Regus Anticipates Exciting Opportunities in Fast-Growing Uganda
KAMPALA, Uganda, March 24, 2011/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --
- Businesses to Benefit From Dynamic Expansion of Regus Network Into New
Markets
A new Regus business centre in Uganda's capital, Kampala, offers a
valuable platform for businesses to explore revenue opportunities in East
Africa. It is global workspace provider Regus' first centre in Uganda, and
brings the number of countries where it operates to 87, of which 13 are in
Africa.
"Uganda's economic stability makes it a good base for doing business. As
a fast-growing economy, committed to trade and industrial diversification,
it's very attractive to companies looking to expand into new markets,"
comments Mark Dixon, Global CEO, Regus plc. "The new Regus centre in Kampala
offers companies the chance to explore the many possibilities here with zero
up-front capital and minimal risk - an ideal springboard for entering this
exciting market."
Uganda's economy grew by an estimated 5.8% in 2010, and real GDP growth
of 6.1% is predicted in 2011.[1] Rich in natural resources, the country is
still predominantly agricultural, but other opportunities are plentiful: oil
reserves have been discovered, and the manufacturing, tourism, mining, ICT
and construction sectors are all growing strongly.[2]
The country's strong trading links with Europe, the Middle East and Asia
also make it attractive for companies looking to expand their geographic
footprint. Uganda's economic partners include the UAE, UK, Switzerland,
Germany, India and China as well as neighbouring countries like Kenya and
Sudan.
The buoyant economic environment is confirmed by the Professor Maggie
Kigozi, Executive Director of the Uganda Investment Authority[3]: "The Uganda
Investment Authority is very pleased that Regus is expanding its network to
Uganda. The country is at the heart of investment in East Africa, with great
investment potential in all sectors but we need all these opportunities
broadcasted to even larger audiences than we have now. The prospects of the
Ugandan economy going forward look positive; with continued macroeconomic
stability, oil prospects, stable political leadership; Uganda will continue
to grow in a bid to reduce poverty as we launch the next drive to becoming a
middle-income country. We, therefore, believe that with companies like Regus
now coming to Uganda, we will be able to attain these goals."
Dixon adds, "With the developed economies of Western Europe and the US
producing negative or minimal growth in recent years, businesses need to find
growth from new sources - whether that is in Africa, Asia or other regions.
"As companies look at these new markets, we're seeing accelerating demand
for our flexible workspaces. In response to this, we've expanded our network
rapidly in recent months - not just into Uganda, but also Oman, Tanzania,
Ghana and Lithuania, to name just a few. As the world of work becomes ever
more integrated and mobile, and companies more agile, we expect demand for
our services to continue to grow in 2011 and beyond, and we will expand our
network accordingly."
Notes to Editors
About Regus
Regus is the world's largest provider of workplace solutions,
with products and services ranging from fully equipped offices to
professional meeting rooms, business lounges and the world's largest network
of video communication studios. Regus enables people to work their way,
whether it's from home, on the road or from an office. Customers such as
Google, GlaxoSmithKline, and Nokia join hundreds of thousands of growing
small and medium businesses that benefit from outsourcing their office and
workplace needs to Regus, allowing them to focus on their core activities.
Over 800,000 customers a day benefit from Regus facilities
spread across a global footprint of 1,100 locations in 500 cities and 87
countries, which allow individuals and companies to work wherever, however
and whenever they want to. Regus was founded in Brussels, Belgium in 1989, is
headquartered in Luxembourg and listed on the London Stock Exchange. For more
information please visit: http://www.regus.com
[3] The Uganda Investment Authority (UIA) is a semi-autonomous government
agency operating in partnership with the private sector and government to
drive national economic growth and development. The Authority was established
by the Investment Code Act, Cap 92 Revised Edition 2000 Laws of Uganda.
Source: Regus
Press contact: Eva Glele, Regus, Telephone: +44-1784-898293, Email: eva.glele@regus.com
Cellcom Israel Announces ilAA/stable Rating Assigned for Additional Debentures to be Traded in Israel
NETANYA, Israel, March 24, 2011/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Cellcom Israel Ltd. (NYSE: CEL) (TASE: CEL) (hereinafter: the
"Company"), announced today that following its previously announced possible
debt raising in Israel, Standard & Poor's Maalot announced it assigned an
ilAA/stable rating to additional debentures of up to NIS 1.5 billion that the
Company may issue of Series D and E debentures to be traded, if issued, on
the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange.
At this stage, no decision has been made as to the execution
of such possible issuance, nor as to its scope, terms and timing, if
executed, and there is no certainty that such issuance will be executed. The
issuance, if made, will be made in Israel to residents of Israel only. The
said debentures, if issued, will not be registered under the U.S. Securities
Act of 1933 and will not be offered or sold in the United States or to U.S.
persons. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the
solicitation of an offer to buy any debentures.
A security rating is not a recommendation to buy, sell or hold
securities, it may be subject to revision or withdrawal at any time by the
assigning rating organization, and each rating should be evaluated
independently of any other rating.
For additional details of the Company's Israeli shelf
prospectus and public debentures, see the Company's annual report for the
year ended December 31, 2010 on Form 20-F, under "Item 5 - Operating and
Financial Review and Prospects - B. Liquidity and Capital Resources - Debt
Service" and the Company's immediate report on Form 6-K filed on March 21,
2011 regarding the Company's possible debt raising.
About Cellcom
Cellcom Israel Ltd., established in 1994, is the leading
Israeli cellular provider; Cellcom Israel provides its approximately 3.394
million subscribers (as at December 31, 2010) with a broad range of value
added services including cellular and landline telephony, roaming services
for tourists in Israel and for its subscribers abroad and additional services
in the areas of music, video, mobile office etc., based on Cellcom Israel's
technologically advanced infrastructure. The Company operates an HSPA 3.5
Generation network enabling advanced high speed broadband multimedia
services, in addition to GSM/GPRS/EDGE and TDMA networks. Cellcom Israel
offers Israel's broadest and largest customer service infrastructure
including telephone customer service centers, retail stores, and service and
sale centers, distributed nationwide. Through its broad customer service
network Cellcom Israel offers its customers technical support, account
information, direct to the door parcel services, internet and fax services,
dedicated centers for the hearing impaired, etc. As of 2006, Cellcom Israel,
through its wholly owned subsidiary Cellcom Fixed Line Communications L.P.,
provides landline telephone communication services in Israel, in addition to
data communication services. Cellcom Israel's shares are traded both on the
New York Stock Exchange (CEL) and the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange (CEL). For
additional information please visit the Company's website http://www.cellcom.co.il
Company Contact
Yaacov Heen
Chief Financial Officer
investors@cellcom.co.il
Tel: +972-52-998-9755
IR Contacts
Porat Saar & Kristin Knies
CCG Investor Relations Israel & US
cellcom@ccgisrael.com
Tel: +1-646-233-2161
Source: Cellcom Israel Ltd.
Company Contact: Yaacov Heen, Chief Financial Officer, investors@cellcom.co.il, Tel: +972-52-998-9755; IR Contacts: Porat Saar & Kristin Knies, CCG Investor Relations Israel & US, cellcom@ccgisrael.com, Tel: +1-646-233-2161
Ricoh Releases a Function Enhancing Firmware Update for 'GXR' and 'GR DIGITAL III'
TOKYO, March 24, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Ricoh Co., Ltd. (President and CEO: Shiro Kondo) will release both the third function-enhancing firmware update for its GXR range of compact digital cameras which were initially released in December 2009, and the fourth function-enhancing firmware update for its GR DIGITAL III range of cameras which were originally released in August 2009, on March 28th, 2011.
Ricoh's function-enhancing firmware updates are developed in response to opinions and requests received from a large number of customers via surveys submitted at registration time and through other channels. These updates enable customers who already own GXR and GR DIGITAL III to update their firmware to include the latest functions, thus making it possible for them to enhance the performance and usability of their cameras by adding new function and setting possibilities.
With the GXR system, the lens, image sensor, and image processing engine are all mounted within the camera unit instead of the body, creating a groundbreaking interchangeable unit system the utilizes a slide mechanism for attachment and removal.
The GR DIGITAL III is the successor to the GR DIGITAL II, which was originally released in November 2007, and features an open F1.9 large aperture lens, and achieves superb picture quality in a compact body.
The function-enhancing firmware and instructions for using these functions can be downloaded free of charge from the Ricoh website.
1. GXR Third Function-enhancing Firmware
Enhanced Functions for All Camera Units
(1) Addition of the "Scene Mode" for photographic expression with a difference
The addition of the new "Scene Mode" provides 5 types of mode to expand your photographic expression. Choose from "Soft Focus", "Cross Process", "Toy Camera", "Miniaturize", and "High Contrast Monochrome". Simply press the shutter release to take a truly unique shot.
(2) Addition of "Target Follow Function" to AE/AF target movement function
The "Target follow function" is added to the target movement function that locks the exposure or focus on a specific part of the photographic subject. When the camera follows the subject, this function automatically continues to adjust to the target position, so that the subject is in focus at precisely the moment you want to shoot.
(3) "Reset/Cancel" function added for AE/AF target move
By pressing the cancel button during AE/AF target move, the image monitor returns to the central position. When the cancel button is pressed again, the target move mode is cancelled.
(4) "Magnified playback function" added that magnifies the center of the target moved position
When magnifying the playback screen, the center of the position moved to as the AE/AF target can be the center of the magnification
Enhanced function only for the GR LENS A12 28mm/GR LENS A12 50mm camera unit
(5) Exposure correction and white balance can be assigned to the zoom button.
In the key custom settings, exposure correction or white balance functions can be assigned to the zoom button.
2. GR DIGITAL III Fourth Function-enhancing Firmware
Enhanced Functions
(1) Addition of Target Follow AF Function
By half-pressing the shutter button and following the set subject, this function continues to adjust to the subject position so that the subject is in focus at precisely the moment you want to shoot.
(2) Addition of "AF/Target Follow AF" switching function to the Fn. button
"AF/Target Follow AF" is added as one of the functions that can be registered to the Fn (function) 1 or Fn2 button. If the focus method is set to "multi AF", "spot AF", or "Target follow AF", the focus method can be switched between "multi AF" and "Target follow AF", or between "Spot AF" and "Target follow AF".
(3) Addition of setting change function to ADJ. lever for scene mode
When shooting in a scene mode such as "dynamic range double shot", "cross process", or "high contrast monochrome", the new function enables the ADJ. lever to be used to change settings such as ISO sensitivity and image quality.
(4) Addition of a selection function to the white balance manual setting capture area
When setting the white balance manually, the capture area used as the standard for white balance can be selected from "Entire frame" or "Spot".
(5) Electronic level display for self-timer
When using the self-timer, the electronic level continues to be displayed after the self-timer is started.
SOURCE Ricoh Co., Ltd.
Ricoh Co., Ltd.
CONTACT: Press inquiries: Veronica Blanco, Yoshihiro Watanabe, RICOH Personal MultiMedia Products Company PR desk, +81-3-3264-6785, Ricoh.pr@bm.com
Nation's Top 16 'Gran Turismo® 5' Drivers Accelerate into Final Round of Competition and Get One Step Closer to Becoming a Professional Race Car Driver
GT Academy's Sweet 16 Take 'Gran Turismo® 5' Skills to U.K.'s Silverstone Race Circuit and Compete for U.S. GT Academy Title
FOSTER CITY, Calif., March 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC (SCEA) and Polyphony Digital Inc., in collaboration with Nissan North America, announced the final 16 contestants moving on to the last round of GT Academy, ready to compete for the opportunity to become a part of a professional race team. The 16 finalists emerged from a group of more than 53,000 registrants as the top racers from the National Finals Event held at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort on March 22-23. They will now travel to the well-known Silverstone racing circuit in the UK to participate in a week-long boot camp in June. The top driver will become the official GT Academy winner for the U.S. and will have the opportunity to train with elite race car drivers and compete as part of a professional Nissan racing team in an undisclosed race.
"Leveraging the power of the PlayStation®3 (PS3(TM)), along with the precision and realism of Gran Turismo 5, we have narrowed the field to the nation's top 16 drivers and it has been a fierce race for the finish," said Scott A. Steinberg, Vice President of Product Marketing, SCEA. "We look forward to getting our finalists behind the wheel at the Silverstone circuit as we get one step closer to crowning our first GT Academy winner for the United States."
"The competition for the final 16 spots was exciting and intense. It has resulted some outstanding candidates for boot camp," said Jon Brancheau, Vice President Marketing, Nissan. "The success of this competition reinforces our commitment to innovative promotions like this and we look forward to more programs like this in the future."
At the Silverstone racing circuit, the 16 finalists will face a week-long series of grueling physical and mental challenges, in addition to going behind the wheel of actual Nissan race cars to show-off their driving skills. Participants will be judged and eliminated by an expert panel of racing professionals based on each competitor's skills, performance and overall aptitude for the requirements of a professional racer.
With features to suit newcomers, automotive enthusiasts and seasoned fans, Gran Turismo 5, available exclusively for the PlayStation®3 (PS3(TM)) system,has raised the bar on the franchise's quality of design, physics and technology. Players are treated to an ultra-realistic driving experience with unparalleled visuals and lifelike graphics that are difficult to distinguish from a live race. Gran Turismo 5 features abrand new physics engine for an improved and more realistic, and responsive, driving feel, as well as real-time vehicle damage and wear, with adaptive and accurate car deformation based on point of impact and velocity.
About Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC
Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC continues to redefine the entertainment lifestyle with its PlayStation® and PS one® systems, the PlayStation®2 system, the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system, the ground-breaking PlayStation®3 (PS3(TM)) 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, California, Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC serves as headquarters for all North American operations and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
With more than 56 million units sold worldwide, the award-winning Gran Turismo® franchise for the PlayStation®, PlayStation®2 and PLAYSTATION®3 is regarded as the best and most authentic driving simulation ever created due to its true-to-life graphics, physics and real-life cars and tracks. Since the inception of the Gran Turismo franchise, famed creator Kazunori Yamauchi and Polyphony Digital Inc. in Japan have revolutionized the racing category as we know it today. His offerings provide the gamer with the most true-to-life driving simulation within the industry and a unique medium for automotive manufacturers to showcase their products.
About Nissan
In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan also sells racing and performance parts through its Nissan Motorsports and NISMO parts line. Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program 2010 and has been recognized as a 2010 ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year by the U.S Environmental Protection Agency. More information on Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at http://www.NissanUSA.com and http://www.nissandriven.com/www.InfinitiUSA.com.
SOURCE Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC
Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20020701/SFM066LOGO http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC
CONTACT: Alex Armour, +1-858-824-4648, alex_armour@playstation.sony.com, or Claudine Ricanor, +1-858-824-4892, claudine_ricanor@playstation.sony.com
TMG Updates Comprehensive 3G Mobile Licensing and Spectrum Valuation Resource
ARLINGTON, Va., March 23, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Telecommunications Management Group, Inc. (TMG) announces the 2011 update of its 3G Licensing Around the World database, an indispensable tool for understanding the spectrum holdings, license fees paid and terms and conditions associated with third generation (3G) mobile licenses in the 1.9 GHz/2.1 GHz and 1.7 GHz/2.1 GHz spectrum bands. The update includes information on 45 countries and contains detailed profiles of 155 current 3G licensees. The database provides crucial information for conducting comparative analyses of spectrum awards and valuations, which will be particularly important as regulators around the world move forward with new spectrum tenders for advanced mobile services. For each country, clear and concise tables and notes present comprehensive information including:
-- Current 3G licensees
-- Initial and additional license fees in local currency and U.S. dollars
(USD)
-- Amount of spectrum held and, for most operators, exact spectrum
assignments
-- Spectrum valuations (USD/MHz/POP)
-- Licensing method (auction, beauty contest or direct award)
-- License information including award date, coverage obligations and
performance bond requirements
-- Service launch dates and technologies deployed
3G Licensing Around the World provides the current status and relevant histories of 3G licensing in the 1.9 GHz/2.1 GHz and 1.7 GHz/2.1 GHz bands in markets around the world.
Data is currently available for the following regions and countries:
Americas: Brazil, Canada, Chile, Mexico, United States
Asia-Pacific: Australia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea (Rep.), Macau, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Vietnam
Europe/CIS: Austria,Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Russia, Serbia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom
Middle East/Africa: Bahrain,Egypt, Israel, Kenya, Mauritius, Morocco, Nigeria, United Arab Emirates
All products are available for immediate download in PDF format. Regional packages begin at US$750, and the entire set of 45 countries is priced at US$4,700.
For more details, including ordering information, please see:
Telecommunications Management Group, Inc., http://www.tmgtelecom.com, is a premier consulting firm, based in the Washington, DC, metropolitan area, comprised of an experienced team of attorneys, economists, market analysts, engineers and financial experts with an in-depth knowledge of the ICT industry. TMG provides strategic, managerial, regulatory and technical advice to telecommunications entities, governments and international agencies.
Available Topic Expert(s): For information on the listed expert(s), click appropriate link.
Flurry Introduces Mobile Game Acceleration Program
Mobile Social Game Veteran Jeferson Valadares Joins Flurry as Games GM
SAN FRANCISCO, March 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Flurry, a leader in growing and monetizing mobile application audiences, today announced the launch of its Game Acceleration Program (GAP) for iOS and Android platforms. The program offers partners a full suite of support across the development and marketing spectrum. Program support includes industry-leading analytics, game design and development assistance, financing, distribution and marketing. Additionally, unlike traditional publishing models, Flurry does not seek to own the intellectual property of a title. In exchange for development and launch support, the application makers would simply agree to use Flurry AppCircle, the leading application recommendation network, until agreed upon costs are recouped.
Flurry GAP Led by Social and Mobile Game Veteran
The initiative is led by Jeferson Valadares, an experienced social game studio leader who has led numerous development teams for Electronic Arts, Playfish and Digital Chocolate. Jeferson brings over 10 years of mobile and Facebook game development experience, working on a range of critically acclaimed, original mobile game IP and top brands including FIFA, Harry Potter, Need for Speed and numerous Hasbro titles such as Game of Life and Battleship. Jeferson's teams have shipped a combined total of more than 40 titles, won multiple developer of the year awards and 14 game of the year awards. Additionally, he was executive producer for the third title in the history of IGN, a leading game review site, to be awarded a perfect 10/10 review score, for any game on any platform. He began his career by founding a gaming company that helped brands build online and mobile games.
"There is no greater thrill than working through the design and iteration process with game studios to create a hit game," said Jeferson Valadares, Flurry general manager of games. "Whether we're collaborating with a brand or an indie gaming developer, Flurry GAP will share best-of-breed game design principles to deliver fun and engaging application experiences that increase retention and monetization."
From Indies to Brands
The program is designed to support a broad range of application makers, from independent game developers to brands seeking to "gamify" their applications, as well as established game studios who have a unique set of challenges, from tuning an advanced economy to flipping the business model of a hit game from premium to freemium.
"With roughly 10 million iOS and Android devices activated each day, the mobile space is as important of a channel as online and primetime TV," said Simon Khalaf, Flurry president and CEO. "Flurry reaches over 40 million active consumers each day through Flurry AppCircle - we want to help companies of all sizes better reach and monetize that audience."
About Flurry
Flurry increases the size and value of mobile application audiences, and is used by more than 40,000 companies across more than 75,000 applications on iOS, Android, Blackberry, Windows Phone 7 and J2ME. Flurry tracks over 10 billion anonymous, aggregated end-user application sessions each month.
Flurry AppCircle, an intelligent mobile application cross-selling network, delivers high quality acquisition for advertisers and earns industry-leading revenue for publishers. Flurry Analytics helps developers make better applications, increase retention and grow revenue.
Flurry is venture backed by Menlo Ventures, Draper Fisher Jurvetson, InterWest Partners, Union Square Ventures and First Round Capital. For more information, please visit http://www.flurry.com.
Note to Editors
iOS, iPhone, iPad, Android, Blackberry, Windows Phone 7 and J2ME are trademarks of their respective companies. All other company and product names may be trademarks of the companies with which they are associated.
Media contact:
Peter Farago
VP Marketing
Flurry, Inc.
Peter(at)flurry(dot)com
510-461-4450
NComputing 'Office in a Box' Offers Small and Medium Sized Businesses State-of-the-art Technology at a Fraction of the Cost
REDWOOD CITY, California, March 23, 2011/PRNewswire/ -- NComputing, a global leader in desktop virtualization, today launched
"Office in a Box" in response to the growing need of small and medium sized
businesses (SMBs) to have access to state-of-art office productivity
solutions at a fraction of the cost. This is the second vertical market
solution to be delivered by NComputing - the first being Classroom in a Box
which was designed to help budget-strapped educational institutions maintain
a more viable and less costly IT model.
Building and maintaining IT is a major challenge for SMBs because it
often requires that they purchase a PC for every employee - involving high
acquisition and on-going maintenance costs as well as significant expenditure
on bought-in IT skills. In response to these issues, Office in a Box provides
an all-inclusive, pre-tested, easy-to-deploy desktop virtualization solution
that can be tailored to meet the requirements of any sized SMB.
The advanced desktop virtualization products that comprise Office in a
Box provide an alternative to the traditional "one PC per user" model by
allowing a single server to simultaneously support up to 60 users - with each
running their own independent set of applications.
The value that Office in a Box can bring to SMBs includes:
- Reduced up-front PC acquisition costs by 75%
- Lowers maintenance and support costs by 75%
- Reduces power and cooling requirements by 90%
- Reduced risk resulting from device loss and theft
- Simple access to advanced cloud based applications and technology
Said Jim McHugh, SVP Marketing for NComputing, "The proliferation of PCs
has become a financial and management constraint for SMBs. Office in a Box
utilizes our virtualization technology to address these challenges so that
SMBs can deploy solutions that help them focus on business advancement not
technology issues."
Office in a Box includes Host Server(s), vSpace(TM) Virtualization
Software, OS licenses, NComputing virtual desktops and basic peripherals such
as monitors, keyboards and mice. Solution add-ons are available for larger
deployments such as virtual desktop failover, storage, and server
virtualization infrastructure for scaling to support large populations.
NComputing Office In A Box is available immediately from leading
technology distributors. For more information and configuration options http://www.ncomputing.com/office-in-a-box
About Ncomputing
NComputing, Inc. is the fastest growing end-to-end desktop virtualization
company in the world with over 20 million daily users in 140 countries.
Source: NComputing
Media contact: Ana Tackett - BondPR US on behalf of Ncomputing, ana@bondprUS.com, +1-415-848-2626
Aircell Introduces the World's First Airborne Smartphone
New Aircell Smartphone will Provide the Best Voice Quality in Aviation and Set New Standards for Ease of Use
RENO, Nev., March 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- [AEA International Convention & Trade Show] - Aircell, the world's leading provider of inflight connectivity, today unveiled the Aircell® Smartphone, a next-generation cabin handset designed specifically for business aircraft. With intuitive, menu-driven features, the Aircell Smartphone allows passengers to place and receive voice calls aboard business aircraft as easily and conveniently as they do with mobile phones on the ground. In addition, its flexible Android OS platform sets the stage for a nearly unlimited set of rich-media features and functions in the future. First shipments are scheduled for late 2011.
Among a host of groundbreaking capabilities, the new Aircell Smartphone will provide the best voice quality in aviation through a number of embedded technologies and design features. At 3.8" diagonally, the Aircell Smartphone's bright, color touchscreen display is the largest the aviation industry has ever seen in a telephony device. It exceeds the size of most consumer smartphones on the market today.
"The result of extensive industrial design and human factors study, the Aircell Smartphone epitomizes the notion of next-generation inflight communications. It gives passengers exactly what they want - the best-sounding, best-looking and easiest-to-use handset in aviation," said John Wade, Aircell's Executive Vice President & General Manager, Business Aviation Services. "We've received extraordinary feedback from all corners of the industry on this achievement, and we look forward to bringing it to market later this year."
Key Benefits & Features
1. Designed specifically for aircraft use, from the ground up
2. Big, bright, 3.8" color touchscreen display - the largest in the industry
3. Flexible, future-minded Android OS platform
4. Bluetooth-compatible for hands-free operation
5. Ingenious design for interchangeable wireless or wired operation
6. High-touch design with expert use of colors, materials & finishes
7. So easy to operate, no user manual is required
8. Drop-in replacement for current Aircell Axxess flush-mount handsets
9. Integrated audio jack for wired headsets & earbuds
10. Fully certified
The Aircell Smartphone will be backward-compatible with all Aircell Axxess communications systems currently in production, and available as a drop-in replacement for the company's prolific Aircell Axxess flush-mount handset. It will also be fully compatible with the company's forthcoming Gogo Biz(TM) Voice service via the ATG 4000 and ATG 5000 systems. Shipments of the new Aircell Smartphone are scheduled to begin in late 2011 and pricing will be announced prior to that time.
Note to editors:
-- A high-resolution image of the new Aircell Smartphone is available for
immediate download here: http://www.aircell.com/sites/default/files/images/AircellSmartphone.jpg
-- Photo caption: "The new Aircell Smartphone's color touch-screen display
is larger than most consumer smartphones on the market today."
About Aircell
Aircell is the world's leading provider of inflight connectivity and a single-source, turnkey provider of equipment, service, and technical support. With a global sales and support presence, its products are offered by virtually every fixed- and rotor-wing airframe manufacturer in business aviation, and are installed aboard the world's four largest fractional ownership fleets. As winner of an exclusive FCC frequency license in 2006, Aircell has built a revolutionary new mobile broadband network for commercial and business aviation. In 2008, the Aircell® Network and its inflight portal, known as Gogo®, revolutionized the commercial airline passenger flight experience by delivering a robust Internet experience at 35,000 feet. The Aircell Network provides airlines with connectivity to operations and a path to enhanced cabin services such as video, audio, television and more. A similar feature set is available to Business Aircraft operators. Aircell has facilities in Broomfield, Colorado, and Itasca, Illinois. Aircell's vision is to give everyone the ability to stay In Touch, In Flight®. For more information about Aircell, please visit http://www.aircell.com.
Gaggle Launches New Application for the Blackboard Learn Platform
7 Gaggle Widgets now accessible through Blackboard Learn Platform
BLOOMINGTON, Ill., March 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Gaggle, the leading provider of safe online learning tools, announced a new application for the Blackboard Learn(TM) platform that allows Blackboard Learn users worldwide to access the Gaggle widget through a single sign-on within Blackboard Learn. With this one-click access, clients of both Gaggle and Blackboard can easily access information in both systems simultaneously. Widgets are small interactive versions of Gaggle's most popular tools including: the Email Inbox, Calendar, Digital Locker, Blog, Message Board, Homework Drop Box, and the Social Wall. Users can manage their email account, download locker files, edit a Zoho® doc and more.
"The launch of our new Building Block for the Blackboard Learn platform continues our approach of integrating Gaggle with all the major enterprise applications that schools regularly use," said Brett Woudenberg, COO of Gaggle. "Blackboard Inc. is a market leading learning management system, but many of our K-12 customers require the added safety of Gaggle's Web 2.0 tools, which allow schools to provide a safe social learning environment for their students."
Blackboard Building Blocks(TM) allow clients to incorporate specific add-on tools into the Blackboard Learn platform to address unique challenges. "The flexibility of Blackboard Building Blocks provides our clients with a more customized experience. From open source tools to Blackboard Partner supported extensions, clients can truly build the Blackboard system that's right for them," said Matthew Small, Blackboard Chief Business Officer. With hundreds of extensions from Blackboard Partners and client developers available on http://www.blackboardextensions.com, Blackboard Learn clients can customize unique solutions to enhance their institution's teaching and learning.
About Gaggle
Gaggle is dedicated to providing safe online communication tools for schools, and has been a leading provider to school districts throughout the United States since 1998. Gaggle currently hosts over 4 million users in the US and 23 countries. The company is an expert in secure communications for schools and has developed proprietary technology and monitoring systems. Based in Bloomington, IL, Gaggle's collaboration tools are the winner of numerous education industry awards, including a finalist nomination for the prestigious CODiE awards in 2010 and recipient of a 2010 Technology & Learning Award of Excellence. For information, visit Gaggle at http://www.gaggle.net or call 800-288-7750.
About Blackboard Inc.
Blackboard Inc. (Nasdaq: BBBB) is a global leader in enterprise technology and innovative solutions that improve the experience of millions of students and learners around the world every day. Blackboard's solutions allow thousands of higher education, K-12, professional, corporate, and government organizations to extend teaching and learning online, facilitate campus commerce and security, and communicate more effectively with their communities. Founded in 1997, Blackboard is headquartered in Washington, D.C., with offices in North America, Europe, Asia and Australia.
Blackboard, the Blackboard Alliance Program, the Blackboard Developers Network, and Blackboard Building Blocks are the trademarks or registered trademarks of Blackboard Inc. All rights reserved.
The company, product and service names used in this press release are for identification purposes only. All trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Contact:
Susan Heykamp
Marketing Manager, Gaggle.Net, Inc.
800.288.7750
sheykamp@gaggle.net
MONTREAL, March 23 /PRNewswire/ - Toon Boom Animation Inc. today announced the release of its first line
up of fun mobile apps for the iOS App Store. Toon Boom has launched
Flip Boom Lite for the iPhone and iPod, a fun app that lets your
fingertips doodle, scribble or draw fun animations (apps.toonboom.com/flipboomliteiphone). Flip Boom Lite is already available for the iPad and has received
rave reviews (apps.toonboom.com/flipboomliteipad). Both apps are free in the App Store and let you discover the fun of
animation creation.
"Toon Boom's fun applications lend themselves perfectly for the iPod,
iPhone and iPad. You can discover how easy creating animation can be
while having coffee or waiting for a meeting," said Joan Vogelesang,
President and Chief Executive Officer of Toon Boom Animation.
More features will be available in our paid versions coming soon, so
stay tooned!
Connect to the iTunes AppStore, search Flip Boom and start having fun!
About Toon Boom Animation Inc.
Toon Boom Animation Inc. (toonboom.com) is the worldwide leader in digital content and animation creation
software. Toon Boom carries user-friendly animation applications for
all, catering to the needs of children, home users, creative
professionals as well as students, educators and schools.
As importantly, Toon Boom is fully dedicated to the needs of independent
animators and studios, offering a wide product range from powerful
pre-production tools to leading-edge animation production solutions.
Relying on its extensive expertise in animation production, Toon Boom
provides consulting services in the fields of optimization, pipeline
integration, production assistance and custom development.
MedNet Solutions to Unveil iMedNet EDC at the 2011 Partnerships in Clinical Trials Conference
MINNETONKA, Minn., March 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- MedNet Solutions, a global life sciences technology solutions company specializing in clinical study management systems, is pleased to announce that it will officially unveil iMedNet(TM) EDC, the company's innovative, next-generation electronic data capture (EDC) solution, at the upcoming Partnerships in Clinical Trials conference in Phoenix, AZ. Demonstrations of MedNet Solutions' full lineup of eClinical solutions, including iMedNet EDC, will be held in MedNet's booth (#918) at the Phoenix Convention Center on Wednesday, March 30 through Friday, April 1.
Built from the ground up, and based on MedNet Solutions' 10+ years of experience developing proven eClinical systems, iMedNet EDC delivers a practical, affordable and easy-to-use cloud-based solution that allows non-technical research personnel to rapidly build their own clinical research studies. iMedNet EDC's software-as-a-service (SaaS) pricing model dramatically lowers technology-related costs, making it an ideal solution for studies of any kind, including Phase I-IV trials, feasibility studies, registries and investigator initiated research.
"We are extremely excited to introduce the commercially available version of iMedNet EDC at Partnerships," stated John M. (Rob) Robertson, President and CEO of MedNet Solutions. "We have numerous CROs and Sponsors who have seen initial iMedNet product demonstrations and are anxious to begin using it to build, deploy and manage their upcoming research initiatives. We know they won't be disappointed."
About MedNet Solutions
MedNet Solutions is a leading healthcare technology company specializing in clinical study management systems designed for the global life sciences market. Applying critical insight, proven technology and unwavering support, MedNet delivers powerful, flexible and easy-to-use web-based solutions that support our customers' clinical studies, registries and investigator initiated trials. Since 2000, MedNet has successfully supported leading pharmaceutical, medical device, biotechnology, and clinical research organizations on projects spanning 6 continents and more than 40 countries. MedNet delivers a superior customer experience from beginning to end. For more information, please visit http://www.mednetstudy.com.
Contact Information:
Dirk H. Nelson
Director of Marketing
110 Cheshire Lane, Suite
300
Minnetonka, MN 55305
USA
(763) 258-2735
New Channel Gives FiOS TV Customers Access to Music, Original Series and More - all in HD
NEW YORK, March 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Verizon is giving FiOS TV customers more high-definition programming with the launch of BET HD. The new addition to the FiOS TV lineup offers hit music, entertainment and news programming geared toward the African-American audience.
BET HD is already available to FiOS TV customers in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Florida, New Jersey, downstate New York and the Philadelphia area. It will be available in Maryland, Virginia, Harrisburg, Buffalo and Syracuse by Thursday (March 24), and to all other FiOS TV customers by Tuesday (March 29).
"Today's consumers are clamoring for more high-definition programming, and the launch of BET HD is a great addition for our FiOS TV subscribers," said Terry Denson, vice president of content strategy and acquisition for Verizon. "It's an exciting time for FiOS, as we announce more and more programming options every week. And with BET HD, our customers are getting popular talk shows, original series and all of BET's music programming, all in high definition."
Joseph Molko, senior vice president of content distribution and marketing at MTV/BET Networks, said, "The launch of BET HD on FiOS TV marks an exciting addition for our network. With the addition of this new offering, we look forward to enhancing the viewing experience for our audience as we deliver the best in black entertainment and culture."
BET is available to all FiOS TV customers on Channels 770 in high definition and 270 in standard definition. The channel features popular shows like the original series "The Game," talk shows like "The Mo'Nique Show" and reality shows like "Monica: Still Standing." In addition, BET offers specials like the "BET Awards," "BET Hip-Hop Awards" and "Celebration of Gospel." BET will also launch "106 & Park" in HD on May 2.
BET HD joins FiOS TV's broad collection of programming, which offers more than 520 all-digital channels including up to 146 HD channels and 19,000 monthly video-on-demand titles. FiOS also provides next-generation interactive services including an advanced interactive media guide; social networking, news and entertainment widgets; remote DVR management via broadband or cell phone; and more.
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and sub-Saharan Africa. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions: BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; CENTRIC, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the 25- to 54-year-old African-American audience; BET Digital Networks - BET Gospel and BET Hip Hop, attractive alternatives for cutting-edge entertainment tastes; BET Home Entertainment, a collection of BET-branded offerings for the home environment including DVDs and video-on-demand; BET Event Productions, a full-scale event management and production company with festivals and live events spanning the globe; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET in the United Kingdom and oversees the extension of BET network programming for global distribution.
About Verizon
Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ), headquartered in New York, is a global leader in delivering broadband and other wireless and wireline communications services to mass market, business, government and wholesale customers. Verizon Wireless operates America's most reliable wireless network, serving 94.1 million customers nationwide. Verizon also provides converged communications, information and entertainment services over America's most advanced fiber-optic network, and delivers innovative, seamless business solutions to customers around the world. A Dow 30 company, Verizon employs a diverse workforce of more than 194,000 and last year generated consolidated revenues of $106.6 billion. For more information, visit http://www.verizon.com.
VERIZON'S ONLINE NEWS CENTER: Verizon news releases, executive speeches and biographies, media contacts, high-quality video and images, and other information are available at Verizon's News Center on the World Wide Web at http://www.verizon.com/news. To receive news releases by e-mail, visit the News Center and register for customized automatic delivery of Verizon news releases.
SOURCE Verizon
Verizon
CONTACT: Heather Wilner, Verizon, +1-908-559-6407, heather.b.wilner@verizon.com; or Kimberlee Bradshaw, BET Networks, +1-212-205-3154, kimberlee.bradshaw@bet.net
SouthPeak Interactive and Firefly Studios Announce New Release Window for Highly Anticipated Castle Building Sim Stronghold 3®
MIDLOTHIAN, Va. and LEICESTER, England, March 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ --Leading videogame publisher, SouthPeak Interactive Corporation (OTC Bulletin Board: SOPK) and Firefly Studios have today announced that upcoming castle building strategy game Stronghold 3 will be released on PC later this summer. The release window has been pushed back to include a host of great new features that will ensure Stronghold 3 truly is the king of the castle.
"We want to make sure fans get the game they want and deserve," said Stronghold 3's designer Simon Bradbury. "Although some may be disappointed the game isn't coming out as soon as they expected, we're sure they won't be disappointed with the new elements we're adding to the franchise, to make this the best Stronghold yet."
Since first launching in 2001, the Stronghold series has become one of the most respected in its genre thanks to its mix of precision village building, fast-paced real-time game play and dramatic sieges with hundreds of enemies swarming over castles. Stronghold 3 has a keep full of fantastic features - including night time battles, an improved multiplayer, cutting edge physics and a stunning graphics engine - which ensure old and new fans alike experience a gritty slice of medieval life.
SouthPeak Interactive Corporation develops and publishes interactive entertainment software for all current hardware platforms including: Xbox 360® videogame and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system, PSP® (PlayStation® Portable) system, PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, Wii(TM), Nintendo DS(TM), iPhone and Windows PC. SouthPeak's games cover all major genres including action/adventure, role-playing, strategy, racing, puzzle, sports and edutainment. SouthPeak's products are sold in retail outlets in North America, South and Central America, Europe, Australia and Asia. SouthPeak is headquartered in Midlothian, Virginia, and has offices in Grapevine, Texas and Leicester, England.
SouthPeak's extensive portfolio of over 60 interactive entertainment games spans a variety of platforms and genres including RPG, simulation, FPS, sports, strategy, puzzle and fighting.
For additional information, please visit SouthPeak's corporate website: http://www.southpeakgames.com or follow us on Twitter @SouthPeakGames.
About Firefly Studios
Firefly Studios is a computer and video games development company, formed in 1999. The company has produced a number of high profile and commercially successful strategy games including the Stronghold series. Firefly has experience developing PC, console and MMO titles and has offices in the United Kingdom and United States. For more information, please visit our website at http://www.fireflyworlds.com
Trademarks are property of their respective owners.
YUBE - iPhone Exercise App Goes Wireless with Apple TV
Volo's YUBE virtual reality exercise application gets a leapfrog jump from Apple's release of AirPlay® on Apple TV®
The YUBE is an augmented reality application for stationary exercise
It uses an iPhone® or iPod Touch® to synchronize the user's body motion to travel through real video
Travel the world without leaving the gym
BLOOMFIELD HILLS, Mich., March 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Been bored on the treadmill? Spinning just not that much fun? Volo is working to fix that with the YUBE at http://www.edggs.com. The YUBE plays video (scenic travel or competitive racing) to the speed of your exercise. The iPhone® or iPod Touch® is attached to your arm (walking or running) or leg (biking), the application senses your body speed and uses that to control the speed of the video. The faster you go the faster you go through the video.
Up until AirPlay® was released the YUBE needed to be connected to your TV or projector to display your exercise video -- now with AirPlay® and an Apple TV® you can be anywhere in the room and beam your video right to your TV or projector without wires, no encumbrances whatsoever.
"We were designing a wireless link for the YUBE, it was getting costly and complicated. Apple's release of AirPlay® for video is a leapfrog technology for us and our users," said Tim Sefton - President of Volo - designers of the YUBE.
The YUBE plays videos, from around the world, both competitive and scenic, and plays them on a large screen TV or projector, timed to the speed of your exercise. The faster you go, the faster you go though the video. The YUBE senses the motion of the exerciser's body and translates that into speed. The YUBE works with exercise bikes, treadmills, rowing machines, stepping machines, spinning bikes, anything that is stationary exercise.
YUBE offers both a full and a lite version, $4.99 and $1.99 respectively, both are available at iTunes®.
Apple TV, iTunes, iPod Touch, iPhone, iTunes and AirPlay are registered trademarks of Apple Inc.
Pixel Power to Reveal New ChannelMaster(TM) Complete Broadcast Channel Playout Solution at NAB 2011
New Product Line Provides No Compromise, Fully-Integrated Systems with Sophisticated Channel Branding and Promo Graphics for Rapid, Cost-Effective Multi-Channel Deployments
BURBANK, Calif. and LAS VEGAS, March 23 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Pixel Power, the leading supplier of broadcast graphics systems, today announced plans to reveal ChannelMaster--a new line of all-in-one playout systems for multi-channel broadcast operations-- at NAB 2011, in Booth N2034 of the Las Vegas Convention Center, April 11-14. ChannelMaster systems deliver all the functionality needed to quickly deliver a channel on air--and are the first products of their kind to include sophisticated graphics for branding and promotion--without the cost and complexity of traditional playout chains.
"Many adopters of 'channel in a box'-type solutions quickly discover that merely pumping out content does not make for a successful channel launch. Graphics and branding are vital to creating compelling channels, so many then come to Pixel Power for graphics to fill that void in their playout chain," said Pixel Power Inc. CEO Pete Challinger. "Now, the no compromise design of our new Pixel Power ChannelMaster provides broadcasters what they really need. Secondary channels should not look secondary --they require the same polish and impact of primary channels."
ChannelMaster integrates storage, graphics, DVE, subtitling, master control, live feed and long-form video playout within a single dedicated hardware platform that enables broadcasters to avoid the cost and complexity of traditional playout chains. Featuring Pixel Power's industry-leading Clarity graphics engine, ChannelMaster provides highly sophisticated levels of branding and promo graphics capability, enabling broadcasters to create channels that compete effectively for audience attention.
All of the hardware components and software functionality within ChannelMaster work seamlessly together to quickly and reliably bring a channel on air. ChannelMaster can operate autonomously or as a part of a group of ChannelMaster devices controlled and managed by a range of popular automation and media asset management systems. A single 3RU ChannelMaster system has everything required to deliver a single complex channel or two simpler channels.
Pixel Power provides innovative graphics production and delivery systems for broadcasters, OB truck companies, playout facilities, post-production houses, venues and sports complexes. Our award-winning branding and promotions systems, graphics-enabled master control switchers, and sophisticated HD/SD switchable graphics production systems allow producers to deliver dynamic live and pre-recorded content for any SD, HD, 3D stereoscopic, mobile, online or interactive application.
For more than 20 years Pixel Power's engineering prowess and dedication to customer support have made it the industry's first choice. Our customer base of over 2000 systems includes market leaders like ABC, Astral, CBC, Disney, Discovery, ESPN, HBO, MTV, CNBC and Technicolor.
Headquartered in Cambridge, England, Pixel Power has a subsidiary located in Burbank, California and a Middle East office in Dubai, as well as a global network of carefully selected and trained distributors to support any requirement.
SOURCE Pixel Power
Pixel Power
CONTACT: PR, Evan Sirof, MarComm-On-Call, Inc., evan@marcomm-on-call.com, +1-845-255-1909; or Pixel Power, Pete Challinger, CEO, pchallinger@pixelpower.com, +1-818-276-4509
AKRON, Ohio, March 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Akron Children's Hospital launched its first mobile app, Care4Kids, in March. Developed especially for parents, Care4Kids is currently available for the iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad. It will be available for the Android in May.
In addition to general health and hospital information, Care4Kids lets parents store their family's medical history, including insurance and provider information, medications, allergies, emergency contacts and more. Parents can password-protect this information and easily share it using Bluetooth technology.
"Our goal was to develop a mobile app that parents would find useful," said Andrea Joliet, assistant director of Interactive Marketing & Public Relations at Akron Children's Hospital. "As a parent, I know how important it is to have easy access to this type of information, when I need it, wherever I need it. And as an app junkie, I really wanted to create something practical and valuable for parents."
There are currently more than 4,200 healthcare apps available on the Apple platform, and about 500 for Android users, according to Mobile Health News. This number will continue to grow, with an estimated 500,000 people expected to use healthcare mobile applications by 2015.
"Mobile technology is changing the way we communicate," Joliet said. "It offers tremendous opportunities in healthcare."
In addition to storing family health records, Care4Kids also features:
-- Am I Germy?, a tool to show the contagiousness of common infections
-- Tips to Grow By health information articles
-- Videos on a range of timely child health topics
-- Find-A-Doc, a tool to find a pediatrician or pediatric specialist and
request an appointment
-- Get Well eCards for patients admitted to the hospital
Hospital locations, phone numbers, news, events and more are also accessible through the app.
Akron Children's Hospital is the largest pediatric healthcare provider in northeast Ohio. We care for nearly 600,000 patients annually at two freestanding hospitals and offer services at more than 80 locations. Akron Children's also serves as a major teaching affiliate of Northeastern Ohio Universities Colleges of Medicine and Pharmacy, and offers a number of pediatric subspecialty fellowship training programs. In addition, we are committed to finding ways to improve the prevention and treatment of pediatric illnesses through research. For more information, visit http://www.akronchildrens.org.
EveryScape Eats! Visual Dining Guide Debuts in Washington, D.C.; iPhone App Shows 3D Interiors of Capitol Area Restaurants
Eats! helps consumers find the perfect restaurant for any dining occasion
NEWTON, Mass., March 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- EveryScape, pioneer in immersive advertising and enabler of immersive search, today announced the Washington, D.C. debut of EveryScape Eats!, a visual dining guide with a free iPhone application and companion website. Capitol area foodies can now peruse the most complete visual restaurant guide by viewing 3D interiors of hundreds of area restaurants with the free Eats! iPhone and iPad application or by visiting http://www.EveryScapeEats.com.
The EveryScape Eats! application allows users to "walk around" and explore restaurants as if they were there in person, creating a new level of engagement between customers and local restaurants. This new approach to restaurant search offers a complete solution to the "where to eat for this occasion?" conundrum and ensures that a dining selection matches the consumer's desired ambiance, cuisine, menu selection and price.
"Anyone who has ever stressed about where to take their in-laws for dinner, or finding an appropriate place to take their boss for lunch will appreciate how quickly EveryScape Eats! can help answer these questions," said Jim Schoonmaker, CEO of EveryScape. "EveryScape Eats! provides easy access to immersive 3D imagery which creates a human connection between the consumer and restaurant, enabling the consumer to make at-a-glance decisions about where to eat."
Key features of Eats! include the ability to search restaurants through visual thumbnails, find nearby restaurants using geolocation, narrow selections based on price or rating and share via social networks. Eats! is available free of charge through the iTunes app store and at http://www.EveryScapeEats.com.
EveryScape initially launched Eats! in Boston and is rolling out the application nationally with city-by-city launches. Washington, D.C. joins the ranks of Seattle, San Francisco and SoHo which are also available on the iTunes app store. EveryScape plans to launch the Eats! application in additional cities, including New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami and New Orleans in the coming six months.
EveryScape invented the technology that is the basis of EveryScape Eats!, which transforms a few snapshots of a local business into an immersive online presence. Each restaurant's immersive ad is customizable and includes information such as reviews, menus, cuisine type and ratings.
The EveryScape Eats! Washington, D.C. Edition is available for free from the App Store here for iPhone or iPad or at http://www.EveryScapeEats.com.
About EveryScape, Inc.
EveryScape is a pioneer in immersive advertising. Just as websites gave local businesses a front door, EveryScape's immersive ads open the door and invite visitors to come in, look around, and stay awhile. EveryScape invented the technology that transforms 2D still photos of a local business into a new 3D online presence that allows people to "walk around" and explore as if they were there in person. By mimicking a businesses' real-world retail presence, immersive ads provide instant answers to otherwise subjective questions regarding local businesses - answers that cannot be answered by text and flat imagery alone. In fact, 87 percent of people had a positive affinity for the business that they explored via EveryScape immersive advertising and 70 percent of those people stated that they were more likely or much more likely to visit that business offline. EveryScape is enabling immersive search through a distribution network of leading portals, including Microsoft BING Maps as well as through their own visual dining guide, EveryScape Eats!, available online and as a free iPhone application.
EveryScape is headquartered in Newton, Mass. and is venture backed by SK Telecom Americas, Dace Ventures, Draper Fisher Jurvetson, Draper Fisher New England, Draper Atlantic and Launchpad Venture Group. Find out more at http://www.everyscape.com.
Windows Intune Available to Businesses of All Sizes
Windows Intune, System Center Configuration Manager 2012 and Microsoft Desktop Optimization Pack help IT organizations empower employee productivity.
LAS VEGAS, March 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ --At the Microsoft Management Summit 2011, Microsoft Corp. today announced new IT solutions to streamline PC and device management, empower productivity and enable the modern enterprise, highlighting the release of Windows Intune, System Center Configuration Manager 2012 Beta 2 and the next version of Microsoft Desktop Optimization Pack (MDOP). Windows Intune is generally available today in 35 countries, bringing PC management through the cloud and upgrades to Windows 7 Enterprise to businesses. Windows Intune delivers cloud-based management and security capabilities through a single, Web-based console, so computers and users can operate at peak performance from virtually anywhere.
"Microsoft is focused on providing management solutions to help IT organizations give employees access to what they need, when they need it, from anywhere and on a wider variety of devices," said Brad Anderson, corporate vice president of Management and Security for Microsoft Corp. "A solution like Windows Intune is the perfect example of how customers and partners of all sizes can take advantage of cloud computing for easy-to-use PC management and security."
Lower Cost of Ownership Comes With Windows Intune
By leveraging the power of the cloud, Windows Intune helps IT staff relieve the burden of managing and maintaining a complicated PC infrastructure, which translates to more IT efficiency, user productivity, security and cost savings.
Microsoft recently commissioned a study from IDC that revealed a total savings of $702 per PC, per year, with Windows Intune, which includes savings from IT labor reduction of $521 per PC, per year, user productivity savings of $63 per PC, per year, and cost recovery from not having to use other tools at an average of $118 per PC, per year.(1)
Windows Intune Brings Opportunities to Partners
In a separate Microsoft-commissioned study, IDC arrived at a conclusion that clearly outlines the partner opportunity, stating, "Windows Intune would help them grow their PC management businesses by an average of 19 percent over the first full year of operations."(2) Windows Intune offers real opportunity for partners that are looking to take advantage of the cloud to reach more customers, to start or grow their managed services business, and to drive annuity-based revenue. For example, partners can support more customers with the cloud-based system than a traditional onsite business model, without increasing staff headcount. Partners interested in trying Windows Intune can subscribe to the Microsoft Cloud Essentials program for free at http://www.microsoftcloudpartner.com for Internal Usage Rights software.
"Windows Intune provides an ideal PC management solution for our clients," said Stephen Hall, senior network engineer and CEO of District Computers LLC. "It includes updates, end-point protection, licensing, systems management and the ability to tell us exactly what's going on with our clients at any given time, all from one console."
Simpler Unified Management and Security With System Center Configuration Manager 2012 and MDOP
In his keynote speech, Anderson also announced the beta 2 of System Center Configuration Manager 2012, the next version of Microsoft's popular endpoint management solution for enterprises, which is available through http://www.microsoft.com/systemcenter/cm2012. He demonstrated how the new product helps IT managers give employees a more personalized experience using applications on a wider variety of devices. He also showed how the technology helps reduce IT costs and inefficiencies by unifying the security and management of mobile, physical and virtualized applications into one solution.
In addition, Anderson discussed key components of the next version of MDOP, including the beta release of Microsoft BitLocker Administration and Monitoring (MBAM) and Microsoft Diagnostics and Recovery Toolset (DaRT) updates. MBAM builds on BitLocker in Windows 7 Enterprise and helps simplify BitLocker provisioning and deployment, improves compliance and reporting, and reduces support costs through streamlining the key recovery process. Customers can sign up for the MBAM beta at http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId 8999. The updated version of DaRT will include the ability to initiate a remote-control session to assist users without the need for a deskside visit and the ability to boot from the network or a USB stick to use the recovery tools. A beta of the next version of DaRT is expected in early April, and customers can sign up at http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkID!3952.
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq: MSFT) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.
(1) IDC white paper, sponsored by Microsoft, "A First Look at How Windows Intune Can Lower Costs and Raise Productivity," Doc. #227158, March 2011
(2) IDC white paper, sponsored by Microsoft, "The Windows Intune Partner Opportunity: A Blueprint for Success," Doc. #227232, March 2011
BELLEVUE, Wash., March 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Expedia.com, the world's leading online travel agency, today announced the upcoming launch of Expedia Hotels, a free iPhone and iPod touch app developed to give travelers an intuitive, quick way to research, filter and book hotel rooms from their mobile device. This is the first app introduced by Expedia since the company acquired Mobiata, the mobile travel apps powerhouse, in November 2010. Expedia Hotels is the first in a series of mobile initiatives that the company will roll out in 2011.
"'Expedia Everywhere' is our new strategy with the world's most wickedly compelling mobile experiences designed to delight the earth's travelers with their ease of use, speed to book and rich features," said Scott Durchslag, president, Expedia Worldwide. "Expedia Hotels is the first of what will be many mobile apps developed for iPhone and Android. They will enable customers of the world's largest online travel agency to easily book any our inventory of more than 130,000 hotel rooms worldwide, putting real time best prices and availability at the tip of their finger in moments."
Expedia Hotels is simple, streamlined and graphically slick. Expedia Hotels automatically uses GPS to find available hotels within walking distance of the traveler. In addition the traveler can easily research and book hotels anywhere in the world.
Key features include:
-- An interactive map view shows all hotels in the area. Hotel choices can
be narrowed by price, rating, popularity or distance.
-- The hotel ratings are provided by TripAdvisor; the highest rated hotels
are clearly marked.
-- For each hotel, amenities and details have been beautifully summarized,
complete with a gorgeous hotel slideshow.
-- Just four taps are required for a traveler move from research to
purchase.
-- Once booked, travelers can tap for directions to the hotel, share their
confirmation via email, and add the reservation directly to their iPhone
calendar.
-- The app is being released worldwide, with 20 local currencies supported.
In recent months, Expedia has expanded its full mobile website to users globally. Mobile booking of hotels, flights, cars, and activities is now possible through the Expedia website from five countries around the world. Expedia partners with more than 130,000 hotel properties globally. Those properties can now all be reached with a simple series of taps.
Expedia.com is the world's leading online travel site, helping millions of travelers per month easily plan and book travel. Expedia.com (http://www.expedia.com/, 1-800-EXPEDIA) aims to provide the latest technology and the widest selection of vacation packages, flights, hotels, rental cars, cruises and in-destination activities, attractions, and services. With the Expedia Best Price Guarantee, Expedia.com customers can get the best rates available online for all types of travel.
Stone Crossing Solutions to Introduce New Community-Based Website Solution at Hispanicize 2011
Cleveland-based interactive marketing and technology firm offers Hispanicize 2011 attendees the first peak at Community Stack, a new social networking and collaboration platform for brands and bloggers
CLEVELAND, March 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Stone Crossing Solutions, a leading interactive marketing and technology consulting firm in Cleveland, Ohio, joins the list of sponsors for Hispanicize 2011, the 2nd Annual Hispanic PR & Social Media Conference, to be held April 6-8, in Hollywood, Calif.
Alongside moderator Joe Kutchera, author of "Latino Link: Building Brands Online with Hispanic Communities and Content," and other panelists, Stone Crossing's President & COO John Vojtush will provide expert advice on how to create an engaging online community, and a preview of a new community-based software solution, Community Stack. The session, "The Do's and Don'ts of Developing Corporate Hispanic Web Sites in the Age of Social Media" will be held on Friday, from noon to 1 p.m.
According to Vojtush, "Community Stack combines intelligent social technology with strategic services to provide an affordable, turnkey solution to community development."
Few mid-market solutions exist for community development. As a result, companies are forced to over-invest in technologies they do not need, and that reduce ROI. Or, they may rely solely on "free" social media sites, like Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn, losing control of their communities, content and data.
"Community Stack empowers site owners by providing a cost-effective way to build an engaging social site, and giving back control of their online social network, as well as ownership of the content and data it generates," adds Vojtush. "By coupling the platform with strategic services, Community Stack also provides the support needed to grow and manage an online community."
For more information, visit Stone Crossing Solutions at Booth #113, or schedule a 20-minute appointment in advance for a chance to win a new Apple iPad 2 by emailing hispanicize@StoneCrossingSolutions.com today.
About Stone Crossing Solutions
For more than 30 years, Stone Crossing Solutions has delivered advanced technology consulting services and strategic business solutions to meet their clients' most critical business objectives. In addition to providing staff augmentation and technical solutions, Stone Crossing Solutions develops custom applications on scalable, open source, mobile and enterprise platforms like .NET, Ruby on Rails, and Dynamic NAV.
Under the leadership of President John Vojtush, the Cleveland-based consulting company has expanded to offer a comprehensive suite of expert interactive marketing services including; SEO, SEM, social media, and Community Stack ,a new platform for online community development.
Anritsu Introduces Value-Based Spectrum Master(TM) that Conducts Interference Analysis, AM/FM/PM Measurements and Spectrum Analysis
- MS2711E Provides Field Engineers and Technicians with Upgraded Features and New Options at an Economical Price-
ORLANDO, Fla., March 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Anritsu Company (CTIA Booth #2234) introduces the MS2711E Spectrum Master, the latest handheld spectrum analyzer designed for technicians, installers, field RF engineers, and contractors responsible for monitoring the growing number of interfering signals, as well as assessing signal quality on a wide range of increasingly complex signals. Easy to use, integrated and high performing, the MS2711E offers users the performance and features necessary to meet their testing challenges.
The MS2711E comes equipped with a touch-screen interface, easy to use short-cut icons and intuitive menus, all designed to minimize training time and enhance the user experience. The latest Spectrum Master model also has built-in system level measurements, such as Occupied Bandwidth, Adjacent Channel Power Ratio, Emission Mask, and Field Strength measurements. Additionally, the MS2711E can be configured with various options, such as an interference analyzer, channel scanner, power meter and GPS receiver, to create an integrated solution that eliminates the need to carry multiple instruments.
Rugged and lightweight, the MS2711E is designed for field use. Weighing less that 3.5 kg, the handheld spectrum analyzer provides a bright 8.4-inch touch-screen display. Operating temperature is -10 degrees to 55 degrees C with a warm-up temperature of less than five minutes, easily surpassing available competitive products. Battery life is greater than three hours.
High-end performance has been maintained in the compact design. The MS2711E provides the best accuracy in its class, so field technicians can confidently conduct spectrum monitoring, broadcast proofing and RF/microwave measurements. Covering the 100 kHz to 3 GHz frequency range, the MS2711E has Displayed Average Noise Level (DANL) of > -142 dBm in 100 Hz RBW, dynamic range of >85 dB to measure small signals in the presence of larger ones, and frequency accuracy of < +/- 50 ppb with GPS.
A Complete Solution
Master Software Tools (MST) is provided with each MS2711E, as well as all Spectrum Master instruments. MST provides a simple and easy method to manage, archive, analyze, and print measurement reports, and keep the analyzer current with the latest firmware. MST also allows users to transfer data collected on their MS2711E to a PC for easy post-processing analysis.
Anritsu also offers certified training courses in basic spectrum analysis, interference analysis and other options and features.
The MS2711E Spectrum Master is priced at $6,950 and delivery is 4 to 6 weeks ARO.
About Anritsu
Anritsu Company is the American subsidiary of Anritsu Corporation, a global provider of innovative communications test and measurement solutions for more than 110 years. Anritsu provides solutions for existing and next-generation wired and wireless communication systems and operators. Anritsu products include wireless, optical, microwave/RF, and digital instruments as well as operations support systems for R&D, manufacturing, installation, and maintenance. Anritsu also provides precision microwave/RF components, optical devices, and high-speed electrical devices for communication products and systems. With offices throughout the world, Anritsu sells in over 90 countries with approximately 4,000 employees.
Smoothstone Launches Enterprise Fixed Mobile Convergence Solution for Android
LOUISVILLE, Ky., March 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Smoothstone IP Communications, the leading provider of cloud-based enterprise unified communications applications and services, announced today the launch of the Mobile Connect application for Android phones. Mobile Connect is an app that allows enterprises to extend the reach of their corporate communications services to mobile employees by connecting their mobile phones to the enterprise IP network.
Enterprises are increasingly relying on mobile phones to drive employee productivity both in and out of the office, while also trying to drive down costs by integrating these devices with their enterprise communications systems.
Mobile Connect helps to meet this challenge, allowing mobile employees to have seamless access to their enterprise communication network from their Android-powered mobile handsets. With Mobile Connect, mobile and remote employees are better equipped to work as effectively and efficiently as those in corporate offices. The application is available exclusively to Smoothstone customers as a free download from the Android Market and is compatible with any Android-powered phone. Smoothstone also offers the Mobile Connect app for the iPhone.
"Through fixed mobile convergence, the mobile phone is playing an increasingly important role in the enterprise communications landscape, and Smoothstone understands that," said Jeff Wellemeyer, president and CTO of Smoothstone. "We're making it more accessible for both Android and iPhone users to expand their workforces in the field while keeping all their communications on one platform."
Through the use of the Mobile Connect app, the enterprise's mobile workforce can take full advantage of all of the outbound calling features from Smoothstone, such as access to the company directory, low-cost international calling, 4-digit on-net dialing, and visual voice mail with one-touch access to listen to and manipulate messages.
"Smoothstone's Mobile Connect app lets employees take their workplaces with them for improved productivity and efficiency," said Amy Lind, Research Manager for Enterprise Voice & IP Communications Services at IDC Research. "The enterprises supporting these mobile and remote workers also benefit by realizing stronger employee performance, decision-making and communication with customers, partners and other constituents."
Mobile Connect provides users with a convergence of their desktop and mobile phones, providing callers the simplicity of a single number and maintaining privacy of personal mobile numbers. Outbound calls placed through Mobile Connect reflect the caller ID from the user's corporate number, not the mobile number, and when used in conjunction with Smoothstone's Phone Control, incoming calls can ring on both desk phone and mobile phone simultaneously.
Mobile Connect provides separate call logging, call history and voice mail, allowing users to keep their work and personal calls completely separated on the same device. Compliance requirements and features from VoiceMaxx also are carried over to the mobile phone through Mobile Connect. Advanced features such as call recording and centralized call detail reporting are also extended from the Smoothstone cloud-based enterprise platform.
About Smoothstone
Smoothstone IP Communications is the leading provider of cloud based communications for the enterprise - including MPLS-based application networking, enterprise voice, unified threat management, advanced contact center solutions, unified messaging and collaboration tools - all delivered as a unified suite of cloud-based applications. Smoothstone's scalable, on-demand applications and services can be integrated with a customer's existing network and telecommunications infrastructure, operational processes, and employee activities, enabling customers to migrate to unified IP communications as their business requirements dictate. For more information, visit http://www.smoothstone.com or call 800.773.3037.
SOURCE Smoothstone IP Communications
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Smoothstone IP Communications
CONTACT: Philip Anast of Tech Image, +1-847-279-0022, x238, philip.anast@techimage.com; or Bill Yackey of Smoothstone IP Communications, +1-502-315-5129, wyackey@smoothstone.com
Expands Footprint in Home Category to Include Offerings for Designer Community and Trade-Only Manufacturers
NEW YORK, March 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Gilt Groupe, an innovative online shopping destination, today announced it has acquired leading home decor site Decorati. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Decorati is a destination site for upscale interior design products and services as well as a community for the display of designer portfolios. Decorati is a resource that enables interior design professionals to efficiently manage their projects and promote their businesses. For consumers, Decorati offers a vast inspirational library of product images, along with the ability to connect with design professionals and research products from over 650 trade-only manufacturers.
"My vision for Decorati has always been to create a website to connect consumers with designers and provide broader access to the best interior design products and inspiration," said Shane Reilly, Founder & CEO, Decorati. "Marrying Decorati with Gilt's shopping platform and vision for an expanded Home business will allow for an even stronger offering for our members."
The Decorati acquisition will pave the way for Gilt to launch a broader Home business. Gilt plans to unveil its new Home offering later this year, which will be a mixture of full-price merchandise, one-of-a-kind items and antiques, daily flash sales, community and social tools, and will include a channel specifically for the designer. Gilt Home has built a passionate customer base with a curated selection of home products and services at insider prices. Gilt Home currently offers 30 sales per week from over 400 brands including Baker, Kravet, Jonathan Adler, Stark, Lignet Roset, Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, Frette, and Soicher Marin. By incorporating a selection of products from additional trade-only brands, Gilt will create an unprecedented assortment of home décor products shoppable online.
"The design community will be a key component of our expanded Home business," said Kevin Ryan, Founder and CEO, Gilt Groupe. "Decorati has done a fantastic job establishing a venue for high-end designers, knowledgeable consumers, and trade-only brands. We are excited to combine those assets as we expand Gilt's Home business."
About Gilt Groupe, Inc.:
Gilt Groupe, http://www.gilt.com, is an innovative online shopping destination offering its 3.5 million members special access to the most inspiring merchandise and experiences every day, many at insider prices. Gilt continually searches the world for the most coveted brands, including fashion for women, men and children, home decor, hotels and travel experiences on every continent, and unique activities in a growing list of cities and destinations. We believe that every day is an opportunity to inspire and be inspired.
About Decorati:
Decorati, http://www.decorati.com, is the leading online resource for interior design. Decorati features searchable catalogs of top home furnishings products, inspirational design content, and an interior designer matching services. Over 650 trade-only manufacturers with 100,000+ customizable products are showcased in one easy to use site. Decorati's manufacturer list includes icons of the design industry such as Kravet, Duralee, Schumacher, Stark, McGuire and many more. In addition to showcasing design trade-only manufacturers, Decorati also features antiques, sample sales, Kitchen & Bath, as well as upscale home building products.
Nutrisystem Launches Web Site for Healthcare Professionals
Web Site Showcases Science Behind Programs, Specifically Nutrisystem D, following Diabetes Alert Day
FORT WASHINGTON, Pa., March 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Nutrisystem, Inc. (Nasdaq: NTRI), the number one home delivery weight loss company, announces the re-launch of its Healthcare Professional Web Site, http://www.nutrisystem.com/hcp, designed to inform physicians, dietitians, diabetes educators and other specialists seeking information about Nutrisystem programs and the science that supports them. The web site will enable healthcare professionals to evaluate the different programs and will answer questions as to how losing weight with Nutrisystem can affect their patients' health.
The announcement comes shortly after Diabetes Alert Day, observed on March 22. The Nutrisystem® D(TM) program, featured prominently on the site, was specifically designed for people with type 2 diabetes, but is also appropriate for people with type 1 diabetes or pre-diabetes. The program is based on the Glycemic Index, which measures how the carbohydrates in food affect blood glucose levels. Using the site, professionals are able to request free Patient Education Kits to help their patients learn more about Nutrisystem D.
"With the increasing prevalence of obesity, diabetes, and other weight-related conditions in America, there is a clear need for effective weight management options that are based on sound science. Too many consumers are turning to ineffective products, or are attempting the very difficult challenge of losing weight and keeping it off on their own. The medical community needs to know about tools that can help them to help their patients achieve and maintain healthy body weights. We, at Nutrisystem are proud to offer products, information and services to address this need," said Bruce Daggy, Ph.D., Vice President of Research and Development at Nutrisystem.
On the site, visitors will find information outlining the clinical research backing Nutrisystem D, as well as specific information about all Nutrisystem programs. Nutrisystem is committed to developing high quality weight management programs that are both evidence-based and relevant. The Company has a Scientific Advisory Board consisting of a panel of leading experts in the weight management field. To ensure its offerings are consistent with the latest and most accurate nutrition and health information, these professionals advise the Company on the development and testing of its programs. A description of the Board can also be found at the Company website.
To further offer information for professionals, a clinical trial, with some study participants using Nutrisystem D is available for review. The Nutrisystem D program was evaluated in a randomized controlled trial funded by Nutrisystem. Participants were obese patients with type 2 diabetes who were not using insulin and were randomized to receive either the Nutrisystem D program and weekly group sessions, or a standard care program of diabetes support and education for 3 months. Importantly, a significantly greater percentage of participants in the Nutrisystem D group achieved good diabetes control (HbA1c < 7.0%) at 3 months, compared with those in the standard care group.
For more than 39 years, Nutrisystem® weight loss programs have offered customers a wide variety of delicious meals, snacks and desserts that are part of a unique system which combines advanced nutrition, proper portion control, and frequent meal occasions with the ultimate in convenience and ease of use. By providing a low glycemic index diet, the Nutrisystem program delivers sustained energy and hunger control throughout the day. Nutrisystem's combination of sound nutritional science, great taste and variety provide consumers with an effective option that will deliver healthy weight loss.
Nutrisystem, Inc. (Nasdaq: NTRI) is the number one home delivery weight loss company. Nutrisystem is sold direct to the consumer through nutrisystem.com, by phone, and at select retailers, with convenient home delivery. The Company offers proven nutritionally balanced weight loss programs designed for women, men, and seniors, as well as the Nutrisystem® D(TM) program, specifically designed to help people with type 2 diabetes who want to lose weight and manage their diabetes. The Nutrisystem programs are based on more than 39 years of nutrition research and the science of the low glycemic index, and offer a variety of great tasting, satisfying high-fiber, good carbohydrate meals that are heart healthy. Nutrisystem was named the "Least Expensive Home Delivery Program" by CBS Money Watch in January 2011. The program has no membership fees and provides weight management support and counseling by trained weight loss coaches and online weight management tools free of charge. Nutrisystem proudly supports the American Diabetes Association in its movement to Stop Diabetes(TM) and WomenHeart, The National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease, in its mission to bring about a greater awareness of the link between heart disease and obesity. For more information or to become a customer visit http://www.nutrisystem.com or call 1-800-891-3215. Follow Nutrisystem on Twitter @nutrisystem and on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/nutrisystem.
Tests prove ability to acquire considerably more lower-noise data
HOUSTON, March 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Shell and HP today announced a breakthrough in the capability of their jointly developed inertial sensing technology to shoot and record seismic data at much higher sensitivity and at ultra-low frequencies.
The new onshore wireless seismic acquisition system is designed to provide a clearer understanding of the earth's subsurface, thus increasing prospects for discovering greater quantities of oil and gas to meet the world's increasing energy needs.
The sensing technology has now been demonstrated to have a noise floor - a measure of the smallest detectable acceleration over a range of frequencies - of 10 nano-g per square root Hertz (ng/rtHz), which is equal to the noise created by the earth's ocean waves at the quietest locations on earth as defined by the Peterson Low Noise Model. The tests were conducted in the seismic testing vault at the U.S. Geological Survey's (USGS) Albuquerque Seismological Laboratory facility in New Mexico.
"Responding to the energy challenge, the oil and gas industry is tackling ever deeper and more complex reservoirs, as well as reservoirs in very tight rock systems," said Dirk Smit, chief scientist for Geophysics and vice president of Exploration Technology, Shell. "In particular, for onshore settings, this requires enhanced quality seismic data as well as the cost-efficient, flexible deployment of seismic sensor networks. The collaboration with HP demonstrates Shell's strategic approach to driving innovative technology solutions through active partnering."
"This new sensing milestone is the latest step in the collaboration between HP and Shell, which is on track to produce a leap forward in onshore seismic data quality to improve the exploration risk evaluation and decisions, illustrating the industry-wide benefits that can be achieved through cross-company innovation," said Rich Duncombe, senior strategist, Technology Development Organization, Imaging and Printing Group, HP.
At the test facility, HP was able to compare the seismic response of the new sensor side by side with a USGS reference sensor when an earthquake occurred in the Gulf of California during the testing period. The signal from the reference sensor was matched by the new sensor down to 25 mHz, verifying the sensor's response at low frequencies.
The seismic system uses the breadth of HP's technology development capabilities as well as Shell's advanced geophysical expertise in seismic data acquisition systems and operations. As such, this collaboration builds on the core strengths of each company to advance technology in this field.
The system will be delivered by HP Enterprise Services and the company's Imaging and Printing Group (IPG). It is based in part on the high-performance sensing technology originally co-developed by HP Labs - the company's central research arm - along with IPG and Shell research in seismic network design.
HP and Shell's collaboration is a cornerstone for an information ecosystem that empowers people to make better, faster decisions to improve safety, security and environmental sustainability while transforming business economics. Sensing solutions are positioned to provide a new level of awareness through a network of sensors, data storage and analysis tools that monitor the environment, assets, and health and safety.
Additional information on HP's integrated sensing solutions, and the collaboration between HP and Shell, is available at http://www.hp.com/go/sensingsolutions.
About HP
HP creates new possibilities for technology to have a meaningful impact on people, businesses, governments and society. The world's largest technology company, HP brings together a portfolio that spans printing, personal computing, software, services and IT infrastructure at the convergence of the cloud and connectivity, creating seamless, secure, context-aware experiences for a connected world. More information about HP (NYSE: HPQ) is available at http://www.hp.com.
About Royal Dutch Shell
Royal Dutch Shell plc (NYSE: RDSA) is incorporated in England and Wales, has its headquarters in The Hague and is listed on the London, Amsterdam and New York stock exchanges. Shell companies have operations in more than 100 countries and territories with businesses including oil and gas exploration and production; production and marketing of liquefied natural gas and gas to liquids; manufacturing, marketing and shipping of oil products and chemicals and renewable energy projects. For further information, visit http://www.shell.com.
The companies in which Royal Dutch Shell plc directly and indirectly owns investments are separate entities. In this press release, the expression "Shell" is sometimes used for convenience where references are made to companies within the Shell group or to the group in general. Likewise, the words "we", "us" and "our" are also used to refer to Shell companies in general or those who work for them. These expressions are also used where no useful purpose is served by identifying specific companies.
This news release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. If such risks or uncertainties materialize or such assumptions prove incorrect, the results of HP and its consolidated subsidiaries could differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and assumptions. All statements other than statements of historical fact are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements, including but not limited to statements of the plans, strategies and objectives of management for future operations; any statements concerning expected development, performance or market share relating to products and services; any statements regarding anticipated operational and financial results; any statements of expectation or belief; and any statements of assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. Risks, uncertainties and assumptions include macroeconomic and geopolitical trends and events; the competitive pressures faced by HP's businesses; the development and transition of new products and services (and the enhancement of existing products and services) to meet customer needs and respond to emerging technological trends; the execution and performance of contracts by HP and its customers, suppliers and partners; the achievement of expected operational and financial results; and other risks that are described in HP's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended January 31, 2011 and HP's other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including but not limited to HP's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2010. HP assumes no obligation and does not intend to update these forward-looking statements.
CONTACT: Jaryl Strong of Shell, +1-713-703-1211, jaryl.strong@shell.com; or Caitlin Roulston of HP, +1-206-708-7651, caitlin.roulston@hp.com; or Jessica Kerr of Porter Novelli, +1-415-975-2213, jessica.kerr@porternovelli.com, for HP; or HP Media Hotline, +1-866-266-7272, http://www.hp.com/go/newsroom; or Shell US Media Line, +1-713-241-4544, http://www.shell.us/media
Mobile Tag Group Announces $8.2 Million in Financing Along With Commercial Agreements Signaling its Leadership in the Emerging Mobile Barcode and NFC Tagging Space
ATLANTA, March 23, 2011/PRNewswire/ -- Mobile Tag, the leader in 1D and 2D mobile barcode and
NFC-based marketing solutions, announced the successful closing of its Series
B financing totalling approximately $8.2M. "We are convinced that this
fundraising operation will affirm Mobile Tag's position as a leader and
increase both its commercial and technical influence," concluded Domenico
Surace, Founder and CEO Mobile Tag Group.
Mobile Tag, Inc., the Atlanta-based wholly owned US subsidiary of Mobile
Tag Group, has entered into a definitive contract to partner with America's
largest Wireless Carrier to make the use of Mobile Barcodes and NFC tagging
as pervasive as text messaging. Mobiles equipped with team's high-performance
readers, either pre-loaded out of the box or downloaded through app stores,
will enable immediate interaction between brands and their consumers directly
from traditional advertising, by-passing search engines and the competitive
messages they display in the search results. This all happens immediately
without the consumer waiting to get to a PC. This enables a one to one dialog
between the consumer and advertiser immediately from the ad. As the largest
provider of mobile devices to consumers, the partnership is uniquely
positioned to provide this service to its millions of Consumers and Business
Customers along with its partner Mobile Tag. Successful trials have already
been conducted with key business customers.
Mobile Tag, Inc.'s CEO William Hoffman believes, "Our partner has a
unique position giving it a clear advantage to help Brands connect to
consumers in an easy and intuitive way. In my opinion, the partnership has
"cracked the code" on how to connect businesses of all sizes DIRECTLY with
consumers of all ages and tastes, using commonplace technology like barcodes
or advanced technology like NFC tags combined with your ever-present cell
phone".
To aid Mobile Tag's global growth strategy, $8.2 million of additional
financing was obtained from existing investors XAnge Private Equity, Alven
Capital, IDF Capital and new investment from Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken
Venture Capital (SEB Venture Capital) who joined the Board of the Parent.
There is excellent potential for growth in mobile marketing -
key advertisers are present in this buoyant market. Mobile Tag's solutions
are adapted to businesses of all sizes, from top advertisers to independent
retailers.
"We're delighted to make this investment in Mobile Tag and
believe MobileTag's technology and above all, its management platform, will
be very attractive for operators, advertisers and direct marketers. We're
looking forward to helping this company achieve its international
aspirations." Frank Kelcz, SEB's appointed board-member for MobileTag
"Since its inception, Mobile Tag, has innovated in the
emerging field of Mobile marketing services. We look forward to seeing Mobile
Tag's evolution as it continues to develop new ways for brands, retailers and
consumers to interact using mobile technology," adds Nicolas Rose, Partner at
XAnge Private Equity.
Nicolas Celier, Partner at Alven Capital, states that: "In 2008 we had
already backed this innovative concept. Given Mobile Tag's results and its
development of Flashcodes, we had no hesitation in renewing our commitment".
About SEB Venture Capital
SEB Venture Capital was established in 1995 and is part of the SEB Group.
With a multistage evergreen fund of approximately 240 million Euros, the fund
has currently 37 investments in the technology and healthcare sectors, and
has achieved 45 exits since inception. SEB is a North European financial
group serving some 400,000 corporate customers and institutions and five
million private individuals.
Alven Capital is a venture capital fund, managing EUR 150M, mostly for
institutional investors. Alven Capital invests in high growth companies in
the media, services, and information technology sectors. Alven Capital has
already invested in 40 European companies, including Qosmos, E-Blink, Bi-Sam,
Prowebce, MonShowroom.com, myfab.com, Aquarelle, Liligo, Wanimo, Splendia,
SeLoger.com, Webhelp, Newsweb, Companeo, Metaboli, etc.
Backed by leading European corporates and financial institutions, XAnge
is a unique private equity firm, subsidiary of La Banque Postale, one of the
largest retail banks in France and fully owned by La Poste. As of today,
XAnge has 340 million in assets under management. With an international team
of seasoned professionals based in Paris and Munich, XAnge actively supports
leading venture and growth companies in Europe, with a strong focus on
technology.
Mobile Tag is the market leader in marketing solutions for 2D,
1D and NFC. In 2006, the company launched mobiletag, an embedded software
application that allows phones to read 2D barcodes, otherwise known as tags,
simply by using the phone's camera. Mobile Tag developed the software to
create quick access to external content.
Littlewoods Europe Announces Launch of Wish List Service
SPEKE, England, March 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Littlewoods Europe has announced the addition of a wish lists feature to its website.
The wish list service is new to the Littlewoods Europe site and it allows customers to save items they are interested in and then come back later and purchase the items directly from their wish list, with the list keeping a record of the items which have been purchased and the items which are still to be bought.
The wish list service also allows the creation and naming of multiple lists for one account. This means that customers can organise lists in the way that is best suited for them, with a different list for different occasions or for different departments within the Littlewoods Europe online store.
The new wish list service offers a greater level of convenience for the shopper as items can be saved and returned to at a later time without having to search for them again or remember what item was previously searched for.
A spokesperson for Littlewoods Europe said: "We are very pleased to introduce wish lists on Littlewoods Europe. When shopping, you can't always buy something as soon as you see it, whether it's time or financial restraints. The addition of wish lists to our site means customers can save items they like and come back to them at a later time. There is also the option for multiple lists so you can get your shopping organised in no time. We hope this added functionality on the site will mean a better shopping experience for the customer."
Wish lists can also be sorted by price and date added to wish list to make them easier to sort through at a later date. Items can also be amended and removed later if a customer changes their mind about which items they want appearing on a particular wish list.
About Littlewoods Europe:
Littlewoods Europe is part of Shop Direct Group who is the UK's largest online and home shopping retailer with sales of circa 1.7 billion pounds. It is aimed at women who want the convenience of home delivery from one of their favourite British on-line retailers. The delivery cost is 5 euro regardless of size of order. Delivery is within 10 working days, with 28 days home approval guarantee.
Brands within the Shop Direct Group portfolio include Very.co.uk, Woolworths.co.uk, LittlewoodsIreland.ie, LittlewoodsEurope.com, Additionsdirect.co.uk, Choice.co.uk, kandco.com and isme.com.
Littlewoods Europe stocks a large range of items such as clothing including Nike clothing, Bench clothing and plus size clothing, lingerie including the Wonderbra, children's toys and home wears.
PR contact:
Victoria Barker
Consumer PR Team - Shop Direct Group
Skyways House
Speke Road
Speke
L70 1AB
0844 292 3845 http://www.littlewoodseurope.com
Introducing the chumby8: the World's First Stand-Alone App Player Just Got Bigger and Better
Next gen chumby arrives April 5 for $199, pre-orders begin today
SAN DIEGO, March 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- chumby industries today announced the release of the chumby8, the much-anticipated next generation chumby device. Officially launching on April 5, the chumby8 is priced at $199 and available today for pre-orders atchumby.com/store. With a sleek new design, an 8-inch LCD touchscreen, enhanced features, and over 1,500 free apps, the chumby8 delivers a personalized stream of your favorite apps in addition to serving as a digital photo frame and music player.
"The chumby8 truly marks an evolution of the chumby device and software platform, creating a more personalized and user-friendly Internet streaming device that will complete any connected home or office," said Derrick Oien, CEO of chumby industries. "We've taken the time over the past year to listen to chumby fans and owners and incorporate their feedback into the new chumby8 and created a great multi-purpose connected device capable of tailoring to all."
New features of the chumby8 include:
-- New, modern industrial design available in black and red. Customized
skins available from Skinit
-- 8-inch 800×600 touchscreen LCD
-- Two USB ports, CF and SD slots make it possible to upload pictures,
music and other personal media of your choosing turning your chumby8
into a personalized digital photo frame and music player
-- New web browser support, allows you to access links within apps
-- Revamped UI and streamlined navigation allows you to manage apps and
channels directly from the device. The chumby8 comes preloaded with
ready-to-play themed channels showcasing the best chumby apps in
entertainment, news, humor, games, kids, sports and more
-- Updates to share features make it easier to send photos, videos and apps
to friends and family
-- Robust Internet radio offers over 10,000 internet radio and podcast
stations, including Napster, Pandora, SHOUTcast, iheartradio, Mediafly,
New York Times and CBS, with more to come
-- Full alarm system allows you to wake up to your favorite music stations
and apps
-- Task scheduler allows you to perform a routine task on your device like
entering night mode at a certain time or playing music.
-- Flash Lite 4 update to support AS3 coming soon
The chumby8 has access to over 1,500 free applications-- ranging from music and social networking sites, news and entertainment gossip, to video clips and sports scores. Content is available from well-known media sites including: YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, MTV Networks, Groupon, People.com and many others. Users can monitor their social networks, view and share their photos from sites like Flickr and Photobucket, watch sports clips, play games, or choose from a multitude of clock applications to display on the touchscreen device.
About chumby industries
chumby industries, based in San Diego, California, is a software company that works with consumer electronics OEMs to bring a rich and personalized Internet experience to a multitude of connected products, ranging from devices as simple as clock radios to high-definition televisions. The open chumby platform enables developers to easily create Flash content for chumby-powered devices resulting in a constantly growing catalog of more than 1,500 applications. For more information visit chumby.com or follow us on twitter @chumby.
AT&T Commits $2 Million to Support High School Retention Goals of the Grad Nation Campaign
Historic Effort Aimed at Using Performance Data and Early Intervention Systems to Transform Education
WASHINGTON, March 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- To help address the high school dropout crisis, AT&T* is investing $2 million in initiatives that support the Grad Nation campaign goal of raising the graduation rate to 90% by 2020. Coinciding with the Building a Grad Nation Summit held in Washington, D.C. this week, AT&T announced a commitment to fund three initiatives that will better prepare students transitioning into high school and support the evolution of education into a more data-driven enterprise.
Boys & Girls Clubs of America
Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) will receive $1 million to expand its BE GREAT: Graduate program. Using established risk indicators, the program identifies vulnerable high school students and facilitates their graduation through proven mentorship. With AT&T's support, BGCA is widening the scope of this project with the launch of BE READY, a program for 8th and 9th graders designed to teach them study and organizational skills essential for high school and beyond.
"We are grateful for this generous support from AT&T enabling us to expand the reach of our graduation initiative," said BGCA President and CEO Roxanne Spillett. "We know from research and firsthand experience, that many of the middle school age youth we serve suffer serious challenges making a successful transition into high school. We believe that every child in America deserves a great future and graduating from high school is an absolute must."
Data Quality Campaign
AT&T is making a $500,000 contribution to the Data Quality Campaign (DQC), a national collaborative effort to increase availability and use of high-quality education data to improve student achievement. The DQC's latest annual report, Data for Action 2010, reveals that states are making record progress collecting accurate information, but must take more steps to ensure its effective use.
"Great progress has been made in the collection of key data, however, there is still work to be done to ensure our education system uses that data effectively," noted DQC's Executive Director Aimee Guidera. "The investment from AT&T will help the Data Quality Campaign and its partners continue to build the demand for data and develop capacity at all levels to use the information to help our students succeed."
Civic Enterprises
AT&T is committing $500,000 to two projects with Civic Enterprises. The first project focuses on the development of high quality early warning and intervention systems through research on student absenteeism, behavioral problems, and course failures. Early warning systems can help predict high school graduation as early as the start of middle school, enabling faster intervention and giving students greater potential to succeed.
"Grad Nation is working to help all students graduate from high school prepared for the rigors of college and work," said John Bridgeland, CEO of Civic Enterprises. "With AT&T's continued commitment to meeting the dropout challenge, including the Civic Marshall Plan and development of early dropout detection systems, we can accelerate our progress in meeting this essential goal."
Civic Enterprises will utilize the other half of AT&T's commitment to implement the Civic Marshall Plan. The Plan will initially focus on aligning the initiatives and assets of major institutions with the benchmarks of the Civic Marshall Plan, and providing the first annual update on progress being made to end the high school dropout crisis.
"Our funding supports initiatives that deliver on the top recommendations of the Grad Nation campaign," said Laura Sanford, President - AT&T Foundation. "Private sector funding helps bring crucial programs to scale to ensure more students graduate on time, prepared for post-secondary education and future careers."
This support is part of AT&T Aspire, AT&T's four year, $100 million commitment to education. Launched in 2008, AT&T Aspire is one of the largest-ever corporate commitments to address high school success and workforce readiness.
*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.
About AT&T
AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates - AT&T operating companies - are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. With a powerful array of network resources that includes the nation's fastest mobile broadband network, AT&T is a leading provider of wireless, Wi-Fi, high speed Internet and voice services. A leader in mobile broadband, AT&T also offers the best wireless coverage worldwide, offering the most wireless phones that work in the most countries. It also offers advanced TV services under the AT&T U-verse® and AT&T | DIRECTV brands. The company's suite of IP-based business communications services is one of the most advanced in the world. In domestic markets, AT&T Advertising Solutions and AT&T Interactive are known for their leadership in local search and advertising.
Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com. This AT&T news release and other announcements are available at http://www.att.com/newsroom and as part of an RSS feed at http://www.att.com/rss. Or follow our news on Twitter at @ATTNews. Find us on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/ATT to discover more about our consumer and wireless services or at http://www.Facebook.com/ATTSmallBiz to discover more about our small business services.
About Philanthropy at AT&T
AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) is committed to advancing education, strengthening communities and improving lives. Through its philanthropic initiatives and working with other organizations, AT&T has a long history of supporting projects that create learning opportunities; promote academic and economic achievement; and address community needs. In 2010, more than $148.2 million was contributed through corporate-, employee- and AT&T Foundation-giving programs.
VeriStor Launches New Cloud-Based Service for Secure Data Replication & Recovery, Continuity and Archiving
Offering Efficiency, Flexibility and Security, VeriStor Cloud Services Deliver "Pay-as-You-Go" Pricing and an Enterprise-Class Virtual Infrastructure that's Fully Managed and On-Demand
ATLANTA, March 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- VeriStor Systems, the Southeast region's leading enterprise data storage and virtualization solution provider, today announced the launch of VeriStor Cloud Services, a new fully-managed and on-demand virtual infrastructure that offers enterprise-class data replication and recovery, continuity and secure archiving through both Public Cloud and Hosted Private Cloud options. Built using the latest technologies, processes and architecture, VeriStor Cloud Services provides ultimate flexibility and efficiency while, at the same time, delivering security and cost-efficiency as good or better than typical internal deployments.
"For companies that want to implement a truly effective data replication, continuity and archiving strategy, there must be a robust interconnection and coordination between their primary site and offsite facilities," said Steve Bishop, chief technology officer, VeriStor. "That's why we created our new VeriStor Cloud Service. Unlike product-exclusive, 'on-premise-only' value added resellers or service-exclusive 'hosted-datacenter-only' service providers, VeriStor can offer the complete end-to-end solution as a turnkey service. Now companies can rely on one expert provider to support their entire infrastructure - from on-premise to the cloud - all for a low monthly or quarterly fee."
VeriStor Cloud Services is built using a state-of-the-art infrastructure that resides in secure SAS-70/SSAE16-certified datacenters and is fully managed and monitored on a 24 x 7 basis by VeriStor Virtual Infrastructure and Storage engineers. The service use best practices to support major regulatory compliance requirements including SEC 17a4, PCI/DSS, HIPAA, HITECH, Sarbanes Oxley (SOX) and Gramm-Leach.
VeriStor Cloud Services offers a range of cloud-based services including:
-- Cloud replication and recovery for Dell EqualLogic
-- Cloud replication and recovery for VMware vSphere
-- Cloud continuity for VMware vSphere
-- Cloud secure archiving
Cloud services for compute, network and storage resources can be securely added online, dynamically as needed. As business needs change and scalability is required, data can be easily migrated between on-premise and cloud infrastructures. Complete data monitoring and reporting is offered so that customers can have instant visibility into where applications are running and where data resides at all times.
"Our new VeriStor Cloud Services have been carefully designed to provide an easy-to-adopt path for our customers," said Ashby Lincoln, president and CEO, VeriStor. "We believe, like many, that most initial enterprise and mid-market cloud deployments will be hybrid solutions, with 'outside of the datacenter' components being closely tied to internal infrastructure. Our capability to support both the on-premise infrastructure, through our successful integration services business, combined with our new Cloud Services makes VeriStor uniquely qualified to deliver both sides of this hybrid solution. As a result we provide true, end-to-end continuity for our customers."
Headquartered in Atlanta, Ga., VeriStor Systems is a Solutions Architecture firm specializing exclusively in enterprise data storage, virtual infrastructure, cloud-based disaster recovery and technology financing. VeriStor's integrated solutions include Storage, Server and Desktop Virtualization, Virtual IO & Consolidated Fabric, Fibre Channel and iSCSI Storage Area Networks (SANs), Network Attached Storage (NAS), De-Duplication, Backup and Recovery, Data Replication, Information Lifecycle Management (ILM) and Compliance Archiving. With more than 300 customers, VeriStor specializes in enterprise and mid-market companies in all industries throughout the Southeast including financial services, manufacturing, healthcare, education and federal, state and local government. More information can be found at http://www.veristor.com.
SOURCE VeriStor Systems
VeriStor Systems
CONTACT: Company, Matt Goggin, VeriStor Systems, Inc., +1-678-990-1593, mgoggin@veristor.com; or Press, Erin Jones, E.S. Jones Public Relations for VeriStor, +1-704-664-2170, ejones@esjonespr.com