LIONSGATE DEVELOPS PAIR OF MOBILE GAMES BASED ON BLOCKBUSTER NOW YOU SEE ME FRANCHISE
Studio Teams with Side-Kick VR on one of First-Ever Premium Mobile Virtual Reality Games Based on a Movie
Also Partners with Mobile Developer Kiwi for Story-Driven Game
SANTA MONICA, Calif. and VANCOUVER, British Columbia, March 7, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Reflecting the strength of its branded intellectual property, Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF), a premier next generation global content leader, is developing two mobile games based on its blockbuster Now You See Me film franchise, it was announced today by Lionsgate President of Interactive Ventures & Games Peter Levin. The original Now You See Me was a global smash, grossing more than $350 million at the worldwide box office, and the eagerly-anticipated Now You See Me 2 opens in theatres around the world on June 10 with both mobile games launching this summer.
The studio is partnering with Side-Kick VR on one of the first-ever premium mobile virtual reality (VR) games based on a movie, as it continues to grow its momentum in the gaming space and builds its leadership in VR. Lionsgate is also teaming with mobile developer Kiwi for a story-driven game.
The mobile VR game from Side-Kick is a hidden-object game in which users will be uncovering clues and discovering the world of magic and illusions featured in the films. Players of the highly-interactive, narrative-driven game by Kiwi will be able to make choices, interact with characters, and dynamically integrate themselves into the world of Now You See Me, which includes getting a behind-the-curtain look at the secret behind the magic.
"Our mission is to partner with best-in-class game developers early in the filming process to create platform-defining content that provides fans with multiple touch points to engage with our most popular brands," said Levin. "We're excited to be working with the top-notch creative teams at Side-Kick and Kiwi on these two games and to be able to launch them while Now You See Me 2 is in the filmgoer zeitgeist. Our ability to create separate games on two different platforms is testament to the property's massive appeal."
"Lionsgate has established a commanding position in the world of virtual reality and we are very happy to be partnering with them as they broaden their slate to include mobile VR games. The partnership aligns nicely with Side-Kick's mission of fueling accessible and fun mobile VR entertainment," said Guy Bendov, CEO, Side-Kick VR. "The combination of magic and mystery, which are integral to the Now You See Me franchise, are ideal elements for creating a great VR game."
"We are proud to be aligning ourselves with Lionsgate," said Omar Siddiqui, CEO, Kiwi. "The characters and themes in Now You See Me lend themselves perfectly to the immersive titles we are building. It has been exciting to work with the creative team behind the film as we adapt this blockbuster franchise into a narrative-driven gaming experience."
Lionsgate has launched a broad range of VR and other gaming initiatives in the past year, becoming one of the first studios to invest in a AAA VR game for tethered headsets with its soon-to-be released John Wick VR Game, a first-person shooter game in collaboration with Starbreeze and Grab. Lionsgate also partnered with Starbreeze to create game pack extensions for both John Wick and Point Break in its global sensation PAYDAY 2.
Lionsgate was one of two studios to partner with Oculus on the launch of their video platform last year and also produced one of Hulu's first original VR experiences tied to the Lionsgate series Rocketjump: The Show. The studio also recently teamed with Animoca on two games for its animated film Norm of the North: an edutainment app targeted at children to help enhance math skills and a runner game for players of all ages. Lionsgate worked with IGT on an Orange is the New Black slot machine, which was simultaneously launched into IGT's DoubleDown Casino app.
About Lionsgate
Lionsgate is a premier next generation global content leader with a strong and diversified presence in motion picture production and distribution, television programming and syndication, home entertainment, digital distribution, new channel platforms, video games and international distribution and sales. The Company has nearly 80 television shows on 40 different networks spanning its primetime production, distribution and syndication businesses. These include the critically-acclaimed hit series Orange is the New Black, the multiple Emmy Award-winning drama Mad Men, the hit broadcast network series Nashville, the syndication successes The Wendy Williams Show and Celebrity Name Game (with FremantleMedia), the breakout series The Royals and the Golden Globe-nominated dramedy Casual.
Its feature film business has been fueled by such successes as the blockbuster Hunger Games franchise, the first two installments of the Divergent franchise, Sicario, The Age of Adaline, CBS/Lionsgate's The DUFF, John Wick, Now You See Me, Roadside Attractions' Love & Mercy and Mr. Holmes, Lionsgate/Codeblack Films' Addicted and Pantelion Films' Instructions Not Included, the highest-grossing Spanish-language film ever released in the U.S.
Lionsgate's home entertainment business is an industry leader in box office-to-DVD and box office-to-VOD revenue conversion rates. Lionsgate handles a prestigious and prolific library of approximately 16,000 motion picture and television titles that is an important source of recurring revenue and serves as the foundation for the growth of the Company's core businesses. The Lionsgate and Summit brands remain synonymous with original, daring, quality entertainment in markets around the world. http://www.lionsgate.com
About Side-Kick VR
Side-Kick is a mobile VR game developer and publisher dedicated to bringing widely accessible entertainment to mobile VR. Side-Kick fuels the market with a quality portfolio of successful brands and games adapted for all current mobile VR platforms. In partnership with market leaders such as Samsung, Oculus, Google and Merge, Side-Kick brings fun, immersive experiences to mobile VR.
Side-Kick was founded by veteran games industry entrepreneurs in 2010 and has worked with gaming companies such as Disney, Square Enix and Rovio as well as tech leaders such as PrimeSense, Intel and Google to deliver cutting-edge games. Learn more about us at http://www.sidekickvr.com/.
About Kiwi
Kiwi is a mobile entertainment company building novel experiences that consumers can engage with anywhere, anytime. Founded in August 2011 and headquartered in Palo Alto, the company has been a Top Developer on Google Play with five titles breaking into the Top 25 Grossing. For more information, visit: http://www.kiwiup.com.
Media Contact:
Joanna Dodd Massey
310-255-3602
JMassey@Lionsgate.com
LIONSGATE DEVELOPS PAIR OF MOBILE GAMES BASED ON BLOCKBUSTER NOW YOU SEE ME FRANCHISE
Studio Teams with Side-Kick VR on one of First-Ever Premium Mobile Virtual Reality Games Based on a Movie
Also Partners with Mobile Developer Kiwi for Story-Driven Game
SANTA MONICA, Calif. and VANCOUVER, British Columbia, March 7, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Reflecting the strength of its branded intellectual property, Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF), a premier next generation global content leader, is developing two mobile games based on its blockbuster Now You See Me film franchise, it was announced today by Lionsgate President of Interactive Ventures & Games Peter Levin. The original Now You See Me was a global smash, grossing more than $350 million at the worldwide box office, and the eagerly-anticipated Now You See Me 2 opens in theatres around the world on June 10 with both mobile games launching this summer.
The studio is partnering with Side-Kick VR on one of the first-ever premium mobile virtual reality (VR) games based on a movie, as it continues to grow its momentum in the gaming space and builds its leadership in VR. Lionsgate is also teaming with mobile developer Kiwi for a story-driven game.
The mobile VR game from Side-Kick is a hidden-object game in which users will be uncovering clues and discovering the world of magic and illusions featured in the films. Players of the highly-interactive, narrative-driven game by Kiwi will be able to make choices, interact with characters, and dynamically integrate themselves into the world of Now You See Me, which includes getting a behind-the-curtain look at the secret behind the magic.
"Our mission is to partner with best-in-class game developers early in the filming process to create platform-defining content that provides fans with multiple touch points to engage with our most popular brands," said Levin. "We're excited to be working with the top-notch creative teams at Side-Kick and Kiwi on these two games and to be able to launch them while Now You See Me 2 is in the filmgoer zeitgeist. Our ability to create separate games on two different platforms is testament to the property's massive appeal."
"Lionsgate has established a commanding position in the world of virtual reality and we are very happy to be partnering with them as they broaden their slate to include mobile VR games. The partnership aligns nicely with Side-Kick's mission of fueling accessible and fun mobile VR entertainment," said Guy Bendov, CEO, Side-Kick VR. "The combination of magic and mystery, which are integral to the Now You See Me franchise, are ideal elements for creating a great VR game."
"We are proud to be aligning ourselves with Lionsgate," said Omar Siddiqui, CEO, Kiwi. "The characters and themes in Now You See Me lend themselves perfectly to the immersive titles we are building. It has been exciting to work with the creative team behind the film as we adapt this blockbuster franchise into a narrative-driven gaming experience."
Lionsgate has launched a broad range of VR and other gaming initiatives in the past year, becoming one of the first studios to invest in a AAA VR game for tethered headsets with its soon-to-be released John Wick VR Game, a first-person shooter game in collaboration with Starbreeze and Grab. Lionsgate also partnered with Starbreeze to create game pack extensions for both John Wick and Point Break in its global sensation PAYDAY 2.
Lionsgate was one of two studios to partner with Oculus on the launch of their video platform last year and also produced one of Hulu's first original VR experiences tied to the Lionsgate series Rocketjump: The Show. The studio also recently teamed with Animoca on two games for its animated film Norm of the North: an edutainment app targeted at children to help enhance math skills and a runner game for players of all ages. Lionsgate worked with IGT on an Orange is the New Black slot machine, which was simultaneously launched into IGT's DoubleDown Casino app.
About Lionsgate
Lionsgate is a premier next generation global content leader with a strong and diversified presence in motion picture production and distribution, television programming and syndication, home entertainment, digital distribution, new channel platforms, video games and international distribution and sales. The Company has nearly 80 television shows on 40 different networks spanning its primetime production, distribution and syndication businesses. These include the critically-acclaimed hit series Orange is the New Black, the multiple Emmy Award-winning drama Mad Men, the hit broadcast network series Nashville, the syndication successes The Wendy Williams Show and Celebrity Name Game (with FremantleMedia), the breakout series The Royals and the Golden Globe-nominated dramedy Casual.
Its feature film business has been fueled by such successes as the blockbuster Hunger Games franchise, the first two installments of the Divergent franchise, Sicario, The Age of Adaline, CBS/Lionsgate's The DUFF, John Wick, Now You See Me, Roadside Attractions' Love & Mercy and Mr. Holmes, Lionsgate/Codeblack Films' Addicted and Pantelion Films' Instructions Not Included, the highest-grossing Spanish-language film ever released in the U.S.
Lionsgate's home entertainment business is an industry leader in box office-to-DVD and box office-to-VOD revenue conversion rates. Lionsgate handles a prestigious and prolific library of approximately 16,000 motion picture and television titles that is an important source of recurring revenue and serves as the foundation for the growth of the Company's core businesses. The Lionsgate and Summit brands remain synonymous with original, daring, quality entertainment in markets around the world. http://www.lionsgate.com
About Side-Kick VR
Side-Kick is a mobile VR game developer and publisher dedicated to bringing widely accessible entertainment to mobile VR. Side-Kick fuels the market with a quality portfolio of successful brands and games adapted for all current mobile VR platforms. In partnership with market leaders such as Samsung, Oculus, Google and Merge, Side-Kick brings fun, immersive experiences to mobile VR.
Side-Kick was founded by veteran games industry entrepreneurs in 2010 and has worked with gaming companies such as Disney, Square Enix and Rovio as well as tech leaders such as PrimeSense, Intel and Google to deliver cutting-edge games. Learn more about us at http://www.sidekickvr.com/.
About Kiwi
Kiwi is a mobile entertainment company building novel experiences that consumers can engage with anywhere, anytime. Founded in August 2011 and headquartered in Palo Alto, the company has been a Top Developer on Google Play with five titles breaking into the Top 25 Grossing. For more information, visit: http://www.kiwiup.com.
Media Contact:
Joanna Dodd Massey
310-255-3602
JMassey@Lionsgate.com
Canon Expands imagePROGRAF PRO Series With Four New Models For The Fine Art, Photographic And Production Signage Markets
MELVILLE, N.Y., March 7, 2016 /PRNewswire/ --Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced the expansion of the imagePROGRAF PRO Series with four large format inkjet printers. The extension of the Series includes the 11-Color plus Chroma Optimizer 44-inch imagePROGRAF PRO-4000 and 24-inch imagePROGRAF PRO-2000, designed to provide spectacular image quality for the fine art and photographic markets, as well as the eight-color 60-inch imagePROGRAF PRO-6000S and 44-inch imagePROGRAF PRO-4000S, two affordably priced models to economically create eye-catching posters and vivid displays for the production signage industry.
Continuing to deliver output solutions for photographers who are "equally obsessed" with the printed image, the imagePROGRAF PRO-4000 and imagePROGRAF PRO-2000 are 11-color plus Chroma Optimizer printers delivering the quality demanded by the fine art community. Complementing Canon's professional line of DSLR cameras not only in their appearance, but also in their ability to create industry-leading imagery, these new models ensure a level of stunning Canon image quality from input to output, known as "Crystal-fidelity." Mirroring the imagePROGRAF PRO-1000, the 11-color models are also marked by the distinctive Canon red line, echoing the same red line found on Canon's EF L-Series lenses.
"From the time a photo is taken, to the time it is reproduced in print, imaging professionals require output solutions that accurately preserve the detail and vibrancy of that moment," said Toyotsugu Kuwamura, senior vice president and general manager, Business Imaging Solutions Group, Canon U.S.A., Inc. "The new imagePROGRAF PRO Series models not only deliver an impressive and well-appointed design equal to Canon's EOS digital cameras, but are also equipped with advanced technology features to faithfully reproduce high-quality photos taken by Canon's EOS digital cameras with outstanding image quality."
Outstanding Image Quality
The LUCIA PRO 11-color plus Chroma Optimizer ink system provides exceptional image quality, allowing for increased color gamut, reduced bronzing, improved scratch resistance, greater image clarity, gloss uniformity and excellent shadow reproduction, as well as increased black optical density. Compared to previous models, the Series features a wider print head (1.28-inch wide) with anti-clogging technology, which improves efficiency as well as reduces cleaning cycles and prevents wasted ink. This newly developed print head allows for a more compact printer design as only one print head is installed in each PRO Series printer. Additionally, all models maintain high print quality with a multi-sensor that calibrates the printer, ensuring color consistency from the first print to the last. They also feature a redesigned high-precision mechanical platform, providing a uniform, rigid frame to reduce vibrations during printing and more accurate ink ejection. The models also feature effortless media feeding capabilities, allowing photographers to no longer have to worry about blemished prints due to fingerprints.
High Productivity
For increased versatility, a Multifunction Roll System comes standard in the 60-inch eight-color model and is an option for the 44-inch and 24-inch models in the Series, marking its first appearance in a 24-inch imagePROGRAF printer. When used as a dual roll, the Multifunction Roll System will enable users to load glossy media in one roll and matte media in the other to seamlessly print to both rolls without needing to switch media or black inks. The Multifunction Roll unit will intelligently send the job to the correct media, automating the process and providing increased ease of use. The roll can also act as a take-up unit with bi-directional rewind, ideal for long, uninterrupted print runs.
All four new models feature the L-COA PRO processing engine for high-precision image reproduction and high-speed processing of high resolution data. The Sub-Ink Tank feature loved by users of the imagePROGRAF Series has been carried over to these new models, helping to reduce downtime and minimize costs by automatically enabling ink tank replacement during printing. The eight-color models utilize the same new 12-channel print head but the key colors of C, M, Y and MBk are arranged symmetrically in a mirrored arrangement, helping to realize high-speed printing, as well as high-color density.
Ease of Use
These new imagePROGRAF PRO Series models include several enhancements for increased usability, including a redesigned 3.5-inch color LCD touch panel, direct USB drive print capabilities and mobile connectivity. Users can now print PDF and JPEG files directly from a USB thumb drive for fast and easy printing without the need for a computer. The 3.5-inch LCD will render a preview of the file to ensure users are printing the correct file. Additionally, Wi-Fi(®) (IEEE 802.11b/g/n) capability allows for smooth and easy connection to wireless LAN in office environments.(1)
User-Friendly Software
Further enhancing the user experience with these new imagePROGRAF PRO printers is the intuitive software solution of Print Studio Pro. With a focus on quality and ease of use, Print Studio Pro is a plugin for Adobe® Photoshop®, Adobe Lightroom®(2) and Canon Digital Photo Professional software, to easily exports files directly to the printer.(1 )The Quick Utility Toolbox feature provides users with a portal to launch and control software from one central interface, and Accounting Manager is included to help photographers keep track of consumable costs such as ink and media, helping users to determine their overall printing expenses. Also included is Device Management Console, an administrative tool which provides users with the means to manage up to 50 imagePROGRAF PRO Series printers by monitoring activity such as error messages and printer information such as the execution status of calibrations, all from one location.
Availability
These imagePROGRAF PRO models are expected to be available in late spring of 2016. The imagePROGRAF PRO-4000 is available for an MSRP of $5,995 or $6,995 with the addition of the optional Multifunction Roll System. The imagePROGRAF PRO-2000 is available for an MSRP of $2,995, or $3,795 with the optional Multifunction Roll System. The imagePROGRAF PRO-6000S comes standard with the Multifunction Roll System at a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $9,995. The imagePROGRAF PRO-4000S is available for an MSRP of $4,995, or $5,995 with the optional Multifunction Roll System. The previously announced PRO-1000 is available for an MSRP of $1,299.99.
About Canon U.S.A., Inc.
Canon U.S.A., Inc., is a leading provider of consumer, business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions to the United States and to Latin America and the Caribbean (excluding Mexico) markets. With approximately $31 billion in global revenue, its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), ranks third overall in U.S. patents granted in 2015** and is one of Fortune Magazine's World's Most Admired Companies in 2016. Canon U.S.A. is committed to the highest level of customer satisfaction and loyalty, providing 100 percent U.S.-based consumer service and support for all of the products it distributes. Canon U.S.A. is dedicated to its Kyosei philosophy of social and environmental responsibility. In 2014, the Canon Americas Headquarters secured LEED® Gold certification, a recognition for the design, construction, operations and maintenance of high-performance green buildings. To keep apprised of the latest news from Canon U.S.A., sign up for the Company's RSS news feed by visiting http://www.usa.canon.com/rss and follow us on Twitter @CanonUSA. For media inquiries, please contact pr@cusa.canon.com.
**Based on weekly patent counts issued by United States Patent and Trademark Office.
Availability, prices and specifications are subject to change without notice. Prices are set my dealers and may vary.
All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.
1 Wireless printing requires a working network with wireless 802.11b/g or 802.11n capability. Wireless performance may vary based on terrain and distance between the printer and wireless network clients.
2 Adobe® Photoshop® and Adobe Lightroom® software must be purchased separately.
Sony Announces New HX80 Compact Camera with 30x Zoom and Electronic Viewfinder
New Model is World's Smallest Camera with 30x Optical Zoom Lens(1)
SAN DIEGO, Mar. 7, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Electronics, a worldwide leader in digital imaging and the world's largest image sensor manufacturer, has today introduced the newest addition to their compact zoom camera lineup, the DSC-HX80 model.
The new camera features a variety of advanced imaging capabilities including 30x optical zoom, a high-resolution 18.2 MP(2) Exmor R CMOS Sensor and a retractable OLED Tru-Finder in a class-leading compact body. Along with the DSC-HX90V model, the HX80 camera becomes the only compact high-zoom camera with a retractable electronic viewfinder, making it an extremely appealing and flexible solution for travel and family photography and video shooting.
The HX80 also features a high-resolution, 921k dot LCD screen that tilts a full 180 degrees for comfortable arms-length portraits or "selfies" and is Wi-Fi / NFC compatible.
Key features for the new model are included below:
Compact Hi-Zoom HX80 Camera w/ Built-in Retractable EVF
Available in April for about $350
-- Premium 30x ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* optical zoom lens with 60x "Clear
Image" digital zoom capability
-- Built-in pop-up OLED Tru-Finder EVF w/ high contrast and vivid colors
-- 18.2 MP Exmor R CMOS sensor and BIONZ X processor ensure the finest
capture details for still images and Full HD videos in all lighting
conditions
-- Optical SteadyShot with 5-axis image stabilization minimizes effects of
camera shake
-- 921k dot, 3.0 type LCD screen that tilts a full 180 degrees
-- Full HD movie shooting capabilities including high-speed XAVC S format
at 50 Mbps
-- Built-in 'pop up' flash for low-light shooting support
-- Compatible with Wi-Fi / NFC for seamless wireless transfer of content
and with select Sony PlayMemories(TM) Camera apps
A variety of exclusive stories and exciting new content shot with Sony imaging products can be found at http://www.alphauniverse.com, Sony's growing community site built to educate, inspire and showcase all fans and customers of the Sony imaging brand.
Sony Announces Development of New Wireless Lighting Control System at WPPI 2016
LAS VEGAS, March 7, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Electronics, a worldwide leader in digital imaging and the world's largest image sensor manufacturer, has today announced plans to release a new wireless lighting control system to meet the growing demands of professional Sony photographers.
Designed for compatibility with their a interchangeable cameras and external flash units, the new lighting system will include the FA-WRC1M wireless radio commander as well as the FA-WRR1 wireless radio receiver. A prototype of the new system will be on display in Sony's booth at WPPI 2016.
With a maximum range of 30m (approx. 98 feet), the new radio controlled system will allow for an extremely flexible wireless flash shooting experience with exceptional performance in all types of shooting conditions. In total, the system can control a maximum of 15 separate flash units in up to 5 groups of flashes. While using the system, photographers have the ability to control the exposure of connected flash units either manually or automatically depending on preference. Additionally, the new lighting control system will be capable of flash sync speeds of up to 1/250(th) of a second with high speed sync (HSS) available as well.
The new Wireless Lighting Control system will be available this summer at authorized retailers throughout the US and Canadian markets. Pricing and detailed specifications will be released at a later date.
A variety of exclusive stories and exciting new content shot with Sony imaging products can be found at http://www.alphauniverse.com, Sony's growing community site built to educate, inspire and showcase all fans and customers of the Sony imaging brand.
Please follow #SonyAlpha on twitter and visit @SonyAlpha on Instagram for all of the latest a camera news and content direct from Sony.
Michigan-Based Life Boost Closes Funding Round to Bring Tespo to Market
NORTHVILLE, Mich., March 7, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Life Boost, a health and wellness technology company, has closed a $1.25 million Series D capital raise to support the launch of Tespo, a proprietary system similar to a single serving coffee maker that holds an entire month of nutritional supplement servings in one fully recyclable disc.
"Our offering was significantly oversubscribed and we closed within three weeks of opening the round," said Ted Mills, co-founder of Life Boost. "We are in discussions to take in additional capital due primarily to the caliber of people involved and interested in Tespo."
The Tespo systems delivers on a simple vision: to eliminate pills forever and elevate quality in nutritional supplements by providing liquid formulas with only premium active ingredients -- no additives, fillers or other unnecessary ingredients. The system also delivers a nearly 90% absorption rate versus just 20% in pill form.
"We know that consumers have pill fatigue, and yet there are no convenient, quality-based nutritional supplement alternatives for consumers," said Life Boost co-founder Jeff Linton. "The only scalable product offered by the industry today are gummy vitamins, but if you look at the active ingredients and sugar content in a gummy, you have to ask who is winning in this scenario. Today's consumers are incredibly savvy and they are seeking alternative products that provide real benefits."
Tespo commenced a pre-sale in November 2015 and is launching with five product offerings initially.
"Our early adopters have been using Tespo for three months now and the feedback has been incredibly positive," said Mills.
About Life Boost, LLC
Life Boost is the maker of Tespo, a consumer direct, subscription-based vitamin system providing customers with a monthly supply of nutritional supplements in a single 4-inch diameter disc that is inserted into the proprietary Tespo dispenser, which then modifies mixing time and water based on the type of disc being utilized. For more information, visit http://www.gettespo.com.
NEW YORK, March 7, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- High 5 Games is pleased to announce the successful completion and launch of its initial HTML5 Mobile games. The highly anticipated first phase of games to release in the HTML5 format includes Shadow of the Panther, Golden Knight, and Night of the Wolf.
The launch builds on the existing popularity of the globally recognized High 5 Games brand. Offering games in HTML5 will significantly expand the reach of High 5 Games' most celebrated titles through new play options on mobile and through new Operators. This launch is just the beginning of a long-term deployment process designed to make High 5 Games the leader in HTML5 Mobile content.
Shadow of the Panther, Golden Knight, and Night of the Wolf are live now on the NYX platform, with a number of NYX licensees and will continue rolling out over the next few weeks with High 5 Games' existing network of partners and a number of new partnerships. The initial launch is the first of a full series of launches scheduled on a monthly basis throughout 2016 with Legends of Troy and The Amulet and The Charm scheduled for HTML5 launch later this month.
About High 5 Games
Developing for the land-based, online, social, and mobile markets, High 5 Games has created hundreds of games that are played on six continents and in more than 150 countries. High 5 Games operates High 5 Casino, a top-rated social casino on Facebook. The company's premiere remote game server VAULT is live in New Jersey and all regulated markets in the EU and features the company's most proven brands. High 5 Games is aimed at becoming the world leader in casino content production and distribution and has offices in New York City, New Jersey, Kansas City, and London.
Data Center Switch Market Hits $12B in 2015, Reports Crehan Research
Ethernet and InfiniBand Drive Growth
SAN FRANCISCO, March 7, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- 2015 was another year of growth for the data center switch market, according to the most recent report from Crehan Research Inc. The firm reported that Ethernet, which accounts for the majority of data center switch revenues, grew 7% in 2015, and that InfiniBand revenues surged to a record year, surpassing its prior record of 2012. In contrast with Ethernet and InfiniBand, Fibre Channel switch revenues declined slightly following growth in 2014 - see accompanying figure.
"Ethernet remained by far the dominant data center switch technology during 2015," said Seamus Crehan, president of Crehan Research. "With the recent introductions of attractively priced 25 gigabit Ethernet (GbE), 50GbE, and 100GbE switches, we expect this to continue," he said, adding, "InfiniBand is also enjoying a strong resurgence, in conjunction with the adoption of Intel's higher performing Grantley-based server platforms and ever-expanding high performance computing applications."
In addition to the top-level performance of Ethernet, Fibre Channel and InfiniBand, notable results from Crehan's data center switch report include:
-- 10GBASE-T and 40GbE were the main data center Ethernet switch growth
drivers in 2015, with both technologies seeing an approximate doubling
of annual shipments
-- Modular data center Ethernet switch shipments returned to growth after
two consecutive years of decline
-- 25GbE/50GbE/100GbE data center switches saw initial shipments in 4Q15,
along with the server adapters to connect to these switches. These
products are expected to ramp strongly in the second half of 2016
-- Cisco accounted for 60% of total data center Ethernet switch revenue in
2015
-- Arista's total data center Ethernet switch revenue increased more than
40% in 2015, resulting in a two-point share gain
-- Huawei's 4Q15 data center Ethernet switch revenue more than doubled
year-over-year, as data center upgrades and build-outs continued to be
strong in China despite macro-economic volatility
-- For full-year 2015, 16Gbps Fibre Channel became a solid majority of
total Fibre Channel switch shipments, laying the foundation for the ramp
of recently introduced 32Gbps Fibre Channel products
-- White box and ODM-direct data center Ethernet switching accounted for 4%
of total 2015 data center switch revenue
"2015 was an exciting year in the data center market, as customers demonstrated strong demand for higher-speed switches to keep pace with the relentless increase in network traffic," Crehan said. "This was broad-based, with 40GbE, 100GbE, 16Gbps Fibre Channel, FDR (56 Gbps) InfiniBand and EDR (100 Gbps) InfiniBand all showing strong growth."
About Crehan Research Inc.
Crehan Research Inc. produces reports with very detailed statistics and information on the data center switch and server-class adapter & LOM/controller markets. The company's reports are supported with rich insights and context to deliver increased value. For more information about Crehan Research Inc. email info@CrehanResearch.com, phone 650-273-8400, or visit http://www.CrehanResearch.com.
MaxPlay Bolsters Platform with Industry's Top Tech Players
Company Integrates Industry's Premium Solutions into its Cloud-enabled Game Development Suite
SAN FRANCISCO, March 7, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- MaxPlay, a game development enterprise software and services company, announced today that the MaxPlay Game Development Suite (GDS) will be integrated with several premium game development tools and technology partners. High-performance technologies from NVIDIA® PhysX®, FMOD Studio, EMotion FX, and PopcornFx will be accessible to game and VR developers through the MaxPlay GDS.
MaxPlay's unique modular and extensible architecture allows seamless integration for premium service solutions in its Game Development Suite. The MaxPlay GDS is the only game development solution that combines a cloud-enabled SOA architecture with a high performance runtime engine to give developers the power to collaborate, create, and operate games more effectively in today's increasingly complex, global, multi-platform market. MaxPlay's high performance multi-core runtime technology is uniquely suited to get the most out of today and tomorrow's gaming and mixed reality hardware.
"We choose our technology and tools partners based on their ability to provide the best possible solutions for their given development category," said Matt Shaw, MaxPlay CTO. "Solutions must meet three critical criteria: an intuitive interface that easily lets users master the given task; unmatched performance built for today and tomorrow's environments; and the ability to grant advanced users the highest level of control."
MaxPlay's new technology partners include NVIDIA's PhysX, a scalable multi-platform game physics solution; FMOD Studio, an interactive music and sound effects tool; MysticGD, developer of EMotion FX, a real-time character animation system; and PopcornFx, 3D real-time particle technology.
MaxPlay provides a powerful and extensible platform for game developers, making this first wave of partnerships a perfect fit. Partners will be able to take advantage of the MaxPlay Game Development Suite's multi-core runtime architecture, which will allow their technologies to be optimized for all multi-core gaming devices. The end result will be less compromising for game developers giving them more control over creating rich and immersive games and VR experiences.
"We are very pleased about being integrated into the GDS so that developers can effectively use the tools they love with a one-of-a-kind advanced game development platform, multi-core technology, and high performance run-time engine," says Mike Skolones Product Manager NVIDIA GameWorks. "I am excited to see what developers will create given this additional horsepower."
"Since announcing MaxPlay's Game Development Suite, the incredible support and validation we've been given from the industry in such a short time period is tremendously gratifying. We're attracting leading technology companies to join us on our journey to address the challenges and opportunities facing today's game developer," said Sinjin Bain, MaxPlay CEO. "We couldn't be more pleased with the anticipation expressed by the worldwide developer community as we come close to announcing the timing of our Early Access program."
About MaxPlay
MaxPlay, headquartered in San Francisco with offices in Austin, is an independent technology solutions and services provider for the game development community. MaxPlay innovates game development, publishing and live operations so developers can focus on doing what they do best: create best-in-class games. MaxPlay's Game Development Suite (GDS) is a cloud-enabled, n-core ready, development platform uniquely built to get the most out multi-core CPU gaming and VR/AR devices. Visit us at http://www.maxplay.io or on Twitter at @maxplayio.
To learn more about the MaxPlay Game Development Suite and MaxPlay publishing services, please contact the team at contact@maxplay.io.
Media Contact
Amy Constable
Double Forte (On behalf of MaxPlay)
415-500-0624
aconstable@double-forte.com
New Gelato And Pasta Mixes For KitchenAid® Stand Mixers
BENTON HARBOR, Mich., March 7, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Franzese®, an innovative food development company, has partnered with KitchenAid, creating premium gelato and pasta mixes specifically for use with the KitchenAid® Stand Mixer's ice cream maker and pasta maker attachments.
"Whether just starting out with these attachments or looking for an even faster way to get great results, KitchenAid stand mixer owners now have an alternative to making gelato and pasta completely from scratch," notes Michael Huie, global business unit director for KitchenAid. "Given the quality of Franzese products, most would be hard pressed to tell the difference."
"We want to fit real food into real lives," states Paolo Franzese, CEO of Franzese. "Our premium food mixes are easy to make with KitchenAid's quality Stand Mixers and attachments. Cooks of all levels can get excited about exploring new ways to prepare their favorite foods."
Both mixes can be prepared in less than 11 minutes. Gelato flavors include salted caramel, chocolate, lemon, pumpkin spice, strawberry and vanilla. The Classic Egg, Whole Wheat, Garlic & Parsley and Spinach pasta mixes are produced within the United States, with 100% durum wheat semolina flour that has been imported from Italy. The Gluten-free pasta mix is sourced within the United States with certified ingredients.
The gelato and pasta mixes will hit specialty retailer shelves throughout the United States September 1, 2016. The gelato mix will be priced at $14.99 while the pasta mix is yet to be released. One gelato box contains two batches of gelato (approximately three pints), while the pasta box contains a single batch, enough to make approximately 1 pound of fresh pasta.
"We're delighted to partner with another brand that encourages cooks to experiment and explore their culinary creativity in new and exciting ways and at their own pace," adds Huie. "Considering that tens of millions of American kitchens are outfitted with our stand mixers we're confident that these mixes will become a staple in many pantries."
Since the introduction of its legendary stand mixer in 1919 and first dishwasher in 1949, KitchenAid has built on the legacy of these icons to create a complete line of products designed for cooks. Today, the KitchenAid® brand offers virtually every essential for the well-equipped kitchen with a collection that includes everything from countertop appliances to cookware, ranges to refrigerators, and whisks to wine cellars. Cook for the Cure®, the brand's partnership with Susan G. Komen®, is now in its 15(th) year and has raised over $10 million to help find a cure for breast cancer. To learn more, visit KitchenAid.com or join us at Facebook.com/KitchenAid and Twitter.com/KitchenAidUSA
For more information on gelato and pasta mixes, please visit experiencefranzese.com.
KitchenAid® Upgrades Stand Mixer Attachments, Adds New Bowl Option
CHICAGO, March 7, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- As they have since the brand's iconic stand mixer was introduced in 1919, the engineers and designers at KitchenAid(®) have been busy coming up with new ways for cooks to customize and enhance the versatility of this kitchen essential. This year, the brand is introducing a new, textured ceramic bowl and upgrading three of its popular stand mixer attachments, the spiralizer, the pasta press, and the pasta roller and cutter set.
"On its own the stand mixer is an incredibly versatile machine, particularly for those who love to bake," notes Beth Robinson, senior manager of brand experience for KitchenAid. "By simply adding attachments and bowl options, it becomes a powerful, customizable tool for baking, cooking and simplifying food preparation."
New Ceramic Bowl
Designed to complement any of the many available stand mixer colors, the new ceramic bowl combines a unique embossed diamond pattern with a Matte White finish. Made with a durable, non-porous, chip-resistant ceramic, the bowl is dishwasher and microwave safe and features a convenient pouring spout and comfortable handle. The bowl, which fits all 4.5-quart and 5-quart stand mixer models, is scheduled for availability in July 2016 at a suggested retail price of $99.99.
The ceramic embossed bowl joins a collection of 5-quart ceramic bowls available in Glacier, Majestic Yellow, Onyx Black, Purple and White Chocolate. Glass bowls available for tilt-head stand mixer models include hammered glass, frosted glass, and clear glass finish options.
Spiralizer Blades
The newest of the stand mixer attachments, the spiralizer, adds two new blade accessories to the existing five blades, increasing its versatility to offer thirteen combinations of spiralizing, slicing, peeling and coring of fresh fruits and vegetables. The new thin blade set offers cooks the ability to create ultra-fine angel hair zucchini noodle strands for a healthy alternative to flour based pasta, and delicately thin fruit and vegetable slices and spirals for bright, seasonal garnishes. Available in April 2016, the new thin blade set will carry a suggested retail price of $39.99. The complete spiralizer attachment with all seven blades is scheduled for availability in April 2016 at a suggested retail price of $149.99. The original spiralizer attachment featuring five quick-change blades will continue to be offered at $129.99.
Pasta Making Attachments
The popular pasta making attachments for the stand mixer have been given a sleek, updated look. Crafted of premium, commercial-style stainless steel, the new pasta roller features eight settings, allowing for more precise control over desired pasta sheet thickness. Upgraded pasta cutters can accommodate larger batches of spaghetti, capellini, and fettuccini. The 3-piece pasta roller and cutter set attachments will carry a suggested retail price of $249.99, the 2-piece cutter sets for $149.99, and the new pasta roller can be purchased separately for $99.99.
The new gourmet pasta press also features an updated design and offers six interchangeable pasta plates for making fresh spaghetti, rigatoni, fusilli, large macaroni or small macaroni. A built-in wire cutter offers increased precision in cutting pasta to desired lengths. The attachment's sleek and convenient storage case allows for quick and convenient storage of the parts while not in use. The gourmet pasta press is scheduled for availability in July 2016 at a suggested retail price of $189.99.
Since the introduction of its legendary stand mixer in 1919 and first dishwasher in 1949, KitchenAid has built on the legacy of these icons to create a complete line of products designed for cooks. Today, the KitchenAid® brand offers virtually every essential for the well-equipped kitchen with a collection that includes everything from countertop appliances to cookware, ranges to refrigerators, and whisks to wine cellars. Cook for the Cure®, the brand's partnership with Susan G. Komen®, is now in its 15(th) year and has raised over $10 million to help find a cure for breast cancer. To learn more, visit KitchenAid.com or join us at Facebook.com/KitchenAid and Twitter.com/KitchenAidUSA
Intersil Strengthens Rad Tolerant Portfolio with 5V Multiplexers that Deliver Best-in-Class Performance for Space Flight Systems
ISL71830SEH and ISL71831SEH provide industry's best ESD protection and signal processing performance
MILPITAS, Calif., March 7, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Intersil Corporation (NASDAQ: ISIL), a leading provider of innovative power management and precision analog solutions, today expanded its industry leading portfolio of radiation tolerant multiplexers with two new, single supply 5V devices. The 16-channel ISL71830SEH and 32-channel ISL71831SEH multiplexers join Intersil's widely adopted 30V multiplexers, which have been onboard nearly every satellite and space exploration mission, including NASA's Orion spacecraft flight test. The 5V multiplexers address the growing trend toward reduced system voltage rails. They provide data acquisition systems with the industry's best electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection, and deliver lower R(ON) and input leakage for reduced power consumption and higher signal integrity. The 5V multiplexers also offer faster propagation delays, which significantly improve signal processing response time.
The ISL71830SEH and ISL71831SEH deliver 2x better performance than the competition in the most demanding environments by leveraging Intersil's proprietary silicon on insulator process, which provides single event latch-up (SEL) robustness in heavy ion environments. The devices' enhanced 5kV ESD protection feature eliminates the need for costly external protection diodes on the input pins. In addition, both multiplexers have reduced R(ON) of 120 Ohms and propagation delays of less than 100ns to increase the overall performance and accuracy of telemetry signals processed and multiplexed into an analog-to-digital converter's (ADC) input.
The ISL71830SEH and ISL71831SEH offer over-voltage protection on a per-switch basis to maintain the continuous processing of hundreds of telemetry test points. If any input channel experiences an over-voltage condition, the remaining channels continue sending data to the ADC. Both multiplexers provide a "cold spare" redundant capability, allowing the connection of 2-3 additional unpowered multiplexers to a common data bus. This mission-critical feature is required for long duration space flights. The system automatically activates the backup multiplexer should a failure occur.
"The ISL71830SEH and ISL71831SEH support our customers' lower 3.3V and 5V system voltage rails while offering more than twice the performance of competing solutions," said Philip Chesley, senior vice president of Precision Products at Intersil. "The new 16-channel and 32-channel devices meet the mission assurance needs of manned spacecraft and next-generation satellites."
Key Features and Specifications
-- 3V to 5.5V single supply operation with adjustable logic threshold
control
-- Delivers 5kV human body model (HBM) ESD protection
-- Rail-to-rail switch input provides wide dynamic range for extra design
flexibility
-- Over-voltage shutoff protects upstream/downstream devices when a switch
goes 1V-2V past the rails
-- Cold sparing and analog overvoltage range from -0.4V to 7V
-- Switch input off leakage of 120nA and low R(ON) of 120 Ohms reduces
power consumption, and improves signal integrity
-- Single event transient (SET) performance of 10us maximum transient
duration and 75mV maximum transient magnitude at 60MeV.cm(2)/mg and at
5.5V supplies eliminates the need for output filtering to achieve
optimal performance
-- Low dose rate (0.01rad(Si)/s) radiation tolerance of 75krad(Si)
-- SEL/SEB LET(TH) immune up to 60MeV.cm(2)/mg
The ISL71830SEH and ISL71831SEH multiplexers can be combined with the ISL71590SEH temperature sensor, ISL71090SEH25 voltage reference, and operational amplifiers such as the ISL70444SEH, ISL70244SEH, ISL70417SEH, ISL70218SEH, ISL70227SEH, ISL70419SEH to support a complete analog signal chain with superior radiation tolerant performance.
Availability
The ISL71830SEH 16-channel multiplexer is available now in a 28-lead ceramic flatpack package and the ISL71831SEH 32-channel multiplexer comes in a 48-lead ceramic quad flatpack. They are also available in die form, and two evaluation boards are available to evaluate device features and performance: 16-channel ISL71830SEHEV1Z and 32-channel ISL71831SEHEV1Z. For more information on the ISL71830SEH and ISL71831SEH multiplexers and evaluation boards, please visit: http://www.intersil.com/products/isl71830seh.
About Intersil
Intersil Corporation is a leading provider of innovative power management and precision analog solutions. The company's products form the building blocks of increasingly intelligent, mobile and power hungry electronics, enabling advances in power management to improve efficiency and extend battery life. With a deep portfolio of intellectual property and a rich history of design and process innovation, Intersil is the trusted partner to leading companies in some of the world's largest markets, including industrial and infrastructure, mobile computing, automotive and aerospace. For more information about Intersil, visit our website at http://www.intersil.com.
Intersil and the Intersil logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Intersil Corporation. All other brands, product names and marks are or may be trademarks or registered trademarks used to identify products or services of their respective owners.
TIGA Presents 'Changing The Game': A Collaboration With ITN Productions
LONDON, March 7, 2016 /PRNewswire/ --
In a unique communications partnership, The Independent Game Developers' Association
(TIGA) and ITN Productions are producing a news and current affairs-style programme which
will explore the future of the gaming industry. It will tell the story of a thriving
industry that given the right support and encouragement at home, could see the UK reach
its full potential on the global stage. ITN Productions will also be TIGA's official media
partner for the prestigious 2016 TIGA Games Industry Awards.
The aim is to share knowledge and heighten awareness among policy makers, politicians
and the wider public about the significant role that the gaming sector plays in the
strength of the UK economy. Not only this, but also to challenge & change perceptions,
show the prospect of a satisfying career in a dynamic and alluring sector and give the
sector the exposure & recognition that it deserves.
Changing the Game will be an in-depth, online programme providing a unique platform to
stimulate debate. It will champion success, expertise and achievement, celebrate
innovation and encourage the exchange of ideas. The news-style piece will combine key
interviews and news-style reports with sponsored editorial profiles of some of the leading
organisations in the gaming industry.
Premiered at the TIGA Awards in mid-November, Changing the Game will form part of an
extensive communications campaign featuring TIGA members, professional partners,
influential individuals within government, parliament and industry, as well as journalists,
writers and bloggers.
Simon Shelley, Head of Industry News, ITN Productions, said: 'ITN Productions is
delighted to be partnering with TIGA, to examine the expertise and skill that exists in
the games industry and understand the support required from government to ensure that this
dynamic industry continues to flourish in the UK.
'We're excited to embark on this project and engage with key organisations and people
dedicated to shaping the future of the games industry.'
Dr Richard Wilson, TIGA CEO says: 'TIGA's focus is on strengthening the games
development sector. Our partnership with ITN Productions will enable us to demonstrate the
economic potential of the sector, articulate our policy agenda to government and further
our engagement with key Ministers and MPs.
'Our alliance with ITN Productions will also enable us to highlight excellent games
studios, illustrate innovation in the video games industry and showcase best practice in
higher education. I am delighted that ITN Productions will be TIGA's media partner for the
2016 TIGA Games Industry Awards and we look forward to working with ITN Productions over
the months and years ahead.'
About TIGA Â
TIGA is the network for games developers and digital publishers and the trade
association representing the video games industry. Our core purpose is to strengthen the
games development and digital publishing sector. We achieve this by campaigning for the
industry in the corridors of power, championing the industry in the media and helping our
members commercially.
TIGA is intent on building an enduring organisation which continually improves; a
business that will make a significant impact on the games industry and so benefit our
membership and the wider economy. Since 2010, TIGA has won 24 business awards, an
achievement which reflects TIGA's drive for improvement and to meet best practice.
ITN Productions is ITN's bespoke production hub producing creative and commercially
valuable content for the business, commercial, broadcast and digital sectors. Industry
News forms part of this offering and is a communications tool for leading industry bodies
and national associations produced in a broadcast news programme format, including
interviews, news items and sponsored editorial profiles.
For more information, or to participate in the programme, please contact Jonathan Love,
Programming Director at ITN Productions on jonathan.love@itn.co.uk or +44(0)
20-7430-4209.
LeEco's Le 1s Superphone: The Show-Stopper at 'Flipkart Big Shopping Days' Festival
NEW DELHI, March 7, 2016 /PRNewswire/ --
Global Internet technology giant, LeEco, opens sale of its flagship killer and widely
popular Le 1s once again and this time at the biggest online shopping festival. Also
available on sale will be LeEco's big and bold Le Max. The Superphones will be available
on Flipkart [http://www.flipkart.com/letv-le-1s/p/itmefe3sztdzw42g ] during
the most-awaited online shopping sale, the 'Big Shopping Days 2016' starting midnight on
March 7th to March 9th, 2016.
After having witnessed unprecedented success in its flash sales and the recent LeEco
Day earlier this month, the Le 1s will now be available for consumers who missed getting
their hands on this stylish, elegant yet powerful device. Not just that, the much
loved flagship killer, Le 1s and the big and bold Le Max will be up for grabs with an
irresistible 10% cash-back offer for SBI credit and debit cardholders as well as on
hard-to-pass up exciting exchange offers, where consumers can avail up to 50% off on the
Le Superphones. The Le 1s will be available in both colours, the elegant gold and the
stylish silver.
"The response for our flagship killer Le 1s has been overwhelming from Indian
consumers. It gives us immense pleasure to reprise the exciting offers on
our chart-topping Superphone on this much-awaited, popular shopping festival on the
e-commerce platform. Our promise of providing our users an extraordinary seamless
experience continues with our comprehensive, vertically integrated ecosystem, which is
unique to LeEco and sets us apart from others in the industry," said Atul Jain, COO, Smart
Electronics Devices, LeEco India.Â
The Le 1s Superphone has broken several industry records in the recent past to become
the most sought-after smartphone online. The company is selling over 2,00,000 Superphones
in less than 30 days is an evidence of the success that the company has achieved in a very
short span of time. Its soaring popularity among consumers is a validation of the
company's global reputation, edge over competition; given its content ecosystem
integration and its relentless focus on providing the best quality and value to its
consumers.
Buyers of the Le Superphones can expect a content ecosystem to be uploaded into its
android-based EUI system in the 2nd quarter of this year since the company has
already signed contracts with Eros and YuppTV. The company has inked a deal with Eros Now
for Video-on-demand (VOD) and YuppTVÂ for TV content streaming.Â
The company's after-sales policies are also best-in-class with 555 service centres in
prime locations across the country, besides providing 24*7 toll free services and other
value-added services.
About LeEco:Â
LeEco, formerly known as Letv, is a global pioneering Internet and technology company
with multiple Internet ecosystems across content, devices, applications and platforms.
Founded in November 2004 by Jia Yueting and Liu Hong, LeEco employs more than 10,500
currently and plans to increase the count to 16,000-18,000 employees by the end of 2016.
It is the world's first video company to go public with a market capitalization of more
than $12 billion USD. Headquartered in Beijing, China, it has regional headquarters in
Hong Kong, Los Angeles and Silicon Valley.
With disruptive innovation as the guiding principle, LeEco is engaged in myriad
businesses, spanning Internet TV, video production and distribution, smart gadgets and
large-screen applications to e-commerce, eco-agriculture and connected super-electric
cars. The company also has one of the world's largest content libraries which includes
movies, TV dramas, entertainment shows, sports and music, which can be viewed on LeEco
devices like Superphones and Super TVs, and in the future, on Le automobiles. Breaking the
barriers of industries, LeEco provides personalized products and services for an enhanced
user experience at disruptive prices.Â
Media Contact:Â
Richa MehtaÂ
richa.mehta@bm.com  Â
+91-9811660870Â Â
Senior AssociateÂ
Genesis Burson-MarstellerÂ
BENTON HARBOR, Mich., March 6, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Building on its collection of highly regarded craft and automatic coffee products, KitchenAid is introducing two new additions designed to satisfy even the most demanding coffee lovers. They include a Digital Scale Jar accessory for the KitchenAid® Burr Grinder and a 12-Cup Coffee Maker with One Touch Brewing that simplifies the ritual of preparing a proper cup of coffee.
"These new coffee products address several fundamentals of brewing superior coffee," notes Derek Ernst, global director of marketing for KitchenAid® Small Appliances. "Namely, weighing beans precisely before grinding to the desired consistency and creating the ideal timing, temperature and conditions for exposing ground beans to pure, filtered water."
"And because making coffee is generally a daily ritual for coffee lovers, we've incorporated timeless design elements inspired by our iconic stand mixer to ensure it's worthy of a permanent place on the countertop," he added.
The KitchenAid® Digital Scale Jar, which can be used either as an add-on to the current KitchenAid® Burr Grinder or as a standalone scale, simplifies the process of precisely weighing beans before grinding. Together with the Burr Grinder, this allows coffee aficionados to brew a consistent cup every time, and experiment with different ratios and grinds. An LCD digital display indicates exact weight in grams, the universal weight standard for achieving barista-quality results. The easy-to-clean scale operates on three AAA batteries and is durably constructed with a stainless steel jar.
Scheduled for availability in September, the KitchenAid® Digital Scale Jar will carry a suggested retail price of $69.99.
The new KitchenAid® 12-Cup Coffee Maker with One Touch Brewing was designed to simplify the morning ritual of preparing coffee. Three brew modes include bold strength, regular strength and small batch mode for optimizing heat and water saturation when making two to four cups.
Waking up to a hot, flavorful cup of coffee is easy thanks to a 24-hour programmability feature controlled by simple, intuitive settings. A pause and pour feature allows for interrupting the full brewing cycle to pour a cup. Its glass carafe, brew basket and gold tone filter are dishwasher safe, and a charcoal filter is provided for purifying water for better coffee flavor.
Scheduled for availability in August, the new KitchenAid® 12-Cup Coffee Maker with One Touch Brewing will be offered in Onyx Black or White at a suggested retail price of $129.99.
Since the introduction of its legendary stand mixer in 1919 and first dishwasher in 1949, KitchenAid has built on the legacy of these icons to create a complete line of products designed for cooks. Today, the KitchenAid® brand offers virtually every essential for the well-equipped kitchen with a collection that includes everything from countertop appliances to cookware, ranges to refrigerators, and whisks to wine cellars. Cook for the Cure®, the brand's partnership with Susan G. Komen®, is now in its 15(th) year and has raised over $10 million to help find a cure for breast cancer. To learn more, visit KitchenAid.com or join us at Facebook.com/KitchenAid and Twitter.com/KitchenAidUSA
G2A is Now in Katowice for Intel Extreme Masters (IEM) Finals 2016
RZESZÃW, Poland, LONDON and HONG KONG, March 5, 2016 /PRNewswire/ --
E-sport pro-players from all around the world will gather to compete to be World
Number One during Intel Extreme Masters Season 10 Finals. Â
G2A.COM - the world's fastest growing digital gaming marketplace - is in Katowice,
Poland at the finals of the 10th Season of Intel Extreme Masters. G2A, a partner of ESL
during this event, is celebrating the finale of a decade of seasons of Intel Extreme
Masters.
This is the fourth time that the city of Katowice has hosted the event. From 4-6 of
March 2016, excited gamers will do battle in Spodek Arena, Katowice for the most important
title during the finals of 10th season of IEM. They will play games such as in Counter
Strike: Global Offensive, League of Legends, StarCraft II and many more. The prize pool
for this event alone is $500,000!
CO-founder and CMO at G2A, Dawid Rozek commented: "E-sport is always a huge deal for
G2A. We have invested millions of dollars in the growth of e-sports." He added: "We really
look forward to taking part in IEM's season series and to sharing with everyone our latest
achievements and developments such as G2A In-Game Skins - it's the ideal solution for
sellers and buyers." G2A now offering Counter Strike Global Offensive Skins.
[http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/counter-strike-global-offensive-skins-g2acom-566559701.html ]
G2A are also soon to launch G2A TV, an open channel providing news and entertainment
content for the world of gaming and e-sports.
CMOR at G2A, Joshua Cabrera said: "G2A is really excited to participate at IEM
Katowice. G2A was present during the whole 10th Season of Intel Extreme Masters. This
great event gives us the opportunity to showcase our latest ideas, to positively affect
and encourage fans of e-sports worldwide."
Panasonic Unveils World's First Countertop Induction Oven At International Home & Housewares Show
Revolutionary New Cooking Technology Will Change the Landscape of the Consumer Kitchen Countertop
CHICAGO, March 5, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Panasonic unveiled today the world's first Countertop Induction Oven (CIO) at the International Home & Housewares Show. The revolutionary Panasonic Countertop Induction Oven combines proprietary induction and double-infrared heating technologies for delicious food and healthy cooking options in minutes.
Panasonic's Countertop Induction Oven calls upon the company's more than 40-years history of innovation in induction heating technology. It quickly grills, bakes, toasts, and re-heats and requires little or no preheating, resulting in perfectly cooked meals. With pre-set menu options and adjustable temperature control, the Panasonic CIO takes the guesswork out of grilling steaks, cooking chicken and vegetables all at once but with results that are more flavorful -- crispy on the outside and tender and moist on the inside.
The secret to flavorful results delivered by the Panasonic CIO is the combination of direct induction heat and a sealed, compact interior. Flavored, circulating steam enhances taste. The CIO's unique, dishwasher-safe grill reduces excessive moisture and oil while producing BBQ-quality sear and sizzle.
"Our new, one-of-a-kind Countertop Induction Oven will change the landscape of the consumer's kitchen," said Lisa Knierim, Vice President of Panasonic Home Division. "The CIO is an example of innovation at its best. It delivers a quick, yet high-end and healthy cooking experience to consumers in a compact, easy-to-use design."
The Panasonic Countertop Induction Oven will be available in October 2016 with pricing and availability to be announced at a later date. It will be on display with live demonstrations at the Panasonic booth (#L12505) at the International Home and Housewares Show through Tuesday, March 8.
For more information on Panasonic's complete line of countertop home appliances, visit shop.panasonic.com. Follow @panasonicusa on Twitter and Instagram.
About Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company
Based in Newark, NJ, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company is a division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation. The company offers a wide range of consumer solutions in the U.S. including products from VIERA Smart Life+ Screen, Blu-ray players, LUMIX Digital Cameras, Camcorders, Technics HiFi Audio, Home Audio, Cordless Phones, Home Appliances, Wellness and Personal Care products and more. In Interbrand's 2014 annual "Best Global Green Brands" report, Panasonic ranked number five overall and the top electronics brand in the report. As part of continuing sustainability efforts, Panasonic Corporation of North America relocated its headquarters to a new facility, adjacent to Newark Penn Station in Newark, NJ. It is the first newly constructed office tower in Newark to earn both LEED Platinum and Gold certifications from the U.S. Green Building Council.
BENTON HARBOR, Mich., March 5, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- KitchenAid, long known for the power, durability and eye-catching design of its iconic countertop appliances, is introducing the most powerful blender in the market.
Scheduled for availability in May, the new KitchenAid® Pro Line® Series Blender will be offered in two models launching exclusively at Williams-Sonoma. Both models feature a 3.5 Peak HP motor, a self-cleaning cycle and a 10-year warranty. The upgraded models provide the added convenience of a dual-wall Thermal Control jar that quickly heats blended ingredients in as little as four minutes, stays cool to the touch, and retains the temperature for hot soups and sauces. They also feature three pre-set Adapti-Blend(TM) recipe programs for Soup, Juices and Smoothies.
"Power is particularly important to those looking to quickly and easily incorporate healthful, nutritious foods into their diet," notes Derek Ernst, global marketing director KitchenAid small appliances. "With the heavy-duty motor and advanced motor control system, this powerful machine can easily and smoothly blend everything from frozen fruits and nuts to fibrous, nutrient-dense vegetables."
Williams-Sonoma will be the exclusive retailer to debut the Pro Line® Series Blender in stores, in its catalog and on williams-sonoma.com. "Nearly 50 years ago, Williams-Sonoma was one of the first retailers to bring the KitchenAid® Stand Mixer to the home cook, revolutionizing the home cooking experience," said Janet Hayes, President of Williams-Sonoma. "And today we're proud to be the exclusive retailer to launch the Pro Line® Blender."
"We're absolutely thrilled to partner with Williams-Sonoma on the launch of the Pro Line Blender," adds Ernst. "Their ability to discover breakthrough products is unmatched in our industry and we have a long history of launching exciting new innovation together."
"It's only natural that we would launch the next revolution in blending together," he said.
Beyond sheer power, the new blender offers a number of features that make short work of blending even the most challenging ingredients. They include patented asymmetric blades that pull ingredients into a powerful blending vortex; a Flex-Edge tamper that doubles as a spatula for scraping ingredients off the sides of the jar; a jar pad that keeps the container from moving; and an ultra-strong, warp-resistant lid that fits securely on the jar, minimizing spills while in use. Unlike competitive models, the blender and its knobs are constructed of durable die-cast metal versus plastic.
Tess Masters, author of "The Blender Girl" and the popular blog healthyblenderrecipes.com, is among those who have tested the new blender.
"KitchenAid has solved all of the common consumer issues with competitive brands," said Masters. "With the largest, most powerful motor that creates the smoothest blends I've ever seen, this exceptional new machine marks the next generation in blending."
In-store demonstrations of the Pro Line Series Blender will take place at Williams-Sonoma retail locations across the U.S. starting in May. Customers who purchase the Pro Line Blender are also encouraged to take advantage of Williams-Sonoma's Return to Learn program that offers one-on-one appointments with culinary team experts in stores to learn tips and techniques to make the most of new kitchen appliances.
The standard model will be offered in Frosted Pearl White and Onyx Black at a suggested retail price of $599.99. The upgraded model, with a suggested price of $699.99, will be available in Candy Apple Red, Imperial Black and Medallion Silver. Williams-Sonoma will be offering the models at $499.95 and $599.95, respectively.
About KitchenAid
Since the introduction of its legendary stand mixer in 1919 and first dishwasher in 1949, KitchenAid has built on the legacy of these icons to create a complete line of products designed for cooks. Today, the KitchenAid® brand offers virtually every essential for the well-equipped kitchen with a collection that includes everything from countertop appliances to cookware, ranges to refrigerators, and whisks to wine cellars. Cook for the Cure®, the brand's partnership with Susan G. Komen®, is now in its 15(th) year and has raised over $10 million to help find a cure for breast cancer. To learn more, visit KitchenAid.com or join us at Facebook.com/KitchenAid and Twitter.com/KitchenAidUSA
About Williams-Sonoma
Since its founding by Chuck Williams in 1956, the Williams-Sonoma brand has been bringing people together around food. A member of Williams-Sonoma, Inc. (NYSE: WSM) portfolio of brands, Williams-Sonoma is a leading specialty retailer of high-quality products for the kitchen and home, providing world-class service and an engaging customer experience. Products include cookware, cooks' tools, cutlery, electrics, bakeware, food, tabletop and bar, outdoor, cookbooks, as well as furniture, lighting and decorative accessories. Each store has a professional demonstration kitchen for cooking classes and tastings conducted by expert culinary staff. Williams-Sonoma Cooking Schools, located in select locations in the U.S. and Australia, offer hands-on classes led by professional chefs. A comprehensive gift registry program for weddings and other special events is available in stores and online. On williams-sonoma.com and the Williams-Sonoma blog, Taste, customers can find recipes, tips, and techniques that help them create delicious meals and wonderful memories. Williams-Sonoma is also part of an active community on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+ and YouTube.
Ran Poliakine's Planet of the Apps Breaks Records - Frenzy Ball Featured in 115 Countries on Launch Day
NEW YORK, March 4, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Planet of the Apps, a boutique game development studio just outside Jerusalem, launched its newest game today, Frenzy Ball, and its already being featured as the best new game in Apple app store! This marks the sixth game in a row for Planet of the Apps to have received this outstanding review.
Frenzy Ball is a retro style arcade game. It's an original gameplay developed by Planet of the Apps that combines your favorite childhood games, pong and brick, and its the most addictive brick breaking retro game out there. The object is to destroy as many squares as possible and avoid hitting the walls. Pop the right cube to cause a Frenzy!
"Frenzy Ball is just the latest in a string of successes that Planet of the Apps has had," said Ben Engel-Kacen, CEO. "The combination of music, art and game play will remind you of old school gaming and keep you playing for hours."
Ran Poliakine's Planet of The Apps is part of his Profiscope group of companies. With a unique business model that brings everything from gaming concept to final product release, marketing and analytics in-house, Planet of the Apps has had over 5 million downloads so far.
Its releases include StickyBalls DX and Planktons, both of which were featured as "Best New Game" on the Apple App Store.
"The Planet of the Apps business model focuses on the individual gamer rather than the entire industry of players," said Ran Poliakine. "This allows us to bring users into the games and learn more about them to create a personalized experience for them so they keep coming back again and again."
About Planet of the Apps
With over 5 million downloads and multiple games featured as "Best New Game" on the Apple App Store, Planet of the Apps has become the hottest gaming company around. Operating out of Israel, the company has built a loyal community following by interacting directly and regularly with their gamers and tailoring their gaming experience to meet the individual needs of the gamer. Planet of the Apps is part of the Profiscope group of companies owned by Ran Poliakine.
Rand McNally Launches Enhanced Routing and Mileage Software
Enhanced IntelliRoute® with MileMaker® also features a new, easy to use interface
SKOKIE, Ill., March 4, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Rand McNally, marking its 80(th) anniversary serving commercial shippers and carriers, is launching a new, enhanced version of its IntelliRoute(® )with MileMaker(®) software - an industry staple for sophisticated routing and mileage calculation for more than 30 years. The new software is being unveiled at the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) Annual Convention in Las Vegas March 6 through March 9.
The new Enhanced IntelliRoute(® )with MileMaker(®) features several key functional improvements that will help companies plan routes more efficiently. First, the software enables users to create multiple routes on a single screen to more clearly see routes, maps, and overviews. The new software also provides enhanced toll data, which includes transponder discount rates. Second, the software is easier to use and view - with redesigned maps of higher resolution and an improved user interface.
"This new Enhanced IntelliRoute(® )with MileMaker(® )is a giant step forward, providing additional tools and flexibility for carriers, shippers, and third party logistics providers," said Stephen Fletcher, CEO of Rand McNally. "Users will be able to quickly run multiple queries in just a few steps. From there, they'll be able to visualize routes like never before with the new high resolution maps."
The new version includes:
-- Higher resolution mapping, which enables more accurate truck-specific,
point-to-point routing and mileages; mapping covers the United States,
Canada, and Mexico
-- A new user interface (UI) to assist businesses in more efficiently
processing route inquiries
-- New abilities to create and visualize multiple truck routes and route
types on a single map
-- Toll cost data with transponder options for more accurate planning and
accounting
-- Enhanced route optimization tools designed to save time and money
-- Ongoing road construction updates
-- Class-based hazardous materials routing
Rand McNally software is used by more than 90 percent of the top motor carriers, many of the largest manufacturers and retailers in North America, and 75 percent of IFTA agencies and is integrated with more than 90 transportation management applications.
Attendees at the TCA Annual Convention are invited to stop by Rand McNally's Booth 613 at the Wynn Las Vegas Resort. In addition, for more information or to request a demo of the new Enhanced IntelliRoute(® )with MileMaker(®), go to http://www.randmcnally.com/intelliroute.
About Rand McNally - Rand McNally is the country's most trusted source for maps, navigation, and travel content. Products and services include: America's #1 Road Atlas; the new OverDryve(TM) Connected Car device; IntelliRoute(®) truck routing software; TND(TM) truck GPS; HD 100 E-Log devices; TND(TM) 765 mobile fleet management solutions; IntelliRoute(®) with MileMaker(®); RVND(TM) GPS for RVers; and leading geography-based educational resources for the classroom. Learn more at randmcnally.com
Rand McNally, the globe logo, IntelliRoute, and MileMaker are registered trademarks, and OverDryve, TND and RVND are trademarks of RM Acquisition, LLC d/b/a Rand McNally. U.S. Patent Nos. 7,580,791 and 8,214,141.
BENTON HARBOR, Mich., March 4, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- KitchenAid has exciting news for Stand Mixer lovers everywhere. The power, iconic design, color choices and endless possibilities synonymous with this culinary workhorse will soon be available in a size ideally suited for limited counter space and "smaller batch" lifestyles.
The new Artisan® Mini Stand Mixer is scheduled to initially launch in the U.S. this summer, with a global launch slated for later in the year. Offering the same power and performance as the brand's Classic(TM) Stand Mixer, the Mini Artisan mixer features a 3.5-quart capacity and is 20% smaller and 25% lighter. It joins a collection that includes 4.5-, 5-, 6- 7-, and 8-quart models, and represents the first downsizing of the Stand Mixer since 1962. Manufacturer's suggested retail price is $399.99.
"Particularly among millennials, urban dwellers and empty nesters we saw a desire for a smaller mixer that provides the same overall features of our larger models," notes Derek Ernst, global marketing director for KitchenAid small appliances. "Most importantly, it offers the same wonderful user experience - and the moments and memories this experience creates - that we hear about so often from Stand Mixer fans."
This new model can quickly and efficiently mix and knead ingredients for up to five dozen cookies or a loaf of bread. By comparison, the 5-, 6- and 7-quart mixers can accommodate from eight to 12 dozen cookies or two to four loaves of bread.
Like its larger siblings, the Artisan® Mini model includes a flat beater, wire whip and dough hook, and accommodates all optional hub-based attachments available for larger models. Available hub attachments include everything from a spiralizer, pasta maker and food grinder to a food processor and juicer.
"With the use of attachments, there's very little this machine can't do in the kitchen," said Ernst. "Those new to cooking and baking, and those highly accomplished in the kitchen, will find so many ways to explore new culinary territory."
The Artisan® Mini stand mixer will be offered in Contour Silver, Empire Red, Guava Glaze, Honeydew, Hot Sauce, Matte Black, Matte Grey, Matte White, Orange Sorbet and Twilight Blue.
Since the introduction of its legendary stand mixer in 1919 and first dishwasher in 1949, KitchenAid has built on the legacy of these icons to create a complete line of products designed for cooks. Today, the KitchenAid® brand offers virtually every essential for the well-equipped kitchen with a collection that includes everything from countertop appliances to cookware, ranges to refrigerators, and whisks to wine cellars. Cook for the Cure®, the brand's partnership with Susan G. Komen®, is now in its 15(th) year and has raised over $10 million to help find a cure for breast cancer. To learn more, visit KitchenAid.com or join us at Facebook.com/KitchenAid and Twitter.com/KitchenAidUSA
Introduces First Concept Prototype from this New Technological Research and Development Program at SXSW 2016
TOKYO, March 3, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Corporation today announced the launch of a new research and development initiative called the "Future Lab Program." The Future Lab Program embraces an approach to technological research and development that emphasizes an open creative environment and direct lines of communication with society, through which it aims to co-create new lifestyles and user value in the future. As part of this approach, the program will share concept prototypes with users while still at the development stage, and look to them for inspiration, leveraging their feedback to refine and evolve its projects.
The design for the Future Lab Program concept logo is based on an "F" and "L" motif that resembles a frame honing in on a target. This reflects the mindset behind the Future Lab Program of setting challenging goals that Sony will strive to achieve through technological innovation, together with input from the user community. Sony will be sharing each of these specific goals through a variety of concept prototypes developed by the Future Lab Program. Going forward, additional letters will be added inside the logo frame to coincide with the launch of each new prototype, each of which will symbolize the concept behind these initiatives.
The first project from the Future Lab Program will be showcased at the SXSW Interactive Festival, beginning Saturday, March 12(th) in Austin, Texas. The project, known as "N," is a concept prototype featuring a hands-free user interface that creates a new way of experiencing audio such as music and sound, allowing the user to receive audio information without having to insert any object into his or her ear. Sony will unveil a number of concept prototypes and technologies, including "N," at its booth ("Sony's Future Lab Program at SXSW") during the SXSW Interactive Festival.
Sony's Future Lab Program at SXSW
Booth and event details:
-- Saturday, March 12(th) - Monday, March 14(th), 2016
-- 10:00 am - 6:00 pm (until 5:00 pm on the 14(th))
-- 102 Trinity St. Austin, TX (corner of Trinity Street and E Cesar Chavez
Street)
Through its Future Lab Program for new technological research and development, Sony will strive to co-create and bring about lifestyles of the future.
CONTACT: Corporate Communications & CSR Department, Sony Corporation (Tel: +81-3-6748-2200); U.S Press [onsite at SXSW]: Andrea Holland (press@newpeoplesf.com / +1-925-915-3003)
Burroughs SmartSource Micro Elite Scanner Now Certified with Silver Bullet's Ranger® for Macintosh Software
PLYMOUTH, Mich., March 3, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Burroughs, Inc. announced today that Silver Bullet Technology, Inc.'s Ranger(®) for Macintosh API product is available immediately for the Burroughs SmartSource Micro Elite scanner.
The Burroughs SmartSource Micro Elite scanner is ideal for low-volume remote deposit capture applications. This single-feed device has one of the smallest footprints in the industry saving valuable desktop space. Fraudulent items are identified early with hardware-based Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR). Front and rear color image cameras, and an ID card scanning capability round out this small but versatile device.
Silver Bullet Technology, Inc.'s Ranger(®) for Macintosh product enables remote deposit capture users with Apple Macintosh computers to use the extremely popular Burroughs SmartSource Micro Elite scanner. Silver Bullet Technology's Ranger(®) product, the universal check scanner API, gives its users the flexibility to run item processing applications unchanged on a wide variety of check scanners. As new scanners become available, Ranger's flexibility allows for a seamless transition of scanners into the market. Ranger(®) offers financial institutions control over their system configuration with an effortless mix and match between their software and check scanner hardware.
"An important segment of the remote deposit capture community uses Apple Macintosh computers and we are pleased to be able to support them with the Burroughs Micro Elite scanner and Ranger(®), both of which are very popular with the rest of the remote deposit capture community," said Larry McCarter, CEO of Burroughs, Inc.
"Silver Bullet's Ranger(®) API was developed to allow our partners the maximal scanning flexibility and productivity," said Bryan Clark, CEO of Silver Bullet Technology, Inc. "Expanding our offerings with Burroughs to include Apple products falls in line with our ongoing goal to provide innovative products and services to our customers."
About Burroughs
Headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan, Burroughs has a 100+ year legacy of providing industry-leading technology, sales, support and services to the financial industry worldwide. Our growing portfolio includes check and document scanners, cash automation solutions, ATM products, kiosks, enterprise servers, device performance management software, asset recovery, supplies, parts, and implementation and maintenance services. Burroughs offers market-leading onsite maintenance and remote support nationwide. In addition to supporting proprietary solutions, Burroughs provides the same exceptional service on third-party ATM, teller cash automation, safes, check & document processing, data centers, retail vault, kiosk and self-service solutions throughout the US and Puerto Rico. For more information, please visit http://www.burroughs.com.
About Silver Bullet Technology
Pensacola, Florida-based Silver Bullet Technology, Inc. is the foremost expert in check scanner interfaces and scanner emulation software. Silver Bullet's Ranger(®) software makes check scanners and ATMs plug-and-play compatible with existing check scanning software applications. For more information, visit http://www.sbullet.com.
bObsweep Premieres Strongest Robotic Vacuum to Date with First Ever Multidirectional Confinement System
With the Strongest Suction in the Robotic Vacuum Industry, Bob's Smart Specs & Intuitive Controls Make Daily Cleanup a Breeze
SAN FRANCISCO, March 3, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- bObsweep, Canada's pioneering robotic vacuum manufacturer, launched the new bObsweep PetHair Plus, a multifunctional autonomous floor cleaner that boasts the strongest, most powerful suction to date.
A vast leap forward in both style and function to the company's bestselling bObsweep PetHair, bObsweep PetHair Plus -- or simply "Bob" -- builds on their existing 5-in-1 cleaning formula to peak efficiency levels of simultaneous vacuuming, sweeping, mopping, UV sterilizing and HEPA filtration. Sophisticated sensors help Bob detect obstacles, stairs and steep drops, and when he is done cleaning, he automatically returns to his charging station. Specially designed for pet owners, PetHair Plus is tough on tufts, pet dander and litter; his outstanding suction and extra-large dustbin make him perfect for any household to keep dirt at bay.
"bObsweep PetHair Plus is our culmination of five years of outstanding achievements," said Ali Afrouzi, lead technologist of bObsweep. "The industry's largest dustbin, one of the clearest user interfaces, all inclusive remote, and the strongest vacuum suction of any robotic product out there -- all around, Bob is sweeping in new heights of high-tech."
A select public will see an exclusive pre-release demo of the product at the International Home + Housewares Show March 5-8, where bObsweep will demonstrate PetHair Plus' superior vacuum power alongside its rival, the largely anticipated Dyson 360° Eye floor cleaner.
TheFirst Ever Multidirectional Confinement System
The complete PetHair Plus package debuts blOck Plus, a confinement system that projects two invisible barriers in perpendicular directions. This gives users, for the first time, the option to block off parts of a room using one or both signals depending on their need. The new blOck Plus achieves a caliber robotic vacuums have long attempted, and with just one single, simplified device.
One-of-a-kind usability: FullCommand(TM) Remote
The new, more powerful FullCommand(TM) remote lets users configure every feature, operate Bob directly and even set up personalized cleaning schedules to put Bob to work on any day and at any chosen time. With the remote's upgraded technology, Bob doesn't even have to be in direct line of sight to receive and respond to remote commands.
Built-in Checkup System
Bob's on-board diagnostics feature empowers the user by directly communicating any internal issue in one simple sentence. If Bob ever runs into a problem, the specific issue is displayed on his new and improved LCD display screen: "Oops! There's something funny going on with my edge sensors," for example.
The new Bob PetHair Plus comes complete with a charging station, FullCommand(TM) remote control, power adapter, one two-directional blOck Plus, two HEPA filters and two side brushes, all for $899, and with great introductory discounts through authorized retailers. Bob will be available for purchase in April.
bObsweep PetHair Plus represents five years of additional research and engineering since the original Bob's release, and incorporates the feedback of over 150,000 Bob owners in the US/Canadian market and beyond.
To see the Bob PetHair Plus in action, visit the bObsweep Booth L12934 during the International Home + Housewares Show March 5-8 at Chicago's McCormick Place, or visit http://www.bobsweep.com.
About bObsweep
bObsweep creates compact, powerhouse cleaning solutions with their family of automatic robotic vacuum cleaners. Their first product, Bob Standard, which revolutionized the industry with its 1000mL dustbin and deep-cleaning specs, is celebrating its 5-year anniversary. bObsweep offers do-it-yourself repair guides to empower consumers, and all their products are built to last. Across the board, bObsweep delivers high-quality, environmentally conscious products that ease the strain of our everyday lives. To learn more, visit http://www.bobsweep.com.
Nine-Time All-Star Chris Paul And InnoVision Labs Launch Game Vision App By Chris Paul
** Innovative App is Designed To Improve Image Processing Speed of Any Player Who Plays a Sport That Requires Swift Image Processing Skills, Including Basketball, Baseball, Football, Tennis, Soccer and Ice Hockey **
** Through Playing a Recreational, Fun Game, Players Gain an Ability to Process Real-Life Events Up to 2x Faster and Gain Competitive Vision Edge **
LOS ANGELES, March 3, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Nine-time professional All-Star point guard Chris Paul and InnoVision Labs, a neuroscience technology company focused on enhancing image processing functions in the human vision system, announced today the launch of the "Game Vision by Chris Paul" app. The app, available on iPhone/Android platforms, was created for little-league, high-school, college, adult and professional athletes who play basketball, baseball, football, tennis, soccer, ice-hockey and other sports that require swift image processing speed. The app helps these athletes to improve their sports vision, which is critical for on-court and on-field performance.
The typical reaction of an athlete to a given event is divided into three sequential activities: (1) visual processing of the event, (2) decision making based on the visual interpretation, and (3) motoric reaction. Enhancement of the speed of visual processing shortens the overall reaction time, and may free additional time to make optimal decisions. Any improvement in image processing speed can be critical for on-court and on-field performance and is expected to provide athletes with a unique competitive edge. InnoVision Labs' technology was designed to improve fundamental image processing speed of athletes by up to 2x.
The Game Vision by Chris Paul app uses patented and proprietary neuroscience technology developed by InnoVision Labs' team of neuroscientists and game logic themes designed by a team of mobile game experts, in partnership with Chris Paul. The scientific module, which is the core element in the app, was designed with specific emphasis on boosting the brain's image processing speed, depth perception, vision sharpness and contrast sensitivity through unique mobile game challenges which contain specific game elements and logic interpreted by a scientific algorithm. In a recent study published in Nature's Scientific Reports in 2015, young subjects with 20/20 vision who used the InnoVision Lab's technology nearly doubled their image processing speed. In several additional scientific studies by InnoVision Labs, the technology has been proven to significantly improve the vision performance of Air Force fighter pilots and professional athletes, and this technology is available for the first time to young aspiring basketball, baseball, football, tennis, soccer and ice-hockey players.
All-Star Chris Paul said: "I am proud to be a part of this groundbreaking app that will help basketball players and athletes of all ages and all levels unlock their true potential. For an athlete, visual agility and sports vision training is just as important to physical training and practicing. Vision training is key to becoming an elite athlete as it helps you see the game faster than your competition. This new technology can be a game-changer for athletes seeking to make quicker, better decisions and gain competitive advantage."
Nimrod Madar, CEO of InnoVision Labs said: "We are delighted to partner up with a world-class sports icon for this pioneering game. We believe our technology can help the next generation of young athletes improve their sports performance by enhancing image-processing abilities. This high-end app is available as a free download, and the availability on multiple mobile devices platforms makes it accessible to hundreds of millions that play basketball, baseball, football, tennis, ice-hockey and other sports around the globe.
About Chris Paul:
Chris Paul is an American professional basketball player. The face of his Los Angeles franchise, on the court, he's a force to be reckoned with and a fierce competitor. A two time gold medalist and nine-time All-Star, Paul is also a perennial leader in the assists and steals category and one of the most heralded point guards in the game. Off the court, he's a father, a husband, and a compassionate philanthropist. Paul, or CP3, as fans affectionately call him, is building a robust brand and making a huge difference in his community, all while creating a powerful legacy.
About InnoVision Labs:
InnoVision Labs Inc. (OTCBB: INVS) is public, a visual neuroscience technology company, utilizing patented technology to develop and commercialize consumer-oriented software applications. The Company is developing and commercializing next generation vision performance applications. InnoVision Labs has developed a proprietary, patent protected neuroscience technology platform to improve vision performance through brain exercise, by improving the image processing function in the visual cortex of the brain.
About Nature's Scientific Reports:
Scientific Reports is a research publication from the publishers of Nature, covering all areas of the natural and clinical sciences. It is hosted on nature.com, the destination for millions of scientists globally every month. All papers are peer reviewed fairly to ensure they are technically sound. http://www.nature.com/srep/about/index.html
Safe Harbor Statement: This press release contains forward-looking statements, which may be identified by words such as "expects," "plans," "projects," "will," "may," "anticipates," "believes," "should," "would," "intends," "estimates," "suggests," "has the potential to", "designed" and other words and phrases of similar meaning, including statements regarding the results of effectiveness of InnoVision Labs' applications. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that may affect InnoVision Labs' business and prospects, including the risks that InnoVision Labs may not succeed in generating any revenues or developing any commercially successful products, that the products may not achieve the expected results or effectiveness, and other risks and uncertainties that may cause results to differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. In addition to the risk factors described above, investors should consider the economic, competitive, governmental, technological and other factors discussed in InnoVision Labs' filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date the statements were made, and we do not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable law.
Including Android Authority "Best of MWC 2016" and Windows Central "MWC 2016 Top Pick"
HONG KONG, March 3, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- ALCATEL, a brand of TCL Communication Technology Holdings Limited ("TCL Communication" or the "Company" which, together with its subsidiaries and its affiliates, is referred to as the "Group"; HKSE stock code: 2618) was honored with 15 recognitions in all, with the IDOL 4 and IDOL 4S being named jointly for two of the best at Mobile World Congress ("MWC"). During the press conference on 20 February 2016, with over 200 people in attendance, ALCATEL announced its new branding and strategy as well as a new lineup of products, the IDOL 4 series smartphones and PLUS 10 2-in-1 tablet.
"This was a superexciting year for us at MWC," said Dan Dery, Chief Marketing Officer at ALCATEL. "After we rolled out our new branding and our premium IDOL 4 series, we were thrilled to receive multiple awards and recognitions. This indicates that we're moving in the right direction and we are making technology that makes sense to mass market consumers."
The IDOL 4 Series
Citing the premium look and feel, the packaging that becomes virtual-reality goggles and "clever" software, Android Central named IDOL 4 and IDOL 4S "Top Picks for MWC 2016". 9TO5Google also had kudos for both devices in the series. Praise for top-of-the-line IDOL 4S was seconded by Engadget, Phonearena, InformationWeek, Android Authority, Mobile Geeks, International Business Times, WHAT HI-FI and Pisapapeles. After it beat out other entries from Sony, LG and HTC, AndroidPIT recognised IDOL 4 as "Best Affordable Smartphone of MWC 2016", noting how ALCATEL "managed to outperform the competition", making it an "easy choice" when the top-flight specs were considered. IDOL 4 was also cited as "Best Affordable Smartphone" by Tom's Guide.
PLUS 10 2-in-1 Tablet
The innovative 2-in-1 tablet, PLUS 10, powered by the latest Windows 10 operating system, was chosen as "Top Pick of MWC 2016" by Windows Central, as one of the "Hottest Tablets and Laptops from MWC 2016" by NETWORKWORLD, and among "12 of the Best Phones and Tablets" by WHAT HI-FI.
About TCL Communication
TCL Communication Technology Holdings Limited ("TCL Communication" or the "Company"; HKSE stock code: 2618) together with its subsidiaries and its affiliates (collectively the "Group") designs, manufactures and markets an expanding portfolio of mobile and internet products worldwide under two key brands - ALCATEL and TCL. The Group's portfolio of products is currently sold in China and over 170 countries throughout North America, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific. According to telecommunication research firm Gartner and company's data, the Group ranked No. 5 and No. 8 among global phone manufacturers and global smartphone manufacturers respectively in the fourth quarter of 2015. The Group also ranked No. 7 among global tablet manufacturers. Headquartered in Shenzhen, China, TCL Communication operates its highly efficient manufacturing plant and R&D centres in various provinces of the PRC. It employs around 14,000 people in mainland China, Hong Kong and overseas.
TCL Communication is one of the few companies in Hong Kong or mainland China who owns or licenses 2G, 2.5G, 2.75G, 3G and 4G patented technologies. It is also able to independently develop products and solutions for the GSM, GPRS, EDGE, CDMA, WCDMA, TD-SCDMA and LTE. For more information, please visit its website at http://tclcom.tcl.com.
Issued by Cornerstones Communications Ltd. on behalf of TCL Communication.
SOURCE TCL Communication Technology Holdings Limited
TCL Communication Technology Holdings Limited
CONTACT: Cornerstones Communications Limited, Prudence Lai / Mona Chow / Wendy Lau / Edward Siu, Tel: (852) 2903 9291 / 2903 9289 / 2903 9286 / 2903 9299, Email: tcl.comm@cornerstonescom.com
PRIV by BlackBerry: Coming to America's better network
NEW YORK, March 3, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Verizon will offer PRIV(TM), the first Blackberry® smartphone powered by Android, online beginning Thursday, March 3, then in stores beginning Thursday, March 11. PRIV will be available for $30 per month for 24 months on the Verizon installment plan or $720 (full retail price).
PRIV sets a new standard in form factor, offering the best of both keyboards -- the freedom to choose between a best-in-class physical QWERTY keyboard that slides out from under the display or a touch-screen keyboard. In addition, the PRIV offers the exclusive new DTEK(TM) warning system app that monitors and controls application access to your camera, personal information and more. DTEK also evaluates your device security and offers suggested actions to improve your privacy. Through the Android platform, PRIV gives users full access to over one million applications: whether it's Instagram, Spotify, Uber or BBM(®), you'll find it on Google Play(TM).
The best devices on America's #1 ranked network
Your new PRIV deserves the top network and only Verizon wins the number one network in three leading studies, in multiple tests, year after year. When you choose Verizon, you can unlock the full potential of your PRIV with Verizon's 4G LTE network, ranked number one by Root Metrics for overall network performance across the United States for the past five consecutive testing periods. That means after using the camera, you can quickly and reliably share your favorite moments with your friends and family.
Switch to Verizon and get 24 GB of bonus data every year and up to $650
When you purchase your new PRIV you can stream more music, watch more shows and publish more videos -- for free. You'll receive 24 GB of bonus data every year for life when you upgrade or activate a new phone on a Verizon Plan XL or larger and choose the device payment option. The 2 GB of monthly bonus data is shareable, can be combined with other offers and applies as long as the line remains active on a Verizon Plan XL or larger.
If you're switching to Verizon from a discount provider or a company with a poor network, you can also receive up to $650. Visit http://www.verizonwireless.com for additional pricing details and device specifications.
Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) employs a diverse workforce of 177,700 and generated nearly $132 billion in 2015 revenues. Verizon operates America's most reliable wireless network, with more than 112 million retail connections nationwide. Headquartered in New York, the company also provides communications and entertainment services over America's most advanced fiber-optic network, and delivers integrated business solutions to customers worldwide.
VERIZON'S ONLINE NEWS CENTER: Verizon news releases, executive speeches and biographies, media contacts and other information are available at Verizon's online News Center at http://www.verizon.com/news/. News releases are also available through an RSS feed. To subscribe, visit http://www.verizon.com/about/rss-feeds/.
BlackBerry and related trademarks, names and logos are the property of BlackBerry Limited and are registered and/or used in the U.S. and countries around the world. BlackBerry is not responsible for any third-party products or services.
Media contacts:
George Koroneos
Verizon
908-559-3545
george.koroneos@verizon.com
twitter.com/GLKCreative
Laura Merritt
Verizon
614-561-2605
laura.merritt@verizonwireless.com
twitter.com/MerrittLBliss
Epson Expands SureColor P-Series Line with High-Production 44-Inch Display Graphics Printer
Epson SureColor P10000 Delivers High-Production, High-Quality Output to the Display Graphics, Fine Art and Photography Markets
LAS VEGAS, March 3, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- (WPPI, Booth #711) - Epson today announced its latest wide-format printer designed for the display graphics and fine art photography markets - the high-production 44-inch SureColor(®) P10000. Ideal for commercial and production print shops managing indoor display graphics applications and large photographic and fine art fulfillment needs, the SureColor P10000 leverages an impressive 8,000 nozzle PrecisionCore(®) MicroTFP(®) print head, innovative media feeding system, and reformulated Epson UltraChrome(® )PRO nine-color pigment ink system to provide unparalleled production speeds and unmatched print quality. When compared with other Epson solutions on the market, the new SureColor P10000 is capable of producing quality output up to 2.8 times faster.
"Epson understands the needs of our professional imaging customers. We are focused on providing customers with reliable printing solutions that can produce graphics, fine art and photography at high speeds without compromising quality," said Larry Kaufman, product manager, Epson Professional Imaging, Epson America. "The SureColor P10000 is ideal for commercial printers who are not only limited by space, but who strive to more efficiently produce output to meet production deadlines and customer turn-around times."
The SureColor P10000 utilizes an all-new 2.6-inch tall, high-performance 10-channel PrecisionCore MicroTFP print head capable of printing output at exceptionally high resolutions up to 2,400 x 1,200 dpi, ideal for the demanding upscale retail display graphics and fine art photography printing community. Combined with the new Epson UltraChrome PRO nine-color pigment ink system, the SureColor P10000 provides outstanding color and black density. Epson UltraChrome PRO is the first pigment ink set to feature four-levels of gray ink technology, including Gray, Light Gray, Dark Gray, and Black pigments to provide seamless transitions with less visible noise and reduced bronzing for superior grayscale output. In addition, the SureColor P10000 utilizes improved Resin Encapsulation Technology for output with superior gloss uniformity, and exceptional overall contrast ratio and clarity. In addition, this latest generation color pigment technology significantly improves overall print permanence - resulting in prints with exceptional ability to preserve the legacy of the artist.
More About the SureColor P10000
The high-production SureColor P10000 joins the 64-inch SC-P20000 in offering several innovative features to the display graphics, fine art and photo industries, including:
-- Epson PrecisionCore MicroTFP Print Head Technology: 2.6 inch tall,
ten-channel print head offers high-performance and consistency to
deliver high-production, high-quality output. Supports variable size ink
droplet technology as small as 3.5 picoliters for remarkable print
quality. New enhancements include Nozzle Verification Technology and
automatic nozzle cleaning without the use of additional media.
-- Epson UltraChrome PRO Inks: UltraChrome PRO inks utilize the first
four-level gray ink technology to produce outstanding grayscale prints.
New Yellow pigment formulation for up to twice the overall print
permanence and longevity when compared with previous generation ink set.
Individual ink cartridges up to 700 ml enable users to avoid production
downtimes and maximize profitability. The SureColor P10000 is designed
exclusively for use with Epson ink cartridges(1).
-- New Advanced Media Feeding System: Featuring an all-new media feed
system, the SureColor P10000 captures photographs from the back side of
the media in real-time and incorporates a pattern recognition algorithm
providing feedback up to 60 timers per second ensuring accurate and
precise media feed. In addition, new inductive rollers automatically
load roll media without a skew and protect sensitive fine art media from
scratches throughout the printing process.
-- Advanced Black & White Printing Technology: Utilizes a four-level black
system to optimize black & white print quality and a unique screening
algorithm for producing professional black & white prints. Dedicated
Photo Black and Matte Black channels support automatic real-time black
Ink type switching.
-- Advanced Cut Sheet Media Handling: Ideal for softer fine art papers,
such as the Epson Legacy Paper line, the SureColor P10000 supports
accurate cut sheet media loading for 13" x 19" up to 44" wide. In
addition, the SureColor P10000 supports straight-through poster board
media up to 1.5mm thick from 17" to 44" wide. Border Free printing is
also supported for a variety of media sizes.
-- Internal Print Server: A secure, internal 320GB print server included
with the printer boosts workgroup productivity by quickly transferring
print jobs to free-up workstations; adds print queue management, as well
as print job save and reprint functionality.
-- Optional Auto Take-up Reel System: User-installable and intended for
unsupervised production of large print runs with roll-to-roll
requirements; available for $1,295*.
The Epson SureColor P10000 will be on display at WPPI, March 7-9, 2016 at the MGM Grand Conference Center in Las Vegas in Epson's booth (#711).
Pricing, Support and Availability
The Epson SureColor P10000 will be available in Spring 2016 for $6,995 (MSRP) through authorized Epson Professional Imaging resellers. The Epson SureColor P10000 offers a standard Epson Preferred(SM) Limited Warranty, a one-year program that includes toll-free advanced telephone access Monday through Friday and usually next business-day on-site service in the unlikely event of any hardware failure. Epson Preferred Plus service plans are available that cover both the hardware and software for up to two additional years. For additional information, contact your local dealer or visit http://www.proimaging.epson.com.
About Epson
Epson is a global technology leader dedicated to driving innovations and exceeding customer expectations in printing, visual communications, quality of life and manufacturing. Epson's lineup ranges from inkjet printers, printing systems and 3LCD projectors to industrial robots, smart glasses and sensing systems and is based on original compact, energy-saving, and high-precision technologies.
Led by the Japan-based Seiko Epson Corporation, the Epson Group comprises nearly 72,000 employees in 93 companies around the world, and is proud of its contributions to the communities in which it operates and its ongoing efforts to reduce environmental burdens.
Epson America, Inc., based in Long Beach, Calif., is Epson's regional headquarters for the U.S., Canada, and Latin America. To learn more about Epson, please visit: epson.com. You may also connect with Epson America on Facebook (facebook.com/Epson), Twitter (twitter.com/EpsonAmerica), YouTube (youtube.com/EpsonAmerica), and Instagram (instagram.com/EpsonAmerica).
(1) Each printer is designed to use only EPSON ink cartridges and not other brands of new or refilled cartridges, or other brands of ink or bulk ink systems. Using EPSON cartridges is important for reliable performance and high image quality. Epson offers voluntary recycling of spent ink cartridges.
Note: EPSON, PrecisionCore, SureColor, TFP, and UltraChrome are registered trademarks and EPSON Exceed Your Vision is a registered logomark of Seiko Epson Corporation. Epson Preferred is a servicemark of Epson America, Inc .Adobe and PostScript are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated in the United States and/or other countries. All other product brand names are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective companies. Epson disclaims any and all rights in these marks.
Oracle Unveils First Data Protection Solution with Seamless Cloud Tiering
Oracle's StorageTek Virtual Storage Manager 7 System Provides Mainframe and Heterogeneous Storage with a Fully Integrated Cloud Strategy
REDWOOD SHORES, California, March 3, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Oracle announces the all new StorageTek Virtual Storage Manager (VSM) 7 System, the most secure and scalable data protection solution for mainframe and heterogeneous systems with the additional capability to provide fully automated tiering directly to the public cloud. Furthermore, Oracle's StorageTek VSM 7 System has been architected to seamlessly integrate with Oracle Storage Cloud Service - Object Storage and Oracle Storage Cloud Service - Archive Service and provides storage administrators with a built-in cloud strategy. With Oracle, cloud storage is now as accessible as on-premise storage.
"In the past, data protection solutions were designed to deal with exponential data growth on-premises, but an entirely different dynamic drove the design of the VSM 7," said James Cates, senior vice president, Archive Product Development, Oracle. "The core is still there--elevated performance, twice the capacity, a higher degree of scalability, but we saw a gap in the market, so we developed Engineered Cloud Tiering to enable mainframe users to take advantage of cloud economics."
"With its VSM 7, Oracle is bringing mainframe-caliber data protection to heterogeneous systems users, and its native tiering to the Oracle Public Cloud's storage and archive services will no doubt extend the market potential," said Mark Peters, practice director and senior analyst, ESG. "Furthermore, the enterprise-caliber Oracle Public Cloud adds a compelling and affordable storage alternative for mainframe customers."
Organizations can experience these benefits:
-- Performance & Scalability: Oracle's StorageTek VSM 7 System is a
superior data protection solution for IBM z Systems mainframes with full
data interchange across previous generation VSM systems and key features
that IBM's TS7700 virtual tape system lacks. Oracle's StorageTek VSM 7
System delivers, 34x more capacity, significantly higher scalability to
256 StorageTek VSM 7 Systems, data deduplication and native cloud
tiering that provides mainframe and heterogeneous storage users the
ability to access additional capacity on demand.
-- Enhanced Security: Powered by Oracle's breakthrough SPARC M7 processor,
Oracle's StorageTek VSM 7 System delivers wide-key encryption for data
at rest and on removable tape media without performance compromise and
also uses Silicon Secured Memory for data protection.
-- Availability: Oracle's StorageTek VSM 7 System provides data protection
solutions from on-premises to Oracle Public Cloud, with a single point
of contact for all mainframe storage and heterogeneous storage
requirements. Policies can be set to automatically copy or migrate files
from external disk storage to low cost, off-site cloud storage. With
native cloud tiering, customers benefit from end-to-end visibility and
diagnostics from on-premise StorageTek VSM 7 System deployments to the
Oracle Storage Cloud Service or Oracle Storage Cloud Archive Service.
-- Disaster Recovery: Oracle's StorageTek VSM 7 System enables a "lights
out" disaster recovery strategy, as a mainframe is no longer required at
remote sites, dramatically reducing costs and simplifying deployments.
Electronic data sharing across separate complexes, clustering,
replication, and DR to the Oracle Public Cloud provides a breadth of
simple, flexible disaster recovery options.
Oracle is also addressing the needs of mission critical heterogeneous environments underserved by other solutions. Extending its enterprise-proven architecture to a broader customer base, Oracle is providing robust mainframe data protection capabilities with flexible disaster recovery options.
Availability
-- Q1 CY2016
Additional Resources
-- Oracle's StorageTek Tape Storage
About Oracle
Oracle offers a comprehensive and fully integrated stack of cloud applications and platform services. For more information about Oracle (NYSE:ORCL), visit oracle.com.
Trademarks
Oracle and Java are registered trademarks of Oracle and/or its affiliates. Other names may be trademarks of their respective owners.
Gaming Provider Aces Customer Service using Saisei Network Visibility, Analytics and Control
Saisei Helps First Cagayan Deliver Online Gaming without Delays, Stop Forbidden Traffic, and Provide Fair Access to All Users
SUNNYVALE, Calif. and PASIG CITY, Philippines, March 2, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Saisei today announced that First Cagayan Converge Data Center, Inc. (FCCDCI) has deployed Saisei's FlowCommand network performance enforcement software. The Saisei software has enabled the gaming, hotel and casino operator to eliminate network congestion, postpone new bandwidth purchases, increase network security, and offer fair access to all users and new premium services in the future.
As the technology partner of a recognized interactive gaming jurisdiction in Asia, FCCDCI provides IT and network services to more than 100 licensed online gaming operators. Most games and sports occur in real time, so the network that streams the activities must continuously operate at optimum levels to avoid service disruption. Delays, freezes, or outages severely impact the bottom line - a second of downtime can translate into thousands if not millions in lost revenue potential.
"If the game or video freezes for even a moment, a gamer can feel gypped out because he's betting on what he's able to see," says John Cornejo, IT consultant to FCCDCI. "Not only that, an addition of a mere five-millisecond delay will cause a gaming operator's network to terminate, putting paid gaming sessions and sports bets in jeopardy."
FCCDCI also services hotels and gaming casinos, where it needs to provide fair and equal network access to paying customers. So finding a way to deliver fair bandwidth and eliminating network congestion remain a primary focus for the company.
"A few years ago, two gaming operators were threatening to pull out because of really bad network congestion that was rendering service unavailable," says Edgardo Lopez, FCCDCI's chief technology officer.
The amount of bandwidth to be delivered to each gaming operator is specified in the operator's subscription contract. To supply the contracted capacity, FCCDCI first tried to use the traffic management capabilities embedded in their WAN routers.
"The routers weren't very good at controlling usage, which then became an issue at billing time. We have to make sure what we sell is what's paid for. If we don't control bandwidth properly, we lose out on revenue. What's more, over-usage by one customer infringes on the bandwidth of others, and this leads to poorer service," says Lopez. "We also tried different WAN optimization solutions with minimal improvement."
Ultimately FCCDCI chose to implement Saisei's FlowCommand, which has allowed the company to retain once-disgruntled customers and to boost the utilization of its network for a far greater return on its bandwidth investments. The Saisei software uses patented technology to allocate a guaranteed bit rate to each discrete network traffic flow. It simultaneously monitors millions of concurrent IP flows, tracks each individual flow with 40 metrics, applies any combination of these metrics in a policy, and can execute those policies in less than a second.
FCCDCI has installed FlowCommand in multiple locations as a virtual edge appliance to control congestion and manage fair usage. The deep visibility provided by FlowCommand has enabled FCCDCI to regain control of what experiences its operator customers - and their customers - have. Using the software, every single flow is associated in real-time with the application it's serving, geographic locations, hosts or customer groups.
"Saisei's software has paid off in a number of ways," Cornejo says. "The two gaming operators who threatened to take their business elsewhere have decided to remain our customers. And we've been able to eliminate the 5-millisecond latency that can terminate a gaming session and its associated revenue."
Because the traffic flows have become controllable and predictable, the company now operates its network at 80% utilization, up from 50% utilization before Saisei FlowCommand was installed. As a result, FCCDCI has been able to realize a bigger return on its existing bandwidth investment, and it can postpone new bandwidth investments by getting more out of what it already has.
Detailed visibility into the network also helps FCCDCI verify with its customers how much bandwidth they are using. In some cases, the company determined that operators were using more bandwidth than they had contracted for. However, FCCDCI was able to show reports of the traffic loads, which included a breakdown of traffic by application type. Sometimes, there was application traffic on the network that the customer didn't know about, consuming valuable bandwidth in the background.
"In fact, we were able to identify application traffic that our customers' own internal policies did not allow on the network," says Cornejo. "For example, some operators forbid use of Facebook and other social media - the Saisei tool was able to show that such application traffic was indeed on the operators' networks, sometimes pushing the customer over its subscribed bandwidth limit."
FCCDCI also uses FlowCommand to ensure equal Wi-Fi access for all its own hotel and casino guests. FlowCommand's host equalization capability makes sure that every user sharing a link gets exactly the same percentage of the available bandwidth that every other user has, regardless of what application(s) they might be running. FCCDCI is also considering using the Saisei software to create premium services for those who are willing to pay a premium for additional bandwidth. By controlling the rate of each specific flow, the company can successfully provide equal services to all, premium services to some users willing to pay more, or a mix of the two.
"What's important is that we now have the ability to make sure all parties have access to the bandwidth that they're entitled to, whether that's a minimum 1 Mbps for an individual user, 2 Mbps for a gaming table, or 5 Mbps for VIP users. No one gets kicked off the network anymore," says Cornejo.
About Saisei
Saisei is a Sunnyvale, California-based software company that has revolutionized network visibility, analysis and control for the challenges that mobility, cloud, SDN, NFV, and the Internet of Things are bringing to networks today. Its scalable, real-time Network Performance Enforcement software solutions provide the speed and smarts needed to instantly see, analyze and enforce policy on the millions of applications, users, and devices populating networks today. Enterprises and service providers can now use their full network bandwidth knowing that unexpected traffic surges are automatically accommodated and all user traffic will get through even the busiest of network links with no dropped sessions, resulting in dramatic savings, accelerated revenue growth and a great user experience. Learn more at http://www.saisei.com. Connect with Saisei: Twitter (@SaiseiNetworks), LinkedIn and Facebook.