program to
further improve safety.
Dr Neill Renton, head of chemical engineering within the School of
Engineering at the University of Aberdeen, said: "The deterioration of
assets through corrosion damage is a critical problem for the energy
industry.
"This intrinsically safe device allows for testing during normal
operations without the need for any hot-working and could allow testing on a
much more regular basis giving us a greater ability to track corrosion over
time.
"If a number of oil and gas companies use the technology then there
would be a dramatic improvement in our understanding of deterioration with
associated safety benefits."
CorDEX has already established a reputation since it was launched in
2009 in the mining and chemicals sectors and is now positioning itself to
become the United Kingdom's premier manufacturer of handheld intrinsically
safe tools for the oil and gas industry.
The Teesside-headquartered company has a network of distributers across
the United States of America, South America Europe and the Middle East.
CorDEX is a leading manufacturer of intrinsically safe and non
destructive testing products for the oil and gas industry. For further
information please visit http://www.cordexinstruments.com
News release issued on behalf of CorDEX Instruments by the BIG
Partnership.
Notes to editors
CorDEX Instruments is headquartered in Teesside, UK and delivers
intrinsically safe inspection and NDT equipment to the global oil and gas
industry.
CorDEX equipment improves efficiency, accuracy and safety in challenging
environments in energy and related industries. Its high-quality equipment is
specifically certified for use in hazardous/explosive areas. CorDEX is ISO
9001:2008 certified, and all CorDEX products are designed and manufactured
for maximum reliability in the company's BS EN13980 registered manufacturing
system.
An IECEx Certificate of Conformity attests that the product has been
independently tested and found to comply with international standards. It
also attests that the manufacturing site has been audited to verify that the
manufacturer's quality system meets IECEx requirements,
ATEX product certification is the check on the design specification of a
product in relation to a series of strict industry standards. It involves a
detailed process of examination, testing and assessment of equipment
intended for use in potentially hazardous areas.
When the process is successfully completed an ATEX certificate and
report are issued confirming and demonstrating that the product is safe to
use, within certain parameters, within potentially explosive atmospheres.
Source: CorDEX Instruments
For further information contact account executive Ross Anderson on +44(0)1224-615011 or email ross.anderson@bigpartnership.co.uk
Anite Supports First-Class Testing Capabilities for CETECOM
FLEET, England, October 13, 2011/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --
Unique Floating License Enables Leading Test House to Increase Capacity
and Reach of Carrier Testing Programme
Today, Anite announced that it has bolstered the capacity and global
reach of the test house CETECOM's carrier acceptance and conformance test
services, with its unique, flexible and cost-effective Floating License.
This one-of-a-kind licensing solution provides CETECOM with Anite's complete
suite of wireless device testing software and hardware shared between
laboratories spanning the globe.
CETECOM, a leading telecommunications and IT product test house, has
responded to a growing demand from the device manufacturing sector to ensure
their products meet the individual requirements of each carrier network they
are deployed with. Thanks to Anite, CETECOM now has a comprehensive set of
device testing solutions, across its worldwide locations, to help
manufacturers to ensure their mobile devices are optimised to meet industry
standards and network specifications. CETECOM's globally located users can
dynamically reserve licenses held on a dedicated central server. This
enables CETECOM to offer its clients a superior service, with no cost or
delay endured, as test devices are shipped to distant laboratories - a key
advantage in bringing products to market much more rapidly.
Anite's Floating License is the only licensing solution in the market
that allows the flexible testing of a vast array of devices across global
jurisdictions.
"Anite's Floating License solution supports our strategy of providing
complete testing coverage worldwide," said Thorsten Stabenau, Director
Corporate Marketing and Sales, CETECOM. "Using Anite's solutions globally
secures faster project lead times and ensures that customers can rely on us
to help them place devices with the world's leading operators."
"The complexity of devices and mobile operators' expectations of quality
are increasing," said Paul Beaver, Products Director, Anite. "However, this
provides a huge opportunity for test businesses like CETECOM for solid
growth. To achieve this, testing houses need the flexibility to meet the
demands of device manufacturers, who mostly have globally-based operations,
by responding rapidly at the point of need. Anite's innovative and
cost-effective solutions give our customers the agility and capability they
need to succeed."
About Anite
Anite provides a comprehensive range of critical IT solutions to the
Wireless and Travel sectors across the globe. Listed on the London Stock
Exchange, Anite develops and implements software as well as provides
consultancy, systems integration and managed services to ensure that our
customers operate effectively and securely. By using the latest technologies
to deliver quality and cost-effective solutions, Anite meets customers'
specific requirements and realises tangible results for its clients.
Anite Telecoms offers rigorous yet simplified device testing,
accelerating new devices to market. A global market leader, Anite has over
20 years of experience providing cutting-edge technology to device
manufacturers, operators and test laboratories. Anite was the first company
to verify LTE conformance test cases in 2009 and has consistently remained
at the forefront of the handset testing industry. Its highly flexible and
reliable software solutions make Anite a key partner to the major Telecoms
manufacturers and operators. With a diverse team focused on exceeding
expectations, Anite draws upon worldwide expertise and is enthusiastic about
the future of LTE.
Headquartered in the UK, Anite employs around 500 staff in 14 countries
across Europe, America, Asia and the Middle East. For more information,
please visit http://www.anite.com.
About CETECOM
CETECOM (http://www.cetecom.com [
C:\Users\kristin.oherlihy\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\Dokumente und
Einstellungen\janonical\Local Settings\Temporary Internet
Files\Content.Outlook\UHXX57BX\www.cetecom.com ]) is renowned as neutral,
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D-Link Expands Amplifi(TM) Family of Premium Home Networking Solutions in Canada With New Whole Home and HD Media Routers
Whole Home Router 1000 and HD Media Router 2000 Offer Today's Homes the Latest in Uninterrupted High-Performance Network Connectivity
MISSISSAUGA, Ontario, Oct. 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- D-Link Canada today announced the availability of the latest products in the Amplifi(TM) family of high-performance home networking solutions, the Whole Home Router 1000 (DIR-645) and HD Media Router 2000 (DIR-827). Leveraging innovative new technologies for consumer routers, these products offer a range of features, such as SmartBeam(TM) smart antennas for whole home coverage, HD Fuel® for enhanced HD video streaming and USB 3.0 for blazing fast data transfers and media streaming.
"We are very excited about developing and being first to market with these new advancements in wireless technology. Both of these Amplifi products represent technology advancements poised to significantly improve consumers' overall wireless experience with devices in the home," said Lou Reda, vice president and general manager, Consumer Division, D-Link Canada.
Amplifi HD Media Router with HD Fuel® for Amazing HD Video Streaming Quality
Designed to optimize a home's Wi-Fi signal and provide increased and continuous Internet speed, the HD Media Router 2000 offers advanced wireless connectivity and HD Fuel for automatic bandwidth prioritization, enabling seamless high-quality HD streaming, gaming without lag time and uninterrupted VoIP calling.
"With the amount of online content in Canada continuously expanding, we are seeing an increased demand for stronger and more reliable network connections in homes," said Lou Reda, vice president and general manager, Consumer Division. "D-Link's new high-performance Amplifi HD Media Router 2000 enables consumers to stream their favourite movies, TV shows and more from providers like YouTube, Netflix, and CinemaNow with an uninterrupted connection."
Featuring data transfer rates of up to 600Mbps and HD Fuel, the HD Media Router 2000 offers simultaneous N600 Dual Band (300Mbps + 300Mbps) for streaming HD videos and surfing the web at the same time. HD Fuel enables the built-in Quality of Service (QoS) engine to automatically prioritize high bandwidth activities for uninterrupted HD video streaming, gaming and VoIP calling. Unlike conventional routers, it is specifically designed to automatically provide extra bandwidth to certain activities, enhancing online entertainment and eliminating glitches and lag. The high-performance HD Media Router 2000 also allows users to stream online media content, such as YouTube, Netflix, or CinemaNow, to multiple devices anywhere in the home, for the ultimate online entertainment experience.
In addition, this new home network router features USB SharePort(TM) Plus with a USB 3.0 port for sharing virtually any USB-enabled device, such as a printer or storage device, across the home network at faster transfer rates. With DLNA support, consumers can stream content directly from a USB storage device to a DLNA enabled HDTV. It also includes an SD Card slot for sharing media files with anyone on the home network, whether it's a photo or movie file.
Amplifi Whole Home Products with SmartBeam(TM) for Uninterrupted Coverage in Every Corner
The sleek new Amplifi Whole Home products with SmartBeam technology optimize home wireless network bandwidth to handle HD video streams, large media file downloads and online gaming applications for multiple devices, simultaneously anywhere in the home. SmartBeam uses six multi-directional antennas with a patented, sectorized design, to find and track individual devices, then focuses beams of bandwidth to those devices, ensuring a seamless connection anywhere in the home. D-Link's SmartBeam products are ideal for homes or small offices where concrete walls, successive floors in multi-storied buildings, or other architectural hurdles can significantly weaken a wireless signal.
"The DIR-645 expands Wi-Fi coverage into the farthest corners of the home, essentially giving consumers whole home coverage," says Lou Reda. "D-Link has been able to ensure consistent coverage throughout the home by investing heavily in R&D, and we are excited to bring these new patented technologies to the Canadian market as part of the Amplifi line of home networking solutions."
The IPv6-ready Whole Home Router 1000 features up to 300Mbps speed, four Gigabit Ethernet ports, advanced QoS bandwidth prioritization, SharePort(TM) Plus for sharing USB devices such as external hard drives or printers, and 128-bit security encryption with advanced Wi-Fi Protected Setup for a secure, plug-and-play home network.
Availability and Pricing
The Whole Home Router 1000 (DIR-645) will be available as of Oct. 14 with a suggested retail price of $109.99 and the HD Media Router 2000 will be available in early November with a suggested retail price of $169.99. Both products will be available throughout D-Link's network of Canadian e-tail and retail outlets, including Best Buy, Future Shop and Staples, and at the company's online store (http://www.dlinkshop.com).
For more information and detailed specs on the Whole Home Router 1000 (DIR-645), HD Media Router 2000 (DIR-827) and other D-Link Amplifi products visit amplifi.dlink.com.
About D-Link
Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2011, D-Link is the global leader in connectivity for home, small business, mid- to large-sized enterprise environments, and service providers. An award-winning designer, developer, and manufacturer, D-Link implements and supports unified network solutions that integrate capabilities in switching, wireless, broadband, storage, IP Surveillance, and cloud-based network management. For more information visit http://www.dlink.com, http://www.dlink.ca or connect with D-Link on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/dlink) and Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/dlink).
Maximum wireless signal rate derived from IEEE Standard 802.11 specifications. Actual data throughput will vary. Network conditions and environmental factors, including volume of network traffic, building materials and construction, and network overhead, lower actual data throughput rate. Environmental factors will adversely affect wireless signal range. Wireless range and speed rates are D-Link RELATIVE performance measurements based on the wireless range and speed rates of a standard Wireless G product from D-Link. Maximum throughput based on D-Link's 802.11n devices.
CONTACT: Denise Keddy of D-Link Systems, Inc., +1-714-885-6318, denise.keddy@dlink.com; or Sara Lee of Walt & Company, +1-408-369-7200, ext. 2980, slee@walt.com, for D-Link Systems, Inc.
IBM and EKZ Make Electric Vehicle Charging More Convenient with New Smartphone Application
ARMONK, N.Y. and ZURICH, Oct. 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- IBM Research (NYSE: IBM) today announced that it has teamed with EKZ, the electricity utility provider of the Canton of Zurich in Switzerland, on a new pilot project that will allow consumers to conveniently charge electric vehicles and monitor their energy costs, using mobile devices. This near real-time information will also help utility providers better manage power grid loads during peak charging times - a challenge that is set to grow as more electric vehicles are on the road.
The pilot combines a Web-based application (app) designed and developed by IBM scientists in Zurich and a data recording device created by the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW). The device, roughly the size of a phonebook, was installed in several electric vehicles, including a Renault Twingo, to collect information on the vehicle's battery charge level, location and the power source. The device transmits the data via a cellular network to an IBM cloud based on IBM BladeCenters running DB2 and WebSphere. This monitoring capability not only benefits the user but also provides utility providers with further insight into energy generation and consumption.
The project has the potential to contribute to Switzerland's energy policy goal of increasing the proportion of electricity produced from renewable energy by 5,400 gigawatt hours (GWh), or 10 percent of the country's present-day electricity consumption, by 2030. According to the latest statistics available, approximately 55.6 percent of Switzerland's overall electricity production comes from renewable sources, with hydropower by far the biggest contributor at more than 96 percent.
"Electric vehicles can be used to buffer the irregular production of electricity from future renewable sources, which will contribute to the overall stability of the electrical network," predicts Peter Franken, head of the Energy Distribution department of EKZ and executive management member. "With this project we can show how electric vehicles can create a balance between supply and demand for smarter energy grids."
The IBM app runs on most smartphones, tablets and Web browsers, and provides an integration point between the vehicle, the utility provider and the driver. Using a simple four-button interface the app shows the vehicle's battery level, range of travel distance, vehicle location, charge schedule and current energy costs in real time.
"This service will make electric vehicles more attractive to consumers by taking into consideration their preferences, while still factoring in cost and overall convenience," explains Dieter Gantenbein, leader of the Smart Grid research project at IBM Research - Zurich. "In this pilot, the real-time analysis of supply and demand together with a control algorithm will create a dynamic incentive for a sustainable way to charge an electric vehicle's battery, putting us another step closer to establishing a cleaner transport system."
One-click charging
Whether at home, in the office or thousands of miles away, electric vehicle owners can quickly consult their mobile device to check whether their car's battery level is sufficient for its next use. Another advantage of the app is that it can be programmed to start battery charging at a future point in time, for example when rates are lowest or when a trip is planned.
The IBM app also allows vehicle owners to delegate the responsibility of recharging the battery to the utility provider, which can schedule charges based on the availability of renewable resources, such as sun and wind, allowing the utility to improve load balancing and prevent outages. EKZ believes this will be a value added service that will gain more significance as electric vehicles become prevalent.
To analyze the programmed charging process of electric vehicles with renewable energy, the pilot project takes real-time production data from photovoltaic solar panels located at EKZ's facility in Dietikon, which then gets transmitted to the cloud service. In this charge mode, the electric vehicle is charged when solar electricity is being produced. If less solar energy is being generated, the charging process can adapt automatically.
This project along with the recently announced EcoGrid EU project in Denmark demonstrates the progression towards a stable and robust power grid by addressing the entire end-to-end process, from power plant to plug. By integrating all sustainable technologies - from electric vehicles to solar systems and wind farms, the industry can reduce greenhouse emissions while ensuring reliable energy production.
EKZ
EKZ provides roughly 10 percent of all electricity consumed in Switzerland, making it one of the leading Swiss utility providers. Overall, some one million persons depend on the reliable and environmentally conscious provision of electricity and the broad range of services provided. EKZ supports a range of measures to enhance energy efficiency and to promote the use of renewable energy sources. It employs a total of 1500 persons, including more than 180 apprentices.
IBM and Smart Grid
IBM is involved in more than 150 smart grid engagements around the world, in both mature and emerging markets. More about IBM's vision to bring a new level of intelligence to how the world works--how every person, business, organization, government, natural system, and man-made system interacts, can be found here: http://www.ibm.com/smarterplanet
Gulf Air Launches the First Aircraft in the World with Global Live Television and the Latest in In-flight Connectivity Including Broadband and Mobile Phone Service
Airline offers real-time, uninterrupted telecast of news channels and live football games
MANAMA, Bahrain, Oct. 12, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, today took delivery of its first A330-200 aircraft retrofitted with Panasonic Avionics Corporation's (Panasonic) Global Communications Suite. The comprehensive communications and entertainment solution, 'Sky Hub,' offers passengers onboard full broadband connectivity to access internet, mobile phone services and, for the first time in the world, a global, live television service onboard. The Panasonic's Global Communications Suite is being installed across Gulf Air's entire fleet of aircraft progressively.
Unveiling the 'Sky Hub' onboard the aircraft today to the media and senior Bahrain civil aviation officials, Gulf Air Chief Executive Officer Mr. Samer Majali said, "It is another important milestone in our customer service journey as we unveil our latest in-flight entertainment system, 'Sky Hub' on our fleet."
"We are bringing to you, for the first time in the world, a fully integrated broadband connectivity offering high speed internet, very fast mobile data speeds, voice over the internet (VOIP), streaming videos and the world's first in-flight live TV satellite stream across continents."
He added, "In tune with the fast-paced economy, Gulf Air is providing the fastest, affordable and unlimited internet and mobile access onboard for our customers to stay fully connected in the air and, we are pleased to be the first in the industry to offer our customers a connected airline."
"I am sure this avant-garde, cutting-edge technology will fundamentally change our passengers' communications and entertainment experience onboard setting a new standard for in-flight entertainment," Mr. Majali concluded.
Paul Margis, Chief Executive Officer for Panasonic Avionics Corporation said, "We are very excited and honored to have helped Gulf Air become the first carrier in the world to offer a truly amazing passenger entertainment experience with broadband connectivity for high speed internet access, mobile voice and data services, and a live television service that includes some of the world's most popular news programming and live sporting events."
Using Panasonic's Global Communications Suite, Gulf Air will offer two-way broadband connectivity at speeds of up to 50 Mbps to the aircraft, enabling faster browsing, chatting and other internet based services. Gulf Air will offer deeply immersive, content-rich entertainment in addition to live, uninterrupted television services on routes across Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Travelers can now watch their favorite football teams on IMG Media's Barclays Premier League channel or keep up with world events on favorite news channels such as BBC World News, BBC Arabic and Euronews.
Passengers also will be able to browse the web at broadband speeds, and access social media services such as Facebook and Twitter. In addition, business travelers can access their virtual private network (VPN) to send and receive emails while watching live-news and stock market updates at 35,000 feet. They simply need to turn on their personal device, connect to the in-flight Wi-Fi network, and log into the service through Deutsche Telekom, the wireless internet service provider onboard.
Panasonic's mobile voice and data service, offered in collaboration with AeroMobile's award winning in-flight mobile phone technology, will enable passengers to use their mobile phone, Smartphone or BlackBerry device to call, text, email, browse the internet and use other applications throughout the flight. They will also be able to use GSM-enabled tablets and laptops to go online in flight.
Pal Bjordal, CEO of AeroMobile, says: "AeroMobile is delighted to be supporting this world first from Gulf Air - our 10th customer. With many roaming partners throughout the Middle East, we're perfectly positioned to help their passengers stay in touch whilst in the air."
Journalists were given a live demonstration of the system and the opportunity to personally experience the broadband connectivity onboard.
About Gulf Air
Founded in 1950, Gulf Air is the proud national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain. As a pioneering airline in the Middle East region with sixty years of experience and expertise in flying people across continents, Gulf Air is today one of the most powerful brands and a name to reckon with in the global aviation industry.
One of the prime objectives of Gulf Air is to connect Bahrain to the Middle East countries and the rest of the world. As such the airline currently operates the largest network in the Middle East with non-stop flights while providing seamless onward connections to other international destinations. The airline's current network stretches from Europe to Asia, connecting 51 cities in 33 countries, with a fleet of 34 aircraft.
In tune with the Kingdom's economic blue print, 'Vision 2030', Gulf Air's strategy is to build an efficient, commercially sustainable and dynamic airline that effectively serves the people and the economy of Bahrain and represents the Kingdom on the world stage. Reflecting the needs and aspirations of its customers, the strategy focuses on three core areas: a targeted, more focused international network, a superior, more consistent product and a modern, more efficient fleet that will optimize value. However, Gulf Air's goal remains unchanged; its commitment to the latest aviation technology complemented by its hallmark Arabian hospitality for which the airline is well known.
Kodak Keeps Consumers Connected with Enhanced KODAK Picture Kiosk Technology
Newest Social Imaging Options Include Ability to Print Images Across Social Networks at Thousands of Retail Locations Worldwide
ROCHESTER, N.Y., Oct. 12, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Eastman Kodak Company (NYSE: EK) is announcing enhancements to its KODAK Picture Kiosk software that allows consumers to use images from their own, as well as from their friends' shared photo albums on social networks and imaging sites such as FACEBOOK, GOOGLE PICASA and KODAK Gallery to create personalized premium photo products right at the KODAK Picture Kiosk. In addition to expanding its social connectivity suite, Kodak is also introducing new KODAK Photo Book and KODAK Personal Greeting designs, the ability to conveniently and safely archive and store their growing image libraries and 38 new Picture Movie DVD song selections.
With more than 140 billion photos stored on FACEBOOK, and nearly 200 million more being uploaded every day(i), social networks have become a primary channel for consumers to view and share images. The enhancements to the KODAK Picture Kiosk software bring a whole new dimension to social image sharing. Consumers can access images from their own photo albums, and from friends' shared albums, to enrich their stories through creative print projects such as KODAK Photo Books, KODAK Personal Greetings, calendars, photo cards and prints.
Kodak initially introduced social network connectivity at the kiosk in 2010. Since that time, consumers have embraced this exciting new connected solution and retailers around the world are rapidly connecting their KODAK Picture Kiosks to this new medium. By the end of the year, more than 30,000 KODAK Picture Kiosks around the world will have this capability, making it even easier for consumers to make lasting prints and photo products that tell stories using their special memories.
"Providing easy access to the broad base of images stored on social networks through the KODAK Picture Kiosk allows consumers to do more than just share images; it lets them create something memorable and permanent in print," said Nicki Zongrone, general manager, Retail Systems Solutions, Eastman Kodak Company. "Social connectivity at the photo kiosk is Kodak innovation that meets consumers' evolving imaging needs while also delivering new experiences that inspire them to share their stories in new ways."
Improved Photo Book Creation Tools
Creating a photo book is even simpler with the new KODAK Picture Kiosk software suite. For consumers who want to make a beautiful photo book quickly, KODAK Picture Kiosks now feature KODAK SmartFit Technology, which perceptively organizes and places photos in a photo book template then let's the consumer decide to print immediately or personalize the layout further. Consumers seeking a more custom photo book can take advantage of the fun new designs and backgrounds, as well as customizable captions. An improved photo book project preview shows pages as they will appear in the actual KODAK Photo Book, allowing consumers to see the end product before they print.
Additionally, Kodak now offers more KODAK Express Photo Book formats: Standard Single-Sided format, which features rich KODAK XTRALIFE Paper, a waterproof and stain-resistant laminated paper designed to last that provides Kodak-quality photographic detail; Standard Duplex format, which allows consumers to create beautiful, double-sided Photo Books; and Premium Duplex format, which delivers the best of both: vibrant, borderless pages of KODAK XTRALIFE Photo Book Paper along with double-sided printing.
New KODAK Personal Greetings designs and Picture Movie DVD songs
Consumers also have access to hundreds of new KODAK Personal Greeting Card designs including new designers and 38 new KODAK Picture Movie DVD songs to choose from for added creativity.
Easy Archiving
The new KODAK Archive DVD offers an easy and convenient way to safely store images and digital videos from digital cameras, USB drives and memory cards, as well as from social sharing sites such as FACEBOOK, on a 4-gigbit DVD. Created easily at the KODAK Picture Kiosk, the KODAK Archive DVD provides a secure, highly compatible format that holds the equivalent of four KODAK Picture CDs and is usable in computers, DVD players and at the KODAK Picture Kiosk.
The new solutions are available today at many retail locations featuring the KODAK Picture Kiosk and KODAK Adaptive Picture Exchange (APEX) systems. Consumers can locate the nearest locations featuring the new tools using the KODAK Picture Kiosk finder on kodak.com.
About Kodak
As the world's foremost imaging innovator, Kodak helps consumers, businesses, and creative professionals unleash the power of pictures and printing to enrich their lives.