Call of Duty(R): Modern Warfare(R) 2 Resurgence Pack Available Today on Xbox LIVE
SANTA MONICA, Calif., June 3 -- The Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 Resurgence Pack is now available, releasing first on the Xbox LIVE® online entertainment network. Today's launch of the second map pack from Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 follows the record-breaking release of the Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 Stimulus Package, which established new Xbox LIVE launch records with millions of gamers around the world joining the action in its opening days.
Developed by Infinity Ward, the Call of Duty: Modern Warfare® 2 Resurgence Pack adds five additional multiplayer levels, including three all-new locations along with two updated classic locations from Call of Duty® 4: Modern Warfare®. The new map pack is published by Activision Publishing, Inc. (NASDAQ:ATVI), and available for download on Xbox LIVE® Marketplace for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, for 1,200 Microsoft Points. To celebrate its release, Infinity Ward will host a Double XP weekend for Xbox LIVE gamers beginning June 4.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 is rated "M" (Mature) by the ESRB for Blood, Drug Reference, Intense Violence and Language. For more information, visit http://www.modernwarfare2.com.
About Activision Publishing, Inc.
Headquartered in Santa Monica, California, Activision Publishing, Inc. is a leading worldwide developer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment and leisure products.
Activision maintains operations in the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Sweden, Spain, Norway, Denmark, the Netherlands, Australia, South Korea, China and the region of Taiwan. More information about Activision and its products can be found on the company's website, http://www.activision.com.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-looking Statements: Information in this press release that involves Activision Publishing's expectations, plans, intentions or strategies regarding the future are forward-looking statements that are not facts and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Activision Publishing generally uses words such as "outlook," "will," "could," "would," "might," "remains," "to be," "plans," "believes," "may," "expects," "intends," "anticipates," "estimate," future," "plan," "positioned," "potential," "project," "remain," "scheduled," "set to," "subject to," "upcoming" and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause Activision Publishing's actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements set forth in this release include, but are not limited to, sales levels of Activision Publishing's titles, shifts in consumer spending trends, the impact of the current macroeconomic environment, the seasonal and cyclical nature of the interactive game market, Activision Publishing's ability to predict consumer preferences among competing hardware platforms, declines in software pricing, product returns and price protection, product delays, retail acceptance of Activision Publishing's products, competition from the used game market, adoption rate and availability of new hardware (including peripherals) and related software, industry competition and competition from other forms of entertainment, rapid changes in technology, industry standards and consumer preferences, including interest in specific genres such as music, first-person action and massively multiplayer online games, protection of proprietary rights, litigation against Activision Publishing, maintenance of relationships with key personnel, customers, licensees, licensors, vendors and third-party developers, including the ability to attract, retain and develop key personnel and developers which can create high quality "hit" titles, counterparty risks relating to customers, licensees, licensors and manufacturers, domestic and international economic, financial and political conditions and policies, foreign exchange rates and tax rates, and the identification of suitable future acquisition opportunities, and the other factors identified in the risk factors section of Activision Blizzard's most recent annual report on Form 10-K and any subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. The forward-looking statements in this release are based upon information available to Activision Publishing and Activision Blizzard as of the date of this release, and neither Activision Publishing nor Activision Blizzard assumes any obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements believed to be true when made may ultimately prove to be incorrect. These statements are not guarantees of the future performance of Activision Publishing or Activision Blizzard and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond its control and may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations.
Activision, Call of Duty and Modern Warfare are registered trademarks of Activision Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox LIVE, Windows and Games for Windows are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. All other trademarks and trade names are the properties of their respective owners.
Ford Improves SYNC 911 Assist With GPS Location Awareness for Fast Response; No Fees Attached
DEARBORN, Mich., June 3 -- -- Ford SYNC® emergency response app, 911 Assist(TM), can now provide
operators with the ability to receive a vehicle's exact GPS
coordinates in the event of an accident
-- Ford 911 Assist with GPS location remains a subscription-free,
no-additional-cost feature to customers for the life of their vehicle;
launches on all 2011 MyFord and MyLincoln Touch(TM)-equipped vehicles
and select SYNC-equipped models
-- Ford will have a presence at the National Emergency Number Association
(NENA) 2010 conference in Indianapolis June 5-10, and continues to
work with NENA and the Association of Public-Safety Communications
Officials (APCO) International as it develops future enhancements for
911 Assist
As thousands of emergency communication professionals gather in Indianapolis June 5-10 for the National Emergency Number Association (NENA) 2010 conference, Ford (NYSE:F) is announcing new capability for the SYNC 911 Assist(TM) application: the communication of a vehicle's location using GPS coordinates provided to emergency responders.
The nonsubscription-based app remains available to customers at no additional cost; providing emergency operators access to GPS coordinates of a vehicle, another important tool that could help first responders reach the scene of an accident faster.
"Ford is committed to continuously enhancing the owner experience, and SYNC is a key part of that strategy," said Doug VanDagens, director, Ford Connected Services. "SYNC 911 Assist is free for the life of the vehicle, and now we're making it perform even better. That adds unexpected value and peace of mind for the customer."
Available with certain 2011 model year vehicles, the GPS coordinates are generated by the vehicle's onboard GPS receiver for additional accuracy.
"SYNC 911 Assist calls already come in on priority emergency lines, due to the call being placed from the customer's personal cell phone versus an intermediary call center," said Dave Hatton, global product leader/electrical engineer with Ford Connected Services. "Currently, 911 Assist is designed to provide location information to emergency service providers through assisted GPS or signal triangulation - the same system providers rely on when dispatching help to mobile phone user emergency calls.
"The new system is designed to provide coordinates through the onboard GPS receiver in addition to assisted GPS, which adds an even greater level of location accuracy."
Unlike competitive offerings that require customers to subscribe and pay a monthly fee for such accident assistance, Ford 911 Assist remains a nonsubscription-based, no-cost feature of the SYNC system that uses a customer's existing mobile phone. The fee-free service is available in both the U.S. and Canada.
When the feature is turned on and a phone is Bluetooth-paired to SYNC, 911 Assist can make a call directly to a local emergency operator in the event of an accident involving the activation of an airbag or emergency fuel pump shutoff. With the GPS capabilities, the system is designed to not only alert the operator that a crash has occurred in a Ford vehicle, but to give the operator the option to retrieve the vehicle's GPS coordinates.
The call is fast, direct, and doesn't involve a separate call center or intermediary.
"Integrated GPS is a logical next step for 911 Assist, leveraging the GPS hardware that is now included with SYNC," said Gary Jablonski, manager for the Ford Infotainment Product Development Team. "That's the beauty of the SYNC platform - it can quickly adapt to and accommodate new technologies, features and services that provide great value to customers without great additional costs."
The wireless world
The 911 Assist with GPS update comes as telecoms in both the U.S. and Canada continue to improve their respective capabilities, allowing emergency operators to receive not only a caller's wireless phone number, but the caller's location information as well. According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), an estimated 240 million calls are made to 911 in the U.S. each year. One third of those are wireless calls; in many communities, that number is one half or more.
"911 Assist with GPS can be useful for those calls where location information is still not available, or if the operator wants to double-check for accuracy," added Hatton.
Keeping a pulse on the needs of customers as well as the emergency services community, Ford continues to work with nonprofit agencies such as NENA and the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) International as it develops other potential enhancements to 911 Assist.
911 Assist with GPS will be available on most SYNC-equipped 2011 vehicles, including the Ford Taurus, Focus, Flex, Fusion, Escape and F-150; as well as the Lincoln MKS, MKZ and MKT.
Vehicles featuring the new MyFord or MyLincoln Touch(TM) driver connect technology will also have the updated 911 Assist GPS capabilities, and offer customers a number of other emergency service options. A priority emergency screen, for example, will contain location information and quick-touch access to In Case of Emergency (ICE) contacts at the completion of a 911 Assist call.
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 176,000 employees and about 80 plants worldwide, the company's automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and, until its sale, Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, please visit http://www.ford.com.
Source: Ford Motor Company
CONTACT: Alan Hall, +1-313-594-3744, ahall32@ford.com
Be part of the next MUMM EXPLORER EXPERIENCE. G.H. MUMM launches online photography competition to select participants.
BREIMS, France, June 3 -- Following the success of the previous MUMM EXPLORER EXPERIENCE, G.H. MUMM is launching http://www.thegame-mumm.com -- an online photography competition that gives a unique opportunity for consumers to be part of the next expedition in September this year.
Since 2008, G.H. MUMM has been organising a series of unexpected gastronomic dinners to celebrate the beauty of the world with South African explorer Mike Horn. The MUMM EXPLORER EXPERIENCE was born: an invitation to a once in a lifetime gastronomic experience orchestrated by a Michelin star Chef, as part of a true and authentic expedition alongside a real adventurer.
Previous MUMM EXPLORER EXPERIENCE adventures took place in remarkable places. In July 2008, the first expedition took his VIP guest to Greenland on an iceberg drifting in the middle of Sermilik Fjord, featuring a gourmet meal orchestrated by two-star Michelin Chef Sylvestre Wahid. The second journey took place in Antarctica to the very same spot where Commander Charcot spent the winter in 1904, alongside three-star Michelin Chef Gerard Boyer. And the third MUMM EXPLORER EXPERIENCE took place in the middle of the Great Barrier Reef where Chef Mauro Colagreco prepared a gastronomic lunch on a pristine sandbar.
Where will the fourth MUMM EXPLORER EXPERIENCE be next? To get a chance to find out and win a place to this unique expedition, G.H. MUMM is appealing to consumer's creativity and photography skills. To enter the photo contest, simply log onto http://www.thegame-mumm.com/ and submit a photo of what is a 'stunning dinner to celebrate the world's beauty.' To increase your chances of winning, you can even ask your friends to vote for your picture. The game is live until 4 July so there is no time to waste.
A G.H. MUMM jury panel and Mike Horn will review the ten submitted pictures with the highest number of votes and choose the winners. The lucky winners of the competition will be announced on 14 July when the MUMM Explorer Experience adventure travel destination is revealed. The eight runners up will be delivered a bottle of MUMM Cordon Rouge champagne.
Sears Offers California Residents Ways to Help the Environment by Recycling Old Televisions
Sears Launches New Television Drop-off and Haul-Away Program
HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill., June 3 -- With 23 percent of households planning to buy a new high-definition television set in the coming 12 months, according to a recent Consumer Electronics Association(1) study, many customers will be thinking about what to do with or how to dispose of their old television set. Sears recognizes the need for smarter recycling solutions and is launching a television drop-off and haul-away program for California residents. This new program is the latest benefit Sears offers its customers through its already extensive, company-wide green initiatives. Sears was also recently named the 2010 ENERGY STAR Retail Partner of the Year for its outstanding contribution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions through its numerous initiatives focusing on educating customers about energy-efficient products.
Through the newly launched Sears program, customers can help the environment by dropping-off their old televisions for free recycling at a Sears full-line store in California. This service is in addition to the new haul-away service that also allows customers to have a television of any size or type picked-up directly from their home for a fee and recycled. A reduced rate for haul-away will be applied for customers who purchase a new television and have it delivered. All televisions received through haul-away will be entirely recycled.
"As customers continue to seek more eco-friendly ways to dispose of aging technology, we are excited to be offering a new service that allows them to live an even greener life by recycling their old televisions responsibly," said Karen Austin, president, Home Electronics for Sears Holdings. "Whether purchasing a new television or simply looking to dispose of an old one, we encourage our customers to look to us as a resource in helping the environment."
The at-home Sears television haul-away program will be available to customers by calling 1-800-664-2722 and scheduling a pick-up time. This service is provided to customers within certain delivery areas for an initial $75 for the first set and $25 for each additional set that is picked up at the same time. However, when coordinated with the purchase and delivery of a new television, a reduced rate of $10 for this service is available.
Customers can also avoid the fee by bringing their television to a local California Sears full-line store for disposal. To fulfill in-store requests, customers will be asked to provide a Sears Blue Electronics Crew associate with their name, address and phone number.
Sears Holdings Corporation is the nation's fourth largest broadline retailer with approximately 3,900 full-line and specialty retail stores in the United States and Canada. Sears Holdings is the leading home appliance retailer as well as a leader in tools, lawn and garden, home electronics and automotive repair and maintenance. Sears Holdings is the 2010 ENERGY STAR® Retail Partner of the Year. Key proprietary brands include Kenmore, Craftsman and DieHard, and a broad apparel offering, including such well-known labels as Lands' End, Jaclyn Smith and Joe Boxer, as well as the Apostrophe and Covington brands. It also has the Country Living collection, which is offered by Sears and Kmart. We are the nation's largest provider of home services, with more than 12 million service calls made annually. Sears Holdings Corporation operates through its subsidiaries, including Sears, Roebuck and Co. and Kmart Corporation. For more information, visit Sears Holdings' website at http://www.searsholdings.com/.
(1) The 12th Annual Household CE Ownership and Market Potential Study (May 2010) was conducted between January 28 and February 1, 2010. It was designed and formulated by Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) ® Market Research.
Source: Sears Holdings Corporation
CONTACT: Larry Costello of Sears Holdings, +1-847-286-9036,
larry.costello@searshc.com; or Rory Swikle of Euro RSCG Worldwide PR,
+1-847-286-8984, rory.swikle@eurorscg.com, for Sears Holdings
NASHUA, N.H., June 3 -- Ezenia! Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: EZEN), a leading market provider of real-time collaboration solutions for corporate and government networks and eBusiness, completed phase one of its new website at http://www.ezenia.com. The new site links the eleven-year tenure of Ezenia's flagship product, InfoWorkSpace with its new product, MxM Secure.
The launch of Ezenia's new web site on the heels of the company's latest product announcement coincides with the release of the company's latest software suite, MxM Secure, which required a major overhaul of the site's navigation and content. Previously used almost exclusively by government intelligence and defense groups as InfoWorkSpace(TM) customers, updated information and features for MxM Secure yielded a brand-new site that satisfies the private sector as well.
"While the main reason for the development of the new site was for the launch of our new product, MxM Secure, the rebuild leveraged new modular web foundations and 'plugged in' the items needed to support our InfoWorkSpace(TM) and new MxM Secure customers," stated Keith Baron, Ezenia Vice President of Customer Service. "Phase two is planned to improve the Frequently Asked Question (FAQ) section of our site, making it easier for customers to search for an answer or submit questions and suggestions on-line."
From top to bottom, the new design and upgrade of the website presents a first-class look and feel. Featuring information on the upgraded InfoWorkSpace(TM) Service Pack 3 and the all-new MxM Secure, the enhancements include contemporary graphics, a complete content re-write, and user friendly improvements for seamless navigation. Moreover, the new site conveniently allows customers to register for online webinars or classroom sessions at the New Hampshire Training Facility.
As a market leader in on-line interaction and collaboration software, Ezenia! enhances software and customer service tools every day. The improved site adds information and convenience to support the company's growing customer base in the private sector and government networks. Visit Ezenia's brand new web site at http://www.ezenia.com.
About Ezenia! Inc.
Ezenia! Inc. (BULLETIN BOARD: EZEN) , founded in 1991, is a leading provider of real-time collaboration solutions, bringing new and valuable levels of interaction and collaboration to corporate networks and Internet. By integrating voice, video and data collaboration, the Company's award-winning products enable groups to interact through a natural meeting experience regardless of geographic distance. Ezenia! products allow dispersed groups to work together in real-time using powerful capabilities such as instant audio and text chat, white boarding, screen sharing and secure file storage. The ability to discuss projects, share information, and modify documents allows users to significantly improve team communication, enhance overall situational awareness and accelerate the decision-making process. More information about Ezenia! Inc. and its product and service offerings can be found at the Company's Web site, http://www.ezenia.com/ .
Note to Investors Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
Statements included herein that are not historical facts may be considered forward-looking statements. You can identify these forward-looking statements by use of the words "expects," "anticipates," "estimates," "believes," "projects," "intends," "plans," "will," "may," and similar words. Such forward-looking statements, which include statements regarding the Company's business and financial outlook, expense control and cash preservation efforts, pursuit of sales opportunities and resulting effects, and long-term strategy, involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include the considerations that are discussed in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009, such as the evolution of Ezenia!'s market, dependence on the United States government as its largest customer and on other major customers, continued funding of defense programs by the United States government and the timing of such funding, uncertainties associated with procurement processes and on-going bidding activities for government programs, rapid technological change and competition within the collaborative software market, the Company's reliance on third-party technology, protection of its propriety technology, customer acceptance of InfoWorkSpace and other new products including the acceptance of InfoWorkSpace in the commercial market, retention of key employees, stock price volatility, the Company's history of liquidity concerns and operating losses, and other considerations that are discussed further in such report. You should not place undue reliance upon any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. The Company disclaims any obligation to update forward-looking statements after the date of such statements.
Note: Ezenia! is a registered trademark of Ezenia! Inc., and the Ezenia! Logo and InfoWorkSpace are trademarks of Ezenia! Inc. Additional information on Ezenia! and its products is available at http://www.ezenia.com .
Contact: Tom McCann
Ezenia! Inc.
Phone: 603-589-7603
Fax: 603-880-4978
investorrelations@ezenia.com http://www.ezenia.com
Source: Ezenia! Inc.
CONTACT: Tom McCann of Ezenia! Inc., Phone: +1-603-589-7603, Fax:
+1-603-880-4978, investorrelations@ezenia.com
Mobile Star Developing Models to Drive Significant Traffic to Vending Machines
Discussing Cooperation With Large Media Outlets in Multiple Markets
NEW YORK, June 3, 2010-- Mobile Star Corp. (OTCBB: MBST), a developer of karaoke vending machines,
announced that the company is developing several marketing models to drive
significant traffic to their vending booths in regional markets throughout
the U.S.
The company has begun preliminary discussions with two major media
outlets with immediate access to millions of potential users in their
respective metropolitan markets.
Mobile Star is interested in developing long-term relationships with
multiple marketing and media organizations, and is considering several models
of cooperation and joint ventures.
"One of the strengths of the Mobile Star team is our creativity in
developing marketing strategies," said Danny Elbaz, CEO of Mobile Star Corp.
"We already know the strength of our product to attract organic traffic.
Cooperation with large media can drive incredible amounts of music
enthusiasts to take part in our personalized music studio experience."
About Mobile Star
Mobile Star has developed a free-standing entertainment vending machine
that enables an individual to digitally record his or her voice singing to
hundreds of songs. The patented karaoke technology utilizes a proprietary
digital-media software platform, and professional-grade hardware to publish a
high quality CD of the performance.
This letter contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of
Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 as amended and Section 21E of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as amended. All forward-looking statements
are inherently uncertain, based on current expectations and assumptions
concerning future events or future performance of Mobile Star Corp., and its
technologies. In evaluating such statements, prospective investors should
review carefully various risks and uncertainties identified in this release,
as actual results may differ materially from those indicated. Mobile Star
Corp. public filings may be viewed at http://www.sec.gov.
Contact:
CEO, Danny Elbaz
danny@themobilestar.com
+972-54-465-5341
Source: Mobile Star Corp.
Contact: CEO, Danny Elbaz, danny@themobilestar.com, +972-54-465-5341
Everyone's a Winner as Brandmovers Teams Up With Maritz for Greater Engagement Through Games
CHICAGO, June 3 -- As online gaming continues to prove its value as a marketing tool, experts in customer loyalty and digital promotion join forces to bring winning solutions to corporate users. Maritz, a global leader in incentive, recognition and loyalty solutions, and Atlanta-based Brandmovers, a leading digital promotions agency, are exhibiting together at the Customer Relationship Management Conference being held June 2 through June 4, 2010 at the Marriott Michigan Avenue in Chicago.
In addition to sharing exhibition space at the show, which is the premier event for retail marketing and CRM executives, Bob Konsewicz, Loyalty Strategy Leader for Maritz, and Alberto Pages, Senior Director of Brand Development, for Brandmovers, will participate in a roundtable discussion on June 3 to discuss the "Gamification of Loyalty" and ways in which retail companies can make gaming a strong part of loyalty strategy.
"We are thrilled to be working with this dynamic and innovative partner," said Barry Kirk of St. Louis-based Maritz. "Brandmovers creates a unique online experience that engages visitors and enhances brand loyalty."
Pages states: "We are pleased to be working with a market leader such as Maritz, and we look forward to being able to showcase our complimentary marketing capabilities to the retail audience at the CRMC conference."
About Maritz
St. Louis-based Maritz is a sales and marketing services company, which helps companies achieve their full potential through understanding, enabling, and motivating employees, channel partners and customers. Maritz provides customer loyalty programs, incentive initiatives, rewards and recognition, communications, market and customer research, learning solutions, effective meeting, event and incentive travel services. For more information, visit http://www.maritz.com or call 1-877-4MARITZ.
About Brandmovers
Brandmovers provides online games, contests, sweepstakes and loyalty promotions that deliver measurable results with customized promotional campaigns requiring dedicated support, heavy consumer interaction and advanced technical knowledge. Their turnkey solutions provide measurable ROI with real-time reporting and analytics. For further information, visit http://www.brandmovers.com.
Source: Brandmovers, Inc.
CONTACT: Cheri Mason-Lewis of Brandmovers, Inc., +1-404-484-2623,
cmason@brandmovers.com; or Jennifer Larsen of Maritz, +1-636-827-1523
Trend Micro's Threat News App Now Available in the App Store
Trend Micro's latest free app Threat Watch helps you stay in-the-know on the latest security information and alerts
CUPERTINO, Calif., June 3 -- Trend Micro's latest free app for iPhone, iPod touch and iPad is available today on the App Store. The Threat Watch App helps users get immediate access to breaking news on the latest threats and cybercrime intrigue directly, turning mobile devices into a personal threat resource center.
Threat Watch App links directly into TrendWatch, Trend Micro's threat resource and news center that provides current security advisories on recent threat activity, free tools, access to the Trend Micro malware blog, information on security awareness, and tips on online safety and threat prevention. With the Threat Watch App, users can find security information and advice wherever they take their iPhone, iPod touch or iPad.
Key Features of Threat Watch include:
-- Direct access to Trend Micro blogs, including the Trend Micro Malware
Blog with information on the latest threats.
-- Direct access to TrendWatch, the Trend Micro threat-resource center
that keeps users informed on the current threat activity and provides
free security tools.
-- Breaking threat news delivered right to the user's device; a small,
on-screen banner alerts the user when there is a new threat or
vulnerability.
-- Direct access to educational videos on Internet threats and the threat
landscape.
-- Trend Watch is available for free from the App Store or at http://www.itunes.com/appstore.
In addition to this latest news application, Trend Micro also offers the Trend Smart Surfing for iPhone and iPod touch, first introduced in 2009. Trend Smart Surfing is an Internet browsing tool that uses Trend Micro's Web reputation technology, a component of the Trend Micro(TM) Smart Protection Network infrastructure, to block users of iPhone and iPod touch from unintentionally visiting Web sites that may contain malicious content designed to steal confidential information and personal data. The Trend Micro(TM) Smart Protection Network(TM) infrastructure delivers advanced protection from the cloud, blocking threats in real-time before they reach you. It's security made smarter.
About Trend Micro:
Trend Micro Incorporated, a global leader in Internet content security, focuses on securing the exchange of digital information for businesses and consumers. A pioneer and industry vanguard, Trend Micro is advancing integrated threat management technology to protect operational continuity, personal information, and property from malware, spam, data leaks and the newest Web threats. Visit TrendWatch at http://www.trendmicro.com/go/trendwatch to learn more about the latest threats. Trend Micro's flexible solutions, available in multiple form factors, are supported 24/7 by threat intelligence experts around the globe. Many of these solutions are powered by the Trend Micro(TM) Smart Protection Network(TM) infrastructure, a next-generation cloud-client innovation that combines sophisticated cloud-based reputation technology, feedback loops, and the expertise of TrendLabs(SM) researchers to deliver real-time protection from emerging threats. A transnational company, with headquarters in Tokyo, Trend Micro's trusted security solutions are sold through its business partners worldwide. Please visit http://www.trendmicro.com.
Apple, the Apple logo, and iPod touch are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. iPhone is a trademark of Apple
Source: Trend Micro Incorporated
CONTACT: Andrea Mueller, Senior Public Relations Specialist of Trend
Micro, +1-408-863-6583, andrea_mueller@trendmicro.com
EmFinders Completes Operational Process Review by APCO and NENA Focus Group for EmSeeQ(R)
First and Only High-Accuracy Cellular-based Locator System Helps Find Lost Loved Ones to Save Lives and Provide Peace of Mind to Caregivers
FRISCO, Texas, June 3 -- EmSeeQ, a cellular based locator system that connects directly to the E-9-1-1 system, completed an operational process review by members of the National Emergency Number Association (NENA) and the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) International. Recognizing both the ability to save a person's life and reduce the possibility of costly searches, the review identified best practices, operational processes, and training and support procedures for Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs).
"The insights and phenomenal feedback provided by the NENA and APCO team is invaluable in ensuring we communicate proper information and training to PSAPs nationwide," said Jim Nalley, CEO and founder of EmFinders. "Our mission is to partner with PSAPs to provide the best information to locate a cognitively impaired individual quickly to help them saves lives."
The first and only high-accuracy cellular-based locator system, EmSeeQ helps find lost individuals suffering from cognitive impairments as a result of Alzheimer's disease, dementia, autism, traumatic brain injury and other circumstances. The wristwatch-style device relies on cellular technology. Unlike traditional GPS systems, which can only indicate the location of the device in areas of sufficient signal strength, EmSeeQ places a call to 9-1-1 once activated, triggering the national E-9-1-1 emergency location system. Using advanced cellular triangulation technology, the system is capable of providing an accurate location to within meters and updating the location at any time to account for movement while emergency responders are en route. The system is very affordable, costing less than a typical cell phone, with service plans that run about $25 per month.
"APCO is dedicated to public safety communications and as such is always pleased to offer our experience, guidance and best practices to private sector companies to improve the value of their product offering to our over 15,000 members. The EmSeeQ operational review is an example of how we can assist in evolving an offering to that end," stated Richard Mirgon, president of APCO International.
"EmFinder's diligence to work with the emergency services community to identify national best practices appropriate for their product and service is greatly appreciated by NENA. The company has provided an excellent example for using the operational review process," said Brian Fontes, NENA's CEO. "This initiative is an excellent example of how private industry and public safety can partner to enhance 9-1-1 in times of need."
An operational focus group compromised of members from both NENA and APCO International representing eight different states came to Frisco to work directly with EmFinders personnel to identify operational scenarios and work through how the data provided by EmFinders would be best utilized by PSAP operations. The sessions identified the need for a PSAP training program that will be developed by EmFinders and provided to PSAPs under the guidelines provided by APCO International and NENA.
The Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) International is the world's oldest and largest professional organization dedicated to the enhancement of public safety communications. APCO International serves the professional needs of its 15,000 members worldwide by creating a platform for setting professional standards, addressing professional issues and providing education, products and services for people who manage, operate, maintain and supply the communications systems used by police, fire and emergency medical dispatch agencies throughout the world. For more information, visit http://www.apcointl.org.
About the National Emergency Number Association
NENA serves the public safety community as the only professional organization solely focused on 9-1-1 policy, technology, operations, and education issues. With more than 7000 members in 48 chapters across the United States and around the globe, NENA promotes implementation and awareness 9-1-1 and international three-digit emergency communications systems. NENA works with public policy leaders, emergency services and telecommunications industry partners, like-minded public safety associations, and other stakeholder groups to develop and carry out critical programs and initiatives, to facilitate the creation of an IP-based Next Generation 9-1-1 system, and to establish industry leading standards, training, and certifications. Find out more at http://www.nena.org.
About EmFinders
EmFinders, based in Frisco, TX, is a new technology company that has developed a device and subscription service for locating people with Alzheimer's or other impaired adults and children who wander and become lost. The wearable device and locator service uses advanced cellular technology to locate lost individuals, even if they wander inside a building, under a structure or just about anywhere. The device becomes activated on remote command and the locator service works in coordination with emergency responders. EmFinders is a privately held subsidiary of TruePosition, Inc, which is in turn a privately held subsidiary of Liberty Media Corporation attributed to the Liberty Capital group (NASDAQ:LCAPA), which owns a broad range of electronic retailing, media, communications and entertainment businesses. For more information, visit http://www.emfinders.com.
About TruePosition and Liberty Media
TruePosition is the global leader in location determination and intelligence solutions that help protect citizens, combat crime, and save lives. TruePosition location solutions meet the mission-critical requirements of enterprises and government agencies. These solutions include future-proof technologies, innovative applications, and comprehensive networking and systems services. TruePosition has more patents, technical expertise, and operational experience in wireless location than any other company in the world. Every day more than 100 million people depend on location services supported by TruePosition technology. TruePosition is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Liberty Media Corporation attributed to the Liberty Capital group (NASDAQ:LCAPA), which owns a broad range of electronic retailing, media, communications and entertainment businesses. For more information, visit http://www.trueposition.com or http://www.libertymedia.com.
Source: EmFinders
CONTACT: Belinda Banks of SS | PR, +1-609-750-9110, belinda@sspr.com,
for EmFinders
Cellfire Launches First Electronic Grocery Coupon Syndication Program for Smartphone Applications
SAN JOSE, Calif., June 3 -- Cellfire Inc. today launched QMobile Coupons, the first electronic coupon syndication platform developed for iPhone(TM) and Android(TM) mobile applications. QMobile Coupons is a new way for mobile application developers and brands to provide valuable grocery coupon offers to the rapidly expanding mobile audience. Consumers can easily discover and save coupons to their grocery store savings card anytime and anywhere within the convenience of their popular mobile applications. Cellfire has secured several partnerships with leading applications such as ShopSavvy, Grocery Gadget and Intuition: Mom's Personal Assistant.
The growth of smart phone users has led to a proliferation of mobile applications. Recently, comScore published that almost 29 percent of the 234 million mobile subscribers in the U.S. downloaded applications in the first calendar quarter of 2010. According to an ABI Research report, the number of mobile applications downloaded in 2010 will be almost 6 billion, doubling last year's total of 2.4 billion. The iTunes application store has over 200,000 applications, while the Android Marketplace is growing quickly at over 50,000 offerings.
QMobile Coupons is another industry first for Cellfire, bringing electronic grocery coupon distribution to smart phone application developers for the first time. QMobile Coupons helps developers monetize their apps, while also offering value to their end users. Integration of QMobile Coupons is easy and can be customized with other Cellfire syndication suite tools, such as QFinder Coupons, Cellfire's content discovery APIs.
The QMobile Coupons platform was developed using the latest Web browser technology including Webkit, CSS, and HTML5 toolboxes. Today, Cellfire has the largest grocery network in the country, extending its couponing program to more than 30 grocery chains across 4,500 locations nationwide. For more information about QMobile Coupons and Cellfire's "Q" coupon syndication suite, please visit http://www.cellfire.com/developers.
"We're very excited to bring grocery coupons to the hundreds of thousands of busy moms who use Intuition: Mom's Personal Assistant to manage their hectic day-to-day lives," said Al Eisaian, CEO and Co-Founder of IconApps, "Saving money is important to moms, and we're excited to partner with Cellfire to offer this valuable feature."
Alexander Muse, Co-Founder of ShopSavvy adds, "More than 5.5 million savvy shoppers use ShopSavvy® each month to scan barcodes for everything from tuna fish to plasma TVs. By incorporating Cellfire's QMobile Coupons platform, our users will be able to discover and use grocery coupons without leaving the ShopSavvy experience."
"Thanks to tight integration between Flixoft's shopping solutions and the Cellfire platform, our shoppers can now save big with coupons," said Anatoliy Babayev, CTO and Co-Founder of Flixoft. "The Grocery Gadget® mobile application and online portal help shoppers view coupons that are highly relevant to their shopping list content, and add those deals to their supermarket savings cards with a single click."
"Cellfire continues to develop exciting ways for grocery shoppers to find and use electronic coupons," said Robert Drescher, CEO of Cellfire. "With QMobile Coupons, consumers can now use their favorite mobile apps to find great discounts, when they want and within a familiar context. The platform is also another example of our dedication to offering new, effective channels for brands and retailers to deliver promotions through mobile media."
About Cellfire®
Cellfire is the leading provider of electronic and mobile coupon solutions in the U.S. The company provides merchants and brands an interactive, targeted, and secure solution to reach and engage customers anytime, anywhere with the device of choice. Cellfire offers consumers convenient savings from leading brands, grocers, and other retailers at over 6,000 locations nationwide. Cellfire users can find coupons through the Web at cellfire.com, or anywhere on-the-go with Cellfire's award-winning mobile application. Cellfire is a free service, although standard data or usage charges may apply when using the program with a mobile device, depending on the carrier or data plan. Founded in 2005, Cellfire is headquartered in San Jose, Calif. For more information, visit http://www.cellfire.com.
About Big in Japan Inc.
Big in Japan Inc. is a Dallas-based company behind the technology that allows consumers to scan barcodes with their smartphones. Big in Japan's ShopSavvy application - a personal shopping assistant - is one of the most popular barcode scanning applications on the iPhone and Android-based phones with more than 5.5 million users. Big in Japan's barcode reading technology is also incorporated into hundreds of mobile applications built by companies like CBS Interactive, CNET and PriceGrabber. Learn more by visiting http://www.biggu.com/.
About Flixoft, Inc.
Flixoft, Inc. is a U.S. developer of Internet-based smart phone solutions including the top-selling productivity application, Grocery Gadget. Grocery Gadget offers a unique sync technology between multiple smart phones, and through its web-based portal integration platform. For additional information, please visit http://www.grocerygadgets.com.
About IconApps Inc.
IconApps was founded on the idea of using the power of the mobile web in helping people manage and simplify their lives. Our objective is to deliver mobile applications to enhance the lives of our customers. Our flagship app, Intuition: Mom's Personal Assistant, provides busy moms an easy and fun way to save time and money with a location-smart, intuitive personal assistant that's available anywhere, 24/7 at the touch of a button. IconApps is a private company in Pasadena, CA. More information is available at http://www.iconapps.com.
Source: Cellfire Inc.
CONTACT: Mary Placido of GolinHarris, +1-415-274-7902,
mplacido@golinharris.com, for Cellfire
More Verizon FiOS TV Customers Can Now Get 'Visual 411' Directory Assistance
Company's Latest Widget Makes It Quick and Easy to Find a Business in the Neighborhood or Across the Country
NEW YORK, June 3 -- Verizon's FiOS TV Visual 411 directory assistance widget has people wanting more - more information, that is. Visual 411, first introduced to FiOS TV customers in the Dallas area in November, is now available to FiOS TV customers in eleven states and the District of Columbia.
"Business search has evolved over the years in the way consumers can access contact numbers and addresses for neighborhood favorites or cross-country businesses," said Pedro Correa, president of Verizon LiveSource directory assistance services. "Now we can offer the convenience of easy searching with a few simple clicks of the TV remote."
The Visual 411 Widget enables customers to search by business name, type of business or keywords such as "automotive" or "florist." With the FiOS TV remote control, users can access the menu-driven feature and easily navigate through a type of business search. There is an onscreen keyboard, for those who prefer to enter a business name or keyword. In addition, users can change search locations and look up recent searches.
The FiOS TV screen also displays a location map in much the same way an online search option does and displays the address and phone number even as viewers continue to enjoy the show they are watching. With the zoom-in and zoom-out mapping feature, users can easily identify cross-streets and major intersections. The TV screen enables viewing by multiple individuals and provides high-quality visuals. To access the widget, users can go to the FiOS TV widgets home screen, scroll down to the Visual 411 application and select it.
In addition to the District of Columbia, Visual 411 is available in California, Delaware, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas and Virginia.
FiOS TV offers a broad collection of programming, with more than 565 all-digital channels, including more than 140 HD channels, and more than 18,000 monthly video-on-demand (VOD) titles. FiOS provides next-generation interactive services including an advanced interactive media guide; social TV, news and entertainment widgets; remote DVR management; multi-room DVR, and more.
Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ)(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 nearly 93 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 217,000 and last year generated consolidated revenues of more than $107 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
CONTACT: Kevin Laverty, +1-425-917-7042, kevin.laverty@verizon.com
INRIX Launches Free Traffic Operations Service for Transportation Agencies Nationwide
Thirty-four states pre-register for INRIXTraffic.US Site to Access Traffic Flow Data in Cities, Statewide & Across State Lines
KIRKLAND, Wash., June 3 -- Just in time for the summer travel and hurricane seasons, INRIX®, the leading provider of traffic services, launched INRIXTraffic.us -- the first free, Web service to provide state, regional and municipal transportation agencies a complete view of accurate real-time traffic flow on all major highways, interstates, arterials and secondary roads in major cities, rural areas and across state lines.
With an additional 10,000 construction projects from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) added to our nation's already busy roadways this summer, state DOT, highway patrol, and emergency management agency personnel have the need for a tool to better manage traffic operations, emergency response coordination and public safety. Now, by registering at http://inrixtraffic.us/, they can leverage a service that provides a complete, real-time picture of current traffic speeds for more than 160,000 miles of roads nationwide growing to over 260,000 by the end of the year.
"INRIXTraffic.US empowers transportation agencies and their partners with situational awareness of conditions throughout their state or region, without regard to urban and rural boundaries or jurisdictional dividing lines," said INRIX Executive Director of Public Sector Ted Trepanier. "As the former director of traffic operations at Washington State DOT, I can attest to the need and value of having statewide and over-the-border views of traffic flow, particularly in times of crisis or during heavy travel periods."
Federal Highway Administration and INRIX tracking of traffic conditions nationwide shows the summer months are typically the busiest months on the nation's Interstate system in terms of overall traffic volumes, particularly on rural interstates(1). In anticipation of a particularly challenging summer travel season, hundreds of officials across dozens of agencies in 34 states have pre-registered to gain access to the site since registration opened in May.
"The response we've seen so far is phenomenal," said INRIX Vice President of Public Sector Rick Schuman. "As we begin this important summer season - where an active hurricane season is predicted by NOAA and stimulus-related work zones will be in full swing - empowering agencies with one site that provides one view of the entire system gives them an invaluable tool in their efforts to manage operations and improve public safety on across their entire road network."
INRIXTraffic.us is powered by the largest traffic network in the world that includes crowd-sourced real-time traffic information from more than 2 million GPS-enabled vehicles. Providing a foundation of continuous real-time speed and location reports to INRIX every minute for an average of 7 hours per day, per vehicle, commercial fleets - such as taxi cabs, service delivery vans and long haul trucks - represent the majority of INRIX's network. INRIX intelligently analyzes these reports and data from consumer vehicles, GPS-enabled smartphones, road sensors and hundreds of other sources to deliver a service of unparalleled coverage and quality.
Thirty-seven states now use INRIX Traffic information to power their daily operations, traveler information services and performance measures. INRIXTraffic.US builds upon nearly two years of partnership with The I-95 Corridor Coalition and provides a national version of a site, managed by INRIX, currently in use by dozens of agencies and hundreds of agency employees and contractors along the eastern seaboard. INRIXTraffic.US is open to all public employees - and their onsite contractors - who manage any part of the nation's road network.
About INRIX
INRIX® is a leading provider of highly accurate traffic services, with more than 100 customers and industry partners including the Ford Motor Company, TomTom, MapQuest, Microsoft, NAVIGON AG, TeleNav, I-95 Corridor Coalition, Tele Atlas, deCarta, TCS, Telmap, ANWB and ADAC. INRIX's strategic partnership with Clear Channel Radio and Total Traffic Network extends the delivery of the highest quality data and broadest coverage available for personal navigation, mapping, telematics and other location-based service applications in the car, online and on mobile devices.
INRIX Traffic Services leverage sophisticated statistical analysis techniques, originally developed by Microsoft Research, to aggregate and enhance traffic-related information from hundreds of public and private sources, including traditional road sensors and the company's unique network of more than 2 million GPS-enabled vehicles and mobile devices including 8 of the top 10 iPhone navigation apps. INRIX delivers real-time and historical traffic information today for 20 countries across North America and Europe. To experience the traffic technology revolution behind the next generation of navigation and location-based service applications, visit http://www.INRIX.com or follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/INRIX.
Zeebo, Inc. Launches Zeebo F.C. Foot Camp Game and Zeeboids Avatar Application
Interactive Combination Enables Zeebo Users to Take on Four Unique Soccer Challenges with Custom "Zeeboid" Avatars
SAN DIEGO, June 3 -- Zeebo, Inc. today announced that two new original titles, Zeebo F.C. Foot Camp and Zeeboids, have launched in Brazil and Mexico. Zeebo F.C. Foot Camp is the first of Zeebo's F.C. (Football Club) soccer games. Zeeboids is an application that enables users to create personalized characters ("avatars") for use in Zeebo F.C. games. Zeebo also announced a partnership with Goal.com, the world's largest website dedicated to soccer.
The two new offerings were created by Zeebo Interactive Studios in Brazil and join a growing roster of titles for the Zeebo 3G-connected digital gaming, entertainment and education platform, which delivers fun and learning to families in emerging global markets. The system is currently selling in Brazil and Mexico, with future rollouts planned elsewhere in Latin America, Asia and beyond.
"These original offerings join a growing array of third-party titles for the Zeebo," said Mike Yuen, senior vice president of global content and services, Zeebo, Inc. "With Zeebo F.C. Foot Camp, Zeebo Interactive Studios has created four fantastic mini-games in one. Zeeboids personalizes the experience with a state-of-the-art avatar system. It provides character customization, achievements, online leaderboards, and even network-based synchronization. With the World Cup approaching, fans in Brazil and Mexico can enjoy hours of soccer fun before and after their teams compete."
About Zeebo F.C. Foot Camp
Zeebo F.C. Foot Camp brings together four 3D mini-games that test players' skills and challenge their soccer-playing fundamentals. Up to eight people can take turns challenging the goalie in Free Kick, trying to keep the ball in the air in Juggle, using expert footwork to evade defenders in Dribble and practicing shot-on-goal teamwork in Goal Scoring. Additional capabilities are made possible by the Zeeboids personal avatar creation application.
About Zeeboids
Zeeboids allows users to build their own 3D virtual characters for use with Zeebo F.C. games. The Zeeboids have their own unique appearance, customized by the user, as well as their own accomplishments and history. For example, Zeeboids acquire new skills as users get better at playing F.C. games. The Zeeboids application keeps a record of Zeeboid achievements, and rewards outstanding accomplishments. Users can upload their Zeeboids' scores via the ZeeboNet Wireless Network and compare them with other players' scores on an online leaderboard. Users can also synchronize their Zeeboid via the ZeeboNet, allowing them to access their own Zeeboid even when playing on friends' Zeebo systems.
Goal.com Partnership
In addition to the new titles, Zeebo announced an agreement with Goal.com, the world's largest soccer-related website. Under the agreement, Zeebo users in Mexico will have access to the latest soccer scores and news directly through a Goal.com channel on their Zeebo platforms, made possible by Zeebo's web-browsing capabilities.
"Zeebo's 3G-connected platform enables users to get the latest World Cup news and scores in the comfort of their own homes," said Gianluigi Longinotti-Buitoni, founder, president and CEO of Goal.com. "This is a major benefit for consumers who can't afford personal computers or lack convenient access to wired broadband networks. We are pleased to work with Zeebo to provide education and entertainment to the next billion consumers in emerging markets."
Zeebo fosters the development and monetization of local content by preventing piracy through fast and convenient shopping with secure 3G broadband wireless connectivity and over-the-air delivery. For Zeebo customers, content delivery and user interface software updates for the Zeebo system occur over the ZeeboNet Wireless Network and are completely transparent to the user. Customers can purchase and download content quickly and easily from their living rooms, without having to purchase any software disks or other hardware. Connectivity is provided pre-activated for the system, and users do not have to sign up for any additional service plan or contract. Zeebo takes only minutes to set up. Users simply plug the Zeebo into a television set, and the system automatically connects to the ZeeboNet Wireless Network.
For more information on the Zeebo entertainment and education platform, please visit the following:
Zeebo, Inc., a closely held company based in San Diego, California, has developed the Zeebo, a wireless platform to deliver digital gaming, entertainment and education content to the next billion consumers in emerging global markets. The system's 3G wireless connectivity allows for rapid, easy delivery of games and other content, free from the risk of piracy. Consumers can buy inexpensive titles, download them directly to the Zeebo and access the Internet, all from the comfort of home. The Zeebo is available throughout Brazil and Mexico, with future rollouts planned in other regions.
Slacker Radio Announces iPhone, iPad and iPod touch Station Caching for Listening Everywhere
Slacker Radio 2.0 for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch Includes Station Caching for Listening to Music Without a Mobile or Wi-Fi Connection
SAN DIEGO, June 3 -- Slacker, Inc. today announced the availability of Slacker Radio 2.0 for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch*. For the first time ever, iPhone, iPad and iPod touch users can cache their favorite Slacker music stations to listen anywhere - whether they are connected to a wireless network or not and without incurring data charges.
With Slacker Radio 2.0 for iPhone and a Slacker Radio Plus subscription, music lovers can select specific stations to cache while they are listening by simply tapping "Cache This Station" from any station page. Once stations have been selected, individual songs for the stations are automatically downloaded by selecting "Refresh Stations" from the Cached Stations link in the home screen view. During a station refresh the application will store up to thousands of songs on the device for off-line playback allowing stations to be accessed on planes, subways and everywhere in between with no interruptions and greatly reduced battery use. Along with the ability to store stations to the device, Slacker Radio Plus features ad-free listening, complete song lyrics, "peek ahead" artist and album previews, unlimited song skipping, unlimited song requests and more.
iPod touch and iPad owners can now listen to Slacker Radio beyond Wi-Fi networks and take their favorite tunes wherever they go without having to manage playlists or transfer music from their home computers. Free Slacker Basic Radio listeners will be able to cache stations for up to 14 days, providing the opportunity to try this new feature on their iPhone, iPad or iPod touch, risk-free.
"This is a significant milestone for us and Internet radio as an industry," said Jonathan Sasse, senior vice president of marketing at Slacker. "iPod touch and iPad owners will find the new caching feature particularly liberating because they can now travel beyond Wi-Fi networks and still have an uninterrupted and unparalleled music experience."
The millions who listen to the free Slacker Basic Radio service will continue to enjoy the same superior Slacker Radio experience. All listeners will have the opportunity to try Slacker station caching risk-free for up to 14 days by simply using the feature included with version 2.0 without the need of a subscription to Slacker Radio Plus. With access to a song library that is nearly four times the size of the leading competitor, iPhone, iPad and iPod touch owners can use Slacker Basic Radio and Slacker Radio Plus to create their own Personal Radio stations or listen to and personalize over 120 expert-programmed genre stations.
Slacker Basic Radio and Slacker Radio Plus also give access to artist biographies and album reviews, station fine-tuning and custom artist stations. In addition to marking songs as favorites, listeners can also ban songs and artists to create perfect custom radio stations.
Slacker Radio 2.0 for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch with Slacker Radio Plus:
-- Cache stations to iPhone, iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS, iPad and iPod touch**
-- Enjoy Slacker radio stations even without a wireless network
-- Greatly improved battery life
-- Unlimited song skipping
-- Ad-free listening
-- Complete song lyrics(+)
-- Unlimited song requests for creating stations
-- Music library featuring millions of songs
-- No monthly listening limits
-- High-quality stereo playback
-- Over 120 professionally programmed genre stations
-- Create custom stations based on artists or songs
-- Fine tune stations on-the-fly to play more of the music you like
-- View artist biographies and photos
-- View album art and reviews
-- "Peek Ahead" artist and album preview
-- Pause and skip songs
-- Rate songs as favorites
-- Ban the songs and artists you don't like
Pricing and Availability
Slacker Radio 2.0 for iPhone, iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS, iPad and iPod touch is available immediately in the iTunes app store or by visiting http://www.slacker.com from the mobile web browser. Slacker Radio Plus is available for as low as $3.99 per month and can be purchased at http://www.slacker.com or within the app by selecting the "Upgrade" button. Please visit http://www.slacker.com/iphone on the web for more details. iPad users can install and use Slacker Radio 2.0 in compatibility mode, which includes station caching for off-line listening as well as all other features of the 2.0 application.
About Slacker, Inc.
Slacker is the world's first Personal Radio company offering "Your Radio Everywhere." Slacker enables music lovers to play highly personalized music online at the Slacker web site or on the go with Slacker Personal Radio players and mobile phones. Slacker mobile applications are currently available for Android, iPhone, Palm webOS, Windows Mobile and BlackBerry smartphones. For more information visit http://www.slacker.com/everywhere.
* The Slacker Personal Radio application is currently available for U.S. and Canadian customers only.
** Requires OS 3.0 or higher
(+)Not all lyrics are available for all songs
Slacker and Slacker.com are registered trademarks of Slacker, Inc. All other trademarks and product names are the property of their respective companies.
Media Contact:
Anders Steele
FortyThree, Inc.
831.239.0960
slacker@fortythreepr.com
Source: Slacker, Inc.
CONTACT: Anders Steele, FortyThree, Inc., +1-831-239-0960,
slacker@fortythreepr.com, for Slacker, Inc.
See For Yourself How Verizon Wireless is Ready to Serve Customers When it Matters Most
New Video Offers Behind-the-Scenes Look at Ongoing Preparations for Hurricane Season, Other Natural Disasters and Emergencies
BASKING RIDGE, N.J., June 3 -- Verizon Wireless doesn't wait for hurricane season, severe weather forecasts, wildfire warnings or power outages to focus on keeping its service up and running. Verizon Wireless network teams work year-round to ensure customers can rely on the Verizon Wireless network and use their wireless devices when they need them most.
Go Behind the Scenes with Verizon Wireless - Video Available
A new video from Verizon Wireless takes viewers to Verizon Wireless cell sites, mobile cell sites, switches and other network operations in Florida to show how the company prepares for hurricane season and other natural disasters and emergencies. Those are times when customers turn to their wireless service and count on it most.
View the Video Now
"We Keep You Connected When You Count on Us the Most" is available now and can be viewed:
Verizon Wireless has invested more than $59 billion since it was formed - $5.7 billion on average every year - to increase the coverage and capacity of its premier nationwide network and to add new services. In 2009 alone, Verizon Wireless invested $7 billion to expand and advance its network.
More Information Available
-- Learn more about Verizon Wireless' preparations for the 2010 hurricane
season in the Verizon Wireless Hurricane Information Center at http://news.vzw.com/Hurricane/Overview.html.
-- Ongoing network updates, enhancements and information are available on
Twitter at http://twitter.com/VZWNetwork.
-- Video footage and images of Verizon Wireless network preparations in
hurricane-prone areas are available in the Verizon Wireless Multimedia
Library at http://www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.
About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless operates the nation's most reliable and largest wireless voice and 3G data network, serving nearly 93 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 81,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE:VZ)(NASDAQ:VZ) and Vodafone (NASDAQ:VOD). For more information, visit http://www.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at http://www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.
Local Group Shopping Site LivingSocial Launches in Tampa and San Antonio
Now Residents Will Be Able to Save Money on the Hottest Local Attractions Through LivingSocial's Group Buying Platform
WASHINGTON, June 3 -- LivingSocial, the local group shopping site behind LivingSocial Deals, launched today in Tampa and San Antonio, making its Deals program live in 24 cities across the country with plans to expand to dozens of markets throughout the year.
"With white, sugar sand beaches, sport fishing, jet skiing and parasailing Tampa is a true hot spot among the world's destinations, and we're thrilled to launch in such a thriving market," said Tim O'Shaughnessy, CEO and co-founder of LivingSocial. "LivingSocial will help consumers explore all that Tampa has to offer like the rich arts, professional sports and the electric sights."
To kick off the city launch, LivingSocial Deals Tampa will feature a great offer for 50% off a four-hour guided kayak tour at Carolina Mike's Kayaking Adventures, and San Antonio will get a delicious deal for one dozen cupcakes for $18 at Kate's Frosting a $36 value.
"San Antonio is filled with culturally significant arts, history, culture, museums and architecture," added O'Shaughnessy. "Our deals program will allow residents and visitors to take advantage of everything this vibrant city has to offer."
As the premier local activity discovery engine, LivingSocial is the place where anyone can find out what's hot in and around their city. As a result, the group buying service has dedicated city experts on the ground in every market. These city experts are constantly researching the best restaurants, spas, sporting events, hotels and other local attractions to bring a savings of 50-70% for consumers.
In an effort to give consumers greater access to the attractive savings, LivingSocial offers its daily deals for 24 hours, which means anyone can purchase the deal during that time if they wish. Additionally, users can take full advantage of LivingSocial's unique referral model. When a user purchases a LivingSocial Deal and three of their friends also take advantage of that deal, the user gets the deal for free.
With LivingSocial's unprecedented social media knowledge, the company is able to give local merchants an innovative way to reach nearby customers while granting them access to the company's extensive community of more than 85 million people. Furthermore, merchants get the viral power of the Internet, the reach of the LivingSocial community, and the leverage of the iPhone platform.
LivingSocial is now live in the following markets: Washington, D.C., New York City, Boston, Atlanta, Austin, Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, the Twin Cities, Chicago, Raleigh Durham, Denver, San Diego, the San Fernando Valley, Portland, Orange County, Charlotte, Philadelphia, Dallas, New Orleans, Houston, San Antonio and Tampa. For more information or to sign up your city, go to http://livingsocial.com/.
About LivingSocial
LivingSocial is the social commerce leader behind LivingSocial Deals, a group buying program that invites people and their friends to save 50-70 percent or more each day at their favorite restaurants, spas, sporting events, hotels and other local attractions in major cities. LivingSocial has an extensive user base of more than 85 million, and is headquartered in Washington, D.C. To sign up for Deals in your city, or to find out more information about LivingSocial, visit http://www.livingsocial.com. You can also follow LivingSocial on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/livingsocial.
Source: LivingSocial
CONTACT: Korina Buhler of Atomic PR, +1-415-593-1400,
korina@atomicpr.com, for LivingSocial
New Projecturf 2.0 Provides Online Project Management with Features Not Offered by Other Project Management Software
LOS ANGELES, June 3 -- Small-to-medium sized businesses (SMBs) often struggle to find affordable and intuitive project management software that can be customized to fit their exact project management needs while not being charged for "extras." Projecturf 2.0 - http://www.projecturf.com/ - is the economical new web-based project management app specifically designed for SMBs in all industries providing each user features not offered by other project management software. Designed based on hundreds of real users' feedback and requests, Projecturf 2.0 has features and benefits which differentiate it from other project software.
Projecturf 2.0 online project management software offers users the following benefits:
-- Work without limits: A first in project management software -
Projecturf 2.0 provides unlimited file storage space on all business
plans with no cap on users, project managers or features. Share and
upload large numbers of files without storage restrictions,
constraints or additional charges.
-- The extras are included for all users: All plans come with all
features. Unlike other planning software, the cost of using Projecturf
2.0 won't increase with add-ons.
-- Free brand integration with logo service: Branding is crucial for
small and medium-sized businesses. As an added level of customization,
Projecturf offers a free logo service to integrate each user's
existing company logo into Projecturf 2.0.
-- Get up and running in minutes not hours: The refined and instinctive
interface ensures almost no learning curve. The highly intuitive
design of Projecturf 2.0 is a result of years of real users' feedback
- making this sleek project software vastly different from other
online project management software.
-- The user dictates how people and projects should be managed:
Projecturf 2.0 was built using SMB users' feedback and will continue
to be improved based on customers' requests and project management
needs.
All three Projecturf 2.0 business plans - http://www.projecturf.com/signup/ - allow unlimited storage space with no cap on users, project managers or features and a 14 day risk-free trial. The Start-Up Plan is $34.99 per month (manage up to 10 projects), the Business Plan is $69.99 per month (manage up to 30 projects) and the Enterprise Plan is $169.99 per month (manage up to 150 projects).
FiOS, the Best Choice, Now Available With the Best Voice
Enhanced FiOS Digital Voice Service -- Designed for Verizon's Advanced Fiber Network -- Offers More Calling Features Than Cable, Plus Brilliantly Clear Voice Quality
NEW YORK, June 3 -- Verizon FiOS customers now have an enhanced digital phone service - FiOS Digital Voice - to go with the ultimate broadband and home-entertainment experience.
Designed specifically for Verizon's advanced all-fiber-optic network, with a brilliantly clear sound quality, FiOS Digital Voice has 21 industry-leading features including live voice-mail screening, an advanced online call manager and Caller ID on TV. Many of these features are not available with the traditional Freedom Essentials voice service.
"FiOS Digital Voice sets the standard in the same way that FiOS TV and Internet have, by offering features that others only hope to offer," said Eric J. Bruno, vice president for Verizon consumer product management and development. "Subscribers get more free calling features than cable, delivered with the trusted reliability of our advanced all-fiber network, and they get it all from a company with long-standing expertise in delivering superior phone service."
FiOS Digital Voice is now available in the FiOS markets in New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Florida, Texas, Virginia, Maryland, Washington, D.C., Delaware, Pennsylvania and California.
More Features, Flexibility and Control
An easy-to-use, online account-management tool is a key element of FiOS Digital Voice, enabling customers to conveniently use a broadband-connected computer to access and manage the service's integrated features. Customers also have the option to add another FiOS Digital Voice line, with its own assigned number and all the same features, for $9.99 a month. It's a great addition for families and others who would like a second voice line in their home.
Other FiOS Digital Voice features include:
-- Live Voice Mail Screening -- Not available from cable, this feature
gives users the option to hear voice mail messages as they arrive and
then decide whether or not to take the incoming call.
-- Call Logs -- Lists the caller name, telephone number (if available),
date, time-of-day, location and duration of every incoming and
outgoing call. Users can easily transfer contact information directly
into their FiOS Digital Voice personal address book.
-- Caller ID on TV - Enables FiOS TV customers to see incoming caller ID
information displayed for several seconds in the corner of their TV
screen. They can decide to pause their TV programming to answer the
call or let it go into their FiOS Digital Voice mailbox. The feature
can be turned on or off from the customer's set-top box.
-- Locate Me - Customers can program up to three numbers where they might
be reached when not at home, and incoming calls will ring at each of
those numbers, one at a time. Unanswered calls are sent to voice
mail.
Details about many of the other FiOS Digital Voice features -- including Simultaneous Ring, Do Not Disturb, Voice Mail with E-mail Notification and Virtual Numbers -- are available at Verizon.com.
"FiOS Digital Voice gives customers greater customization, flexibility and control over how, when and where they communicate," said Bruno. "The immense capacity of our advanced fiber network means we can add even more new features in the future."
Like traditional phone service, FiOS Digital Voice allows users to reach their local emergency services by simply dialing 911.
New customers who sign up by July 24 for FiOS quad- or triple-play bundles that include broadband, TV and FiOS Digital Voice also will receive a guaranteed monthly rate for two years. Starting at $99.99 a month for a triple-play bundle of FiOS TV Prime, FiOS Internet with 15 Mbps (megabits per second) downstream and 5 Mbps upstream and FiOS Digital Voice, the new service bundles are attractive to budget-conscious families and anyone who wants the assurance of knowing how much it will cost each month for TV, Internet and voice services. Other triple- and quad-play bundles with FiOS Digital Voice are available with 24-month price guarantees; many include options for a multi-room DVR free for three months and certain movie channels also available free for three months as part of the two-year plans.
Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ)(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 nearly 93 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 217,000 and last year generated consolidated revenues of more than $107 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.
Nokia E73 Mode Smartphone From T-Mobile USA Helps Customers Balance Work and Life
Sleek and Stylish Productivity Solution Provides Access to Thousands of Apps via Ovi Store and Turn-by-Turn Navigation
WHITE PLAINS, New York and BELLEVUE, Washington, June 3, 2010-- Nokia and T-Mobile USA, Inc. today announced the upcoming availability of
the Nokia E73 Mode, exclusively for T-Mobile customers, designed to help
balance the need to stay connected with one's work and personal life at home
or on the go. The Nokia E73 Mode, a Wi-Fi calling enabled QWERTY smartphone
operating on T-Mobile's blazing-fast 3G network, includes Nokia's unique
Switch Mode feature, which allows consumers to switch between fully
customizable home screens that help promote a work-life balance. The Nokia
E73 Mode is expected to be available beginning June 16.
"The Nokia E73 Mode brings style and function in an affordable device
without compromise," said Mark Slater, vice president, Sales, Nokia. "Working
together with T-Mobile, the Nokia E73 Mode enables us to bring our customers
a 'Work & Life' solution that allows consumers and businesses to be as
productive as possible, while still providing an exceptional consumer value
and performance."
The thinnest full QWERTY keyboard smartphone available from T-Mobile, the
Nokia E73 Mode, is the perfect device for business customers and consumers
who appreciate both form and function. T-Mobile customers also continue to
get great mobile coverage with the device's Wi-Fi calling capabilities, which
allow consumers to use both cellular and Wi-Fi networks for voice calling.
With Mail for Exchange, based on Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync, consumers can
receive their corporate e-mail, contacts and calendar pushed directly to
their device.
"T-Mobile is committed to providing a variety of devices that serve our
customers' needs to stay connected to the central people in their lives
including family, friends and even colleagues from the office," said Travis
Warren, director, product marketing, T-Mobile USA. "With the Nokia E73 Mode,
we're excited to offer a premium device at an attractive price that helps Mom
and Dad put work aside and make their family the top priority."
The Nokia E73 Mode comes pre-loaded with services and applications to
make life easier, more fun and more efficient. With Ovi Maps, a turn-by-turn
navigation solution from Nokia using the device's built-in GPS at no
additional cost, consumers can get from point A to B with voice-guided
directions - even when walking. Also pre-loaded on the device is the Ovi
Store by Nokia, which provides access to thousands of compelling applications
and games including "Shazam" and "Call of Duty: Modern Warfare." In addition,
Ovi Store enables a simplified purchasing experience for consumers by
allowing payment for content billed to their monthly T-Mobile bill or via
credit card.
The Nokia E73 Mode includes support for services such as IBM Lotus
Traveler, support for and access to Salesforce.com, Bloomberg and more to
help business customers bring their office with them while on the go. The
Nokia E73 Mode also comes pre-loaded with many business productivity tools
allowing employees to take their office with them wherever they may be. With
applications such as Ovi Files, QuickOffice, Adobe PDF Manager and ZIP
Manager, files can be easily accessed, sent, viewed and edited right from the
device, allowing customers to be more productive from nearly anywhere.
The Nokia E73 Mode comes with a full QWERTY keyboard, 5 megapixel camera
with flash and autofocus, Wi-Fi for voice and data, long battery life,
personal and corporate e-mail access, a full HTML Web browser with support
for Adobe Flash, media player and more. With a full portfolio of multimedia
functionality combined with Ovi Services, the Nokia E73 Mode provides
consumers with everything they need to get the most out of their personal
life.
Use of some features or services may incur separate, additional charges
and/or require a qualifying data plan. 3G coverage is available in locations
nationwide, but may not be available everywhere. For more details on where
T-Mobile network coverage is available, please visit http://www.t-mobile.com/coverage.
At Nokia, we are committed to connecting people. We combine advanced
technology with personalized services that enable people to stay close to
what matters to them. Every day, more than 1.2 billion people connect to one
another with a Nokia device - from mobile phones to advanced smartphones and
high-performance mobile computers. Today, Nokia is integrating its devices
with innovative services through Ovi (http://www.ovi.com), including music,
maps, apps, email and more. Nokia's NAVTEQ is a leader in comprehensive
digital mapping and navigation services, while Nokia Siemens Networks
provides equipment, services and solutions for communications networks
globally.
About T-Mobile USA, Inc.
Based in Bellevue, Wash., T-Mobile USA, Inc. is the U.S. wireless
operation of Deutsche Telekom AG (NYSE: DT). By the end of the first quarter
of 2010, approximately 150 million mobile customers were served by the mobile
communication segments of the Deutsche Telekom group - 33.7 million by
T-Mobile USA - all via a common technology platform based on GSM and UMTS,
the world's most widely-used digital wireless standards. T-Mobile USA's
innovative wireless products and services help empower people to connect to
those who matter most. Multiple independent research studies continue to rank
T-Mobile USA among the highest in numerous regions throughout the U.S. in
wireless customer care and call quality. For more information, please visit http://www.T-Mobile.com. T-Mobile is a federally registered trademark of
Deutsche Telekom AG.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements that reflect the
current views of Deutsche Telekom management with respect to future events.
The words "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "may,"
"plan," "project" and "should" and similar expressions are intended to
identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on
current plans, estimates and projections, and therefore you should not place
too much reliance on them. Such statements are subject to risks and
uncertainties, most of which are difficult to predict and are generally
beyond Deutsche Telekom's control, including, without limitation, those
factors set forth in "Forward-Looking Statements" and "Risk Factors"
contained in Deutsche Telekom's annual report. If these or other risks and
uncertainties materialize, or if the assumptions underlying any of these
statements prove incorrect, Deutsche Telekom's actual results may be
materially different from those expressed or implied by such statements.
Deutsche Telekom does not intend or assume any obligation to update these
forward-looking statements.
Motorola Competitive Replacement Promotion Lowers Cost of Upgrading to Latest 802.11n Wireless LAN Solutions
Customers benefit from direct rebates and cost-free recycling of legacy wireless infrastructure; other promotions include mesh, point-to-multipoint and point-to-point solutions
SCHAUMBURG, Ill., June 3 -- The Enterprise Mobility Solutions business of Motorola, Inc. (NYSE:MOT) today announced the "Recycle Your Way to Better Bandwidth" replacement promotion targeted at enterprise and government customers seeking to upgrade their existing wireless LAN (WLAN) infrastructure by replacing legacy enterprise networking equipment from any enterprise WLAN vendor, including Motorola or Symbol, with the latest 802.11n solutions from Motorola. The promotion is available in North America until September 30, 2010 through members of the Motorola PartnerEmpower(TM) channel program. It provides direct cash rebates to customers on Motorola 802.11n WLAN access points and switches as well as mesh wide area network (MWAN), point-to-multipoint (PMP) and point-to-point (PTP) solutions. Customers also benefit from cost-free recycling of their legacy infrastructure.
"Motorola recognizes that many enterprise and government customers want to upgrade their wireless networks to support the rapid demand for bandwidth-intensive wireless applications and services but are hesitant about making the necessary capital investment in the current economic climate," said Sujai Hajela, vice president and general manager for Wireless Network Solutions, Motorola Enterprise Mobility Solutions. "Motorola's broad portfolio of field-proven wireless network solutions provides the capacity and performance required by current and future mobile applications. By taking advantage of the promotions, more customers will be able to enjoy the benefits of the latest wireless technologies while knowing that their old equipment was recycled with the environment in mind."
The WLAN competitive replacement promotion offers customers direct discounts off list price on Motorola 802.11n access points and switches purchased to manage them. To be eligible for the promotion, customers are required to send in an equal number or more of their legacy enterprise WLAN devices to a designated recycling center for disposition and submit a single invoice issued by a member of Motorola's PartnerEmpower channel program to the customer. Equipment rebates will be provided by Motorola directly to the customer upon verification. The promotion includes Motorola's latest 802.11n access points, the tri-radio adaptive AP-7131 and the dual-radio AP-650, as well as the complete line of its award-winning wireless switches - RFS4000 802.11n Integrated Services Controller, RFS6000 and RFS7000.
Optimized to provide high quality of service (QoS), low latency and exceptional coverage for voice and video applications, Motorola's 802.11n solutions ensure seamless delivery of live video streams and multimedia content from cable TV, video cameras and the Internet. In addition, Motorola's 802.11n WLAN portfolio offers customers built-in, industry-leading Motorola AirDefense wireless security capabilities, which provide IT administrators with 24/7 monitoring and comprehensive security features for rogue wireless detection and containment. Customers can also leverage the recently introduced AirDefense Infrastructure Management solution, a powerful WLAN management tool designed to help IT departments gain better visibility into their heterogeneous networks and reduce operational costs associated with managing fast-changing, growingly complex and increasingly pervasive wireless networks.
Motorola is currently also offering competitive replacement promotions on its latest MWAN, PMP and PTP solutions, giving customers the opportunity to leverage a broad range of wireless broadband technologies from a trusted partner with 80 years of wireless expertise and more than 10,000 existing, field-proven deployments across all corners of the globe. Customers looking to leverage mesh solutions for wide area coverage or deploy wireless municipal services networks can accelerate their return on investment by trading in legacy infrastructure and receiving direct cash rebates. Service providers and organizations with multi-site connectivity needs can take advantage of the promotion on Motorola's industry-leading PMP solutions and trade in older links to grow capacity or extend coverage over greater distances. And, customers seeking to grow capacity and throughput with robust links for backhaul or T1 replacement can now get significant rebates when replacing their current solutions with Motorola's PTP portfolio. The promotions are available in North America until August 31, 2010 through members of the Motorola PartnerEmpower channel program.
"Motorola is committed to helping make the latest wireless networking technologies accessible to more organizations," said Gregg Kalman, MSSI vice president of North American WNS Channels, Motorola Enterprise Mobility Solutions. "By lowering the capital expense required to deploy the latest technologies, Motorola is helping more businesses upgrade their wireless infrastructure to take advantage of the rapidly growing number of business-critical mobile applications and services."
Motorola delivers seamless connectivity that puts real-time information in the hands of users, which gives customers the agility they need to grow their business or better serve and protect the public. Working seamlessly together with its world-class devices, Motorola's unrivaled wireless network solutions include indoor wireless LAN, outdoor wireless mesh, point-to-multipoint, point-to-point networks and voice-over-WLAN solutions. Combined with powerful software tools for wireless network design, best-of-breed security, management and troubleshooting, Motorola's solutions deliver trusted networking and access anywhere to organizations across the globe.
To get a fresh perspective on key trends in wireless networking, join Motorola technologists and industry experts on the Wireless Insights blog community.
About Motorola
Motorola is known around the world for innovation in communications and is focused on advancing the way the world connects. From broadband communications infrastructure, enterprise mobility and public safety solutions to high-definition video and mobile devices, Motorola is leading the next wave of innovations that enable people, enterprises and governments to be more connected and more mobile. Motorola (NYSE:MOT) had sales of US $22 billion in 2009. For more information, please visit http://www.motorola.com.
Media Contact:
Bart Lipinski
Motorola Enterprise Mobility Solutions business
+1 847-576-6931
bart.lipinski@motorola.com
CONTACT: Media, Bart Lipinski, +1-847-576-6931,
bart.lipinski@motorola.com or Analysts, Shirley Schroedl, +1-631-738-4823,
shirley.schroedl@motorola.com, both of Motorola Enterprise Mobility Solutions
business
New Textfree with Voice Offers Unlimited, Ad-supported Texting and Calling, Saving iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad Users Hundreds Per Year
Pinger Leads the Ad-supported Mobile Communications Industry, Offering Free Mainstream Communication Services via Smartphone Applications
SAN JOSE, Calif., June 3 -- Pinger, the popular developer of communications services for smartphone platforms, today announced Textfree with Voice, the first application-based communication suite for smartphones with free phone numbers for texting and calling functions. The current version of Textfree, version 3.4, is the leading texting app in the iTunes App Store. Textfree with Voice, available later this summer, includes free voice services over 3G and WiFi. The new service will drastically alter traditional fee structures for mobile phones by monetizing text and voice traffic with advertising.
"Smartphones are rapidly becoming the norm for mobile consumers, but they are tied to an antiquated billing framework," said Greg Woock, Pinger CEO and co-founder. "Our ultimate goal is to offer free calling and texting to the four billion mobile phone subscribers worldwide."
Traditional carriers charge mobile consumers hundreds of dollars per year for texting plans alone. Unlimited messaging plans for individuals can cost as much as $240 a year, while unlimited family messaging plans cost up to $360 per year. Textfree with Voice combines real phone numbers for messaging and calling via data channels, resulting in consumer savings of hundreds of dollars per year on texting and voice charges. Pinger plans to offer Textfree with Voice directly to its 20 million iPhone OS customers.
Pinger makes Textfree with Voice free to consumers by offsetting costs with mobile advertising. Already profitable, Pinger is in partnership with leading mobile advertising networks including Google, Admob, Quattro Wireless, and Millennial Media, and plans to fully support Apple's recently announced iAd platform.
"Once communication services unshackle from their analog roots, they will be free," said Joe Sipher, Pinger Chief Product and Marketing Officer. "Free happened with email and IM, and Pinger will make it happen with texting and calling. The hard part was figuring out how to monetize the free services. We've done that with our unique advertising model."
Textfree with Voice will also revolutionize connected devices like iPod touch and iPad. These devices access the Internet through nearly ubiquitous WiFi connections and can route text and voice traffic directly to Pinger. This means consumers can have free, rich texting and voice services without a relationship or contract with traditional mobile carriers.
About Pinger
Pinger makes good things for mobile phones that have been downloaded by over 20 million iPhone OS users. Pinger is loaded with inventive people who enjoy creating consumer products and services that make a difference in people's lives. http://www.pinger.com.
Source: Pinger
CONTACT: Paul Loeffler of SutherlandGold Group, +1-510-593-6765,
paul@sutherlandgold.com, for Pinger
MetroLeap Media Joins Wordnik's Smartwords Initiative
Smartwords open standard allows publishers and media companies to connect their content in more useful, interactive and entertaining ways
SAN MATEO and PALOS VERDES, Calif., June 3 -- Wordnik, a company creating new ways to unlock the value of digital content, announced today that MetroLeap Media has signed on as a partner, with the goal of adding connections between Wordnik's more than 9 million word pages and MetroLyrics, the largest legal lyrics site on the web. The announcement took place at The Wall Street Journal's D: All Things Digital conference, an annual gathering of the leaders of the digital revolution.
MetroLeap's MetroLyrics' content will help power Smartwords, a new initiative from Wordnik that will enable publishers and media companies to tap into a new generation of digital tools and applications. Designed to give people the best explanation for any word exactly where and when they want it, Smartwords allows publishers and media companies to deepen connections with their audience and share their content in more useful, interactive and entertaining ways. A video demonstration of Smartwords is available at http://wordnik.com/.
"We are dedicated to giving music fans accurate, reliable and complete lyric content," said MetroLeap Media CEO, Alan Juristovski. "That's why we're excited about being a part of Smartwords-enabled applications. It will enhance and extend the wealth of content we provide music fans."
Wordnik CEO Erin McKean added, "The content on metrolyrics.com will help us connect word-lovers and music-lovers, and will show the power words in lyrics have in conveying feeling and mood, and lead to greater discovery of related music."
ABOUT METROLEAP MEDIA, INC.
MetroLeap Media, Inc. is a leading provider of music and entertainment content. Its flagship product, MetroLyrics.com, is the first lyrics-dedicated site to provide users with the largest database of licensed, complete and accurate song lyrics and compensate copyright holders for content through its partnership with Gracenote. MetroLyrics has become the most trafficked lyrics site worldwide reaching more than 41 million unique monthly visitors, 120 million monthly page views, and is currently the 3rd largest music property in the U.S. For more information about MetroLeap and MetroLyrics, please visit http://www.metroleap.com/ and http://www.metrolyrics.com/.
ABOUT SMARTWORDS
Smartwords will enable access to all forms of digital content using words as connectors. It benefits publishers and consumers alike by facilitating better, more personalized discovery of digital content. An open standard, Smartwords gives publishers, application developers and device manufacturers a lightweight, easy-to-use method for adding and sharing word data across the entire ecosystem of digital text, making digital content more compelling and valuable. Smartwords partners include: Audio Newspaper; Audiovox; Baen Books; Forbes; Huffington Post; Ibis Reader; IDG; IGN; Internet Archive; MetroLeap Media; The New York Times; NPR; O'Reilly Media; Scientific American; Scribd; Simon & Schuster; Six Apart; Vook; and Ziff Davis. Learn more at http://smartwords.wordnik.com/.
ABOUT WORDNIK
Wordnik's mission is to gather as much information as possible about as many words as possible and to share that information with as many people as possible. The company has the most complete map of the English language, and information for more than nine million English words. Founded by Erin McKean, the former editor in chief of The New Oxford American Dictionary, Wordnik's team includes experts in search engine architecture, social networking, computational linguistics and library science. Wordnik is a privately held company funded by Baseline, Floodgate, Mohr Davidow Ventures, Radar Partners, Roger McNamee and SV Angles, with headquarters in San Mateo, CA. For more information visit http://www.wordnik.com/, follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/Wordnik), or email feedback@wordnik.com.
Media Contacts:
For Wordnik: Pamela Mahoney; pmahoney@mdv.com, 650-854-7236
For MetroLeap: Lee Rothchild; Lee_Rothchild@dkcnews.com, 212.981.5124
Source: Wordnik
CONTACT: Pamela Mahoney, +1-650-854-7236, pmahoney@mdv.com for Wordnik;
or Lee Rothchild, +1-212-981-5124, Lee_Rothchild@dkcnews.com for MetroLeap
Practice Fusion and Dell to Provide Doctors Affordable Electronic Medical Record (EMR) Package
- Practice Fusion's free, web-based EMR is bundled with Dell desktop, laptop, printer, scanner and networking systems. - Dell hardware is pre-configured for medical practices, verified to work with Practice Fusion and can be rapidly implemented. - Packaged solution connects small and mid-sized medical practices with latest technology for improving healthcare efficiency and patient care; eliminates the traditional cost and technology barriers faced in EMR adoption.
SAN FRANCISCO and ROUND ROCK, Texas, June 3 -- Practice Fusion and Dell today announced that they will deliver affordable, easy-to-use EMR technology to doctors around the country. The Dell/Practice Fusion packaged solution uniquely serves the needs of the small medical practices, especially those in primary care, that make up almost 80 percent of the physician landscape(i). These medical practices are traditionally the hardest to reach with new technology, even though they are the foundation for preventative and specialty health care across the US.
The Dell/Practice Fusion packaged solution combines Practice Fusion's free, web-based Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system with Dell's EMR technology hardware suite including desktop and laptop computers, specialized broadband hardware, scanners and printers. The package is ideal for small practices looking for an affordable turnkey EMR solution that is easy to purchase and use. With Dell and Practice Fusion, medical offices can easily replace paper systems with electronic charting, scheduling, prescribing and lab orders, improving the efficiency of the care delivered to patients as a result.
By teaming with Dell, Practice Fusion is giving physicians an easy and convenient way to acquire the hardware they need to use EMR. And Dell continues its focus on improving the accessibility and affordability of information technology particularly at the front line of the healthcare system.
Doctors can acquire the packaged solution easily by:
-- Visiting Practice Fusion to order Dell laptops and desktops tested by
Dell's verification lab and tailored to the size and needs of their
practice.
-- Calling Dell specialists at 1-866-DELL-EMR to determine the right
combination of computers and wireless systems and choosing Practice
Fusion's free EMR as the system component of their order.
When a Dell and Practice Fusion package is ordered by a medical practice, it will receive:
-- Three months interest-free financing on the order for qualified users.
-- Quick online access to the fully-enabled EMR account for every member
of the practice.
-- Fast delivery of practice-ready hardware from Dell.
-- Assistance with EMR training and setting up e-prescribing, lab
connections and a Personal Health Record portal for patients.
-- Phone support from Practice Fusion and Dell.
Quotes:
Scott Jenkins, Ph.D., Vice President of Dell Healthcare Solutions
"Small medical practices face a unique set of challenges in the US; they're small businesses and they represent the front line of our healthcare system. Our goal is to bring leading edge, yet very affordable technology to small practices and to simplify how they use and manage it so that doctors can focus their attention on serving patients and delivering the highest levels of medical care."
Ryan Howard, CEO, Practice Fusion
"There is no reason for American doctors to continue using paper records. With Dell and Practice Fusion, making the switch to an Electronic Medical Record system is affordable and easy. It is exhilarating to see US healthcare, at both the local and national levels, make the transition to modern, life-saving information technology. Dell and Practice Fusion are working together to reinvent the doctor's office."
About Dell:
Dell (NASDAQ:DELL) helps customers succeed by understanding their issues and needs and delivering innovative, high-value IT solutions. Dell one of the healthcare industry's leading providers of IT services with business and technology solutions that extend from the point of care to the data center and from some of the largest healthcare systems in the world to some of the smallest physician practices.
Dell is pioneering new solutions to improve the accessibility and affordability of critical HIT at healthcare's front line and to connect the healthcare eco system so that providers, payers and pharmaceutical companies can harness the power of information to streamline administration and coordinate, manage and improve patient care. Click here for more information.
About Practice Fusion:
Practice Fusion provides a free EMR system to physicians. With charting, scheduling, e-prescribing, billing, lab integrations, unlimited support and a Personal Health Record for patients, Practice Fusion's EMR addresses the complex needs of today's healthcare providers and disrupts the health IT status quo. Practice Fusion is the fastest growing EMR community in the country with more than 40,000 users. Salesforce.com and Morgenthaler Ventures each own a minority interest in Practice Fusion. For more information on Practice Fusion, please visit practicefusion.com.
The Dell products described are not medical devices and are not certified as Medical Electrical Equipment under UL 60601-1. For more information, please visit http://www.dell.com/healthcare/certification.
Financing available through TCF Equipment Finance. Terms and conditions contingent upon credit approval.
Availability and terms of Dell Services vary by region. For more information, visit http://www.dell.com/servicedescriptions For copy of the Limited Hardware Warranty, write Dell USA LP, Attn: Warranties, One Dell Way, Round Rock, TX 78682 or go to http://www.dell.com/warranty. Please contact your Dell representative for more information.
CONTACT: Cathie Hargett of Dell, Texas, +1-512-728-7347,
Cathie_hargett@dell.com; or Helen Phung, San Francisco, +1-415-992-7726,
helen@practicefusion.com, or Hallema Sharif Clyburn, New York,
+1-516-395-3630, hallema@practicefusion.com, both of Practice Fusion
Applied Discovery Introduces New E-Discovery Consulting Service to Help Corporations Assess, Mitigate, and Manage Social Media Risks
Partnership with Digital Forensics Leader Sensei Enterprises Enables Delivery of E-Discovery's First Complete Social Media-Assessment, Risks, and Techniques (SM-ART) Service
BELLEVUE, Wash., June 3 -- Applied Discovery, a worldwide electronic discovery leader offering multinational collection, analytics, processing, review, and production services for law firms, corporations, and government agencies engaged in audits, investigations, and litigation, today announced the introduction of a new electronic discovery consulting service designed to assist clients in the assessment of organizational social media risk and to provide recommended techniques to help proactively manage, monitor and mitigate identified risk. This new Social Media-Assessment, Risks, and Techniques (SM-ART) service is delivered in partnership with digital forensics leader Sensei Enterprises and provides clients with the understanding and expertise necessary to properly consider the unconventional unstructured data generated from leading social media platforms in support of electronic discovery planning.
"The proliferation of social networks coupled with the challenges of monitoring and managing employee social network usage in the workplace has created a widening window of risk for corporations as they seek to consider the impact of social media based electronically stored information (ESI)," shared Sharon D. Nelson, Esq., social media legal expert and president of Sensei Enterprises. "When one considers that Facebook now surpasses Google in terms of website visits, smart corporations are looking for smart services to help them mitigate potential social media risk," highlighted John W. Simek, computer forensics expert and vice president of Sensei Enterprises.
"The new SM-ART service developed jointly between Sensei and Applied Discovery meets a demonstrated and growing need by providing corporations the expertise they need to make proper and proactive social media centric e-discovery decisions," added Virginia P. Henschel, vice president of electronic discovery affairs at Applied Discovery. "This service, coupled with the complete portfolio of traditional electronic discovery services available from Applied Discovery, allows clients to efficiently maximize their e-discovery capabilities from data identification to discovery production without having to increase the number of consultants or providers they engage."
A SM-ART Approach to Social Media
As part of a complete suite of electronic discovery services, the Social Media - Assessment, Risks, and Techniques (SM-ART) offering is comprised of three key modules that include:
Assessment Module
-- Organizational social media landscape overview
-- Organizational social media actual usage map
-- Organizational assessment report on social media
Risks Module
-- Internal policy and procedure compliance risks
-- External regulatory compliance risks
-- Social media risk exposure report
Techniques Module
-- Social media policy and best practice recommendations
-- Social media proactive management and monitoring recommendations
-- Social media reactive collection process and tool recommendations
Additionally, in situations requiring the actual preservation and collection of unconventional unstructured ESI from leading social media platforms, Applied Discovery and Sensei can provide forensic collection recommendations and resources to enable clients to defensibly preserve and capture applicable data in support of electronic discovery activities.
Speak With the SM-ART Experts
SM-ART experts Sharon D. Nelson, John W. Simek, and Virginia P. Henschel will be available for individual meetings at the ALM General Counsel Conference in New York, NY on June 8-9, 2010 to discuss the SM-ART service and how it can help your organization assess, mitigate, and manage social media risk. To learn more about the SM-ART service, request a free consultation, or to schedule a meeting with the SM-ART team at the ALM General Counsel Conference, contact us by email at smart@applieddiscovery.com, or by phone at 1-508-353-6634.
To Learn More about Sensei Enterprises
To learn more about Sensei Enterprises, visit http://www.senseient.com.
About Applied Discovery
Applied Discovery is a worldwide electronic discovery leader offering multinational collection, analytics, processing, review, and production services for law firms, corporations, and government agencies engaged in audits, investigations, and litigation. Based in Bellevue, WA, with East Coast headquarters in New York City and regional offices in Washington, D.C., Chicago, Dallas, Houston, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Toronto, Applied Discovery has served clients as part of the LexisNexis® portfolio of legal services since 2003.
LexisNexis® is a leading global provider of content-enabled workflow solutions designed specifically for professionals in the legal, risk management, corporate, government, law enforcement, accounting and academic markets. LexisNexis originally pioneered online information with its Lexis® and Nexis® services. A member of Reed Elsevier (NYSE:ENL)(NYSE:RUK) (http://www.reedelsevier.com), LexisNexis serves customers in more than 100 countries with 18,000 employees worldwide.
CONTACT:
--------
Rob Robinson, Applied Discovery Senior Director of Worldwide Marketing
512.934.7531 or Email: pr@AppliedDiscovery.com
Atmel Analog Companion Chip Enables ARM9-based High-quality Audio and Multimedia Applications
AT73C246 provides adequate power supplies for Atmel's AT91SAM9 MCUs, reduces external component count, and system power consumption
SAN JOSE, Calif., June 3 -- Atmel® Corporation (NASDAQ:ATML), a leader in microcontroller and touch solutions, today announced production availability of the Atmel AT73C246 analog companion chip to provide power supplies and audio input/output to match the Atmel AT91SAM9 ARM9(TM)-based MCUs (and equivalent 32-bit devices) to host multimedia applications. Operating from a single 2.9V to 5.5V source, the AT73C246, when combined with a high-quality stereo audio codec, provides the multi-level supplies required by the AT91SAM9 devices. This combination reduces the external component count and helps keep system power supply to a minimum.
Today's multimedia applications are based on an ARM9 32-bit microcontroller with fast power-hungry devices such as external high-capacity memories and signal processing ICs. Therefore, for both wired and portable devices, system power efficiency is a key factor to decrease power dissipation and to increase battery life. High efficiency and high output current power supplies are also required to meet these requirements.
The AT73C246 integrates two high-efficiency power supply channels designed to supply the core section and the I/O pad section of an ARM9 32-bit MCU-based application. It incorporates an integrated automatic voltage scaling function that allows the application developer to optimize the power efficiency of the system in all operating modes.
In addition, a key feature of many multimedia devices is wireless connectivity to create an Internet-enabled system. The radio frequency section requires a high quality, low-noise power supply to maximize transmission/reception quality. The AT73C246 integrates three low-noise Low Drop Out (LDO) regulators featuring ultra fast transient responses particularly adapted to supply RF ICs.
The most important feature of a multimedia device is its audio/video processing capability. The AT73C246 integrates a complete state-of-the-art low-power stereo audio codec with a headphone amplifier. The input section consists of two selectable stereo inputs (Line/Aux), based on a differential or single-ended mode, to drive a 96dB dynamic range stereo audio ADC through an input mixer. On the output side, a 100dB dynamic range stereo audio DAC drives a 60 mW stereo headphone amplifier through an output mixer. The audio output can also be connected, via an external amplifier, to hi-fi quality speakers. This configuration offers numerous possibilities for mixing audio/voice channels in input/output stages.
"The AT73C246 is an optimal integration of power supplies and audio interface tailored for multimedia products and specifically for ARM9 32-bit based applications," said Michele Casetta, marketing manager for power management and audio analog companion (PMAAC) product line, Atmel Corporation. "Usually the market offers power management and analog interface in a single chip for a few high volume applications, such as smartphones or PDAs, where the feature set of the power section supply is larger than the audio section. The AT73C246 feature set is unique because Atmel has reduced the minimum number of power supply cells, while augmenting the features of the audio section, increasing the number of input/output channels and improving the audio quality. This option enables designers to also target small multimedia devices such as music players, picture viewers, etc."
"Customers have huge advantages choosing an Atmel solution for their application because the AT73C246 is qualified to work with our market-leading family of ARM9-based devices such as the SAM9G10, SAM9G20, SAM9G45, CAP9S, etc. To help with system integration, Atmel also offers application schematics and software drivers," concluded Michele Casetta.
Availability and Pricing
Atmel offers the AT73C246 in a 7.5x7.5mm, 64-pin QFN package in order to satisfy manufacturers' minimum space requirements. It is now available mounted on a reference design board or as engineering samples. Production quantities are also available, with a reference price below USD $2.00 in large volumes.
Atmel Corporation (NASDAQ:ATML) is a worldwide leader in the design and manufacture of microcontrollers, capacitive touch solutions, advanced logic, mixed-signal, nonvolatile memory and radio frequency (RF) components. Leveraging one of the industry's broadest intellectual property (IP) technology portfolios, Atmel is able to provide the electronics industry with complete system solutions focused on industrial, consumer, security, communications, computing and automotive markets.
From CPR Training to GPS Tracking, People to People Ambassador Programs Kicks Off the Summer Travel Season
Company Also Adds Healthy Foods Pilot Program and Dietitian Blog to Help Students Make Smarter Food Choices
SPOKANE, Wash., June 3 -- People to People Ambassador Programs, the leader in global educational travel experiences, officially kicks off the summer travel season with programs to six continents around the world. Students from across the country will head abroad on unique educational and experiential travel centered on unique access to people, places and cultural activities.
For nearly 50 years, the company has been traveling students across the globe, and takes pride in being the first to implement such leading industry initiatives as:
-- 100 percent teacher leader CPR certification
-- 24 hour on-call capabilities during travel season
-- State of the art emergency command center in corporate headquarters
-- The only company of its kind to employ a Senior Director of Health and
Safety
-- All teachers and chaperones receive full background checks
-- Nutritionist for meals
-- Full scale response team simulations
-- GPS enabled cell phone for teacher in each travel group
-- Travel provider issued credit card for every group
-- Optional GPS and phone rental feature for student travelers
This year, People to People Ambassador Programs is launching the FindMe solution from Cellhire, a world leader in providing international wireless communications based in Dallas, TX.
The FindMe solution allows the Cellhire mobile phone or BlackBerry device to be tracked using GPS, or cell tower triangulation in the event that GPS is unavailable. FindMe seamlessly reports the position of the handset to a central control website.
During the upcoming summer travel season, People to People Ambassador Programs is providing teacher leaders with this solution. The feature is also available to parents renting the FindMe phone through Cellhire. Parents can hold text conversations with their student traveler through the FindMe website, staying in touch despite time zone differences. Cellhire will be employing safeguards regarding the amount of data the FindMe phones use so that parents can quickly be alerted if a student is starting to run up a large phone bill.
Locations are reported up to every 15 minutes and displayed on a secure web portal, to which only the Cellhire customer has access to view in map or location report format. Teacher leaders and internal support staff can track either an individual or a group and can view a full history of locations. Parents can keep track of where there students are, and enjoy the educational travel experience along with them.
"We are launching our new initiatives this summer to help give parents better peace of mind in terms of where their student traveler is, and what they eat," said Peg Thomas, President of People to People Ambassador Programs. "With our new GPS tracking feature, parents can enjoy following along on the educational travel experience, and our leaders and support staff can instantly pinpoint exact locations on an as needed basis. Plus, our new health-related pilot program is designed to help us in the implementation of new plans geared toward making it easier for our Student Ambassadors to make smarter nutritional choices while traveling and supply ongoing information on health and nutrition."
The new Healthy Foods pilot program this summer is designed to assist and educate student travelers on health and nutrition so that they may make more informed meal decisions both now and into the future. As part of the program, People to People Ambassador Programs Safe Travel 24/7 Blog will be extended to include posts from both Mike Bowers, Senior Director of Health and Safety and April Davis, a combined registered dietitian and Clinical Exercise Specialist. Davis works at Sacred Heart Children's Hospital, St. Luke's Rehabilitation Institute, and Washington State University.
Davis provides education and nutrition support to adult and pediatric patients in acute care settings with a wide range of medical conditions including diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, obesity, metabolism disorders, and heart disease. At Washington State University, she teaches two courses for the Nutrition & Exercise Physiology Program in the College of Pharmacy.
Plans call for Davis to join a Student Ambassador program over the summer to observe meals and food choices and report her findings, as well as implementing a small pilot program to have select teachers keep meal diaries during a program to review food quality, selection, portion sizes, and other related items. A post travel focus group will also be implemented to assist in the development of goals and initiatives for the 2011 travel season.
About People to People Ambassador Programs
People to People Ambassador Programs is the most recognized and respected educational travel provider and has provided more than 400,000 citizens of the world the opportunity to promote peace through understanding. The Ambassador Programs include Citizen, Student, Sports and Leadership to promote international and domestic programs for professionals, students, athletes, and the leaders of tomorrow. Participation in a People to People Ambassador Program contributes directly to personal success in a globalized world and fosters international friendships.
Our hands on, unique, educational travel programs provide access to people and places beyond compare and combine unique cultural experiences with personal interaction to create global impact.
For nearly 50 years, People to People Ambassador Programs has helped participants travel to seven continents while maintaining an extraordinary track record of travel safety. Our safety record is the result of many factors, including a reliance on federal guidelines, the strength and experience of our leaders, our organization's expertise and experience in program destination countries, a vast global network of resources and team members, and a sincere commitment to the wellbeing of our Ambassadors and their families. For more information, visit: http://www.peopletopeople.com.
The Ambassador Programs serve as the exclusive educational travel provider of People to People International (PTPI), the nonprofit, Kansas City-based organization founded by President Dwight D. Eisenhower to promote peace through understanding worldwide. PTPI and Ambassadors Group are united in their mission of bridging cultural and political borders through education and exchange.
About Ambassadors Group
Ambassadors Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:EPAX) is a socially conscious, education company located in Spokane, Washington. Ambassadors Group is the parent company of People to People Ambassador Programs, World Adventures Unlimited, Society for Global Citizens, and BookRags, an educational research website. The company also oversees the Washington School of World Studies, an accredited travel study and distance learning school. Additional information about Ambassadors Group and subsidiaries is available at http://www.ambassadorsgroup.com.
Source: People to People Ambassador Programs
CONTACT: Kelly Roberts of Weber Shandwick, +1-425-452-5494,
kroberts@webershandwick.com, for People to People Ambassador Programs
ebook Reader on iPad: Books Can Finally Talk With vBookz and Acapela Voices
vBookz is an Extraordinary ebook Reader That Actually Reads for you up to 30,000 Titles Available For Free, using Acapela Pleasant Voices, in Already 13 Languages
MONS, Belgium, June 3, 2010-- vBookZ is intuitive, easy to use, and offers to the iPad users a whole
new reading experience. Acapela speech synthesis comes in to turn the written
content into pleasant speech, without ever having to watch the screen.
vBookz is NOT 'books on tape': it is a live text-to-speech generator with
no need for conversion nor stored books files. It is a new way to enjoy
reading: eyes-free reading while on the move, driving or just relaxing,
assisted reading for the sight impaired or audio feedback for children or
those learning to read in a foreign language.
vBookz adds to speech capability orientation and navigation tools that
enhances the reading experience, combining two senses together - sight and
hearing. An interactive cursor allows users to follow along, pause reading or
even repeat lines or paragraphs to ensure reading comprehension.
'Our goal is to convert reading into a rich user experience, where text
to speech quality and acceptance is obviously a key ingredient. We relay on
Acapela wide portfolio of languages and voices to deliver the right audio
result,' said Dror Kalisky, co-founder and CEO of vBookz.
'Acapela voices have already been deployed in many iPhone apps and are
now entering the iPad environment to add value to rich content and inspire
new ways to transform content and tell stories. We are very pleased to give
the say to this powerful ebook reader and work with an innovative player such
as vBookz to contribute to the creation of new ways to access and read
books,' said Lars-Erik Larsson, CEO of Acapela Group.
The vBookz application comes with US English built in voice. Books in
English can be heard from the first moment you purchase it. The language
portfolio can be enriched by using the in-app purchase option.
Multilingual: Acapela voices already available in English US, Czech,
Danish, Dutch NL, French, Greek, German, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese,
Italian, Spanish, Swedish.
Pricing is $4.99 for US English app, and an additional $4.99 per foreign
language, with over 30,000 book titles available today
Acapela Group, the leading European voice expert, invents text to speech
solutions to give your content a voice in up to 25 languages. Our speech
solutions allow you to turn any written text into natural speech files, using
any of our 50 High Quality standard voices or your own synthezised voice
talent. Acapela can answer all text to speech needs and provide perfect
vocalization whether for voice integration and development, online & on
demand use, audio files production, or ready to speak products for personal
accessibility use. http://www.acapela-group.com
Check out http://www.acapela.tv - the sparkling laboratory of Acapela
Group, for a fresh and exciting take on how speech synthesis can now be used:
acapela.tv is a showcase and test playground that shares the possibilities of
speech synthesis with Internet users, allowing them to discover innovative
and attractive ways to make smart use of speech applications online.
Source: Acapela Group
Caroline Houel, Telephone number : +335-6224-7104, E-mail : caroline.houel@acapela-group.com
NetSuite Delivers First Cloud Manufacturing Suite Designed to Run Global, Mid-Size Business Operations
NetSuite Manufacturing Edition Offers Dramatic Cost Reductions, Productivity Gains for Mid-Size Manufacturers Eager to Move Operations to the Cloud
SAN MATEO, Calif., June 3 -- NetSuite Inc., (NYSE: N) a leading vendor of cloud computing business management software suites, today announced the NetSuite Manufacturing Edition, the first and only cloud manufacturing suite designed to help fast-growing and mid-size manufacturers run their global business operations with greater agility and visibility, including comprehensive support for the multi-company, multi-plant, multi-location and multi-currency enterprise. Key functionality in NetSuite's new manufacturing solution includes multi-site planning and management, material requirements planning (MRP), production management, engineering change control (ECC), shop floor control and work-in-progress (WIP) management. For more information about the NetSuite Manufacturing Edition, please visit http://www.netsuite.com/manufacturing.
NetSuite has led the industry in providing cloud business management solutions for complex, highly competitive vertical industries, including wholesale / distribution and light manufacturing. The release of NetSuite Manufacturing Edition builds on this expertise and experience and enables companies using NetSuite to address specific needs of global manufacturers.
Built on the world's leading cloud computing business suite, NetSuite Manufacturing Edition delivers the deep functionality required to support the fast pace and global reach that characterize today's manufacturing operations, resulting in dramatic cost savings and productivity gains while enabling manufacturers to replace their current archaic and expensive on-premise manufacturing systems.
"While some vendors make promises about cloud-based products that don't live up to their hype, and others build niche tools for manufacturers, only NetSuite delivers a complete manufacturing suite from the cloud that is available and running today," said Jim McGeever, CFO of NetSuite. "With NetSuite, manufacturers now have the suite they need to move their key operations to the cloud and reap the many productivity and cost reduction benefits cloud computing has to offer."
Manufacturers Face Numerous Challenges
Manufacturers today must contend with intense cost pressures, relentless competition, global expansion challenges and rapidly changing customer demand. Obsessing over the delicate details of integrating separate software for sourcing, fulfillment, inventory, accounting, and customer service produces no value, and instead introduces unnecessary complexity and inefficiencies requiring the care and feeding of costly IT resources.
To help manufacturers survive and thrive, NetSuite Manufacturing Edition delivers the following key capabilities and benefits:
-- Seamless management of global businesses, including comprehensive
support for the multi-company, multi-plant, multi-location and
multi-currency enterprise, with instant real-time visibility into all
aspects of operation
-- A fully integrated cloud computing enterprise management system which
enables manufacturers to establish new locations with no need to build
expensive server farms or virtual private networks in each new
territory, slashing the huge costs associated with conventional IT for
on-premise software
-- A flexible, customizable business platform easily adapted to complex
manufacturing processes from light assembly to discrete manufacturing,
which can be quickly retooled as enterprise demands evolve
"After deploying NetSuite to manage our multi-national manufacturing business, we were able to reduce excess inventory improve margins and improve our overall global business," said David Duff, CFO of Xtellus, a manufacturer of fiber optic networking components with operations in South Korea, Israel and the US.
"With the NetSuite Manufacturing Edition, all our subsidiaries are rolled up in one system, giving us an operational bird's eye view and increased operating efficiencies," said Ian Elliott, CEO of CertiCell, a leader in the repair and deployment of wireless devices. "It is difficult to imagine a more cost effective solution capable of matching the performance we are now experiencing."
The core functionality for the NetSuite Manufacturing Edition was developed by Rootstock Software on NetSuite's SuiteCloud and NetSuite OneWorld technology platforms. NetSuite Manufacturing Edition delivers all the power and capabilities needed to run today's finely-tuned production businesses, including:
-- Material Requirements Planning
-- Production engineering
-- Shop floor control
-- Manufacturing Inventory Control
-- Manufacturing cost control
-- Project control
-- Lot and serial control
-- Multi division, multi site control
Redknee Puts Billing Transparency Under The Spotlight
TORONTO, June 3, 2010--
- REGULATORY ATTENTION AND EVOLUTION TO 3G+ NETWORKS SIGNIFY BILLING
TRANSPARENCY MUST BE ADDRESSED TODAY
Redknee (TSX:RKN), a leading provider of business-critical billing and
charging software and solutions for communications service providers, today
is advising operators to review how they are providing transparent billing as
regulatory attention and the evolution towards 3G networks and beyond begins
to pick up pace. The role that greater transparency and subscriber control
has on preventing bill shock and driving data revenues will be discussed at
next week's Billing & OSS World Conference and Expo and is detailed in a
position paper 'Eliminate Shock - Know Your Subscribers'.
The urgency for greater transparency and subscriber control in the
wireless industry is twofold: regulatory action and the growing momentum of
the evolution to and beyond 3G networks. Today, operators in the European
Union (EU) are already in the process of providing a higher degree of
communication and transparency to their data roaming customers. And further
afield, the issue of bill shock is increasingly going under the microscope by
regulatory authorities including in the US, where the industry is currently
being called upon to discuss how it can protect subscribers with similar
notification and cut-off mechanisms that have been instigated in the EU. It
is expected that numerous other authorities will quickly follow suit,
particularly following a survey conducted by the Federal Communications
Commission (FCC), which demonstrated the extent of the problem by finding
that one in six mobile users has experienced bill shock related to a sudden
increase in their monthly bill without any significant changes to their
service.
In addition to providing the mechanisms to eliminate bill shock, Redknee
is advising that transparent billing and enhanced subscriber controls will
enable operators to effectively and quickly drive data revenue as they roll
out their 3G networks and continue to evolve. It has been estimated by the
Global mobile Suppliers Association (GSA) that while 41 HSPA+ networks were
commercially launched prior to February 2010, by the end of 2010 more than
100 HSPA+ networks are expected to be in service, bringing with them more
advanced services and also added complexity for the consumer. Redknee
concludes that to capitalize on the high growth of these data services it is
imperative to create an environment of real-time systems for subscriber and
service management to successfully support a business model that enhances the
subscriber experience, drives data services adoption and the monetization of
3rd party applications and services. Value can, therefore, be derived by
having true visibility of the subscriber's behavior, spending and
communication in order to deliver a contextually relevant service to their
subscribers and also create the opportunity to upsell and cross-sell
services. Lucas Skoczkowski, Redknee's chief executive commented:
"The provision of greater transparency and control to their subscribers
not only eliminates bill shock but also contributes towards increasing the
customer experience, drive data revenues and enables operators to retain
value when they interact with their customers. Redknee has been supporting
operators in tier 1 markets, including those in the European Union, to
protect their customers from bill shock and to launch transformational
business models that increase revenue and drive profitability. At Redknee, we
continue to invest in real-time monetization solutions to support the growth
of mobile data and content for wireless subscribers around the world."
Redknee's latest position paper 'Eliminate Shock - Know Your Subscribers'
is available to download on http://www.redknee.com/solutions/bill_shock_control. Redknee will address
these issues at Billing & OSS World Expo, which is being held in Washington
from 9-11 June. For more information, please visit http://www.redknee.com
For more information about Redknee and their solutions, please go to http://www.redknee.com.
About Redknee:
Redknee is a leading global provider of innovative communication software
products, solutions and services. Redknee's award-winning solutions enable
operators to monetize the value of each subscriber transaction while
personalizing the subscriber experience to meet mainstream, niche and
individual market segment requirements. Redknee's revenue generating
solutions provide advanced converged billing, rating, charging and policy for
voice, messaging and new generation data services to over 70 network
operators in over 50 countries. Established in 1999, Redknee Solutions Inc.
(TSX: RKN) is the parent of the wholly-owned operating subsidiary Redknee
Inc. and its various subsidiaries. References to Redknee refer to the
combined operations of those entities. For more information, visit http://www.redknee.com.
For further information: Redknee Solutions: Humera Malik, Director of
Marketing and Product Management, +1-905-625-2102, humera.malik@redknee.com;
Redknee Solutions: David Charron, Chief Financial Officer, +1-905-625-2943;
Investor Relations: Investor_relations@redknee.com; Media Relations Contact:
Rachael Parker, Mi liberty, +44(0)20-7751-4444, rparker@miliberty.com
Source: Redknee Solutions Inc.
For further information: Redknee Solutions: Humera Malik, Director of Marketing and Product Management, +1-905-625-2102, humera.malik@redknee.com; Redknee Solutions: David Charron, Chief Financial Officer, +1-905-625-2943; Investor Relations: Investor_relations@redknee.com; Media Relations Contact: Rachael Parker, Mi liberty, +44(0)20-7751-4444, rparker@miliberty.com
Sonic Powers Digital Movie Downloads on Toshiba's Newest BD Players
RoxioNow Delivers Entertainment Services to BDX2500 and BDX2700
NOVATO, Calif., June 3 -- Sonic Solutions® (NASDAQ: SNIC) today announced it is powering convenient access to a broad library of video entertainment on Toshiba's recently released Blu-ray Disc players, the BDX2500 and the BDX2700. Sonic's RoxioNow® entertainment platform will also help serve a range of premium content under the BLOCKBUSTER® on Demand brand to Toshiba's BDX2500, BDX2700 and upcoming BDX3000 series Blu-ray Disc players.
"With our latest home entertainment products, we are helping to create a richer home entertainment experience by seamlessly connecting consumers to high-value services streamed via the Web," said Jodi Sally, VP of Digital Audio Video Marketing for Toshiba America Consumer Products. "Entertainment services, such as those powered by RoxioNow, make it easy for consumers to browse, purchase and enjoy the best in digital entertainment instantly from the comfort of their living rooms."
"Toshiba's groundbreaking products are another example of how digitally delivered content is helping to reshape the entertainment experience and provide consumers far greater choice and variety," said Mark Ely, Executive Vice President of Strategy, Sonic Solutions. "We will continue to collaborate with leading CE device manufacturers like Toshiba and top retailers to introduce more consumers to the convenience and flexibility of digitally delivered video entertainment."
The RoxioNow platform serves a broad range of premium content, including new movies and next-day TV programs, to a growing, multi-manufacturer ecosystem of home and mobile electronics including PCs, connected TVs, set-top DVRs, Blu-ray Disc players, smartphones, and mobile media devices. The platform enables retailers and consumer electronics companies to participate in the entertainment supply chain, add value to product offerings and form ongoing relationships with customers. "Powered by RoxioNow®" stores enable consumers to instantly rent and purchase high-quality entertainment on their favorite device and, through the RoxioNow online entertainment locker, the flexibility to playback content ordered on additional consumer electronics devices. RoxioNow powers digital entertainment delivery for a range of companies including Best Buy, Blockbuster, and Lionsgate and is available on a broad variety of consumer electronics devices.
About Sonic Solutions
Sonic Solutions® (NASDAQ:SNIC) is powering the digital media ecosystem through its complete range of Hollywood to Home(TM) applications, services, and technologies. Sonic's Roxio products enable consumers to easily manage and enjoy personal media and premium Hollywood entertainment on a broad range of connected devices. A wide array of leading technology firms, professionals, businesses, and developers rely on Sonic to bring innovative digital media functionality to next-generation devices and platforms. Sonic Solutions is headquartered in Marin County, California.
Forward Looking Statements
This release may contain forward looking statements that are based upon current expectations, including the launch, distribution, and market acceptance of the RoxioNow platform. Actual results could differ materially from those projected in the forward looking statements as a result of various risks and uncertainties, including those discussed in Sonic Solutions' annual and quarterly reports on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. This press release should be read in conjunction with Sonic Solutions' most recent annual report on Form 10-K, Form 10-Q and other reports on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which contain a more detailed discussion of the Company's business including risks and uncertainties that may affect future results. Sonic Solutions does not undertake to update any forward looking statements.
Sonic, the Sonic logo, Sonic Solutions, Roxio, RoxioNow, and Hollywood to Home, are trademarks or registered trademarks owned by Sonic Solutions in the United States and/or other countries. All other company or product names are trademarks of their respective owners and, in some cases, are used by Sonic Solutions under license. Specifications, pricing and delivery schedules are subject to change without notice.
Source: Sonic Solutions
CONTACT: Chris Taylor of Sonic Solutions, +1-408-367-5231,
chris_taylor@sonic.com