VimpelCom Acquired 90% of New Telephone Company, a Mobile Operator in the Far East of Russia
AMSTERDAM and NEW YORK,June 7, 2011/PRNewswire/ -- VimpelCom Ltd. ("VimpelCom" or the "Company") (NYSE: VIP) announced that its subsidiary OJSC VimpelCom acquired 90% of shares of Open Joint-Stock Company "New Telephone Company" ("NTC").
In line with the earlier announcement regarding the acquisition of NTC, VimpelCom has acquired 90% of NTC shares. VimpelCom will launch a mandatory tender offer under Russian law to acquire the remaining 10% of the outstanding NTC shares. Completion of the tender offer is expected to occur in the third quarter of 2011. The acquisition price for 100% of NTC shares is based on an Enterprise Value of US$ 420 million. The major shareholders of NTC are KT Corporation and Summit Telecom Global Management B.V., a subsidiary of Sumitomo Corporation.
NTC is a leading mobile operator in the Primorskiy region of Russia and provides voice and data services through a wide range of wireless, fixed and broadband solutions as well as IPTV and IP-telephony. In 2010, NTC recorded approximately RUR 3.4 billion in revenues and had a mobile subscriber base of approximately 950,000 as of 2010 year-end.
About VimpelCom Ltd.
VimpelCom is one of the world's largest integrated telecommunications services operators offering a wide range of wireless, fixed, and broadband services in Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Armenia, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Algeria, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Burundi, Zimbabwe, Central African Republic, Italy and Canada. VimpelCom's operations around the globe cover territory with a total population of approximately 868 million people. VimpelCom provides services under the "Beeline", "Kyivstar", "djuice", "Wind", "Infostrada" "Mobilink", "Leo", "Banglalink", "Telecel", and "Djezzy" brands. As of March 31, 2011 VimpelCom had 186 million mobile subscribers. VimpelCom is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol (VIP). For more information visit: http://www.vimpelcom.com.
This announcement contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts, and include statements regarding the anticipated completion of the mandatory tender offer. Any statement in this announcement that expresses or implies VimpelCom's intentions, beliefs, expectations or predictions (and the assumptions underlying them) is a forward-looking statement. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including, without limitation, the risk that the expected benefits from the transaction may not materialize as expected. If such risks or uncertainties materialize or such assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and assumptions. Certain other risks that could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in any forward-looking statements include the risk factors described in VimpelCom's proxy statement furnished to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") under cover of Form 6-K on February 15, 2011, VimpelCom's registration statement on Form F-4 filed with the SEC, OJSC VimpelCom's public filings with the SEC, including its Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2009, and other public filings made by the VimpelCom with the SEC, which risk factors are incorporated herein by reference. The forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made as of the date hereof, and VimpelCom expressly disclaim any obligation to update or correct any forward-looking statements made herein due to the occurrence of events after the issuance of this announcement.
GamersFirst Reveals APB Reloaded Features Roadmap at Annual E3 Expo
Global Free2Play Games Publisher Discloses Upcoming Game Improvements
IRVINE, Calif., June 7, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The world leader in Free2Play® massively multiplayer online games, GamersFirst (http://www.gamersfirst.com) today announced a host of new exciting features for its wildly popular cops versus robbers MMO "APB Reloaded" currently in open beta testing.
APB Reloaded is a Free2Play massively multiplayer online third-person shooter game taking place in the modern-day fictional city of San Paro. In a state of near anarchy, players choose between two factions, Enforcers and Criminals, in order to control the city.
During this year's Electronic Entertainment Expo in Los Angeles, GamersFirst released details on upcoming matchmaking system changes, the new Clan Warfare player-versus-player (PvP) combat system, the new asylum district and the new racing district all targeted to be in-game late this year. Currently in open beta testing, APB Reloaded is also being showcasing by GamersFirst for media in booth number 8001.
"Continuing the 'wide open communication' policy we have with our community, this roadmap hints at completely new ways of playing the game," said Bjorn Book-Larsson, Chief Operating Officer of GamersFirst and CEO of Reloaded Productions Ltd. "APB Reloaded is a player conflict-driven MMO, so while the original open district missions with four-player groups was a good starting game mechanic, adding large scale ranked clan fights and completely new mechanics like racing enhances the game's long term appeal and also helps it reach a wider audience. The improved matchmaking system will also provide a better experience for players of all levels."
New Gameplay Mode: Clan Warfare
One of the first changes will be the addition of the Clan Warfare playmode, which pits between eight and 20 clan members against enemy clans in ranked clan death-matches taking place in designated Clan Districts, where the goal is to reach the top of the clan ladder and dominate the city clan rankings. The Clan Warfare system turns Criminals and Enforcers into modern-day gladiators fighting for supremacy, and acts as a nice complement to the pick-up group-style" 4 versus 4 matches played in the normal open world districts, for those who want larger instant-action clan-based gameplay.
Updated Matchmaking System
Going hand-in-hand with the recently released skill-based rating system, the upcoming changes to the matchmaking system will use an improved "quality-score" system to find the best possible matches. In addition, the new district recommendation system will slot players into districts based on average skill rating. The end result is a balanced, powerful PvP match system that reduces the chances of gamers being grossly outmatched, and provides constant well-balanced games for hours on end.
New District: The Asylum
Late in the year the team will add two new district types to San Paro's three current districts. First up is a close-quarters combat district with a new mission mechanic called the Asylum, an abandoned facility just outside the city limits at the center of a raging battle between Criminals and Enforcers. While Criminals want to repurpose the area as a nightly rave spot to strengthen the crime factions, the Enforcers are focused on shutting it down and using it as a staging point for limiting criminal activity in the neighboring Paro City, using any force necessary.
New District: Racing
For players that want to take a break from the fast-paced gun battles of San Paro, the Racing district offers a different kind of explosive action. Players will be able to jump into their own custom-designed vehicles and race head-to-head in a variety of death-race style challenges, where they can win races while blowing up their opponents in creative ways. Designing and customizing the most effective death-race car have never been this much fun.
In the world of San Paro, Criminals and Enforcers battle in an open-world environment to control territories, commit or stop petty crimes, and gain notoriety within their own organizations. Be it on foot or from the driver seat, APB Reloaded melds player-on-player combat within the immersive world of a city on the edge of total chaos. Powered by Epic's Unreal 3 engine, APB Reloaded features a robust set of customization tools second to none, providing gamers the ability to create the exact look of their in-game avatar, character symbols, clothing and even customize cars they drive.
Players can get instant access to the APB Reloaded open beta by creating a GamersFirst account, downloading the GamersFirst Live! game downloader and installing APB Reloaded. Once installed gamers choose a side and then create customized characters that fight over control of San Paro. To get up-to-date information on GamersFirst and APB Reloaded's Community and Fan Pages, check out the following links:
GamersFirst is the leading Free2Play® MMO game publisher in the Western hemisphere. GamersFirst.com serves more than 30 million players in over 160 countries with offices throughout the Americas, Europe and Asia. GamersFirst.com features the hit MMOG's Knight Online, Sword2, War Rock and 9Dragons and the future hits APB Reloaded, Hailan Rising, Victory: Age of Racing and Taikodom: Living Universe. Read more about the company and its games at http://www.GamersFirst.com.
World IPv6 Day. New Numbering Scheme - New Opportunities
LEEDS, England, June 7, 2011/PRNewswire/ -- June 8th is World "IPv6" day. This is the day that many ISP's
and internet access providers make the 'compatibility pledge' or actually
'turn on' IPv6 services. The day is all about sharing the challenges that
IPv6 will bring - from customer support, billing and security as well as the
opportunities - the ability to give every person and every connected 'thing'
a unique internet address. To get all these devices online, more internet
address space is needed. IPv6 is the answer.
Globally, the number of connected users and devices is set to
explode. This is being experienced by aql's wholesale 3g broadband platforms
supporting many of the UK ISP's as they go mobile in order to address the
'Internet of Things' also known as the machine-to-machine 'm2m' marketplace.
Earlier this year, mobile visionary and CEO of Ericsson, Hans
Vestberg, predicted the growth in the number of connected devices to rise
from 5 billion to 50 billion by 2020. Much of this connectivity is fuelled by
innovative new devices in areas such as e-health and logistics. The new IPv6
scheme is essential to allow this level of expansion and the benefits it will
bring.
aql are also the providers of JANET 3G, the 3G mobile data
service for research and innovation, available via the UK's academic
connectivity provider (JANET (UK)). The mobile data service is uniquely
placed to offer support to UK research projects that need mobile internet
connectivity.
aql's pledge to ensure scalable support for connected devices
is to provide IPv6 mobile connectivity before the end of 2011. aql are
already working with leading strategic network operators and ISP's to achieve
this. Internet Minister Ed Vaizey states "It's great to see proactivity and
collaboration to keep Britain on track to support next generation access and
the 'Internet of Things' which will drive the UK technology industry
forward."
There's support from other aql partners - Andy Davidson,
Director of European Operations (Hurricane Electric) adds "Hurricane Electric
are the world's largest IPv6 network backbone, with 1500 connections to other
IPv6 networks and are working closely with aql. We believe IPv6 enabled
services are essential to facilitate the mobile m2m business models and
services of the future, and we look forward to assisting aql shape the new
face of mobile internet."
Dr Adam Beaumont, MD of aql, stated, "As the preferred
connectivity supplier for the academic community, we're keen to support
connected-device projects from inception. aql are also dedicated to
innovation and to working with government initiatives such as 6UK. This,
coupled with our relationship with JANET UK to provide JANET 3G, who offer an
industry-beating m2m tariff, means we can support from prototype to
commercial rollout and be able to fulfill any opportunity."
aql's unique relationship with 3G networks allows aql to
enable any ISP or network operator to layer their own internet addresses onto
aql's rebrandable SIM's. This means that the UK's fixed line ISP's can go
mobile, providing innovative solutions to fixed line customers. aql are
dedicated to ensuring that as the fixed line ISP industry rolls out IPv6,
they can do this in the mobile domain without any problems.
Adrian Kennard, Managing Director of ISP Andrews & Arnold,
"We've been providing IPv6 to customers for 9 years and we welcome the chance
to extend that to mobile data services this year thereby making all of our
services IPv6 and future proof."
Notes to Editor :
About aql(R)
aql should be used in lowercase
About aql: Established in 1998, a UK based, telecommunications
operator. Specialists in providing secure, wholesale access to the fixed and
mobile networks to government, enterprise and to innovators. aql is
responsible for the voice services and numbering on over 42 million numbers,
over 20 UK ISP's, 1 million+ SMS messages per day and over 40 UK MVNO
(virtual mobile) brands. aql own and operate a national data network and
secure datacentres within the UK.
aql(R) is a registered trademark
Press Contact: Dan Ray (Marketing Officer, aql),
Tel: +44(0)1133-20-30-85, Email: Dan.ray@uk.aql.com
Cobra Electronics Continues to Gain Speed and Market Leadership with Cobra iRadar(TM)
Product Expansion, Industry Accolades, and Rapid Retail Expansion Highlight Accelerating Market Opportunities and User Adoption
CHICAGO, June 7, 2011/PRNewswire/ --Cobra Electronics Corporation (NASDAQ: COBR), celebrating 50 years of innovation in 2011 as a leading designer and manufacturer of award-winning consumer and mobile electronics, today announced its Cobra iRadar(TM) Detection System continues to receive prestigious automotive and consumer electronics awards for design and innovation, while growing its retail channel significantly. Cobra iRadar marks an industry first for the radar detection industry, pioneering a new "smart in-car detection system" category.
Cobra iRadar is the industry's most advanced radar/laser/camera detection system, providing Cobra customers with personal safety, driving peace-of-mind, and near real-time safety information updates. The system uses Bluetooth® wireless technology to communicate between an advanced, windshield-mounted radar/laser detector and the Cobra iRadar app, which is currently available at no charge for Apple® iPhone, iPod Touch, and Android(TM) devices. When connected, the app displays radar/laser alerts, allows the user to control detector settings, and alerts the driver to upcoming red light photo enforcement locations.
Product Evolution:
-- October 2010 - Cobra Electronics announced the initial release of Cobra
iRadar for iPhone, marking an industry first for the radar detection
industry and pioneering a new "smart in-car detection system" category,
-- January 2011- At the 2011 International CES show, Cobra announced a
series of enhancements to the platform, including social media-like
crowdsourcing features that allow users to report road safety alerts,
which are shared with the iRadar user community via cloud-based data
services,
-- March 2011 - During the International CTIA Wireless conference, Cobra
Electronics announced the release of Cobra iRadar for Android
smartphones, dramatically expanding the potential user base and market
opportunity for this breakthrough driving safety and information system.
Awards & Industry Accolades:
Cobra iRadar continues to receive a number of the automotive and consumer electronics industries' most prestigious awards for design and innovation, including:
-- November 2010 - New Product Showcase Award - Specialty Equipment Market
Association (SEMA),
-- November 2010 - Cobra iRadar received two SEMA Global Media Awards,
-- January 2011 - Cobra iRadar received two CES Innovations Award honors
from the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA),
-- January 2011- The editors of Mac|Life Magazine, a leading independent
magazine devoted to passionate Mac users, named Cobra iRadar the Most
Innovative Product at the 2011 International CES show in Las Vegas.
Retail Channel Expansion:
Since its market introduction in Q4 2010, Cobra iRadar has experienced strong demand from some of the nation's leading retailers including Apple, Amazon, Best Buy, Crutchfield, Radio Shack, Sears, Walmart, and more. Cobra iRadar is currently available at approximately 45,000 points of distribution across the continental United States at leading retailers.
Cobra iRadar App User Community:
-- Since its debut on the Apple App Store in October 2010, the Cobra iRadar
App has been downloaded by over 70,000 iPhone and iPod Touch users.
-- Cobra iRadar for Android was introduced on the Android Market on April
14, 2011 at https://market.android.com/, and is currently available for
all Android devices.
"As we celebrate our 50th anniversary this year building on '50 Years of Innovation,' the market validation for Cobra iRadar, combined with positive achievements on all fronts, demonstrates the heritage and innovation of Cobra to deliver a category-defining product at the right time to a new smartphone-enabled marketplace," said Sally Washlow, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Cobra Electronics. "Our retail footprint continues to expand rapidly for Cobra iRadar, and the addition of national retail distribution with both Apple and Walmart gives us the caliber of geographic and demographic coverage this breakthrough innovation in automotive safety needs to further accelerate our product awareness and user adoption."
Pricing and availability:
Cobra iRadar for iPhone and Cobra iRadar for Android are currently available at traditional and online retailers nationwide for $129.95 MSRP. The Cobra iRadar app for iPhone is available at no charge via the Apple App Store, and the Cobra iRadar app for Android is available free of charge to Android users via the Android Market. To locate a retailer or learn more, visit http://www.cobrairadar.com.
About Cobra Electronics:
Cobra Electronics is a leading global designer and marketer of communication and navigation products, with a track record of delivering innovative and award-winning products. Building upon its leadership position in the GMRS/FRS two-way radio, radar detector and Citizens Band radio industries, Cobra identified new growth opportunities and has aggressively expanded into the marine market and has expanded its European operations. The Consumer Electronics Association, Forbes and Deloitte & Touche have all recognized Cobra for the company's innovation and industry leadership. To learn more about Cobra Electronics, please visit the Cobra site at http://www.cobra.com. Follow Cobra on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/CobraElectronic and Like Us at http://www.facebook.com/CobraElectronics.
Media Contacts:
Stephen Drusano Chris Kooistra
Skyya Communications Cobra Electronics
(212) 969-1777 (773) 307-8386
stephen.drusano@skyya.com ckooistra@cobra.com
Norman Launches Industry's Most Advanced, Free Malware Cleaner for Consumers and Businesses
FAIRFAX, Va., June 7, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Norman, a leading security company that offers products protecting consumers, enterprises and government, today announced the availability of Norman Malware Cleaner 2.1 for the detection and removal of malicious software affecting personal computers and network devices.
Users may download this next generation, free security utility at http://www.norman.com/downloads/support_tools/en-us, or at the specifically identified Norman link available for local markets around the world.
"More than 80,000 new variants of malware are detected each day," said Audun Lodemel, vice president, Norman Marketing, "Our latest free malware cleaner allows users to rapidly respond to the very latest threats. If users suspect their PC might have an infected file or application, this free malware cleaner should be downloaded immediately."
Examples of frequently encountered malicious software include computer viruses, fake antivirus, deceptive adware, worms, trojans, spyware and rootkits. Most often the goal of criminal malware is to steal valuable personal secrets, such as Social Security numbers, banking logins and passwords, credit card data - even complete identity profiles.
The Norman Malware Cleaner 2.1 offers the industry's most advanced cleaning platform, while tailoring cleanup to specific malware families. A "Quick Scan" mode allows for rapid detection of active malware - usually taking just moments for identification. An intuitive GUI easily displays active operations and results.
"In addition, the malware cleaner uses the award-winning Norman SandBox(R) technology for enhanced detection, analysis and for cleaning the most challenging threats," Lodemel said. "In summary, Norman Malware Cleaner 2.1 offers the very latest malware detection and cleaning technology now available for consumers and businesses."
Founded in Norway in 1984, Norman ASA is a global leader and pioneer in proactive content security solutions and forensics malware tools. Norman's proactive antimalware solutions, including malware analysis tools, network security and endpoint protection, are powered by patented Norman SandBox® technology and used by security solutions providers around the world.
Norman's unified core antimalware protection for clients, servers and network security are delivered as products and services designed to protect business communications and resources, including corporate and government networks and applications, remote employees, branch offices and extranets. Norman's solutions are available through Norman subsidiaries and a network of global partners. For more information, visit http://www.norman.com.
For additional information:
John Callahan
Norman ASA
+1 703 279 6650
Dutch Startup 'twoppy' to Disrupt Mobile Event Guides Market
LEUSDEN, The Netherlands, June 7, 2011/PRNewswire/ -- A world premiere from the Netherlands: twoppy releases a free platform
where an event organiser can create a smartphone event app - let's say a
digital event guide on your mobile phone - and provide it to visitors.
Organisers of an event can add their event information to twoppy, after which
attendees can interactively access via their mobile phone for free.
Affordable for everyone
Until recently an event app was solely affordable for large events with a
correspondingly budget. The advent of twoppy makes this available for
everyone. The simple system requires no technical knowledge and the basic
functionality is completely free. Some premium optional features are
available (e.g. 'branding' of the dashboard, sponsor representation and
analytics).
Suitable for any event type
The twoppy platform is suitable for any type of events: conferences,
fairs, festivals and sports events but also zoos, theme parks, museums, etc.
A number of well-known events such as TEDx Amsterdam conference, A State of
Trance (by Armin van Buuren), Rotterdam Zoo, National Aviation Theme Park
Aviodrome and Amusement Park Bobbejaanland already offer their visitors
program information through twoppy. After three months of operating in the
domestic Dutch and Belgium market, twoppy is expanding globally. The Dutch
entrepreneurs are aiming to become the global communication standard while
organising and visiting events.
How it works
The organiser can easily publish the information on his event through a
content management interface. General information, program items, interactive
map(s) and depending on the type of event: performers, speakers, exhibitors,
artists, attractions, etc. Organisers can adjust the event information at all
times so visitors are always up-to-date. Besides the program information it
is possible for visitors to rate program components, see who else is present
at the event and even send messages to each other within the app. And twoppy
empowers visitors to actively promote the event by sharing information
through social media such as Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin. You can start
creating your mobile event guide at http://www.twoppy.com
To experience the twoppy mobile event guide yourself as a visitor surf to http://m.twoppy.com on your smartphone.
About twoppy
The startup is based in the Netherlands and founded in 2009 and is
officially released on February 15th 2011 in the Netherlands and Belgium
through a web based application suitable for all modern smartphones.
Adform Launches new Generation of Intelligent Banner Advertising
COPENHAGEN, June 7, 2011/PRNewswire/ -- Online advertising is increasingly about technology and valuable
know-how. In a market where tough competition means wildly fluctuating click
rates, the ability to effectively reach the target segment with the right
message at the right time is ever more crucial. With digital marketing
company Adform's new generation of intelligent banner advertisements, the
message can be tailored to the individual user to a degree hitherto unseen.
The so-called AdVise banners are intelligent and can be put together
fully automatically to reflect the interests and customary actions of the
individual internet user. For instance, if a person puts a holiday in China
in his shopping basket without actually buying anything, the banner display
will prioritise offers to the last selected destination over trips to, say,
Crete or Egypt. The advertising travel agency can collate such a wealth of
detail that, for example, online recommendations to friends can also be
included in the prioritisation data and multiple products can be displayed in
the same banner if required. Additionally, all data is updated in real time.
Therefore prices will be 100% correct and sold-out holidays will never be
displayed.
The concept has just been launched internationally under the name Product
Targeting. The solution, available via Adform's online platform, is the
result of major developmental advances in traditional retargeting. A demo of
Product Targeting can be seen here: http://www.adform.com/demo
"Intelligent banner advertisements are most certainly a phenomenon that
we will see a lot more of in the future," says S0ren Notander Clausen,
Digital Director of media agency OMD in Denmark. "This is something that will
enable large companies to substantially reduce their advertising costs by
ensuring effective communication with the right target segment, while at the
same time the consumer has greater interest in receiving messages that he or
she actually finds relevant. This product from Adform offers tremendous
potential."
Lars M. B. Anthonisen, Marketing Director at Adform, adds:
"Unfortunately, display advertising on the net is often mistakenly associated
with costly banner campaigns that are ineffective in reaching the right
target segment. For the advertiser, Product Targeting has a dramatically
positive impact on ROI as it enables the message to be tailored in such a way
as to persuade the modern consumer to react to an advertisement. Our product
is a pioneering innovation in the field of effective marketing."
About Adform
Adform is a leading supplier of products and services within digital
marketing. Founded in 2002, the company now has offices in London, Hamburg,
Stockholm, Oslo, Milan, Wroclaw, Vilnius and Copenhagen. For further
information, please visit http://www.adform.com.
Lars M. B. Anthonisen
Marketing Director
Email: Lars.Anthonisen@adform.com
Phone: +45-3535-7100
Sony Computer Entertainment Announces "PlayStation®Vita" as the Official Name for Next Generation Portable Entertainment System
Wi-Fi Model: 24,980 Yen (including tax), $249 and euro 249
3G/Wi-Fi Model: 29,980 Yen (including tax), $299 and euro 299
Realizes Unparalleled Interactive Network Entertainment
TOKYO, June 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCE) today announced PlayStation®Vita (PS Vita) (PCH-1000 series) as the official platform name for the next generation portable entertainment system (codename: NGP). Wi-Fi model will be available for 24,980 yen (including tax) in Japan, $249 in US and euro 249 in Europe, 3G/Wi-Fi model will be available for 29,980 yen (including tax) in Japan, $299 in US and euro 299 in Europe and successively launch in global market starting the end of 2011.
"Vita," which means "Life" in Latin, was chosen as the most appropriate name for the next generation portable entertainment system as it enables a revolutionary combination of rich gaming and social connectivity within a real world context. SCE is aiming to transform every aspect of user's daily life into an entertainment experience.
PS Vita incorporates a beautiful 5-inch multi-touch organic light emitting diode (OLED) as the front display and a unique multi-touch pad on the rear. Together with the front touch screen and the rear touch pad, PS Vita offers new game play experiences never before seen on any device, allowing users to interact directly with games in three dimension-like motion, through "touch, grab, trace, push and pull" finger motions. Also PS Vita features two analog sticks which enable a wider range of game genres to be brought into the portable experience, such as shooters, action games, and fighting games. Exciting and attractive new titles*1 are scheduled to be released from SCE Worldwide Studios, including "GRAVITY DAZE," "Uncharted Golden Abyss," "Little Deviants," "Hot Shots Golf," "Reality Fighter," "Hustle Kings," "ModNation Racers," "Wipeout 2048" and "Super Stardust Delta," as well as from a broad range of third party game developers and publishers, which will deliver value only possible on PS Vita.
Also, by having both Wi-Fi and 3G network connectivity, together with various applications, PS Vita will enable infinite possibilities for users to "encounter," "connect," "discover," "share" and "play" with friends wherever they are. On January 27, 2011, SCE announced the first PS Vita application, "near," which will come pre-installed. It will let users discover what games PS Vita users in the vicinity are or were recently playing, as well as let users share their game information. "near" also enables location-based gaming features such as "gifting," in which a user can access virtual game-related items that other users are sharing, through checking in at geographic locations that others have also visited. The virtual items can include content unlocked from games, such as character costumes, weapons, and treasures. Sharing these items between users adds a unique dimension to the portable gaming experience on PS Vita while enhancing the social connectivity among the PS Vita community.
Additionally, PS Vita will come pre-installed with a newly developed application called "Party." "Party" is an innovative application for a portable entertainment system which enables users to enjoy voice chat or text chat not only during online gaming, but also when users are playing different games or using different applications such as internet browser. Through "Party," which offers a new form of social networking, and "near," which enables users to share their game information with other users anywhere, anytime, users can dramatically expand the boundaries of interactive communication.
Also a tutorial application called "Welcome Park," developed specifically to guide every user about PS Vita's brand new user interface such as the front touch display and the multi-touch pad on the rear, will come pre-installed. By playing "Welcome Park," users can easily become accustomed to the three dimension-like finger motions used on PS Vita.
SCE will vigorously promote PS Vita towards the launch as the next generation portable entertainment platform and work towards expanding the portable gaming market.*1 Some title names are tentative. Titles may differ by countries and regions.
Platform Name PlayStation(R)Vita
Model number PCH-1000 series
CPU ARM(R) Cortex(TM)-A9 core (4 core)
GPU SGX543MP4+
Approx. 182.0 x 18.6 x 83.5mm
(width x height x depth)
External (tentative, excludes largest
Dimensions projection)
5 inches (16:9), 960 x 544,
Screen Approx. 16 million colors, OLED
------ -------------------------------
Multi touch screen (capacitive
(Touch screen) type)
-------------- -------------------------------
Multi touch pad (capacitive
Rear touch pad type)
Cameras Front camera, Rear camera
Frame rate :
120fps@320x240(QVGA),
60fps@640x480(VGA)
Resolution : Up to 640x480(VGA)
Sound Built-in stereo speakers
Built-in microphone
Six-axis motion sensing system
(three-axis gyroscope, three-
axis accelerometer), Three-
Sensors axis electronic compass
Built-in GPS (3G/Wi-Fi model
Location only)
Wi-Fi location service support
Keys / Switches PS button
Power button
Directional buttons (Up/Down/
Right/Left)
Action buttons (Triangle,
Circle, Cross, Square)
Shoulder buttons (Right/Left)
Right stick, Left stick
START button, SELECT button
Volume buttons (+/-)
Wireless Mobile network connectivity
communications (3G/Wi-Fi model only)
IEEE 802.11b/g/n (n = 1x1)(Wi-
Fi) (Infrastructure mode/Ad-
hoc mode)
Bluetooth(R) 2.1+EDR (A2DP/AVRCP/
HSP?
Slots/Ports PlayStation(R)Vita card slot
----------- --------------------------
Memory card slot
----------------
SIM card slot (3G/Wi-Fi model
only)
------------------------------
Multi-use port (for USB data
communication, DC IN, Audio
[Stereo Out /Mono In], Serial
data communication),
-----------------------------
Headset jack (Stereo mini jack)
(for Audio [Stereo Out /Mono
In])
-------------------------------
Accessory port
--------------
Power Built-In Lithium-ion Battery,
----- -----------------------------
AC adaptor
----------
Supported Music
--------- -----
?MP3 MPEG-1/2 Audio Layer 3,
MP4 (MPEG-4 AAC), WAVE (Linear
AV content PCM)
---------- -------------------------------
format Videos
------ ------
?MPEG-4 Simple Profile (AAC),
H.264/MPEG-4 AVC Hi/Main/
Baseline Profile (AAC)
------------------------------
Photos
------
?JPEG (Exif 2.2.1), TIFF, BMP,
GIF, PNG
-------------------------------
About Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
Recognized as the global leader and company responsible for the progression of consumer-based computer entertainment, Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCEI) manufactures, distributes and markets the PlayStation® game console, the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) handheld entertainment system and the PlayStation®3 (PS3®) system. PlayStation has revolutionized home entertainment by introducing advanced 3D graphic processing, and PlayStation 2 further enhances the PlayStation legacy as the core of home networked entertainment. PSP is a handheld entertainment system that allows users to enjoy 3D games with high-quality full-motion video and high-fidelity stereo audio. PS3 is an advanced computer system, incorporating the state-of-the-art Cell processor with super computer like power. SCEI, along with its subsidiary divisions Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC., Sony Computer Entertainment Europe Ltd., and Sony Computer Entertainment Korea Inc. develops, publishes, markets and distributes software and manages the third party licensing programs for these platforms in the respective markets worldwide. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, SCEI is an independent business unit of the Sony Group.
PlayStation, PS3 and PSP are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. "PSVITA" is a trademark of the same company.
ARM and Cortex are trademarks or registered trademarks of ARM Ltd.
The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. is under license.
All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.
List of Third Party Game Developers and Publishers
As of June 7th, 2011
(in alphabetical order of developer/publisher)
JAPAN
ACQUIRE Corp. Jorudan Co., Ltd.
ALPHA?UNIT CO.,LTD KADOKAWA GAMES, LTD.
Kadokawa Shoten
ALVION Inc. Publishing Co., Ltd.
AQ INTERACTIVE INC. KAGA CREATE CO., LTD
Konami Digital
Entertainment Co.,
AQUAPLUS Co., Ltd Ltd.
ARC SYSTEM WORKS Co.,
Ltd. LEVEL-5 Inc.
ARIKA CO., LTD. MAGES Inc. ?5pb?
Mainichi
ARTDINK CORPORATION Communications Inc.
Marvelous
ASCII MEDIA WORKS Inc. Entertainment Inc.
ASGARD Co., Ltd. media5 Corporation
NAMCO BANDAI Games
Aspect Co., Ltd. Inc.
Nihon Falcom
BROCCOLI Co., Ltd. Corporation
Nippon Ichi Software,
Capcom Co., Ltd? Inc.
NOWPRODUCTION, CO.,
CHUN SOFT CO., Ltd LTD
Codemasters Software
Company Limited OaKs co., L??.
Crafts & Meister Co.,
Ltd. PAON CORPORATION
CyberConnect2 Co., Ltd. POLYGON MAGIC, INC.
CYBERFRONT Corporation PROTOTYPE CO., LTD.
D3 PUBLISHER Inc. Q Entertainment Inc.
DIGITAL WORKS
ENTERTAINMENT INC. SAFARI GAMES., Ltd
Dimps Corporation SEGA CORPORATION
SilverStarJapan Co.,
dorasu corporation Ltd.
SNK PLAYMORE
Edia Co., Ltd. CORPORATION
Sonic Powered co.,
ENTERBRAIN, INC. Ltd.
FromSoftware, Inc. Spike Co., Ltd
Gameloft K.K. SQUARE ENIX Co., Ltd.
GANBARION Co., Ltd. Starfish-SD Inc.
Genki Co., Ltd. SUNCORPORATION
Grasshopper Manufacture
Inc. SystemPrisma Co., Ltd.
GungHo Online
Entertainment, Inc. SystemSoft Alpha Corp.
TECMO KOEI GAMES CO.,
GUST CO., LTD. LTD.
HAMSTER Corporation TGL
HUNEX CO., LTD. TOMY Company, Ltd.
IDEA FACTORY CO., LTD. TOSE CO., LTD.
Ignition Entertainment
Ltd. tri-Ace Inc.
IMAGICA DIGITALSCAPE
Co., Ltd. Ubisoft K.K.
Index Corporation
?Atlus? Views Co., Ltd.
IREM SOFTWARE
ENGINEERING INC. YUKE'S Co., Ltd.
76 companies in total
NORTH
AMERICA
Paramount Digital
Activision, Inc. Entertainment
Capybara Games PopCap Games
"CCP" Powerhead Games
Demiurge Studios Rockster Games
Electronic Arts THQ
Epic Games Inc. Trendy Entertainment
Far Sight Studios Ubisoft(R)
Warner Bros.
Interactive
Frima Entertainment
High Voltage Software 2K Games
Kung Fu Factory 2K Sports
20 companies in total
EUROPE/PAL
Alawar Beatshpers
Allegorithmic, makers of
Substance Blitz Games Studios
Broadsword Publishing
Beatnik Games Limited
Catalyst Outsourcing Rebellion(R)
"CCP" Rockstar Games
Climax Studios Ltd Rubicon Mobile
Codemasters(R) Sanuk Games
Codeplay SEGA
Electronic Arts Sidhe Interactive
Enigma Software
Productions, SL Spinvector
Eurocom Entertainment
Software Stainless Games Ltd
Eutechnyx Ltd StormBASIC Games
Exient Sumo Digital Ltd
Firelight Tech Tag Games
Fresh3D Take2
FUN labs The Game Atelier
Gameloft SA THQ
Gameshastra Tonika Games
Home Entertainment Trine Entertainment
Suppliers PTY Ltd Ltd
Honeyslug Trinigy
Icon Games Tru Blu Games
Ubisoft Entertainment
Impromptu Software Ltd SA
Just Add Water Ltd Umbra
Kuju Doublesix VeeMee
Lexis Numerique ZAPPAR
Mobile Interactive Group
Ltd Zen Studios Ltd
Namco Bandai 2K
NaturalMotion 505 Games
Playerthree Ltd 57 companies in total
SOURCE Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
CONTACT: Patrick Seybold of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc., +1-650-655-7549, patrick_seybold@playstation.sony.com
Sony Computer Entertainment Announces 3D Display to Further Expand the World of 3D on PlayStation®3, Hitting Worldwide Market in Fall 2011
Display Features a Special Mode Where Players Can View Individual, Unique, Full-Screen Images of Gameplay When Playing Two-Player Games
TOKYO, June 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Computer Entertainment (SCE) today announced that it will release a 24-inch 3D Display available this fall in Japan, North America, Europe/PAL territories, and Asian countries/regions. For North America, the 3D Display comes bundled with 3D Glasses, an HDMI cable and the highly anticipated Resistance 3 title from Insomniac Games for PlayStation®3 (PS3®) at an attractive recommended retail price (RRP) of US$499.99. 3D Glasses included in the 3D Display bundle will also be sold separately, concurrently with the 3D Display , at RRP of US$69.99 in USA. Through the introduction of this new product, PS3 users will have easy access to all of their 3D entertainment by simply connecting PS3 to the 3D Display.
The 3D Display features a 24-inch full HD LCD display and, in an industry first for its size*1, the display adopts quad-speed frame sequential display technology that is able to minimize crosstalk*2 distortion, delivering stunningly realistic 3D viewing experiences. The 3D Display supports several 3D formats, including "frame packing," "top and bottom" and "side by side," which will offer users various options for enjoying 3D.
The 3D display offers a broad range of other attractive
features, including:
-- Full high-definition display
The display features high contrast (5000:1), wide
viewing angle (176 degree) high response time (4ms GTG
average), delivering users with crisp high-quality
image in stereoscopic 3D, as well as in 2D.
-- Special feature for two-player mode
Designed to deliver the ultimate gaming experience only
possible on the 3D Display, it utilizes new,
proprietary technology, that allows two players
playing a multi-player game to see individual,
unique, full-screen images of gameplay using the
bundled 3D Glasses and supported software title.
-- High quality sound
The 3D Display adopts stereo 2ch+subwoofer speakers
that can generate a broad range of sound from low
pitch to high pitch. Featuring stereo 2ch
incorporated on the side of the screen, right and left
sides, and subwoofer on the backside of the screen,
users can enjoy games and other entertainment content
with high quality and dynamic sound.
-- Slim, sleek design
Adopting edge-LED lighting as the backlight, the 3D
Display is 35 mm thin (the thickest part) and features
a curved line form factor that is both stylish and
unobtrusive in living spaces, complementing the sleek
design of the PS3 system.
-- 3D Glasses
The 3D Glasses come with a rechargeable lithium ion
battery to enable quick and efficient charging time. A
three minute charge results in three hours of use,
while a 45 minute charge provides 30 hours of use.
-- Versatility for the supported devices
Along with 3D Glasses, the 3D Display comes bundled
with an HDMI cable to provide high-definition 3D
entertainment out of the box. The display adopts two
HDMI input connectors, allowing users to connect the
display to the PS3 system as well as to other HDMI-
supported device*3. Some devices including
PlayStation(R)2 and PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable) can be
connected to the 3D Display by using a component input
connector.
-- Other features
With quick start-up mode, users will only have to wait
for one second after pushing the power button to boot
the display. The 3D Display also offers a power
saving mode which shifts to auto standby if it does
not receive a video signal for more than five seconds.
Additionally users can utilize the separately sold BD
remote control (CECH-ZRC1), incorporating infrared
transmission to operate the 3D Display remotely.
Through the introduction of new peripherals, SCE will continue to further expand the PS3 platform and create a new world of computer entertainment that is only possible on PlayStation.
*1 Researched by SCE. As of June 5, 2011.
*2 Bleeding of the left and right image thus creating image ghosting
*3 The connected device needs to support stereoscopic 3D to enjoy 3D content.
Product Outline
3D Display
----------
Product name 3D Display
------------ ----------
Product code CECH-ZED1
------------ ---------
Release date To be announced by regions after fall, 2011
------------ -------------------------------------------
499.99$US (North America) The price in other
countries and regions will be announced by
Recommended regions when ready.
retail price ---------------------------------------------
------------
Display Screen size: 23.5 inch
------- ----------------------
Panel type: VA
--------------
Optimal Resolution 1920 x 1080
-----------------------------------
Colors About 16.7 Million
--------------------------------------
Viewing Angle 176 degrees/176 degrees
(Contrast over 10:1)
--------------------------------------------
Color Gamut(CIE1931) 72%
-------------------------
Contrast Ratio 5000:1
-----------------------------
Response time 4ms (GTG)*
-------------------------------
Backlight Type Edge type, white LED
------------------------------------------
Sound output Stereo 2ch (full range, 3W x 2, 28mm)
------------ -------------------------------------
Sub Woofer (5W, 50mm)
---------------------
Inputs HDMI x 2
------ --------
Video: digital GBR/Y Cb(Pb) Cr(Pr)
----------------------------------
Sound: PCM 2ch(32kHz 44.1kHz 48kHz)
-----------------------------------
Component x 1
-------------
Pin jack Y 1Vp-p 0.3V Pb/Pr Cb/Cr 350mVp-p
------------------------------------------
Pin jack 2channel 500mVrms Impedance more than
47kW
----------------------------------------------
Outputs Headphone out x 1
------- -----------------
3.5mm stereo mini jack
----------------------
Support IR remote control with BD remote control
Others (CECH-ZRC1)
------ ------------------------------------------------
Electric source AC100 ~ 240V 50/60Hz
--------------- --------------------
Power
consumption 45W (2D viewing mode)
------------ ---------------------
Standby mode; less than 0.2W
----------------------------
Mass 5.7kg (stand included)
---- -----------------------
4.6kg (stand excluded)
-----------------------
Dimensions W 650 x H 391 x D 207 mm (stand included)
---------- -----------------------------------------
W 650 x H 346 x D 35 mm (stand excluded)
------------------------------------------
Included Power code (1.5m) x 1
-------- ---------------------
3D Glasses set (3D Glasses, Pouch, USB
Cable(Type A-micro B, 0.2m)) x 1
--------------------------------------
HDMI cable (2.0m) x 1
---------------------
PS3 Software title Resistance 3 x 1*
------------------------------------
* Items included in the bundle may vary by regions.
3D Glasses
----------
Product name 3D Glasses
------------ ----------
Product code CECH-ZEG1
------------ ---------
After Fall 2011, release simultaneously with 3D
Release date Display
------------ -----------------------------------------------
69.99$US (North America). The price in other
Recommended countries and regions will
retail price --------------------------------------------
------------ be announced by regions when ready.
-----------------------------------
Mass About 45g
---- ---------
Dimensions W 174x H 41 x D 177 mm (in use)
---------- -------------------------------
W 174 x H 41 x D 60 mm (folded)
-------------------------------
About 3 hours for 3 minutes rapid charging,
Battery time about 30 hours for
------------ -------------------------------------------
45 minutes charging
-------------------
Included Pouch x1
-------- --------
USB Cable for charging (Type A-micro B 0.2m) x1
-----------------------------------------------
About Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
Recognized as the global leader and company responsible for the progression of consumer-based computer entertainment, Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCEI) manufactures, distributes and markets the PlayStation® game console, the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) handheld entertainment system and the PlayStation®3 (PS3®) system. PlayStation has revolutionized home entertainment by introducing advanced 3D graphic processing, and PlayStation 2 further enhances the PlayStation legacy as the core of home networked entertainment. PSP is a handheld entertainment system that allows users to enjoy 3D games, with high-quality full-motion video, and high-fidelity stereo audio. PS3 is an advanced computer system, incorporating the state-of-the-art Cell processor with super computer like power. SCEI, along with its subsidiary divisions Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC., Sony Computer Entertainment Europe Ltd., and Sony Computer Entertainment Korea Inc. develops, publishes, markets and distributes software, and manages the third party licensing programs for these platforms in the respective markets worldwide. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, SCEI is an independent business unit of the Sony Group.
PlayStation and PSP are registered trademarks and PS3 is a trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.
SOURCE Sony Computer Entertainment
Sony Computer Entertainment
CONTACT: Patrick Seybold, +1-650-655-7549, patrick_seybold@playstation.sony.com
Sony Computer Entertainment America Unveils Exciting Details About Next Generation Hardware and Exclusive Software
SCEA Continues Long-Standing Tradition of Delivering Groundbreaking Technology and Unrivaled Content at the 2011 E3 Media & Business Summit
LOS ANGELES,June 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC. (SCEA) today announced at its annual press conference at the E3 Media & Business Summit in Los Angeles, Calif., a stunning line-up of PlayStation® products, services and exclusive content that will change the way consumers experience their favorite games and entertainment at home and on-the-go.
"We are dedicated to providing our consumers with the types of entertainment offerings that have made PlayStation a definitive leader in the gaming and portable entertainment industries for more than 15 years," said Jack Tretton, CEO and President of SCEA. "With the official North American unveiling of PlayStation®Vita as well as the introduction of an extensive line-up of software, hardware and services, the PlayStation platform has never been stronger or more exciting for our customers. We believe that 2011 will be a defining year as we usher in a new era of portable gaming and drive widespread adoption of 3D through our content and hardware offerings."
Introducing PlayStation®Vita
In March 2005, the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system defined new standards in portable entertainment and provided game enthusiasts worldwide with a new way to experience games outside of their living room. The PSP system broke through traditional boundaries then and has gone on to sell more than 70 million units since its launch. In January, Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCE) announced a new portable device for a new generation of gamers --- the next generation portable entertainment system (codename: NGP).
Today, SCE announced PlayStation®Vita (PS Vita) as the official platform name for NGP. A Wi-Fi model will be available for 24,980 yen (including tax) in Japan, $249 MSRP in US and euro 249 in Europe, while a 3G/Wi-Fi model will be available for 29,980 yen (including tax) in Japan, $299 MSRP in US and euro 299 in Europe. PS Vita will launch in the global market starting at the end of 2011.
Derived from the Latin word "Vita," which means "Life," this next generation portable entertainment system enables a revolutionary combination of rich gaming and social connectivity within a real world context.
The PS Vita system incorporates a beautiful 5-inch multi-touch organic light emitting diode (OLED) as the front display and a unique multi-touch pad on the rear. Together with the front touch screen and the rear touch pad, the PS Vita system offers new game play allowing users to interact directly with games in three dimension-like motion, through "touch, grab, trace, push and pull" finger motions. Also the PS Vita system features two analog sticks which enable a wider range of game genres to be brought into the portable experience.
In addition to the PS Vita system pricing, SCEA also revealed today that AT&T, which powers the nation's fastest mobile broadband network, will be the exclusive service provider in the United States for the PS Vita system. The speed and coverage of AT&T's mobile broadband network will ensure that PS Vita system users will remain connected to content and each other on the go.
On the content front, SCEA showcased a robust collection of software titles developed exclusively for the PS Vita system. Featured titles including UNCHARTED: Golden Abyss(TM), LittleBigPlanet(TM) and Ruin (working title) utilize the platform's groundbreaking technology to make unprecedented immersive, interactive and social game play available on-the-go. UNCHARTED: Golden Abyss takes full advantage of PS Vita's stunning OLED screen to deliver vibrant cinematic visuals and combines input from the front-touch screen and dual-analog sticks to create the most intuitive 3rd person shooter experience available on a portable system. Also making use of PS Vita's unique feature set, LittleBigPlanet allows users to Play, Create and Share like never before with the system's front touch screen and rear touch pad as well as its front and rear cameras. Finally, Ruin brings the ultimate social action RPG experience and also delivers interoperable compatibility for players to save their game on the PS Vita system and continue on at home using the PlayStation®3 (PS3(TM)) system. Adding to this selection of innovative games, SCEA unveiled a collection of PS Vita titles that will be available including wipEout®, ModNation(TM) Racers, Reality Fighter (working title), Super Stardust(TM) Delta, Sound Shapes, Hot Shots Golf®, Hustle Kings(TM) and more.
Additionally, conference attendees received a look at Capcom's STREET FIGHTER® x TEKKEN® for the PS Vita system which will feature Cole MacGrath as a playable character from the popular PS3 franchise, inFAMOUS(TM).
PlayStation®3 system
Currently in its fifth year, the PlayStation®3 (PS3(TM)) system continues to experience tremendous momentum, recently surpassing 50 million units sold worldwide. To-date, more than 2,300 games have been made available for PS3 including 108 stereoscopic 3D titles and 184 PlayStation®Move titles, and that momentum continues into 2012. Expanding PS3 system's industry-leading catalog of stereoscopic 3D games, SCEA presented a selection of new entries from fan-favorite series featuring full stereoscopic 3D support including UNCHARTED 3: Drake's Deception(TM), Resistance®3 and God of War®: Origins Collection. SCEA also announced the return of one of PlayStation's most beloved franchises, Sly Cooper®: Thieves in Time(TM), which will treat players to an all-new adventure in stereoscopic 3D featuring classic characters, Sly, Murray and Bentley. In addition, SCEA introduced new titles utilizing the innovative PlayStation Move controller to deliver unique motion gaming experiences such as Everybody Dance(TM), Carnival Island (working title), and Medievil Moves: Deadmund's Quest(TM).
In addition to an unprecedented line-up of first-party titles, third-party support for the PS3 system has never been stronger. Content shown at the conference includesthe highly-anticipated first-person shooter BioShock Infinite from 2K and Irrational Games which will support the PlayStation Move motion controller, and will also include the original BioShock on the PS3 Blu-ray disc.
Additional exclusive content that will only be found on the PS3 system was announced for titles including Saint's Row: The Third from THQ, Electronic Arts' SSX(TM), Need for Speed(TM) TheRun, and Battlefield 3(TM). For Battlefield 3, the PS3 version promises to be bigger than any other as Electronic Arts will be using the extra storage capacity of the Blu-ray to add a second game to the disc, Battlefield 1943, one of the most popular games available on PlayStation®Network.
Innovations in stereoscopic 3D
As a leader in 3D entertainment and gaming, SCEA kicked off the 2011 press conference at E3 on the world's largest 3D screen - showcasing a breadth of first- and third-party titles coming this year in 3D that is unmatched.
SCE today also announced the upcoming availability of the new PlayStation branded 3D Display. The 24-inch full HD LCD display will give PS3 users easy, affordable access to stereoscopic 3D entertainment. Available this fall, the 3D Display comes bundled with 3D Glasses, an HDMI cable and the highly anticipated Resistance 3 title from Insomniac Games for PlayStation®3 (PS3®) at an attractive recommended retail price (MSRP) of US$499.99. The 3D Glasses will also be sold separately, concurrently with the 3D Display launch for MSRP of US$69.99.
Designed to deliver the ultimate gaming experience, the 3D Display comes equipped with a special two-player feature, which allows two players playing a multi-player game to see individual, unique, full-screen images of gameplay using the bundled 3D Glasses and supported software title.
PlayStation®Network
With more than 77 million accounts worldwide, PlayStation®Network continues to be one of the largest networked entertainment platforms in the world and is the premier destination for games, TV and movies, sports and music entertainment. Today, SCEA announced that coming this fall , BestBuy's CinemaNow video service will be accessible to PS3 owners, providing consumers with access to more than 12,000 of their favorite TV episodes and movies for rental or purchase.
Publisher support for PlayStation Network continues to remain strong as CCP introduced a new PlayStation Network exclusive title, Dust 514®, which will feature PlayStation Move support and also be made available for the PS Vita system. Another exciting game coming exclusively to the PS3 system and PlayStation Network in 2012 is Star Trek(TM) from Paramount Digital Entertainment. The game, which continues the adventure that director and producer J.J. Abrams envisioned with Star Trek(TM) (2009), boasts a story filled with action- packed combat and will be fully PlayStation Move enabled. Paramount Digital Entertainment will also offer an exclusive prequel to the game only on PlayStation Network.
About Sony Computer Entertainment LLC.
Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC. continues to redefine the entertainment lifestyle with its PlayStation® and PS one® game console, the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) handheld entertainment system, the ground-breaking PlayStation®3 (PS3(TM)) computer entertainment system and its online and network services the PlayStation®Network and PlayStation®Store. Recognized as the undisputed industry leader, Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC. markets the PlayStation family of products and develops, publishes, markets and distributes software for the PS one, PlayStation 2, PSP and PS3 systems for the North American market. Based in Foster City, Calif., Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC. serves as headquarters for all North American operations.
*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.
PlayStation, PS3 and PSP are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.
SOURCE Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC
Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC
CONTACT: Patrick Seybold of Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC., +1-650-655-7549, patrick_seybold@playstation.sony.com
Kornit Digital to Launch its New Kornit Avalanche Printer at ShanghaiTex 2011 Event
ROSH-HA' AYIN, Israel, June 7, 2011/PRNewswire/ -- Kornit Digital, a leading-edge company that develops, manufactures and
markets high-speed industrial and commercial digital inkjet printers,
superior pigmented ink and unique chemistry solutions for the textile
industry, announced today The Asian launch of its Kornit Avalanche industrial
Direct-To-Garment printer at ShanghaiTex 2011 Event in Shanghai, China on
June 14-17.
The Kornit Avalanche is a dual-pallet industrial digital inkjet
printer for mass production of light and dark garments. With an extremely
innovative and robust industrial platform, designed for printing vast
quantities in a high-level production environment, the Kornit Avalanche is
capable of printing at an impressive rate which ultimately reduces costs by
shorter turnaround times and production schedules. As a part of its
dual-bridge platform technology, specifically designed for industrial
production of extremely large quantities, the Kornit Avalanche includes 12
print heads (8 CMYK + 4 White) and demonstrates an unparalleled ability to
generate four-color process prints at lightening speed.
Kornit continues to explore how to improve its solutions and make
them friendlier to the environment adapting to the green environmental
policies. The Kornit Avalanche uses Kornit's new V323 ink series, which is
the first digital textile ink that is formaldehyde- free.
The Kornit Avalanche features the largest printing area in the
marketplace (up to 23.5" x 35") and is ideal for XXL garments and cut pieces.
Like other Kornit models, the Avalanche 951 includes Kornit's PreT, an
integrated automatic, pre-treatment system. The PreT system eliminates the
need for a secondary operation or outsourcing, and allows capital savings on
equipment, labor, space & other operational utilities.
"We at Kornit are committed to constantly seeking to improve our
products and to adapt to the growing demands of the textile printing market.
With the Avalanche, Kornit Digital exclusively meets a growing market need
for fast turnaround, high profitability and low printing costs"; says Sarel
Ashkenazi, VP Marketing & Business Development at Kornit Digital. "We can now
assist finished garment decorators to achieve their goals by enabling faster,
more profitable productions using the Kornit Avalanche ".
About Kornit Digital
Kornit Digital is a dynamic, leading edge company that develops,
manufactures and markets state-of-the-art solutions for the textile industry.
Founded in 2003, Kornit Digital is a privately held and venture-backed
company with offices in the United States, Asia, Europe and Israel, that
operates a wide marketing and support network around the world. With a
globally installed base, Kornit Digital is dedicated to providing its
customers with cutting-edge solutions that assure high-quality, innovative
and profitable results.
New Start-up Market Incubation Program Offers Foreign and Early-Stage Manufacturers a Fast, Complete Solution for Entering the North American Market
New program includes U.S. office, national distribution, warehousing & logistics, and channel marketing
AGOURA HILLS, Calif., June 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Global Marketing Partners, Inc. today announced the launch of its U.S.A. Quick-Start Program, a turn-key market-entry solution for foreign-based and early-stage entertainment technology and consumer electronics manufacturers. This full service provides a California office suite and conference area with front office staff on a part or full-time basis, warehouse and logistics services utilizing best-in-class ISO 9000-rated facilities, and expedited national distribution servicing 40,000 plus resellers. Extended services also include Global's USA Go-Guide, a custom market research, strategy and planning package; channel marketing and product launch programs; participation in the company's new on-line promo catalog for resellers; and a suite of channel business intelligence tools.
"For years, we've seen foreign and early-stage companies struggle to gain a foothold in the American market. This complete package allows them to quickly establish a U.S. point of presence they need and sets them up right away with top distributors and resellers," says Tony Esfandiari, Global's CEO.
Companies needing a U.S. or West Coast office can enjoy a fully-furnished office with high-speed Internet connection, dedicated phone lines, conference rooms, front office staff, and other amenities. Office space can be leased based on a short or long-term basis. The office compound is located in the Global Technology Center, adjoining Global Marketing Partners' corporate office in Agoura Hills, California. Centrally-located in Los Angeles County and situated amidst the Conejo Valley Technology Corridor, which boasts over 200 technology companies and 30,000 technology employees, Agoura Hills is a comfortable driving distance from both Los Angeles International and Bob Hope Airports.
Global's third-party warehouse and logistics services are powered by Ingram Micro Logistics(TM) through Ingram Micro's 800,000 sq ft. warehouse facility in Mira Loma, California. Services include product receipt (carton, pallets and container unload), storage, pick pack and ship, custom labeling, re-kitting, and more.
Expedited distribution set-up is provided through Global's managed exclusive emerging vendor start-up programs with Ingram Micro U.S.A., Ingram Micro Canada, Ingram Micro Latin America, and Navarre Corporation. Approved vendors receive catalog listings, with drop-ship to the distributor's warehouse or direct to the customer, access to 40,000 plus resellers, point-of-sale reports, reseller tracking, co-op marketing, sales, and technical support training opportunities.
About Global Marketing Partners, Inc.
Global Marketing Partners, Inc. is a full-solution marketing incubator and distributor of emerging technology products. The company focuses on innovative companies in their early growth stages, including emerging and mid-market domestic manufacturers and software developers, as well as foreign-based I.T. suppliers. Global's services include U.S. market preparation, warehousing and logistics, expedited distribution programs through tier-1 I.T. distributors, and channel marketing.
The Highway 101 corridor is shaping up to become one of the top-50 metropolitan areas in the United States for technology output. Development of diverse telecommunications, Internet, biomedical and interactive technology companies has created a fully-emerging technology region. The emerging Highway 101 high-tech corridor dominated the 2000 list of finalists on Deloitte & Touche's list of the fastest-growing technology companies in the Los Angeles area. Twenty of the 50 finalists are located along Highway 101 from Calabasas through Santa Barbara County.
SOURCE Global Marketing Partners, Inc.
Global Marketing Partners, Inc.
CONTACT: Paige La Belle, pressbox@globalwrx.com, Phone: +1-818-713-2700 X 1015, Mobile: +1-818-694-0007, Fax: +1-818-713-2701
Fire & Ice Offers Creative Jewelry and Collectibles at Second Location in the AIRMALL® at BWI
BALTIMORE, June 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- AIRMALL® USA,the leading airport concessions developer in North America and operator of the AIRMALL at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), is pleased to announce the opening of the airport's second Fire & Ice location, offering its original collections of hand-crafted jewelry and gems, art glass, fossil specimen, woods, crystal formations and more created by artists across the United States and Canada. This new unit is located on Concourse D.
"From stunning art glass to unique carvings and beautiful jewelry and gems, Fire & Ice is a perfect solution for travelers looking for great gifts on-the-go," said Brett Kelly, vice president of AIRMALL Maryland. "At the AIRMALL, we are pleased to announce the opening of this second unit, giving travelers even greater access to the store's vast array of collectibles."
With a passion for the natural sciences and art glass, Fire & Ice seeks to preserve traditional techniques from all corners of the world, working to support cultures threatened by modern pressures to assimilate. This drives the company to continue seeking out new examples of "Fascinating...Creative...Unique." Since 1980, Fire & Ice has expanded to 12 locations reaching from Natick, Mass. to Tyson's Corner, Va.
The original Fire & Ice unit at BWI opened in May of 2005. Located in the Concourse A/B Food Court, this unit was recognized with a national award for "Best Airport Retail Store Design."
AIRMALL® USA is the developer and manager of the retail, food and beverage operations at Pittsburgh International Airport, Boston Logan International Airport (Terminals B and E), Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, and Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. The leading airport concessions model in North America, AIRMALL USA continues to boast the highest per-passenger spend on the continent and consistently receives accolades for innovation and customer service. AIRMALL USA is owned by Prospect Capital Corporation, a leading New York investment company founded in 1988. For more information on AIRMALL USA, visit http://www.airmall.com.
Contact: Jeff Donaldson for AIRMALL USA
412-642-7700
jeff.donaldson@elias-savion.com
ATLANTA, June 6, 2011/PRNewswire/ --Homebuilders who are still searching for ROI from social marketing are in luck. With the release of the second edition of Social Media for Home Builders 2.0: It's Easier Than You Think, they will learn how to build an effective social marketing program using blogs, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and other tools. Author Carol M. Flammer, MIRM, CAPS, CSP helps readers understand social media and construct a strategic plan for attracting more prospects, following up on leads and closing on more homes.
Released by BuilderBooks, the publishing arm of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), the book includes case studies showing results ranging from a 25-300 percent increase in website traffic, to increased customer referrals through using social media.
Social Media for Home Builders 2.0: It's Easier Than You Think, speaks specifically to the needs of the real estate industry, and teaches home builders how to build a social media presence from the ground up. The updated edition includes even more examples, details and strategies than the first edition, featuring examples of specific social media campaigns and their sales results by builder type; sample tweets and Twitter campaigns to draw foot traffic to homes and communities; and new research on how people are using social media.
Flammer outlines in a clear, concise style how to engage consumers through social media. She provides content suggestions for creating and maintaining a blog, and includes real-life examples of successful blogs that have attracted readers. Flammer also provides details on how to:
-- Improve search engine optimization (SEO)
-- Gain Facebook friends and Twitter followers
-- Find the right social media groups
-- Run social media campaigns
-- Optimize websites, blogs and other social networking sites
-- Track, analyze and improve results
Carol Flammer is a public relations and social media marketing expert, strategist and consultant. With 20 years of experience, Carol has established herself as the "go to" person for real estate and construction products public relations and social media. Carol is the founder of Atlanta Real Estate Forum, president of Flammer Relations, Inc., and managing partner of mRELEVANCE, LLC, an Internet marketing, social media and public relations firm with offices in Atlanta and Chicago.
Social Media for Home Builders 2.0: It's Easier Than You Think is available for purchase at http://www.BuilderBooks.com.
Buyables, LLC Invites Shoppers to Experience New Online Shopping Site
WILMINGTON, Del., June 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Buyables is a brand new start-up, e-commerce venture and its research and development team needs savvy shoppers to test out its new online shopping site.
The team at Buyables is currently working to provide a unique and much improved online shopping experience.
Currently in its BETA phase, Buyables is offering all shoppers who are willing to test out this new site 10 percent cash back on purchases as well as free shipping anywhere within the U.S.
So, how does it work? When a Buyables shopper makes their purchase, after order confirmation, he or she receives an automatic cash deposit into their account for 25 percent of the purchase price. That amount may then be used toward any future purchases.
For example, if a shopper purchases an Apple iPad 2 for $400, a $100.00 sum is deposited into the shopper's account for future purchases.
To date, most products sold have been in the personalized gifts, gadgets and electronics categories.
"We've been collecting data as it comes in," says Ahmed Nitul, CEO of Buyables. "For the most part, we've been seeing shoppers who are located within the U.S. and are 21 and older. This is working out well because this is the group that we are working to target."
As another incentive to try the site, Buyables is also offering an additional 25 percent discount on all first orders. Shoppers simply need to enter the coupon code "S2P."
Regular consumers may still place an order, but only registered users will earn the 10 percent cash-back rewards.
About Buyables
Buyables is a Delaware-based limited liability company that sells a wide array of products, up to 75 percent off. Products include: gift items, electronics, apparel and virtual goods.
While free shipping is currently offered in the U.S., products may be shipped worldwide.
Xbox 360 World Premieres Biggest Blockbuster Games and Entertainment
Major publishers unveil Kinect support, including Ubisoft's Tom Clancy series of games, Electronic Arts' "Mass Effect 3," "Madden NFL," "Tiger Woods PGA TOUR" and "FIFA"; UFC comes to Xbox 360.
LOS ANGELES, June 6, 2011/PRNewswire/ -- Today, on the eve of the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3), Microsoft Corp. premiered a spectacular lineup of new games, demonstrating that Xbox 360 continues to deliver the biggest hits and blockbuster experiences--bar none. This year, Microsoft showcased a host of new groundbreaking exclusive titles on Xbox 360, including "Gears of War 3," "Forza Motorsport 4" and the world premiere trailer for "Halo 4." In addition, Microsoft debuted the next installment of the famed "Fable" franchise with "Fable: The Journey," a game imagined from the ground up for Kinect on Xbox 360 by famed developer Peter Molyneux. Fans were also treated to a preview of the Kinect-powered historical epic, "Ryse," created by acclaimed developer Crytek GmbH. Finally, Microsoft revealed that this winter, "Minecraft," the independent PC game phenomenon, is making its console debut exclusively on Xbox 360.
In 2010, the controller-free magic and instant fun of Kinect for Xbox 360 captivated consumers all over the world, making it the fastest-selling consumer electronics device in history. This year, millions of Kinect owners will use their entire body to experience the world's most iconic entertainment brands through "Kinect: Disneyland Adventures," "Kinect Star Wars" and "Sesame Street: Once Upon a Monster." Fans will also get their bodies in motion while playing the successors to the platform's best-selling titles, "Dance Central 2" and "Kinect Sports: Season Two."
In addition, Kinect Fun Labs, a new hub showcasing the latest Kinect innovations, was unveiled and is available to all Xbox LIVE members starting today. Create magical moments with never before seen Kinect technology, including player capture, object scanning and finger tracking. Kinect Fun Labs will launch with four Gadgets: Kinect Me, Bobble Head, Build A Buddy and Kinect Googly Eyes. More experiences will begin arriving in July, including Avatar Kinect and Kinect Sparkler.
With Kinect and Xbox LIVE, Third-Party Blockbuster Games Are Best on Xbox 360
The industry's best creators and publishers demonstrated their commitment to immerse Xbox fans even deeper in the action. On Microsoft's E3 stage, Ubisoft announced that all future Tom Clancy games will be Kinect-enhanced including "Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Future Soldier." Microsoft further delighted audiences with the first public demonstration of "Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3" and reminded them that in 2011 and again in 2012, all "Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3" add-on content will launch first on Xbox 360.
EA SPORTS announced Kinect support for several of its blockbuster titles in 2012, including "Tiger Woods PGA TOUR," "Madden NFL" and "FIFA." In the next 12 months, EA also has several additional titles that will feature Kinect, including "The Sims(TM) 3 Pets," "Family Game Night 4" and what is sure to be one of the biggest games of 2012, "Mass Effect 3."
"For Xbox, games have always been at the heart of who we are: the world's biggest blockbusters, enduring stories from the world's best storytellers and innovative entertainment experiences that you can't find anywhere else," said Phil Spencer, corporate vice president of Microsoft Studios. "Whether it's Kinect games like 'Kinect Star Wars' and 'Kinect: Disneyland Adventures,' or the latest installments of our most acclaimed and anticipated exclusive franchises like 'Gears of War 3' and 'Halo 4,' our existing fans, and new ones alike, will find something here to delight them and their families."
Ultimate Fighting Championship Comes to Xbox 360 and Xbox LIVE
In addition to all the best titles on Xbox 360, Microsoft also announced new blockbuster entertainment, teaming up with UFC. Starting this fall, Xbox LIVE Gold Members can subscribe to UFC to access live pay-per-view matches, classic fights, interviews and exclusive behind-the-scenes looks into the lives of the world's greatest fighters; it's access to the octagon in an all-new interactive way.
With games and entertainment for every member of the household, Xbox 360 continues to bring the best in interactive entertainment to living rooms around the world with the following:
-- "Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3" (Infinity Ward, Sledgehammer Games).
The best-selling first-person action series of all time returns with the
epic sequel to the record-setting, blockbuster phenomenon "Call of Duty:
Modern Warfare 2."
-- "Dance Central 2" (Harmonix Music Systems Inc., Microsoft Studios).
Following up to the best-selling dance game for Kinect, Harmonix expands
the full-body dance game universe with "Dance Central 2," which provides
new multiplayer experiences and all-new routines set to an unstoppable
soundtrack, featuring Usher, Rihanna, La Roux, Nicki Minaj, Montell
Jordan and more. Meet the crews and dance collaboratively with friends
in Perform It! or challenge them to a simultaneous head-to-head Dance
Battle to determine dance floor supremacy.
-- "Fable: The Journey" (Lionhead Studios, Microsoft Studios).Set five
years after the events of "Fable III," "Journey" takes you on a magical
journey with only your loyal horse at your reins, Theresa, the
mysterious seer of "Fable III," by your side, and a malevolent evil to
defeat before it claims all of Albion. With the power of Kinect for Xbox
360, craft and control magic in a way that can't be done with a
controller. "Fable: The Journey" draws players deep into the action and
adventure of the "Fable" franchise like never before.
-- "Forza Motorsport 4" (Turn 10 Studios, Microsoft Studios). The
highest-rated racing franchise of this generation returns, delivering
the most expansive and vividly realistic automotive experience across
any console. With genre-defining controller-based racing, game-changing
Kinect experiences, such as head tracking, and new social features that
connect players in ways no other racing game can, "Forza Motorsport 4"
is transforming the racing category.
-- "Gears of War 3" (Epic Games, Microsoft Studios). "Gears of War 3" wraps
up the ambitious trilogy starring Marcus Fenix and Delta Squad. With
civilization in ruins, Delta Squad must wage brutal war on two fronts in
order to save their world. "Gears of War 3" continues to innovate with
new multiplayer experiences on Xbox LIVE,* including the genre-defining
cooperative campaign mode and the return of five-player Horde mode.
Surpassing more than 1 million copies pre-sold to date, "Gears of War 3"
hits store shelves on Sept. 20, 2011, worldwide, except for Japan, where
copies go on sale Sept. 22, 2011.
-- "Halo 4" (343 Industries, Microsoft Studios). "Halo 4" is the next
blockbuster installment in the iconic franchise that's shaped
entertainment history and defined a decade of gaming. Set in the
aftermath of "Halo 3," Master Chief returns to confront his own destiny
and face an ancient evil that threatens the fate of the entire universe.
A new trilogy begins when "Halo 4" releases in 2012.
-- "Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary" (343 Industries/Microsoft Studios,
Saber Interactive, Certain Affinity). Created in celebration of the 10th
anniversary of one of the most beloved franchises in gaming history,
"Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary" is a spectacularly re-mastered
version of the original "Halo" campaign, bundled with some of the most
beloved multiplayer maps in "Halo" history reimagined for Xbox LIVE.*
Releasing only on Xbox 360 on Nov. 15, 2011, "Halo: Combat Evolved
Anniversary" will include a bounty of new features, including
cooperative play over Xbox LIVE, new challenges and new fiction to
uncover.
-- "Kinect Sports: Season Two" (Rare, Big Park Games, Microsoft Studios).
The sequel to last year's No. 1 hit for Kinect is back with more
full-body action, featuring six new sports: American football, golf,
baseball, winter skiing, darts and tennis. Whether you want to go for a
hole-in-one in golf, throw a Hail Mary touchdown pass in American
football or compete against a friend during a few sets of tennis,
"Kinect Sports: Season Two" has something to appeal to everyone.
-- "Kinect Star Wars" (Terminal Reality, LucasArts/Microsoft
Studios).Drawing on iconic action from many of the "Star Wars" major
motion pictures, "Kinect Star Wars" allows to you to physically
experience training and battling as a Jedi, using the Force and battling
with a lightsaber like never before, thanks to the full-body recognition
of Kinect.
-- "Kinect: Disneyland Adventures" (Frontier Developments Ltd., Microsoft
Studios). This holiday, Disney Interactive Studios and Kinect for Xbox
360 invite you to take a journey where stories come to life and dreams
come true -- right in your living room. With "Kinect: Disneyland
Adventures," the first title coming out of a licensing agreement between
Microsoft Studios and Disney Interactive Studios, children, parents and
Disney fans can explore Disneyland park -- from Main Street U.S.A. to
Critter Country -- joining Peter Pan to battle Captain Hook, high-fiving
Mickey Mouse or hugging Snow White using their full bodies and voices,
no controller required.
-- "Mass Effect 3" (BioWare, Electronic Arts). The galactic war has begun.
An ancient alien race known only as the "Reapers" has launched an
all-out invasion of the galaxy, leaving nothing but a trail of
destruction in their wake. Earth has been taken, the universe is on the
verge of total annihilation, and you, as Commander Shepard, are the only
one who can stop them. Whether you are playing with a controller or
through new voice recognition technology made exclusively for Kinect on
Xbox 360, "Mass Effect 3" allows you to immerse yourself in the Mass
Effect universe like never before, as you decide how to rally the forces
of the galaxy in a game that will react to each decision you make.
-- "Minecraft" (Mojang, Microsoft Studios). Known for its limitless
possibilities, "Minecraft" will come to life this winter in a whole new
way through the magic of Kinect and also feature cross-functionality
between the PC and Xbox 360 versions.
-- "Ryse" (Crytek, Microsoft Studios). Be the warrior in this cinematic,
visceral, action-packed experience that brings ancient Rome to life
through the stunning visuals and innovative gameplay that Crytek is
famous for. "Ryse" defines what's next on Xbox 360 by creating a truly
immersive experience that only Kinect can enable.
-- "Sesame Street: Once Upon a Monster" (Double Fine Productions, Warner
Bros. Interactive Entertainment). Join your favorite Sesame Street
characters Elmo, Cookie Monster, Oscar and Grover, and friendly new
monsters in a colorful and whimsical storybook adventure filled with
learning, discovery and fun. Each chapter is full of life lessons,
including friendship, sharing and teamwork. "Once Upon A Monster"
features co-op game play so kids can play alone, with each other or with
Mom or Dad in this controller-free gaming experience only on Kinect.
-- "Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Future Soldier" (Ubisoft Paris, Ubisoft).
Welcome to the U.S. Special Forces' most legendary unit, the Ghosts.
Equipped with the most advanced combat technology, track down high-value
targets in eight spectacular locales around the world in the latest
chapter of the celebrated "Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon" franchise. Teamwork
is key, whether it is fighting alongside your teammates in the campaign,
Elite Co-op, or multiplayer modes. With the magic of Kinect's body
tracking and voice recognition, a special mode called "Gunsmith" will
allow gamers to customize their weapons into more than 20 million
variations in a way that simply can't be done with a controller alone.
-- "Tomb Raider" (Crystal Dynamics, Square Enix Europe). Experience the
intense and gritty origins of Lara Croft and her ascent from a
frightened young woman to a hardened survivor. Armed with only the raw
instincts and physical ability to push beyond the limits of human
endurance, start at the beginning of where the "Tomb Raider" adventure
all began.
-- UFC.**UFC on Xbox LIVE drops you dead center into the octagon, with live
pay-per-view events in full HD and exclusive live event experiences.
Launching this fall, UFC on Xbox LIVE is the ultimate fan destination
with pre-fight coverage and a deep catalogue of past fights to put you
closer to the action than ever.
About Xbox 360
Xbox 360 is a premier home entertainment and video game system. Thanks to the addition of Kinect, Xbox 360 will forever transform social gaming and entertainment with a whole new way to play -- no controller required. Xbox 360 is also home to the best and broadest games as well as the largest on-demand library of music, standard- and high-definition movies, TV shows and digital games, all in one place. The entertainment center of the living room, Xbox 360 blends unbeatable content with a leading social entertainment network of nearly 35 million Xbox LIVE members to create a limitless entertainment experience that can be shared at home or across the globe. More information about Xbox 360 can be found online at http://www.xbox.com.
About Xbox LIVE
Xbox LIVE is the online entertainment service for your Xbox 360, connecting you to an ever-expanding world of games, movies, TV, music, sports and social entertainment. Xbox LIVE lets you play the best games, enjoy the largest on-demand library on any console, listen to millions of songs and share the fun with friends around the world. Xbox LIVE is also the exclusive home of controller-free online entertainment through Kinect, making your Xbox 360 more intuitive and interactive than ever before. With an active community of nearly 35 million people across 35 countries, Xbox LIVE, together with Xbox 360, provides you with instant access to the entertainment you want, shared with the people you care about, wherever you are. More information about Xbox LIVE can be found online at http://www.xbox.com/live.
About Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq: MSFT) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.
* Xbox LIVE Gold Membership required for online multiplayer.**Xbox LIVE required for UFC feature.
CONTACT: Press, Angella Wong, +1-323-202-1045, angella.wong@edelman.com, or Farm Saechou, +1-415-486-3295, farm.saechou@edelman.com, or Broadcast Media, Bethany Frey, +1-206-268-2224, bethany.frey@edelman.com, all of Edelman for Microsoft; For E3 assets, please visit http://www.xbox.com/e3press.
New Global Website Presents Low-Carbon Solutions from Sugarcane
SAO PAULO, June 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Global energy needs are expected to double in the next three decades, pushing carbon dioxide emissions that contribute to global warming higher by as much as 90%. These alarming figures press global leaders to search for low-carbon, renewable options to supply energy. With that in mind, the Brazilian Sugarcane Industry Association (UNICA) today launched a new global website - SugarCane.org - to spread the word about clean solutions from sugarcane.
The new website was launched during the Opening Ceremony of the 2011 edition of the Ethanol Summit, one of the world's top events dedicated to renewable energies, with a special focus on ethanol and other sugarcane by-products. The event continues until Tuesday, June 7, at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
SugarCane.org is intended to explain how sugarcane can contribute to solve or reduce the impact of many of the pressing challenges the world is facing. "We decided to launch this new site to share knowledge and information with a growing global community of people who want to know how their food and energy choices affect our environment and people worldwide," said UNICA's President and CEO, Marcos Jank.
Over the last 30 years, the sugarcane industry underwent major and continuous technological improvement. Today, sugarcane is the basic input for a diverse and growing range of value-added products, including sugar, ethanol, bioelectricity, bioplastics, bio-hydrocarbons, among others being developed. "Sugarcane by-products are efficient and sustainable solutions that can replace gasoline, diesel, plastics and beyond that. Just imagine. Solutions from sugarcane," added Jank.
Sugarcane products can lower CO2 emissions, create jobs, reduce petroleum use, and create a healthier, cleaner planet. For more information, visit http://www.SugarCane.org.
To watch the live webcast of all panels and debates at the 2011 Ethanol Summit, visit http://www.ethanolsummit.com.br and click on "Webcast" to select a room. Sessions are being aired since 9 am, Sao Paulo time.
ABOUT UNICA
The Brazilian Sugarcane Industry Association (UNICA) represents the top producers of sugar and ethanol in the country's South-Central region, especially the state of Sao Paulo, which accounts for about 60% of the country's sugarcane harvest and of total ethanol production. UNICA develops position papers, statistics and specific research in support of Brazil's sugar, ethanol and bioelectricity sectors. In 2010, Brazil produced an estimated 620 million metric tons of sugarcane, which yielded 37.8 million tons of sugar and 27.4 billion litres of ethanol, making it the number-one sugarcane grower and sugar producer in the world, and the second-largest ethanol producer on the planet, behind the United States.
MORE INFORMATION
CDN Corporate Communications
Rosa Webster: rosa.webster@cdn.com.br
Mariane Santos: mariane.santos@cdn.com.br
(5511) 3643-2700
Gameloft Announces the Upcoming Launch of The Adventures of Tintin Game for Mobile Phones, Smartphones and Tablets
The Action-adventure Mobile Game is Inspired by the Upcoming Feature Film Directed by Steven Spielberg
PARIS, June 6, 2011/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Gameloft, a leading global publisher of digital and
social games, announced plans to launch a game based on the movie The
Adventures of Tintin directed by Steven Spielberg. The game will be
distributed on mobile phones, smartphones and tablets. The game is scheduled
to launch timed to the movie's release in October 2011.
"Tintin is one of the most popular comics of the 20th
century," said Gonzague de Vallois, Senior Vice-President of Publishing at
Gameloft. "We're particularly pleased to be bringing such a beloved and
iconic character as Tintin to fans on their mobile phone, smartphone or
tablet."
The action-adventure game recreates one of the most famous
episodes in Herge's comic strip for the first time on mobile platforms.
Combining mystery, exploration and humor, the game follows intrepid reporter
Tintin, his faithful companion Snowy, and his inseparable friend Captain
Haddock in search of treasure lost in the wreckage of "The Unicorn". Players
will find familiar characters and environments in an authentic adaptation of
the cutting-edge technology used in the film.
Gameloft has licensed The Adventures of Tintin from Paramount
Digital Entertainment.
About Gameloft
A leading global publisher of digital and social games, since
2000 Gameloft(R) has established itself as one of the top innovators in its
field. Gameloft creates games for all digital platforms, including mobile
phones, smartphones and tablets (Apple(R) iOS and Android(R)), Triple Play
Box, connected TVs, and consoles. Partnerships with leading licensors such as
UNO(TM), Spider-Man(R), James Cameron's Avatar(TM), Ferrari(R) and Sonic
Unleashed(R) allow Gameloft to form strong relationships with international
brands. Gameloft also operates its own established franchises, such as Real
Football, Asphalt(TM), Modern Combat 2: Black Pegasus and N.O.V.A Near Orbit
Vanguard Alliance(R). Gameloft is present in all continents, distributes its
games in 100 countries and employs over 4,000 developers. Gameloft is listed
on the Paris Stock Exchange (ISIN: FR0000079600, Bloomberg: GFT FP, Reuters:
GLFT.PA).
Gameloft Contact
Aude Fouquier
Corporate Communications Director
Tel +33-1-58-16-20-40
Mail: aude.fouquier@gameloft.com
JUDOBABY's New Publishing Partnerships Bring Host of Innovative Games to E3
Compelling titles from Canada, US and China set to reach North American retail shelves later this year
REDWOOD CITY, Calif., June 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- JUDOBABY INC. announced several partnerships that will enable the game publisher to bring a host of new and innovative games from around the world to the E3 trade show booth #2862, South Hall, in Los Angeles June 7-9, 2011.
Included in JUDOBABY's new "Judo Buddy" affiliates program, is US-based developer Human Nature Studios, which has developed the addictive social and party game, "What's Your Type?" for the Nintendo DS. The game provides hours of fun, enabling players and their friends to ask and answer questions in order to find out how truly compatible they are with their Best Friend For Life (BFFL) and others.
Premier Chinese developer Radiance is also working with JUDOBABY to bring its top three new PC games to the US market. The titles include Beach Volley Ball On-Line, the family racing game Go-Go Racers and Excalibur, a exciting massively multiplayer online strategy RPG (MMOSRPG) that takes players back to post-Roman Britain in a quest to unify the country under their own banner. Radiance CEO Monte Singman says, "We are happy to bring these great properties to the US by way of our good friends at JUDOBABY."
Joining the "Judo Buddy" team from the US is Okashi Studios with its compelling PC & Mac-based Japanese style RPG "Shira Oka: Second Chances." "Shira Oka is a captivating game about a man given a second chance to relive life from his teen years on to see if this time around he can find true love," said Okashi Studios co-founder Colleen Chew. "The game combines enchanting graphics with an intriguing plot that all RPG and Manga fans can enjoy."
Finally, from Canada, Playful Entertainment is bringing their popular party game "Jungle Speed" to the Nintendo Wii. Based on the top-selling card game, Jungle Speed enables up to eight players to match wits in this fast-paced game that requires a keen sense of observation and quick reflexes. IGN has already given Jungle Speed an impressive 8.0 rating, describing it as a "fun multiplayer game."
"JUDOBABY is proud to debut our new partnerships and compelling lineup of titles to the industry at E3 and delivery to consumers later this year," noted President/CEO Dan Mueller. JUDOBABY will also be showcasing its own internally developed Wii game, Jerry Rice and Nitus' Dog Football, a great new twist on sport games that provides hours of family-friendly competition.
About JUDOBABY
JUDOBABY INC. (http://www.JUDOBABY.com) is the creative force and developer of AAA quality interactive family entertainment that is easy to learn, fun to play, providing excitement for all ages. We here at JUDOBABY INC. focus on quality content delivered across a wide variety of popular and emerging platforms, including game consoles, social networks and mobile devices for serious and casual gamers alike. The JUDOBABY INC. team knows what captures the imagination and delivers products with engaging personalities and addicting experiences.
Excelitas Technologies Showcases Portfolio of Cutting-Edge Infrared Sensing and Photon Detection Solutions at Sensor + Test 2011
NUREMBERG, Germany, June 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Stand 12-503 -- Excelitas Technologies, a global provider of innovative, customized optoelectronics to OEMs seeking high-performance technology solutions, announced today that it will exhibit a broad array of its detection products at Sensor + Test 2011, which is taking place June 7 - 9 at Nuremberg Exhibition Center, Nuremberg, Germany.
Excelitas Technologies' products on display at Sensor + Test will include:
-- Suite of Infrared Sensing offerings
-- New - DigiPile(TM) Family of Digital Thermopiles for thermometry,
pyrometry, and non-contact temperature measurement
-- DigiPyro® Family including our "Smart" DigiPyro for digital motion
sensing
-- Full range of Pyroelectric Detectors for motion sensing
-- Full range of Thermopile Detectors for temperature measurement
-- Suite of Photon Detection offerings for Industrial, Safety and Health
applications
-- Optical assemblies for smoke detection
-- Pulsed Laser Diodes for range finding
-- APDs for Laser meter and laser range finding
-- Photodiode Arrays for X-ray scanning
-- PCB assemblies for pulse oximetry
-- Photodiodes
-- Infrared LEDs (IREDs)
-- Suite of Low Light Level Detection (L3D) offerings
-- APDs for Life Sciences and Research
-- Expanded range of SPCMs including new UV-enhanced SPCM
"We're delighted for Excelitas Technologies to exhibit at Sensor + Test 2011, showcasing our broad portfolio of OEM detection solutions," said Michael Ersoni, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Detection for Excelitas Technologies. "Excelitas' presence at Sensor + Test represents one of our first industry venues in Germany where we are showcasing - as a standalone company - our range of detection solutions. We are committed to continuing investments to meet our customers' application needs in both thermal and solid state photon detection," Mr. Ersoni added.
Excelitas Technologies will exhibit at stand number 12-503 in the Nuremberg Exhibition Centre.
About Excelitas Technologies
Excelitas Technologies is a global technology leader focused on delivering innovative, customized solutions to meet the detection, lighting and other high-performance technology needs of OEM customers. From medical lighting to analytical instrumentation, clinical diagnostics, industrial, safety and security, and aerospace and defense applications, Excelitas Technologies is committed to enabling our customers' success in their specialty end-markets. Excelitas Technologies has approximately 3,000 employees in North America, Europe and Asia, serving customers across the world. The company was previously the Illumination and Detection Solutions business unit of PerkinElmer, and is now owned by Veritas Capital.
SOURCE Excelitas Technologies
Excelitas Technologies
CONTACT: Francine S. Bernitz, Director of Marketing of Excelitas Technologies, +1-781-789-3178, francine.bernitz@excelitas.com; or Danielle Wuschke of Fleishman Hillard, +1-617-692-0509, danielle.wuschke@fleishman.com, for Excelitas Technologies
GoGo squeeZ teams with mobile app RedRover to host pop-up playdates, all summer long
NEW YORK, June 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Summer has finally arrived, and outdoor playtime will become even more exciting thanks to a new partnership between GoGo squeeZ, the first squeezable, re-sealable, 100 percent fruit applesauce snack in the U.S., and RedRover, a mobile app aimed at connecting smart-phone-toting moms with one another in fun, kid-friendly places. Beginning June 7th, GoGo squeeZ and RedRover will host pop-up playdates every Tuesday afternoon, allowing kids and parents to get their daily GoGo Time - simply good, active fun - by participating in classic summer games like hopscotch, frisbee and, of course, red rover, while enjoying a family-friendly snack that's both yummy and energizing. Information on the "secret" location of each playdate, which will be announced one week prior, will be made available only through the RedRover app.
"We're on a mission to help kids get a bit of GoGo Time each and every day, and our partnership with RedRover allows us to do just that," said Meena Mansharamani, managing director for Materne North America. "Our pop-up playdates offer a great place for kids to get active, for moms to connect with one another, and for everyone to enjoy the 100 percent fruit goodness of GoGo squeeZ in a family-friendly environment."
"The RedRover app connects like-minded parents with one another, and we are so excited to have GoGo squeeZ as our first partner in creating pop-up playdates for our users," said Kathryn Tucker, creator of RedRover. "Information on these GoGo Time get-togethers will only be available via the RedRover app, so we encourage parents to sign up and keep an eye out for news of our pop-up playdates!" Unlike other location-based apps, RedRover allows users to create a secure social network comprised of one's closest friends, so that they may check into places without notifying their larger, more public online networks--a feature important to parents. The RedRover app is free to iPod, iPad, iPhone and internet users, and will be available to Android users in the coming weeks.
In any location, GoGo squeeZ is a playful snack option for GoGo Time, one that pleases active kids and parents alike. Each pouch of GoGo squeeZ provides three-fourths serving of fruit, and is gluten-free, dairy-free, and made with no refined sugar, artificial flavors or preservatives. Available in five flavors, AppleApple, AppleBanana, ApplePeach, AppleStrawberry and AppleCinnamon, GoGo squeeZ is available at major retailers nationwide for a suggested retail price of $2.99 per four-pack. For more information, visit http://www.materne.us, or visit the GoGo squeeZ Facebook page.
About Materne
Materne North America is a fast-growing company committed to improving the lives of kids and families by offering healthy, natural fruit snacks in convenient pouches.
Materne GoGo squeeZ was launched in the US in June 2008 to offer American families the opportunity to enjoy our no spoon, no mess, all natural squeezable applesauce when on the go! Each pouch provides 3/4 serving of fruit and supports our mission to American consumers: Helping parents feed their kids better foods when they are on-the-go!
GoGo squeeZ is sold at Whole Foods, Costco, Walmart, Publix, Target and a growing list of other major retailers, and was recently featured on "Good Morning America," CHOW.com, and Parents magazine as a top healthy snack for children.
Outside of the U.S. and especially in France, GoGo squeeZ is sold as Pom'Potes. Since the brand's inception in 1998, Pom'Potes has grown into a major snack brand in France, selling more than 1.6 billion pouches across Europe.
Conceived by former film producer and mother of two Kathryn Tucker to take the hassle out of coordinating and connecting with other parents, RedRover lets users share their whereabouts with their friends and family so that it's easier to meet up and have more fun.
RedRover has been called a "must have" app on CBS' "The Early Show" and has been featured in The New York Times, DIGIDAY, BetaBeat, GigaOm, CoolMomTech and Techcrunch.
RedRover is available on the iPhone, iPod through the iTunes store. Coming soon on Android.
CONTACT: Jeannette Cornell, Materne North America, +1-917-653-6704, jeannette.cornell@materne.us; or Courtney Power, DeVries Public Relations, +1-212-891-0446, cpower@devries-pr.com
New Survey Shows More Than a Third of Americans Think Father's Day Gets the Short End of the Stick
Treat Him Like a Star This Year with the Latest Gifts from Buy.com
ALISO VIEJO, Calif., June 6, 2011/PRNewswire/ -- According to a new survey(1) conducted by independent research firm Toluna and released today by Buy.com®, 40 percent of men and 36 percent of women feel Father's Day doesn't get as much attention as it deserves.
The survey of more than 1,000 adults also found that if money were no object, 41 percent of dads would want a new car as a Father's Day gift, followed by a boat or yacht at 15 percent. When asked which "realistic" gifts were most desired, the gift of time ranked the highest - 20 percent of dads want more time with family, while other most-wanted gifts included a laptop/netbook/computer (12 percent), followed by a sports-related item (11 percent).
Loved ones with down-to-earth budgets can find affordable gifts that won't break the bank from Buy.com, where they can browse through thousands of great products and special Father's Day deals, ranging from DVD players to laptops to athletic gear and more.
The Buy.com Father's Day store is a one-stop online destination offering specific gift ideas searchable by "type." For example:
-- Go ahead, make his day: 50 percent of dads would love a celebrity
actress to deliver their gift, but when reality hits, the next best
thing could be a gift from the "Movie Buff" store, which includes a wide
selection of DVDs and home theater equipment
-- The family that plays together: For dads who just want more family time
- a selection from the "Gamer Dad" store, which features the latest
video games, software and equipment, is the perfect gift
-- Home away from home: 19 percent of Americans describe their dad as
"laidback but hardworking" - help make his life easier with "Executive
Dad" gifts, such as watches, briefcases or electric razors
-- Geek out with dad: The "Techie Dad" store has an array of gadgets and
electronics, including the laptop/computer or e-reader/tablet that 12
percent of dads surveyed said they want for Father's Day
-- The art of grilling: For the 16 percent of respondents who described dad
as "sociable and liked by everyone," consider "Gourmet Dad" items, such
as chef hats, cookbooks and grills, for his next BBQ party
-- Score a hole-in-one: The "Active Dad" store offers athletic shoes,
stopwatches, backpacks and more - making it ideal for sporty dads
-- Surprise him anyway: The 13 percent of Americans who don't usually give
anything at all for Father's Day may have simply grown up with a "DIY
Dad" - hook him up with a cool Swiss army knife and other tools
Buy.com makes it easy to shop for the most finicky father with access to the Father's Day Featured Gifts store, offering a range of gift ideas from clothing, cologne, wine, tools, golfing equipment and more.
Buy.com has built a reputation as one of the Web's leading online sites for great deals on consumer electronics, with the company frequently offering daily and weekly deals.
Buy.com also offers the industry's best shipping and return offers, with no minimum purchases for free shipping on more than 2.6 million products and millions of other products shipped for free on orders above $25. For peace-of-mind that you will make dad's day this year, Buy.com is the largest U.S. online retail marketplace to offer 45 days for product returns (longer than the 30-day industry standard policy), with no restocking fees.
With more than 18 million customers, Buy.com is a leading retail marketplace, focused on providing its customers with a great shopping experience and a broad selection of retail goods at everyday low prices. Buy.com offers millions of products in a range of categories, including consumer electronics, computer hardware and software, cell phones, books, music, DVDs, games, toys, bags, fragrance, home and outdoor, baby, jewelry, shoes, apparel and sporting goods. Founded in June 1997, Buy.com is headquartered in Aliso Viejo, Calif. Buy.com is owned by Rakuten, Japan's leading Internet Company. Together, Rakuten and Buy.com represent one of the world's largest online retail marketplaces, offering consumers more than 70 million products from more than 35,000 merchants around the globe.
Buy.com® and The Internet Superstore(TM) are trademarks of Buy.com Inc.
About Rakuten
Rakuten, Inc. (JASDAQ: 4755), is one of the world's leading Internet service companies, providing a variety of consumer and business-focused services including e-commerce, travel, banking, securities, credit card, e-money, portal & media, online marketing and professional sports. Rakuten is expanding globally and currently has operations throughout Asia, Western Europe and North America. Founded in 1997, Rakuten is headquartered in Tokyo, generating $36 billion in annual gross transaction volume, and has more than 10,000 employees worldwide. For more information, visit http://global.rakuten.com/group/.
(1) Survey methodology
Toluna, Inc. fielded the study on behalf of Buy.com on May 18, 2011 via its online omnibus service, interviewing a nationwide sample of 1,035 adults aged 18 years and older. Data were weighted using propensity score weighting to be representative of the total U.S. adult population on the basis of region, age within gender, education, household income, race/ethnicity, and propensity to be online. Data for questions related to online use or behaviors were weighted specifically to the respective "online" populations. No estimates of theoretical sampling error can be calculated; a full methodology is available.
SOURCE Buy.com
Buy.com
CONTACT: Ginny Edwards for Buy.com, +1-714-918-8231, gedwards@golinharris.com
SmartSource.com Adds QR Codes To Its Printable Coupons
NEW SECURITY MEASURE ALLOWS REAL-TIME ID OF FRAUDULENT COUPONS
NEW YORK, June 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- News America Marketing, the premier publisher of coupons in the U.S. and Canada, producing over 165 billion coupons annually, today announced that QR codes have been added to all its online coupons, giving store personnel the ability to validate them at checkout and detect fraudulent couponing activity, simply by using standard smartphones.
News America Marketing (NAM), a division of News Corporation (NASDAQ: NWS), operates the popular online consumer coupon site, SmartSource.com and is considered a leader in printable coupon security. Earlier this year, SmartSource.com began printing QR codes on all its coupons, encoded and encrypted with technology that allows everyday smartphone users and retail employees, whether check-out clerks, store managers, or security personnel, to determine if a coupon is valid or fraudulent.
On the heels of SmartSource.com and News America Marketing assisting the FBI and the U.S. Attorney's Office in their successful apprehension of the man accused of masterminding one of the largest incidents of institutional coupon fraud in the United States, News America has added these QR codes to further enhance its existing security solution for printable coupons.
"As of today, any SmartSource.com branded coupon that does not have a QR code should be considered fraudulent and therefore not accepted by any retailer," said Henri Lellouche, SVP of News America Marketing and General Manager of the SmartSource iGroup. "News America Marketing will continue to develop anti-fraud measures to protect its clients and will assist in every way possible the prosecution to the fullest extent of the law anyone caught attempting to use or traffic fraudulent SmartSource.com coupons."
All SmartSource.com coupons are now printed with a unique QR code that can be scanned by smartphone users with a standard 2D code scanning application sold through iTunes or other app sites. The scanned QR code retrieves information on that unique coupon from a SmartSource database and instantly returns information that either validates the offer or alerts the user or retailer that the coupon was not legitimately created.
News America Marketing®, a division of News Corporation, is the premier single-source provider of consumer marketing services in the U.S. and Canada. The company's product portfolio, marketed under the SmartSource® brand name, consists of the first branded free-standing insert, known as SmartSource Magazine®, various in-store marketing products, merchandising services, database marketing tools and online promotions. These products and services allow marketers to deliver a brand message to millions of consumers each month via a network of 1,630+ newspapers/publications* and over 56,000** supermarket, drug, office, mass merchandisers and dollar-store locations across the country, including Kroger, Safeway, Publix, CVS, Rite Aid, Walgreens, Staples, Family Dollar and Dollar General.
*Market list effective 1.2.2011
** Based on News America Marketing's SSCM distribution as of April 24, 2011
SOURCE News America Marketing
News America Marketing
CONTACT: News America Marketing, Laura Richards, +1-212-782-8145, lrichards@newsamerica.com; or Rubenstein Associates Public Relations, Emily Vicker, +1-212-843-8078, evicker@rubenstein.com
Carnival Gives Live Music Fans the Chance to Rock The Deck With Summer Mystery Tour Sweepstakes
Five Grand Prize Winners to Receive VIP Trips to See Top Music Artists Perform
MIAMI, June 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Carnival Cruise Lines kicked off the "Rock The Deck Summer Mystery Tour Sweepstakes" -- a series of Facebook sweepstakes providing five winners and up to three friends with a fun-tastic trip and once-in-a-lifetime VIP music experience at some of the summer's best concerts. Winners will travel in style and be VIP guests at a top rock, pop or country music performance with the mystery artist unveiled when the winner is announced. Carnival is presenting these once-in-a-lifetime concert experiences in conjunction with its national marketing alliance with Live Nation Entertainment, and as part of the line's "Hey America, Didja Ever" campaign, which celebrates trying new things and getting fun done.
By visiting the cruise line's Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/carnival), fans 18 and older who "Like" Carnival can enter the first sweepstakes through June 22 for a VIP trip to a concert in Houston, Texas, at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, where the company is the Official Concert Series Sponsor. Rocking on the stage will be a top recording artist. Carnival recognizes that concerts are more fun with friends, so winners can make three friends part of their very own "Carnival Concert Crew" enjoying roundtrip airfare, hotel accommodations, travel to and from the show superstar-style in a limousine, some of the best seats in the house, and $500 spending money for food and fun.
New sweepstakes on the Summer Mystery Tour continue July through September, when Carnival will offer fans four additional opportunities to enter and win VIP concert experiences at Live Nation venues in major U.S. cities where the line is presenting the Carnival Rock the Deck Concert Series including Atlanta, Dallas, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. For more information about exciting shows coming to the Live Nation amphitheatres in these and other markets this summer, please visit http://www.livenation.com.
"We invite everyone to climb aboard our Rock The Deck Summer Mystery Tour sweepstakes for the chance to live out their rock star dreams, travel with their very own crew and take in some of the best live shows Carnival and Live Nation have to offer this summer, all in VIP-style," said Jim Berra, senior vice president and chief marketing officer for Carnival Cruise Lines. "Concerts, much like Carnival cruise vacations, provide the perfect opportunity for entertainment, bonding with friends and family, and creating memorable moments."
Concert goers attending select Rock The Deck Concert Series shows throughout the season at Carnival-sponsored amphitheatres in the cities above will also have the chance to enjoy Carnival Sailgate parties. These pre-concert parties bring all the fun Carnival has to offer with great tunes and dancing, a live DJ and fun activities with the chance to win VIP ticket upgrades for that evening's show, more tickets for upcoming concerts and other great Carnival prizes.
Show Us Your Firsts on Facebook
Today, Carnival also updated the "Didja Ever?" tab on its Facebook page, giving fans the opportunity to see and share firsts that have happened through the year, win monthly cruise giveaways and more. Fans can also upload photos of their fun first-time activities for the chance to be promoted as the "First of the Week" or even featured on a giant Carnival billboard!
About Carnival Cruise Lines
Carnival Cruise Lines, a unit of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK), is "The World's Most Popular Cruise Line®," with 23 "Fun Ships" operating three- to 16-day voyages to The Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Hawaii, Panama Canal, Canada, New England, Bermuda, Europe, the Pacific Islands and New Zealand. In addition to the 130,000-ton Carnival Magic, which debuted in Europe May 1, 2011, the new 130,000-ton Carnival Breeze is scheduled to enter service in June 2012.
Carnival Cruise Lines, a unit of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK), is a proud member of World's Leading Cruise Lines. Our exclusive alliance also includes Cunard, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Costa Cruises and Seabourn. Sharing a passion to please each guest and a commitment to quality and value, World's Leading Cruise Lines inspires people to discover their best vacation experience. Together, we offer a variety of exciting and enriching cruise vacations to the world's most desirable destinations. Visit us at http://www.worldsleadingcruiselines.com
SOURCE Carnival Cruise Lines
Carnival Cruise Lines
CONTACT: Jennifer de la Cruz or Tim Gallagher, 1-800-438-6744, or +1-305-599-2600, ext. 16000
Apple Approves New App That Allows You to Locate Stolen or Missing PC, Mac iPhone and iPad for Free
The New LocatePC Mobile Tracker Lite And Pro is Now Available
ATLANTA, June 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- LIGATT Security International (OTC: LGTT) announced today that the two new Apps LocatePC Mobile Tracker Lite and Pro are now able to track your stolen computer, iPhone and iPad.
LocatePC Mobile Tracker Lite is a free application in Apple's App store that allows you to track your iPhone and iPad for free. You can track unlimited iPhones and iPads from one account. With LocatePC Mobile Tracker Lite as well as Pro, you can track all of your devices in real time from your iPhone or iPad on a secure website, locatepc.net. If you already have a full version of LocatePC or LocateMac software, you can track your computer with this App as well.
LocatePC Mobile Tracker Pro has all the same features of the Lite but you can take snap shots from your iPhone of the person using it. In addition you can download the full feature one- year subscription version of LocatePC/Mac software for your computer for only $4.99 instead of the $14.95 at LocatePC.net.
"LocatePC is already a great product but with the new version of LocatePC Mobile Tracker, it gets even better," says Gregory Evans, CEO of LIGATT Security International. "We are very excited about this latest edition and I'm sure the customers will be just as excited once they see how effective the mobile tracker can be," adds Evans.
According to USA Today, employees lost laptops the most when they worked out of the office, followed by when an employee traveled. The study also showed that about 40 percent of laptops were lost off-site, while another third were lost in transit or travel, like an airport, train station or in a taxi.
LocatePC and LocateMac allows you to:
-- See a real-time map of your computer, iPhone or iPad's location anywhere
in the world
-- Remotely shut down your computer from your iPhone
-- Send a text message directly to the computer's screen from your iPhone
-- Take snap shots of the thief using your computer and/or iPhone
-- Activate a key logger that records every key typed onto your computer
-- Check to make sure your LocatePC is running on your computer at all
times
LSI is the nation's premier hi-tech security company and recognized as a leader in computer security and cyber-crime investigation. It is a publicly traded company whose mission is to be the nation's leading provider of hi-tech crime investigations, by protecting their clients against Black Hat Hacking one CPU at a time.
***This press release was done in-house by a LIGATT Security International staff member. ***
Safe Harbor Act: This release includes forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that involves risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, the impact of competitive products, the ability to meet customer demand, the ability to manage growth, acquisitions of technology, equipment, or human resources, the effect of economic business conditions, and the ability to attract and retain skilled personnel. The Company is not obligated to revise or update any forward-looking statements in order to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this release.
Media Contact:LIGATT Security Internationalpr@ligatt.com770.676.9408
National Data Center Service Provider, CoreLink Data Centers, Announces Transition to IPv6
Proactive Upgrade Puts CoreLink Data Centers at Forefront of Next Generation in Internet Routing; Customers to Benefit from More Efficient Networks, Increased Flexibility
MT. PROSPECT, Ill., June 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- National data center service provider, CoreLink Data Centers, LLC (http://www.corelink.com) announced today that it is transitioning to IPv6, the milestone shift in Internet Protocol (IP) address formatting approved by the Internet Engineering Task Force (ITEF). CoreLink's voluntary and proactive adoption of IPv6 not only keeps it in a leading position among national data center service providers, but also enables its customers to accommodate the latest in routing technologies and infrastructure.
During and after the transition to IPv6, customers will enjoy dual support for both the current IPv4 and new IPv6 protocols. By incorporating IPv6 now, CoreLink's customers will gain maximum benefits from the new standard, which replaces the soon-to-be-exhausted IPv4 IP address repository with a virtually unlimited number of new IP addresses.
"Our adoption of IPv6 will simplify the process of Internet traffic exchange for our users," said Charles Picasso, Chairman and CEO of CoreLink. "The shift to IPv6 is an important transition for the worldwide Internet community. We are committed to making this change as seamless for customers as possible."
In place since 1981, IPv4 has been the longtime standard for IP communications routing. The massive growth of the Internet, however, has caused the 4.3 billion possible IP addresses under IPv4 to nearly run out. The last top-level block of IPv4 addresses was assigned by the Internet Assigned Numbers authority in February 2011. Although many assigned addresses remain unused at the lower levels, a new system with a greater possible address base was needed. By approving the move to IPv6, with 340 undecillion (3.4 x 10-to-the-38th) possible combinations, the ITEF expects IPv6 to satisfy worldwide demands far into the future.
CoreLink's transition to IPv6 will result in increased flexibility for customers as well as greater interoperability between network systems and equipment. It will also improve performance and ease of use of Internet communications.
CoreLink's support for IPv6 further extends the capabilities of its full suite of data center hosting solutions including managed security and data services, business continuity solutions and disaster recovery and network connectivity services. All CoreLink solutions are designed to meet and exceed the market's demand for security, scalability and continuous availability.
Contact CoreLink Data Centers for more information about national data center services and enterprise hosting or call 866-435-2375.
About CoreLink:
CoreLink is a leading data center hosting and managed services provider of critical infrastructure services delivered on a "state of the art," robust and environmentally friendly technology platform. By leveraging data centers in Chicago, Las Vegas, Phoenix, and Seattle with access to massive and diverse network connectivity, CoreLink delivers small, medium and large enterprise customers and service providers with high quality and uniquely agile, data center services. CoreLink's focus on aligning customer needs with the proper solution, combined with a relentless focus on service, provides the flexibility and peace of mind all businesses require from a data center provider.
For more information, please call 866.435.2375 or visit our website or check out more at CoreLink Data Centers' blog, CoreLink on Facebook and @corelinkdata on Twitter.
SOURCE CoreLink Data Centers, LLC
CoreLink Data Centers, LLC
CONTACT: Megan Parker of S&S Public Relations, +1-847-415-9326, mparker@sspr.com, for CoreLink Data Centers, LLC
Superior Lithographics Launches FirstTouch(TM) Interactive Packaging Solution for Companies to Engage Consumers and Boost In-Store Sales
Affordable, Turnkey Solution Makes It Easy For Packaged Food Companies To Utilize QR Codes & Mobile Internet to Market Products
LOS ANGELES, June 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Superior Lithographics, California's leading large-format packaging printer, today launched FirstTouch(TM), an all-in-one interactive packaging solution that slashes the costs and complexity of marketing products to consumers using Quick Response (QR) technology and the mobile web. With FirstTouch(TM), retail packaged goods companies can easily add QR codes to make their current packaging interactive with a fully branded, fully hosted mobile web site with coupons, videos, recipes, social media, live chat, and more. As a result, companies can market their products directly to consumers via their smartphones - instantly, in the store, while they shop.
The appeal of QR codes has exploded in recent months. Consumers simply scan the QR code with any smartphone, and are brought directly to a mobile Internet site with special promotions and other information. According to MGH Group's QR Code Usage and Interest Survey (February 2011), 32 percent of U.S. smartphone users have scanned a QR code, while 70 percent plan to use a QR code again or for the first time. QR technology can now be found virtually everywhere, on coupons, circulars, billboards, and more.
"Companies have been marketing on the Internet for decades; now, it's time for them to capitalize on the growth and power of the mobile Internet. While it's easy to get a QR code, it can be both complex and cost-prohibitive to invest the development time and resources needed to build an effective mobile marketing site," explained Andrew Rawson, President of Superior Lithographics. "FirstTouch simplifies that process, making interactive packaging an affordable option for virtually any company with a retail product."
Superior's FirstTouch offering is a turnkey solution that makes it fast and simple for companies to activate this latest advancement in consumer branding and engagement for their product lines. FirstTouch also offers comprehensive online reporting to easily track and measure the results of promotions and sales.
"By far, the two most popular customer inquiries we receive are for coupon requests and for locations that carry our products. FirstTouch addresses both of these challenges in an affordable and effective way," said Ruben Gutierrez, President of Tropicale Foods, Inc., which will be rolling out its new QR-enabled packages on shelves shortly. "As our long-time packaging supplier, with a tech-savvy management team to boot, Superior was the natural choice for us."
The Standard Group, (http://www.TheStandardGroup.com ) one of the nation's largest independent producers of folding cartons, will be offering FirstTouch from their New York and Kentucky offices. "Our family has been in this business for 80 years and we've always worked closely with our customers to ensure their packaging not only displays their product, but actually helps increase market share," said Lou Cortes, President and CEO. "Working with Superior to deliver an interactive packaging solution like FirstTouch allows us to put our customers' products on the mobile Internet in ways that just weren't possible before."
For sample packaging, images, or a demo of the FirstTouch interactive packaging platform, visit http://www.FirstTouchPackaging.com or call 323-263-8400.
About Superior Lithographics
Superior Lithographics is California's leading large-format package printer, setting the industry standard for service, quality and innovation. Founded in 1988, the company combines seasoned printing professionals with a state-of-the-art facility to deliver package printing that saves customers both time and money. From litho labels and folding cartons to interactive packaging driven by QR codes, Superior Lithographics delivers package printing solutions that exceed customer expectations. For more information, visit http://www.suplitho.com.
SOURCE Superior Lithographics
Superior Lithographics
CONTACT: Ashley Willis, +1-609-279-0050 ext.105, ashley@resoundmarketing.com, for Superior Lithographics
New Games Development Studio Showcasing Two Games This Year
LOS ANGELES, June 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Plastic Piranha is pleased to announce the debut of its first two titles, Rikochet and R.A.T.S., at this year's Electronic Entertainment Expo in Los Angeles, California.
Rikochet
Rikochet is a groundbreaking First Person Tactical Shooter incorporating elements of realism unlike any before. In 2012, a deadly virulent, mutated plague of Equine Influenza (dubbed Haizum R1K0) ravages the world's population, crippling governments and toppling the world economy. As panic spreads, cadres of armed militias form, eventually uniting under the banner of Darkwater, Inc. Sweeping in to take control of civilization again, one city at a time, these troops corral the remaining civilian population into internment centers, city sized ghettos where oppression, panic and desperation are commonplace.
Desperate to escape the brutality of the camps, the horror of "medical treatment and study," groups of organized resistance begin to form, pushing back at their imprisonment, yearning for freedom and a life that they once knew. Comprised of prior military forces, police, and common citizens young and old alike, these Minutemen fight to restore Liberty.
Will you fight for freedom, or be a hired gun? In Rikochet, the choice is yours...
In the depths of his personal laboratory, a top-secret military science experiment is underway. A lone scientist, unaware of the global implications of his actions, is turning rats into soldiers. The plan: create as many rat-soldiers as possible, sending them into the enemy's sewers to set up various bases of operations. From there, engage in clandestine operations to disrupt and destroy as much of the country's infrastructure as possible.
Suspended in a miniature virtual reality Rodent Army Training Simulator, these augmented Super Rat Soldiers (Eximius Rat Miles Militis) engage in maneuvers inside the very battlefield they will likely encounter, someone's home. Split into two teams of opposing forces they engage in a game of cat and mouse as they race to complete their objectives, such as Capture the Cheese.
Plastic Piranha will be available to answer questions and showcase our titles at E3, South Hall, Booth 2762.
About Plastic Piranha
Plastic Piranha, LLC is an international team of Developers from among the best games and mods of the PC Community. Piranha seeks to give the community everything it is asking for and much more. Allowing the vision to come to life is the power of state of the art Unreal Engine 3(TM).
Digital Life Academy Announces Extension of Application Deadline Due to Strong Demand
Academy Has Received Over 15,000 Enquiries and Applications from over 50 Countries
United States is Underrepresented - "I Know Young Americans Care About Privacy, Ownership and Control, so Where Are They?" says Academy Sponsor
SINGAPORE, June 6, 2011 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- The Digital Life Academy today announced that it is extending the application deadline for the 2011 session from Sunday 5 June to Friday 10 June. Due to a surge in applications as the deadline approaches, the Academy has decided to extend the deadline to allow those who have recently been made aware of it to apply.
The Digital Life Academy is a global think tank of people ages 16-25 who are interested in the areas of online privacy, data and content ownership, content monetization and similar topics. The Academy is comprised of 30 individuals from 20 countries, who meet for a 6-week period annually. Academy selection is based on the individuals demonstrating entrepreneurial drive, business acumen, and a dedication to addressing the concept of digital life freedom.
"The interest in this first edition of the Academy has been beyond our expectations," said Johan Stael von Holstein, CEO of MyCube, an Academy sponsor. "It is clear that young people across the world are passionate about online privacy, and ownership and control of their digital assets and lives. The only disappointment to date is that although we have had a few outstanding applicants from the United States, the total number of applications from the U.S. is disproportionately low. I know young Americans are avid social network users and genuinely care about privacy, ownership and control and I encourage them to take advantage of this opportunity to help change the way we live our lives online."
The Academy will run from 4 July to 12 August 2011 at MyCube's headquarters in Singapore. Academy members receive free flights, free housing and a $3,000 Singapore dollar stipend.
Academy members will develop position papers, editorials, articles and business ideas related to the core Academy concepts of online privacy, ownership and control. After the program session, members will continue to serve as spokespeople for the Academy and will help to select and mentor future members. For more information on the Academy, please see internship2011.mycube.com.
Media Contact: Todd Kurie, Marketing Director, +65-6536-4280
Scholastic Media Launches I SPY (TM) Super Challenger for LeapFrog's Leapster Explorer(TM)
Third I SPY Title for LeapFrog Mobile Learning Systems Released in Celebration of I SPY 20th Anniversary Year
NEW YORK, June 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ --Scholastic Media, a division of Scholastic Inc., the global children's publishing, education and media company,today announced a new addition to its award-winning and best-selling I SPY (TM) interactive franchise with the release of I SPY SUPER CHALLENGER for LeapFrog's Leapster Explorer. I SPY SUPER CHALLENGER, for kids ages 5-9, will be available at retail in September for $24.99.
"In its 20th anniversary celebratory year, I SPY continues to entertain families and children of all ages across multiple interactive platforms," said Deborah Forte, President of Scholastic Media and Executive Vice President of Scholastic Inc. "We are delighted to bring I SPY SUPER CHALLENGER to Leapster Explorer to provide I SPY fans another engaging and entertaining title to seek and find."
I SPY SUPER CHALLENGER combines I SPY's intriguing photographs and riddles with fast-paced arcade style games. It will engage players in seek and find play with 50 different I SPY riddles across 20 different photographic scenes. Additionally, four replayable action-packed games will require players to race against the clock while using their thinking, matching, memory and math skills to solve unique I SPY puzzles. The riddles and games become more challenging with each new level unlocked.
The release of I SPY SUPER CHALLENGER for Leapster Explorer marks Scholastic's third I SPY title released on a LeapFrog Mobile Learning platform. The previously released games, I SPY CHALLENGER and I SPY TREASURE HUNT, have collectively sold over one million units to date.
Since the first I SPY book, written by Jean Marzollo with photographs from Walter Wick, was published by Scholastic in 1991, the program has expanded to include 42 million books in print. Scholastic Media has developed the property into a best-selling global franchise - including an Emmy Award-winning television series that airs on HBO Family in the US - and has been sold in more than 30 countries worldwide. In addition to Leapster, Leapster2 and Leapster Explorer, the best-selling I SPY interactive franchise includes product offerings on platforms such as LeapFrog's Tag Learning System, Nintendo Wii(TM) and DS(TM), as well as apps for iPod touch®, iPhone® and iPad®.
For more information on I SPY please visit http://www.scholastic.com/ispy. If you would like more information about Scholastic, please visit our media room at mediaroom.scholastic.com.
CONTACT: For more information, review copies, and images please contact Meghan Newton, mnewton@goodmanmedia.com, or John Michael Kennedy, jmkennedy@goodmanmedia.com, at Goodman Media International, +1-212-576-2700