Borqs' Android+ Powers the Recently Launched Micromax Canvas 4
CUPERTINO, Calif., Aug. 5, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Borqs International Holding Corp, a leading global end-to-end Android and cloud software solutions provider, recently announced their cooperation with Micromax in the development of the company's new flagship product, the Canvas 4. Borqs has integrated their Android+ features to enhance the Canvas 4's powerful multitasking functionality and media applications, resulting in a radical and next-generation user experience. The Canvas 4 is a testament to the successful strategic partnership between Borqs and Micromax in a series of collaborations and clever innovations between the two companies.
If there is one word that best summarizes the Canvas 4's software experience, it's sure to be "multitasking." Gone are the days when users were stuck viewing one application at a time, with all other apps relegated to running invisibly in the background. For the Canvas 4, Borqs provides a revolutionary application pinning feature which enables users to physically attach, or "pin" an application onto their screens while simultaneously using another application. Users can pin any application to their screen and presto: instant and seamless multitasking between different applications is achieved. This "pinning" feature is not limited to video or text apps; users can pin whatever apps they would like and can even watch two videos at the same time. With the Canvas 4, Borqs brings a whole new meaning to multitasking on Android.
Another innovative feature of Canvas 4, courtesy of Borqs, is "Music Hub," allowing users to easily access and manage all of their music from one central location. Music Hub also provides users access to Micromax's online collection of over 500,000 songs via "Online Music Hub." With an inbuilt memory of 16GB NAND flash expandable up to 32GB, users have all the space they need to download music to their hearts' content. It also features a generously-sized and incredibly crisp 5-inch HD IPS touchscreen display.
"Following the successful launch of the Canvas 4, our partnership with Micromax has finally come into full bloom. Borqs has provided advanced Android technology and apps to help enhance the overall multitasking and entertainment functionality of the Canvas 4," said Hareesh Ramanna, VP of Engineering at Borqs. "But the Canvas 4 is just the beginning. Borqs sees great potential in our partnership with Micromax, and we are exploring further opportunities to extend the Android+ experience to cover the entire Micromax smart device portfolio."
"With the launch of the Canvas 4, we are yet again raising the bar for affordable innovation," said Mr. Rahul Sharma, Co Founder, Micromax. "Powered by Borqs' leading Android solutions, we believe consumers can expect much more from Canvas 4 and other Micromax devices in the future. We understand that Micromax consumers expect something new every time, and we would continue to build on our promise to pleasantly surprise people with innovations that directly address their needs."
The Canvas 4 has successfully been released to the market, and this collaboration between Borqs and Micromax has resulted in a unique branded experience for Micromax's flagship device. As always, Borqs will provide its partners and customers with extraordinary Android technologies and solutions that are engineered to exceed expectations.
Micromax started as an IT software company in the year 2000 working on embedded platforms. In 2008, it entered mobile handset business and by 2010 it became one of the largest Indian domestic mobile handsets company by offering unique affordable innovations. The company has a 24% market share in the smartphone segment in India as per the CMR report for April 2013. The brand's product portfolio embraces more than 60 models today, ranging from feature rich, dual-SIM phones, 3G Android smartphones, tablets, LED televisions and data cards. The company has many firsts to its credit when it comes to the mobile handset market including the 30-day battery backup, dual SIM phones, QWERTY keypads, universal remote control mobile phones etc. Micromax has presence in more than 560 districts through 125,000 retail outlets in India. The company has sales presence spread across Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Nepal.
About Borqs
Borqs International Holding Corp, established in September 2007, is a technology company dedicated to providing customizable, integrated Android software platform solutions and end-to-end service platform solutions for mobile operators, terminal OEMs, and chip manufacturers worldwide. Headquartered in Beijing, Borqs also has offices and research and development facilities in Cupertino, Bangalore, Wuhan and Shenzhen. Primary investors in Borqs are Keytone Ventures, GSR Ventures, Tsinghua Venture Capital, Norwest Venture Partners, SK Telecom Ventures and Intel Capital Corporation. Borqs is now an active member of Google/OHA (the Open Handset Alliance), the TD Industry Alliance and Linux Foundation.
Supported by leading venture capital and world-class strategic partners, Borqs meets the demands of its global customer base with platforms and services made possible by Borqs¡¯ technological innovation, leading-edge product development, and complete customer service system. With the big leap of business performance and enhanced brand influence, Borqs was awarded in succession by "Deloitte Technology Fast 500 Asia Pacific" in 2011 and 2012, and was ranked 7th in China, while 20th in Asia Pacific for the latest annual.
SOURCE Borqs International Holding Corp
Borqs International Holding Corp
CONTACT: Borqs, Michelle Wang / Janice, +86-10-5975-6336 X8597 / 8596, michelle.wang@borqs.com / jiaxing.nie@borqs.com; or Micromax, NieAndre Augustine, +91-999-977-6749, andre@micromaxinfo.com
VIZIO Unveils Next Generation Smart TV Platform with Best-in-Class Design and Even More Entertainment Value Added to Industry's #1 Connected TV Experience
VIZIO Internet Apps Plus(TM) Delivers Advanced App Browsing and Discovery, Support for HTML 5 Apps, Second Screen Interactivity and A Consumer-Friendly, Intuitive Smart TV Interface
IRVINE, Calif., Aug. 5, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- VIZIO, America's #1 large size LCD TV company(1), today announced the availability of its all-new connected platform - VIZIO Internet Apps Plus(TM). Building on the brand's #1 position in the smart TV industry(2), VIZIO Internet Apps Plus combines a best-in-class connected TV experience with an all-new, powerful platform and additional apps. The new smart TV experience debuted on VIZIO's all-new M-Series Razor LED(TM) smart TV collection, the brand's latest most feature-rich smart TV line-up to date, ranging from 32" to 80" in size.
VIZIO Internet Apps Plus provides consumers with an intuitive smart TV experience. The platform features advanced, full-screen app browsing and discovery, HTML 5 app support, the ability to control apps with mobile devices and an intuitive app launcher. Consumers can not only navigate quicker and easier, but the redesign also provides access to a newly expanded full-screen app library, making it simple to find, organize and browse the full collection of apps. The new interface also overlays an app launcher along the bottom of the screen for quick, at-a-glance access to seven of the user's favorite apps. With the selected app now in center focus of the display, users can better view the previous three and next three apps in the carousel for faster navigation.
Users can now control apps with a mobile device, paving the way to seamless second screen interactivity between phones, tablets and smart TVs. The innovative YouTube(TM) "Send to TV" feature allows consumers to send a YouTube video from their mobile device to the TV when both are connected on the same Wi-Fi network. With this added convenience, users can easily lean forward on mobile devices to search for videos, then lean back to enjoy them on the big screen. The consumer can even transition the YouTube video back to the mobile device, allowing users to continue watching as they venture into another room without missing a beat.
Based on consumer feedback and research, VIZIO is also introducing their latest innovation to compliment the smart TV experience on VIZIO's M-Series TVs. VIZIO's new Wi-Fi Direct Smart Remote features a faster response time than IR by using Wi-Fi to communicate with the TV, which gives users great range from anywhere in the room and without needing to point directly at the TV*. With an elegant and streamlined industrial design, the remote also includes quick launch smart TV keys for fast access to movies, TV shows and other on-demand content, as well as backlit keys for easier nighttime viewing. VIZIO will deploy a software update to new internet-connected M-Series TVs and alert users to follow the onscreen directions to update their remote with the added Wi-Fi features later this summer.
"The latest generation of VIZIO Internet Apps Plus represents two years of development and design. Delivering more power through a new full screen mode and enhanced features, the platform offers a highly intuitive, seamless entertainment experience for consumers," said Matt McRae, VIZIO Chief Technology Officer. "We're also excited to announce the advanced second screen interactions VIZIO Internet Apps Plus provides, allowing for application and service control through a mobile phone or tablet device."
As part of VIZIO's unwavering commitment to providing consumers with the latest and best technologies, VIZIO's next generation smart TV platform also supports HTML 5 apps, which allows developers to create richer app experiences using a more efficient protocol that enables better interactive design and features for consumers.
Current popular apps that have helped VIZIO become the smart platform consumers connect to most include Amazon Instant Video, HuluPlus, Netflix, VUDU and YouTube( )among others. New apps to join the new platform include:
-- M-GO - M-GO is the people-friendliest, new pay-as-you-go digital
entertainment service that makes it easier than ever to browse, rent,
buy and enjoy the broadest, newest and best selection of movies and TV
shows on your screens. Created by people who love entertainment for
people who love being entertained, M-GO's mission is to transform the
world of digital entertainment on the viewer's terms. Whether viewing at
home or on-the-go, M-GO makes it even easier for consumers to enjoy the
freshest releases and a deep catalogue of hits with handpicked
recommendations, paying only for what they want without needing to
commit to subscription fees.
-- ESPN ScoreCenter - Gives sports fans real-time game scores and
information from all major leagues and sports. ESPN ScoreCenter is a
data-driven application that features stats, schedules, rankings,
scores, personalization and video highlights.
-- ESPN EXTRA - Allows college football fans to enjoy a personalized
experience with short-form clips during College Football Season
(September 2013 through February 2014).
-- 3DGO!(TM) - Unique to the VIZIO Theater 3D Smart TV experience is
SENSIO's 3DGO!, the world's first dedicated 3D video-on-demand service
featuring a wide array of premium 3D content including some of the
latest Hollywood blockbuster titles. Based on the award-winning
SENSIO(®) Hi-Fi 3D technology providing the best 3D image quality,
3DGO! is the perfect app for 3D movie enthusiasts who desire instant
access to new 3D content, with an intuitive and easy-to-use interface,
and requiring no subscription or additional equipment.
"Smart TV platforms provide consumers additional options for gathering content via their TV," said Ben Arnold, Director of Industry Analysis at NPD. "VIZIO has maintained their position as the leading LED TV brand with apps included from last year through Q2 2013."
VIZIO's new M-Series with its new smart TV platform now extends its award-winning smart TV collection with screen sizes from 32" to as large as 80", perfect for enjoying the latest movies, TV shows and more on-demand with stellar picture quality and near borderless, ultra-thin design. The new M-Series lineup is now available at VIZIO.com and at retailers nationwide including Amazon, Best Buy, Costco, Sam's Club, Target and Walmart.
For more information on VIZIO's all-new VIZIO Internet Apps Plus smart TV platform or the latest M-Series HDTV collection, please visit http://www.VIZIO.com.
1 The NPD Group /
Weekly Tracking
Service, Large
Size includes
60"+, Q2 2013
units sold
2 The NPD Group /
Retail Tracking
Service, Q2 2013
LED TV units
with Apps
included
* Wi-Fi Direct
Smart Remote
update summer
2013
About VIZIO
VIZIO, Inc. is headquartered in Irvine, California. In Q2 2007, VIZIO skyrocketed to the top by becoming the #1 shipping brand of flat panel HDTVs in North America and in Q3 2007 became the first American brand in over a decade to lead in North American LCD HDTV shipments. VIZIO was #1 in North America for 2010.(1) VIZIO is now also America's #1 large size LCD company(2) as the leading seller of 60" and larger HDTVs in the U.S. with 30% of the market in this class(3). VIZIO was the #1 Sound Bar Company in the U.S. for Q1 2013(4). As VIZIO celebrates its 10-Year Anniversary, it remains committed to what it does best, focus on the consumer to deliver visionary products at a great value. VIZIO offers a broad range of award winning consumer electronics that now include PCs and mobility products. VIZIO's products are found at Amazon, Best Buy, BJ's Wholesale, Costco Wholesale, Sam's Club, Target, Walmart and other retailers nationwide. VIZIO has won numerous awards including a #1 ranking in the Inc. 500 for Top Companies in Computers and Electronics and made the lists of Ad Age's Hottest Brands, CNET's Editor's Choice, CNET Best of CES 2011 - Television, Home Theater Magazine's Top Picks, Good Housekeeping's Best Big-Screens, PC World's Best Buy and Popular Mechanics Editor's Choice among many other prestigious honors. For more information, please call 888-VIZIOCE or visit http://www.VIZIO.com.
1 DisplaySearch Quarterly
Global TV Shipment and
Forecast Report
2 The NPD Group /Weekly
Tracking Service, Large
Size includes 60"+, Q2 2013
units sold
3 The NPD Group /Retail
Tracking Service, Q2 2013
LED TV units with Apps
included
4 The NPD Group /Retail
Tracking Service, Q1 2013
SOURCE VIZIO
Crossbar Emerges from Stealth-Mode; Unveils Crossbar RRAM Non-Volatile Memory Technology
Working Array Validates Manufacturability and Simplicity of Crossbar Resistive RAM
-Highest Capacity: Up to 1 Terabyte (TB) of Storage on a Single Chip; Multiple Terabytes with 3D Stacking
-Lowest Power: Extends Battery Life to Weeks, Months or Years
-Highest Performance: 20x Faster Write than NAND
-Easiest SOC Integration: Simple Stacking on Logic in Standard CMOS at Most Advanced Nodes
-Most Reliable: 10x the Endurance of NAND; Approaching DRAM Reliability
SANTA CLARA, Calif., Aug. 5, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --Emerging from stealth-mode today, Crossbar, Inc., a start-up company pioneering a new category of very high capacity and high-performance non-volatile memory, unveiled its Crossbar Resistive RAM (RRAM) technology. This new generation of non-volatile memory will be capable of storing up to one terabyte (TB) of data on a single 200mm(2) chip, enabling massive amounts of information, such as 250 hours of HD movies, to be stored and played back from an IC smaller than a postage stamp. Crossbar today also announced it has developed a working Crossbar memory array at a commercial fab, a major milestone in the development of new memory technology, signaling its readiness to begin the first phase of productization.
Due to its simple three-layer structure, Crossbar technology can be stacked in 3D, delivering multiple terabytes of storage on a single chip. Its simplicity, stackability and CMOS compatibility enable logic and memory to be easily integrated onto a single chip at the latest technology node, a capability not possible with other traditional or alternative non-volatile memory technologies.
"Non-volatile memory is ubiquitous today, as the storage technology at the heart of the over a trillion dollar(1)( )electronics market - from tablets and USB sticks to enterprise storage systems," said George Minassian, chief executive officer, Crossbar, Inc. "And yet today's non-volatile memory technologies are running out of steam, hitting significant barriers as they scale to smaller manufacturing processes. With our working Crossbar array, we have achieved all the major technical milestones that prove our RRAM technology is easy to manufacture and ready for commercialization. It's a watershed moment for the non-volatile memory industry."
Crossbar's technology will deliver 20x faster write performance, 20x lower power consumption, and 10x the endurance at half the die size, compared to today's best-in-class NAND Flash memory. With that breakthrough performance and reliability, very high capacity and low power consumption, Crossbar will enable a new wave of electronics innovation for consumer, enterprise, mobile, industrial and connected device applications.
Non-volatile memory is the most common storage technology used for both code storage (NOR) and data storage (NAND) in a wide range of electronics applications. According to market research firm WebFeet Research(2), non-volatile memory is expected to grow to become a $48.4 billion market in 2016. Crossbar plans to bring to market standalone chip solutions, optimized for both code and data storage, used in place of traditional NOR and NAND Flash memory. Crossbar also plans to license its technology to system on a chip (SOC) developers for integration into next-generation SOCs.
Sample of Crossbar Technology Applications:
Consumer Electronics, Mobile Phones and Tablets- Stores all of your personal entertainment, data, photos and information in a device that fits in your pocket. Delivers very fast storage, playback, backup and archiving.
Enterprise Storage, SSDs and Cloud Computing - Extends SSD reliability and capacity. Improves performance for enterprise, data center and cloud storage systems.
The Internet of Things; The Industrial Internet - Delivers years of battery life for industrial and connected applications such as smart meters and thermostats. Wide temperature ranges allow for reliability in the extreme heat of the summer or freezing temperatures in the winter. Enables entirely new, highly integrated SOCs that can be powered with a button cell or energy harvesting from the environment such as solar, heat or simple vibrations.
Wearable Computing - Enables a new generation of wearable computing with high capacity storage in a very small, compact size with very low power consumption.
Secure Payments - Can permanently store the codes and encryption keys needed for secure applications such as large volume smart cards to high-end mobile processors for contactless payments.
Working Memory Array Underscores Simplicity; Readiness for Commercialization
The Crossbar memory cell is based on three simple layers: A non-metallic bottom electrode, an amorphous silicon switching medium and a metallic top electrode. The resistance switching mechanism is based on the formation of a filament in the switching material when a voltage is applied between the two electrodes. This simple and very scalable memory cell structure enables an entirely new class of RRAM, which can be easily incorporated into the back end of line of any standard CMOS manufacturing fab.
After completing the technology transfer to Crossbar's R&D fab and technology analysis and optimization, Crossbar has now successfully developed its demonstration product in a commercial fab. This working silicon is a fully integrated monolithic CMOS controller and memory array chip. The company is currently completing the characterization and optimization of this device and plans to bring its first product to market in the embedded SOC market.
"RRAM is widely considered the obvious leader in the battle for a next generation memory and Crossbar is the company most advanced, showing a working demo that proves the manufacturability of RRAM. This is a significant development in the industry, as it provides a clear path to commercialization of a new storage technology, capable of changing the future landscape of electronics innovation."
Jim Handy, Director, Objective Analysis
"The memory market is looking to new technologies to take over once flash reaches its scaling limit. Crossbar's impressive progress in the development of a manufacturable ReRAM gives a big boost to this popular alternative memory."
Michael Yang, Senior Principal Analyst, Memory and Storage, IHS
"Ninety percent of the data we store today was created in the past two years. The creation and instant access of data has become an integral part of the modern experience, continuing to drive dramatic growth for storage for the foreseeable future. However, the current storage medium, planar NAND, is seeing challenges as it reaches the lower lithographies, pushing against physical and engineering limits. The next generation non-volatile memory, such as Crossbar's RRAM, would bypass those limits, and provide the performance and capacity necessary to become the replacement memory solution."
Greg Wong, Founder, President and Principal Analyst, Forward Insights
"For several years now companies have focused on developing a next generation memory technology that will lead to significant improvements in reliability, performance, low power operation and scalability compared to existing non-volatile memories. Forward Insights believes that RRAM, including Crossbar's approach, has the potential to succeed NAND flash memory due to its scalability and manufacturability. With the realization of a working demo array, we are excited to see the future impact of this technology on a wide range of applications from mobile and connected devices, to storage and data centers."
Alan Niebel, Founder and CEO, WebFeet Research
"To date, there has not been a viable 2D or 3D NAND replacement technology. Storage Class Memories like Crossbar's RRAM have a chance of capturing this elusive NAND replacement $40+ billion prize. Crossbar's working RRAM technology array demonstrates significant commercialization progress. Continuing on this trajectory, they could lead the market with a cost effective crosspoint, multi-layer (8) RRAM ahead of the 3D NAND or their 3D RRAM competition."
Yatin Mundkur, Partner, Artiman Ventures
"We are thrilled to see Crossbar achieve a significant industry milestone and produce its first working array in CMOS production facility. We are one step closer to achieving our goal of commercializing a completely new class of memory using a much simpler cell structure than traditional flash alternatives. Artiman is excited to continue working with Crossbar to revolutionize the memory industry."
Supporting Resources:
-- Crossbar Resistive Memory: The Future Technology for NAND Flash
Whitepaper
-- Crossbar Fact Sheet
-- Press Images
-- Executive Biographies
-- Crossbar Technology Video: Real Time TEM Visualization
-- Crossbar Website
About Crossbar, Inc.
Founded in 2010, Crossbar, a start-up based in Santa Clara, California, is the inventor of a new class of non-volatile RRAM memory technology. Designed to usher in a new era of electronics innovation, Crossbar will deliver up to a terabyte (TB) of storage on a single-chip the size of a postage stamp, with very low power, very high performance and compatibility with standard CMOS semiconductor manufacturing processes. As the exclusive holder of resistive RAM (RRAM) patents from the University of Michigan, Crossbar has filed 100 unique patents, with 30 already issued, relating to the development, commercialization and manufacturing of RRAM technology. Crossbar is backed by Artiman Ventures, Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers and Northern Light Venture Capital. For more information, visit http://www.crossbar-inc.com or follow us on Twitter@crossbarinc, LinkedIn and Google+.
Copyright 2013. All rights reserved. Crossbar, Inc., the Crossbar logo, and certain other Crossbar trademarks and logos are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of Crossbar, Inc.
CEVA Announces New Application Developer Kit for CEVA-MM3000 Imaging & Vision Platforms
ADK substantially streamlines software development and integration effort required for advanced computational photography and vision applications
MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., Aug. 5, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- CEVA, Inc. (NASDAQ: CEVA), the leading licensor of silicon intellectual property (SIP) platform solutions and DSP cores, today announced the availability of a new Application Developer Kit (ADK) for the CEVA-MM3000 imaging and vision platforms. The ADK was developed in-house and serves to substantially simplify the overall software development experience, shortening the product design cycle and providing significant memory bandwidth and power consumption savings. CEVA's imaging experts utilized the ADK to develop its new low power Digital Video Stabilizer (DVS) software module, which was also announced today in a separate press release.
Erez Bar-Niv, CTO of CEVA, commented: "Our multimedia product offerings leverage the full breadth of engineering expertise at CEVA, bringing together our processor, algorithm and tools engineering teams to deliver the most robust, end-to-end IP platform for developing advanced computational photography, computer vision and augmented reality applications in the industry. Following several major customer design wins, the growing community of developers creating software for our CEVA-MM3000 platforms is constantly seeking ways to simplify the software development flow in increasingly complex systems environments. The CEVA Application Developer Kit successfully addresses these challenges, bringing new levels of efficiency and productivity for software developers, including those who are traditionally used to working at the CPU level."
The CEVA Application Developer Kit (ADK) includes the following tools:
-- CEVA-CV(TM) - a standard library of more than 600 programming functions
for computer vision processing, based on OpenCV and fully optimized for
the CEVA-MM3000 platforms. CEVA-CV enables developers to use
pre-optimized standard OpenCV kernels for their target application,
resulting in quick time-to-market and optimal performance metrics. For
example, CEVA's DVS module leverages a number of these functions,
including Harris Corner, KLT feature detection, RANSAC, Kalman and
Affine Transform.
-- SmartFrame(TM) - a software tool designed to handle all of the system
resource requirements, including data transfers, DMA transactions and
the execution of kernels, thereby abstracting the system architecture
and automating frame handling for the application developer. The
SmartFrame tool also supports kernel tunneling, whereby multiple
functions can be linked together, minimizing memory bandwidth and
overall system power consumption.
-- Real-Time OS (RTOS), Scheduler - A DSP task management and scheduling
software module, handling task prioritization and task switching.
-- CPU-DSP Link - a set of communication channels and system drivers for
both the CPU and DSP platforms, which completely abstracts the CPU-DSP
interface for the programmer. Automatic task offloading from the CPU to
the DSP occurs through this Link.
-- CV API - software APIs on the CPU for a wide range of computer vision
functions, including the CEVA-CV library, enabling the CPU programmer to
easily utilize any module running on the DSP, while completely
abstracting it.
To address specific customer requirements, these tools are delivered in source code format to CEVA licensees, allowing further customization and modifications.
The Application Developer Kit (ADK) is available for CEVA-MM3000 platform licensees today.
About CEVA, Inc.
CEVA is the world's leading licensor of silicon intellectual property (SIP) DSP cores and platform solutions for the mobile, portable and consumer electronics markets. CEVA's IP portfolio includes comprehensive technologies for cellular baseband (2G / 3G / 4G), multimedia (vision, imaging and HD audio), voice processing, Bluetooth, Serial Attached SCSI (SAS) and Serial ATA (SATA). In 2012, CEVA's IP was shipped in over 1.1 billion devices, powering smartphones from many of the world's leading OEMs, including HTC, Huawei, LG, Nokia, Motorola, Samsung, Sony, TCL and ZTE. Today, more than 40% of handsets shipped worldwide are powered by a CEVA DSP core. For more information, visit http://www.ceva-dsp.com. Follow CEVA on twitter at http://www.twitter.com/cevadsp.
CONTACT: Richard Kingston, CEVA, Inc., 650-417-7976, richard.kingston@ceva-dsp.com; Mike Sottak, Wired Island, Ltd., 408-876-4418, mike@wiredislandpr.com
WHSmith Appoints Gamucci as Electronic Cigarettes' Category Leader
LONDON, August 5, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --
Gamucci has been appointed category leader by WHSmith as part of the UK retailer's
plans to expand its range of electronic cigarettes. The partnership will see a gradual
roll-out of Gamucci's products in 600 High Street stores from 5th August 2013.
WHSmith will display electronic cigarettes through Gamucci branded fixtures, either as
part of the tobacco merchandising units or on branded Display Units which will appear
adjacent to its existing unbranded tobacco fixtures.
According to Nielsen, the independent consumer research company, Gamucci is now the
fastest growing participant in the UK electronic cigarettes category, with year-on-year
growth of over 2000%.
John Dunne, Head of UK Sales, Gamucci, said: "We are delighted to have secured this
partnership with WHSmith. As electronic cigarettes move from niche to mass market
category, we think the quality and consistency of our products will become increasingly
important to retailers and consumers alike."
NOTES TO EDITORS
Wholly-owned by British entrepreneurs Taz and Umer Sheikh, Gamucci is a major player
in the electronic cigarette sector worldwide. Headquartered in London, UK with warehouse
and distribution facilities in Newbury, Berkshire, Gamucci has its wholly-owned
manufacturing unit in Shenzhen, China; its global sales office and back office operations
in Bangalore, India; logistic centres in Europe, Asia and the USA and sales organisations
in London, Ireland and Miami, Florida. The Gamucci Group is a pioneer in the development
of electronic cigarettes, and introduced the first major brand to the European market in
2007. Its products are now sold in 25 countries worldwide.
Gamucci has recently been awarded the sole UK patent for its unique cartomizer
technology, which includes the integrated electronic cigarette and refill.
The business currently employs some 400 staff worldwide. The majority are based in
Shenzhen, China and in Bangalore, India.
Gamucci is the only electronic cigarette company in the UK to own its own factory,
thereby ensuring end-to-end control of the supply chain and product integrity. Other
companies in the category outsource product manufacturing to third parties.
Gamucci
CONTACT: For media enquiries, please contact Del Jones or Karen White at JBP Associates on +44-(0)117-9073400. Email: del.jones@jbp.co.uk
Ms. Dina Bova's submission, "Elegy of Autumn", is the winner of the Grand Prize. All
winning images, including the Grand Prize winner, will be exhibited on the Nikon Photo
Contest 2012-2013 Judging Results page beginning today.
The Nikon Photo Contest 2012-2013 accepted entries to four categories during the
period of December 1, 2012 and February 28, 2013. The four categories were as follows:
Category A: Single photo
Category B: Photo story (two to five images presenting a theme or idea)
Category C: Photographic video (45 seconds in length)
Category D: Motion Snapshot (a special category celebrating the new form of imaging
expression made possible by the function built into Nikon 1 advanced cameras with
interchangeable lenses that combines still images with movie clips). A total of 22,752
photographers from 153 countries and regions submitted 99,339 works in the 2012-2013
contest. This year marked a new record for the largest number of entries in the history of
the Contest.
From roughly 100,000 entries, judges selected one Grand Prize winner, a total of 48
1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners from each of categories A-C, and three winners for
category D. In addition, the the best work captured using a NIKKOR lens was selected for
the NIKKOR Award, and a single work selected for the Participants Award for Most Popular
Entry.
Final judging took place between June 11 and June 14, 2013 with the global panel of 17
judges of varying age, gender, social and cultural background, and even great diversity in
their preferred categories of photography, gathering in Tokyo. Winners were selected based
on their ability to tell a universal story, diversity, the strength of their message,
creativity, and the techniques that best express these concepts.
Award-winning works from the Nikon Photo Contest 2012-2013 will be exhibited as
indicated below.
Tokyo, Ginza Nikon Salon: August 28 (Wednesday) to September 10 (Tuesday), 2013
Osaka, Osaka Nikon Salon: October 3 (Thursday) to October 16 (Wednesday), 2013
- Comment from Grand Prize winner, Dina Bova (Israel)
"It is a melody of autumn - a story about elderly couple living together all Life,
each in his personal world, each with his own secrets. It's also a story about immigrants
living in a tiny apartment, still keeping their old festive clothes and other memorable
things from the previous life. It's a story of people who live modest life, but with
dignity. It's a story that has both - sadness and smile... In this artwork the spheres
serve as metaphors for dissociation from the outside world and even from each other. This
work is one of my favorites and very important to me. Its story touches me deeply. So I'm
very happy that it was recognized in such a respected competition."
- Judge's comment on Grand Prize winner
"Our Judges loved this image. It tells so many stories. It is at once traditional and
respecting of the elders set in a classic living room, yet whimsical with the reference to
space travel. It points to our future while honoring our past. Indeed deserving of the
Grand Prize."
(Chris Rainier)
- Nikon Photo Contest, one of the world's most prestigious international
photo contests
Nikon Photo Contest (NPC), previously known as Nikon Photo Contest International
(NPCI) and presented by Nikon since 1969, is one of the world's most prestigious
international photo contests. It is designed to contribute to the expansion of
photographic culture by providing an opportunity for photographers from around the world
to communicate and exchange their photographic vision, irrespective of professional or
amateur status.
Since the first Contest was held in 1969, thousands of photographers from around the
world have participated and shown their support for the contest. To date, more than
370,000 photographers have submitted over 1,460,000 photographic works in the contest,
making it a truly international event. With the 34th Contest, held this fiscal year, a
number of changes were made to submission requirements, including the addition of a new
photographic video category.
The copyright of award winning photographs of Nikon Photo Contest 2012-2013 belong to
photographers and is protected by law.
The images can be viewed on your monitor for non-commercial and personal purpose, and
should not be used otherwise.
The images are not allowed to be modified, used for commercial purpose nor should they
be publicly displayed.
ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS, N.J., Aug. 2, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- MEDIA ADVISORY -- LG Electronics USA confirmed that the first OLED HDTVs sold in the United States have been delivered to consumers this week. Since it went on sale last week at Magnolia stores inside Best Buy, the 55-inch CURVED OLED TV from LG Electronics has been purchased by early-adopter consumers across the country, from Texas to Minnesota to Oregon.
As LG's exclusive OLED TV launch partner, Best Buy began selling the ENERGY STAR-certified LG CURVED OLED TV last week at its flagship Magnolia Design Center store in Richfield, Minn. In the coming weeks, Magnolia stores inside Best Buy in Dallas, Seattle, Los Angeles, New York, Miami, Houston, San Francisco, Chicago and San Antonio will be displaying and selling the ultra-thin new $14,999 premium LG OLED TV.
SOURCE LG Electronics USA
Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110203/CG42292LOGO-d http://photoarchive.ap.org/
LG Electronics USA
CONTACT: CONTACTS: LG Electronics, USA, John Taylor, John.Taylor@lge.com, (847) 828-2777; LG-One, Siobhan Aalders, Siobhan.Aalders@lg-one.com, (212) 880-5341; or Raul Lopez, Raul.Lopez@lg-one.com, (212) 880-5347
Sony Online Entertainment Presents a New Vision for the Collaborative Future of Massively Multiplayer Online Games
LAS VEGAS, Aug. 2, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Fourteen years ago, Sony Online Entertainment (SOE) changed the way people play games together online with the introduction of the original EverQuest(TM). Today, SOE offers a new vision for the future of online games with the worldwide debut of EverQuest Next (EQN).
"With EverQuest Next, we're going back to our roots - a space we defined with the EverQuest legacy - and ushering in a new era of MMOs: The Emergent Era," said John Smedley, President, Sony Online Entertainment. "Today, many MMOs fail because players consume content faster than developers can create it. With EverQuest Next, we're creating a living world that players are part of and empowering them to produce new content alongside the development team. What does the future hold for EverQuest Next and Sony Online Entertainment? It's in the players' hands, and we like it that way."
"EverQuest Next is not the continuation of a familiar story. It represents the fundamental reimagining of thecharacters, lore and environments of the EverQuest universe," said Dave Georgeson, Director of Development for the EverQuest Franchise, Sony Online Entertainment. "Make no mistake; while great care has been taken to respect the extraordinary influence that EverQuest has had in this industry and with our player community over the years, this is a boldly different game unlike anything that has come before."
EverQuest Next has been in development since 2009. Nearly two years ago, SOE made the decision to rethink core creative and technical aspects of the design and start from the ground up to build a new kind of game. As a result, EQN is different from all of the MMOs that have been made before in very important ways, including:
Multi-Classing - EQN will offer players the ability to explore and interact with the world according to their individual style of play. There are no levels in EQN, but there will be more than 40 distinct classes (or professions) at launch, with multi-tiered abilities and specialized weapon skills to collect and master. Players will even mix and match abilities from each class, creating truly custom characters that feel distinct and powerful.
Destructible Environments - No modern MMO has successfully implemented destructible environments that stretch across an entire seamless game world - this changes forever with EQN. Every piece of the world is fully destructible and players will have the ability to manipulate almost all of it. They will interact with and explore the world in amazing ways; venturing down into the deep bedrock beneath the surface and using powerful combat abilities to blow gaping holes into the ground. The EQN world will extend far into the heavens and deep into the procedurally-generated earth through 10,000 years of known lore and history.
Permanent Change - Players will also have the ability to cause the world to change around them, permanently, in dramatic ways. Through the concerted effort of the world's inhabitants, including players, creatures, and non-player characters (NPCs), city walls will be built and destroyed, large-scale wars will be fought and won, and epic stories will unfold over months and years.
Emergent AI - In EQN, NPCs will have specific motivations and preferences that direct behavior in nuanced and unpredictable ways. Players will find themselves in a world where NPC decisions are based on core values, not dictated by static spawn points. For example, Orcs may attack opportunistically because they want an adventurer's gold, not simply because a careless hero wanders into an attack radius.
A Life of Consequence -Finally, each character in EQN will have a unique story; they will not follow a predetermined path. Instead, they will seek out adventure, fame and fortune in a constantly changing sandbox world. The game will remember every choice and action that players make and will organically deliver increasing opportunities to do more of the things players like to do ... from crafting armor and exploring the wilderness to purging goblins from the forests.
"We believe that the bold choices the team is making with EQN will result in a product that provides players with an absolutely new kind of game experience," said Laura Naviaux, Senior Vice President of Global Sales and Marketing, Sony Online Entertainment. "However, there is something even more important to us. As an organization, we are dedicated to partnering with our community to give them a voice in the games we create. With EQN, we are taking this idea even further and offering our players the opportunity to actively build EQN with us."
INTRODUCINGEVERQUEST NEXT LANDMARK
This winter, SOE will introduce EverQuest Next Landmark(TM) (Landmark). Essentially, Landmark will combine the powerful and intuitive building tools SOE is using to create the fully destructible world of EQN with all of the social functionality expected from a modern MMO.
The game will feature huge persistent worlds that each support thousands of other players and varied terrain inspired by the environments of EQN. Most importantly, Landmark will provide anyone who wants to participate with the opportunity to actually build structures, and eventually create other types of content, to be considered for inclusion in EQN. Landmark will enable players to:
Create Amazing Things
-- Build highly detailed structures with powerful and intuitive tools.
-- Quickly design complex projects or collaborate with friends to undertake
massive shared builds.
-- Lay claim to and control specific areas of huge persistent worlds.
Share Your Imagination with Friends
-- Landmark's persistent servers will enable players to interact with and
experience the collective imagination of thousands of players in a
unique shared world.
-- Players will have compelling reasons to explore and interact with
others. They will congregate at crafting hubs, build design templates to
share and trade, and journey across the world to collect the resources
required to build and craft.
Build EQN with SOE -- Using the Same Tools
-- Landmark players will gain increasing access to many of the same tools
that SOE is using to construct the game world of EQN.
-- Not only will Landmark give players access to these world building
tools, SOE will provide specific guidance on what we want help building.
-- Through this collaborative approach, EQN may eventually represent the
largest overall collaborative development effort in the history of
online games. For anyone who has ever thought about becoming a game
developer, here is your chance. Together we will build extraordinary
things!
PRICING AND AVAILABILITY
Landmark will launch this winter as a "Free To Play. Your Way.®"offering and the first step in a multi-phase release strategy. It will serve as the gateway to EQN and as the collaborative building hub where SOE will guide the development of selected structures and environments for inclusion in EQN. No formal date is set for the launch of EQN. Additional information, assets and answers to frequently asked questions can be found at http://www.everquestnext.com.
Sony Online Entertainment LLC (SOE) is a recognized worldwide leader in massively multiplayer online games. Best known for its blockbuster hits and franchises, including EverQuest®, EverQuest®II, Champions of Norrath®, PlanetSide®, Free Realms®, Star Wars®: Clone Wars Adventures(TM), DC Universe(TM) Online, and the recently launched PlanetSide®2, SOE creates, develops and provides compelling online entertainment for a variety of platforms. SOE is building on its proven legacy and pioneering the future of online worlds through creative development and inspired gameplay design for audiences of all ages. To learn more, visit http://www.soe.com.
SOE, the SOE logo, EverQuest, Champions of Norrath, PlanetSide, and Free Realms are registered trademarks of Sony Online Entertainment LLC. All other trademarks and trade names are properties of their respective owners.
SOURCE Sony Online Entertainment LLC
Sony Online Entertainment LLC
CONTACT: Ben Conrad, Sony Online Entertainment, 858-790-3605, bconrad@soe.sony.com
Sennheiser, one of the world's leading producers of headphones, microphones and wireless transmission systems, recently announced that its new MOMENTUM On-Ear headphones will feature the high-tech Italian-made material in four pastel colors - ivory, pink, green and blue.
Introduced at the Newport Folk Festival in July, the newest addition to Sennheiser's MOMENTUM line of lifestyle headphones was designed with headbands and earpads finished in Alcantara. Soft, durable and breathable, the Alcantara earpads provide a superior listening experience even in noisy urban environments.
The choice of leading automotive, marine, fashion and home-interior designers for many years, Alcantara today also can be found on smartphone covers, laptop cases and other consumer-electronics applications. The material also is certified as "carbon neutral," adding to its appeal for companies and consumers with a strong interest in the environment.
Inspired by an international team of design experts and trend scouts, Sennheiser injected color into its newest MOMENTUM range of headphones.The pastel shades accentuated by Alcantara materials define an emerging trend for subtler color that is a key look in current fashion collections.
To celebrate the launch of the new headphones in North America, renowned photographer Alexander Gnadinger worked with three established fashion bloggers from different countries to create personal portraits reflecting the colors and style of Sennheiser's new MOMENTUM On-Ear.
With a frequency range of 16 to 22,000 Hz, Momentum On-Ear headphones deliver the ultimate combination of sound and style. They feature a high-performance transducer system with rich, detailed sound performance and a slight bass emphasis.
Founded in 1972, Alcantara S.p.A. represents a prime example of Italian-produced quality. The company's head offices are in Milan, while its production plant and research centers are located in Nera Montoro, Umbria. Alcantara is a highly innovative cover material, the result of a unique, proprietary technology. It is the preferred choice of leading companies in a wide array of fields, including automotive, marine, fashion, interior design and consumer electronics. Alcantara offers an extraordinary combination of sensory, aesthetic and functional qualities.
It also offers ethical and social benefits that are important to contemporary lifestyles by demonstrating a complete respect for the environment. Alcantara S.p.A. is certified 100% "carbon neutral," meaning that the company measures and offsets all CO(2) emissions derived from production processes and corporate activities "from cradle to grave" or until the very end of the product's life cycle, including recovery or waste disposal. Alcantara(®) is a registered trademark of Alcantara S.p.A.
CONTACT: Media for Alcantara: Larry Weis, AutoCom Associates, +1.248.647.8621, lweis@usautocom.com; Alcantara Company: Maria Elena Furini, Alcantara S.p.A., +39.02.58030484, mariaelena.furini@alcantara.com
DECK by SOL REPUBLIC x Motorola Available for Pre-Order Only at RadioShack
RadioShack Tunes in to Music Fans as the Only Retailer Offering Pre-Orders, Live Demos and DECK in Two Colors Throughout August
New Speaker's Exclusive Heist Mode(TM) Allows Up to Five Friends to Simultaneously Share Control of the Music
FORT WORTH, Texas, Aug. 2, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- In celebration of music fans,RadioShack begins taking pre-orders today for DECK by SOL REPUBLIC x Motorola, the hot new portable wireless speaker that will make music social. Through its partnership with SOL REPUBLIC, RadioShack will also offer DECK in two colors that are available only at RadioShack for a limited time. And RadioShack will launch live in-store demos and new marketing initiatives featuring SOL REPUBLIC's new personal speaker, which is sure to earn a spot on back-to-school and holiday must-have lists.
-- To pre-order: Go to any participating RadioShack location or visit
RadioShack.com/DECK through August 24, 2013, to be one of the first to
own the DECK speaker.
-- Two DECK colors: RadioShack will be the only retailer with the sleek
Gunmetal and eye-catching Lemon Lime DECK speakers during this limited
pre-order period, while supplies last.
-- In-store demos: Stop by select RadioShack locations starting August 18
to experience the superior sound quality and try out the product's
innovative new Heist Mode(TM), which allows up to five friends to
simultaneously pair to DECK and take turns controlling the music.
(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130802/LA57919)
"The DECK by SOL REPUBLIC x Motorola is one of those leading-edge, revolutionary products that we want people to expect to find on the shelves at RadioShack," said Joe Magnacca, chief executive officer for RadioShack. "Teaming up with SOL REPUBLIC on the retail launch of such an exciting new product, and creating experiential marketing programs and attention-grabbing advertising represents another way we're opening our doors to the music-loving masses and inviting new generations of music and technology fans to come in and play."
Partnership Also Includes #RSonDECK Lounge at the Hard Rock Hotel, Ad Campaign
DECK pre-orders launch a multi-month marketing collaboration between RadioShack and SOL REPUBLIC.
The companies have teamed up to feature DECK, along with other SOL REPUBLIC products available at RadioShack, at the #RSonDECK Lounge at the Hard Rock Hotel, which will be the hottest spot for both attendees and music performers during the Lollapalooza music festival in Chicago this weekend. Activities include demo stations and competition to create the event soundtrack using the DECK's Heist Mode.
Around the same time DECK is available in stores, RadioShack and SOL REPUBLIC will debut a TV spot featuring several of SOL REPUBLIC's Saviors of Sound, along with other top artists, showcasing DECK as the life of the party.
"Expanding beyond headphones has been part of our strategy since the company was founded, and we can now deliver on that strategy for any music fan that visits one of RadioShack's 4,300 stores in the U.S.," said Scott Hix, President and Co-Founder, SOL REPUBLIC. "Anyone can go to their neighborhood RadioShack or visit radioshack.com to experience the little speaker that has big sound and see how SOL REPUBLIC is changing how people share music. DECK's revolutionary design, 360-degree powerful sound and Heist Mode redefine how music fans will use a portable wireless speaker and make music social."
Make Music Social with the DECK
DECK is the first and only speaker on the market with Heist Mode Bluetooth(® )wireless technology, which allows up to five friends to simultaneously pair to DECK and actually take turns controlling the speaker and sharing their music. Anyone connected can instantly be the DJ - or "heist" DECK to keep the music mix interesting. Heist Mode is supported through Bluetooth or Near Field Communication (NFC) and allows for seamless pairing or simple "Tap and Play."
And with Super Power Wireless range, party-goers have up to 300 feet of freedom to roam and still control the music on DECK, which is 10x more range than with traditional wireless speakers.
DECK is also the only wireless speaker on the market to offer 360-degree Full Sound, ensuring the music sounds loud and pure from anywhere in the room. Additionally, with the simple touch of a button, consumers can boost the sound so it travels further to extend the party with Outdoor Mode.
Inside the slim, portable design of the DECK lie extra-large R2 Sound Engines combined with a bass port, high-watt amplifier, and huge lithium-ion battery to deliver bigger sound than you would expect from a pocket-sized speaker.
Consumers can connect DECK to their home or car audio system through the device's stereo in and out ports, allowing fans to enjoy Heist Mode through the amplified systems in their house or car. It's also possible to daisy-chain multiple DECKs together to create a powerful wall of sound. DECK features a crystal-clear speakerphone, so consumers can easily take a call. And DECK's standard, acoustically-transparent case protects the speaker while allowing fans to listen nearly everywhere.
To find your neighborhood store or learn more about the SOL REPUBLIC products available at RadioShack, visit http://www.RadioShack.com.
About RadioShack Corporation
RadioShack (NYSE: RSH) is a leading national retailer of innovative mobile technology products and services, as well as products related to personal and home technology and power supply needs. RadioShack(® )offers consumers a targeted assortment of wireless phones and other electronic products and services from leading national brands, exclusive private brands and major wireless carriers, all within a comfortable and convenient shopping environment. RadioShack employs approximately 30,000 knowledgeable and helpful sales experts globally. RadioShack's retail network includes more than 4,300 company-operated stores in the United States, 270 company-operated stores in Mexico, and approximately 1,000 dealer and other outlets worldwide. For more information on RadioShack Corporation, please visit http://www.radioshackcorporation.com; to purchase items online, please visit http://www.radioshack.com. RadioShack(®) is a registered trademark licensed by RadioShack Corporation.
News Media Contact: Media Relations, +1-817-415-3300, Media.Relations@RadioShack.com
SEH releases a Mac OS X version of the UTN Manager software tool for the myUTN USB device server product range.
PHOENIXVILLE, Pa., Aug. 2, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- SEH Technology, the US subsidiary of German network specialist SEH Computertechnik GmbH, today announces the release of the Mac OS X version of its UTN Manager. This software tool makes SEH's myUTN USB device servers network-ready in Apple environments. Users install UTN Manager version 2.0.5 for Mac OS X to manage all myUTN USB device servers on a network. This software tool is now available as a free download from the SEH website.
SEH has developed the UTN Manager software tool to enable the UTN (USB-to-Network) function in clients and servers. Its purpose is to network-enable the use of USB devices such as laboratory instruments, gauges of all kinds, printers, scanners or USB software license keys. The UTN Manager provides users and administrators with both information and status of all myUTN device servers and their attached USB devices. It also provides the connection between a client and the requested USB device. In addition, the UTN Manager supports automating the utilization of USB devices in a network. The software tool is installed on all clients or servers which require USB device access. The UTN Manager has been available for Windows environments. With the new UTN Manager version for Mac OS X, Mac users can now also access all USB devices across the network.
Full functional range for myUTN special solutions.
UTN Manager version 2.0.5 for Mac OS X enables the full range of myUTN product portfolio solutions, such as the myUTN-130 Scannerserver, offering lossless scan data compression, and the myUTN-80 Dongle Server with its USB software key management and security functions. Now both Windows and Mac users can employ all myUTN USB device servers seamlessly together on the same network.
About SEH Technology Inc.:
SEH Technology, Inc., is a leading supplier of professional network solutions. The company, based in Phoenixville, PA, was founded in 2002 as the US sales office of SEH Computertechnik, GmbH. Since the early nineties, SEH has been one of Europe's leading manufacturers of network printing solutions. In 2008, SEH introduced the USB device server product line myUTN, broadening the company's solution portfolio to include intelligent solutions for network access of USB devices.
The company's product portfolio includes internal and external print servers for all common network and cabling types: Ethernet, Gigabit, fiber optics, and Wireless LAN. SEH also has a strong focus on bandwidth-optimized solutions for ThinPrint® environments (e.g. server-based computing, virtual desktop infrastructures) as well as on security for network printing. Target groups are public, government, and military institutions with high security demands. Among its customers are the US Departments of State, Defense, Army, Navy, and Air Force.
All products are developed and produced at the company's headquarters at Bielefeld, Germany. Worldwide distribution is via SEH's US and UK subsidiaries and an extensive network of partners, distributors, and resellers. The installed base of SEH products exceeds 800,000 units worldwide. In development and sales, SEH closely co-operates with many leading printer manufacturers, including CITIZEN, CORTADO, EPSON, HP, KONICA MINOLTA, KYOCERA DOCUMENT SOLUTIONS, MUTOH, OCE, OKI, PSi, ROLAND, SAMSUNG, TEC-IT, TOSHIBA TEC, UTAX, and ZEBRA.
You may download this press release and the corresponding images from the SEH website:
Dragon Roars Will Echo The Globe On September 18 With Launch Of Dragon's Prophet In North America And Europe
Sony Online Entertainment and Infernum Productions Announce Dragon's ProphetLaunch Date at SOE Live Keynote
LAS VEGAS and BERLIN, Aug. 2, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Online Entertainment LLC (SOE) and Infernum Productions AG announced last night at the annual SOE Live fan event that the free-to-play massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG), Dragon's Prophet, will launch in North America and Europe on Sept. 18, 2013. Developed by Runewaker Entertainment, Dragon's Prophet allows players the opportunity to capture, train, ride and fight hundreds of unique dragons while unlocking their unique skills and abilities. Currently in Open Beta, players have journeyed through the beautiful, vast realm of Auratia to see if they have what it takes to become the next Dragon's Prophet. At launch, players will also be able to participate in intense player-versus-player (PvP) siege matches with the introduction of the Frontier System.
"Dragon's Prophet has brought together what every fantasy-MMO player looks for in a new game: intense, action-based combat, a compelling end-game siege system, and more dragons than any other MMO to play and interact with like never before," said John Smedley, President of Sony Online Entertainment. "Open Beta continues to provide us with valuable player feedback, and working closely with Runewaker and Infernum, we have already made major strides in improving the game's performance. We will continue to integrate feedback and make refinements to the game to ensure that Dragon's Prophet delivers a high-quality, meaningful online experience at launch and beyond."
"Thanks to the help of thousands of passionate beta testers and the tireless efforts of everyone involved, we are now close to the next milestone in Dragon's Prophet," said Andreas Weidenhaupt, CEO at Infernum Productions. "Almost three months after the open beta started, we have already made huge progress! After we revisited the existing gameplay systems on a huge scale and delivered new content to Dragon's Prophet, we will now continuously improve the performance, address balancing issues and rework all zones as well as the 30 dungeons we already released. When the game launches, we will deliver an additional zone as well as the long-awaited Frontier System with its epic cross-server PvP battles. Gaming has never been this diverse and thrilling - and you're experiencing it on the back of a mighty dragon!"
The Frontier System will allow players to partake in alliance siege matches featuring multiple guilds, as they fight for control of citadels in Auratia. Once they are in command, players will have to continuously upkeep their kingdom and defend the city walls from enemy guilds. In addition to the Frontier System and guild alliance battles, Dragon's Prophet will introduce a host of fresh content and features at launch, including a new adventuring zone with four dungeons, increased level cap, and more.
"Since entering Open Beta earlier this year, SOE and Infernum have created a strong, engaging relationship with their respective Dragon's Prophet player communities," said Tony Tang, founder and vice president of business development, Runewaker Entertainment. "From their years of experience in delivering innovative, engrossing games, both companies have provided us with expert advice during the development of Dragon's Prophet. We are confident that Dragon's Prophet will see global success at launch."
In Dragon's Prophet players must choose from four distinct player classes - ranger, sorcerer, guardian or oracle - and band together to battle a variety of dragons and beasts as they work to restore order to the land from the evil Black Dragon that has escaped his eternal prison, and is more dangerous than ever. Featuring an action-based combat system, Dragon's Prophet gives players visceral battle action gameplay, with a higher degree of control and wider range of tactical options than traditional MMOs.
Dragon's Prophet is currently in Open Beta and will be available as a Free-To-Play. Your Way.( )(®) title on PC systems via digital download on Sept. 18, 2013 in North America from SOE or any of its digital partners, and in Europe from Infernum Productions.
ESRB Rating: TEEN for blood, partial nudity and violence. Visit http://www.esrb.org for rating information.
About Sony Online Entertainment
Sony Online Entertainment LLC (SOE) is a recognized worldwide leader in massively multiplayer online games. Best known for its blockbuster hits and franchises, including EverQuest®, EverQuest® II, Champions of Norrath®, PlanetSide®, Free Realms®, Star Wars®: Clone Wars Adventures(TM), DC Universe(TM) Online, and the recently launched PlanetSide®2, SOE creates, develops and provides compelling online entertainment for a variety of platforms. SOE is building on its proven legacy and pioneering the future of online worlds through creative development and inspired gameplay design for audiences of all ages. To learn more, visit http://www.soe.com.
SOE, the SOE logo, Free to Play. Your Way., EverQuest, Champions of Norrath, PlanetSide, and Free Realms are registered trademarks of Sony Online Entertainment LLC. All other trademarks and trade names are properties of their respective owners.
About Infernum Productions AG
Infernum Productions is an international publisher and developer of online games, based in Berlin. The company was founded in the summer of 2011 by former Frogster executives and focuses on high-quality free-to-play titles. Dragon's Prophet is the second title licensed by the Berlin startup. The game now joins Infernum's debut title, Brick-Force, which has already exceeded 2 million registered players. For further information please visit: http://www.infernum.com.
About Runewaker Entertainment
Runewaker Entertainment was founded in August of 2004. Runewaker is one of the leading Taiwanese entertainment software developers. All the founding members of the team are industry veterans who share the same dream and vision. All members of the Runewaker team are passionate and well-versed in different genres of games. Equipped with the most advanced artistic style and innovative development technology the company aims to create games that are enjoyable for a wide range of audiences. In addition to having a group of talented and dedicated in-house staff, Runewaker also actively collaborate with leading publishers to create games that will be setting a new standard for the industry.
SOURCE Sony Online Entertainment
Sony Online Entertainment
CONTACT: Alex Ryan (US), Bender/Helper Impact for SOE, 415-395-6603, alex_ryan@bhimpact.com; Holger Anders (EU), Infernum Productions AG, +49 (0)30 577 01 20 - 41, handers@infernum.com
Announcing the new INSTEON Ballast Dimmer for Commercial-Centric Fluorescent Lighting Applications
IRVINE, Calif., Aug. 2, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- INSTEON, manufactures of the best-selling home automation and control technology, have released a unique commercial-centric fluorescent lighting control module, the INSTEON Ballast Dimmer. Two units in one, the INSTEON Ballast Dimmer works with electronic dimmable ballasts supporting a 0-10V control signal to dim compatible fluorescent fixtures to as low as 3%. When not using the dimming function, the new INSTEON Ballast Dimmer includes two relays that can switch two non-dimmable ballasts.
"Ballast Dimmer further enhances the power of INSTEON in a commercial environment: offices, lobbies, conference rooms - anywhere there are overhead fluorescents can now benefit from discrete fixture-by-fixture control and dimming. We think integrators and custom installers are really going to love this product." Joe Dada, CEO, INSTEON
Specifically designed for large fluorescent light fixtures, Ballast Dimmer's small size allows for installation within the light's wiring valley; there is no need to remove the fixture or run additional electrical wiring. Once installed, Ballast Dimmer can be controlled from any INSTEON Switch, Keypad or smartphone when used with the INSTEON Hub.
Supporting energy efficiency with occupancy sensors has never been easier as Ballast Dimmer includes a built-in RJ10 port for hard-wired motion and occupancy sensors. And to ensure the best compatibility with commercial building mains power, Ballast Dimmer features an auto-detecting 100-277VAC, 50/60Hz power supply and Dual-Band INSTEON technology, enabling communication with INSTEON devices all over your building, regardless of their installed powerline phase.
The dual-band INSTEON Ballast Dimmer retails for $79.99. For more information about INSTEON or the dual-band INSTEON Ballast Dimmer, visit http://www.insteon.com/ballast-dimmer
With its simple installation and setup process and trustworthy communication, INSTEON has become the industry's premier remote control networking technology. Plug-in modules and in-wall switches make it possible to add wireless control to any appliance in a home or business without having to hire a contractor. By making every networked device talk to each other via radio frequencies and existing electrical wiring, INSTEON eliminates the need for custom wiring.
About INSTEON®
Developed in Irvine, California, the award-winning INSTEON remote control product line has a growing list of devices, from lamp dimmers to thermostats and LED bulbs. INSTEON delivers the fastest, most reliable wireless device communication in the industry with its innovative dual-band and simulcast mesh technology. INSTEON products are available online at Smarthome.com, Amazon.com and select Best Buy stores throughout the US and Canada. For more information about INSTEON® technology and the new global product line, please visit http://www.insteon.com
Sabre Launches TripCase Corporate to Create Travel Industry's First Consumer Mobile App with Corporate Integration
Travelers get flexibility and improved access to their corporate program while corporations gain better insight and control of travel spend
SOUTHLAKE, Texas, Aug. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Sabre, a global travel technology company, is launching TripCase Corporate, the travel industry's first set of integrated corporate features on mobile, designed to improve travel programs for corporations, while also simplifying business travel for employees.
Using TripCase Corporate, travelers can make reservations outside their corporate travel program, and designate when a trip or part of a trip, such as a fight or hotel booking, is for business. This information is then captured and shared with the corporation through an easy-to-read dashboard. This makes it far easier for travelers to manage their itinerary, make new bookings in and out of corporate travel policy, share their business travel plans with their company, and receive relevant in-app messages when traveling - all using one mobile app.
For corporate travel managers, TripCase Corporate will provide a better view of total travel spend, by capturing and analyzing travel data booked outside corporate travel programs. In addition to the data collection and analytics, corporations can send employees customized messages, which help with security, duty of care issues and policy compliance.
"The consumerization of business travel continues to put pressure on corporations to meet employees' expectations for simple tools to help them shop, book and manage their business trips," said John Samuel, senior vice president of Sabre Traveler Solutions. "TripCase Corporate closes the gap between the company's need for efficiency and control, and the traveler's desire for flexibility and choice."
TripCase Corporate will be available through Sabre's online booking tool, GetThere, and its resellers, and is one of the first elements of TruTrip, Sabre's newly announced solution that captures travel data across multiple booking sources.
"TripCase continues to deliver enhancements that make business travel easier for Sapient employees," says Michelle De Costa, sr. manager, global travel and client experience for Sapient. "With the additional corporate capabilities coming soon, TripCase becomes even more valuable to me as a Travel Manager. It's really the complete mobile itinerary management package."
Sabre has also created a set of development tools that will allow corporations to send information from multiple reservation sources and other types of trip information such as meetings, ground transportation and restaurant reservations into TripCase through a set of APIs. These same tools will allow corporations to extract information from the TripCase itinerary for custom reporting capabilities.
In addition, TripCase Corporate will allow corporations to:
-- Simplify the TripCase registration process for employees via an
automated corporate-branded sign up process
-- Deliver ad-free itineraries and documents with company-branded tickets
and invoices available in the email, mobile application and website
-- Use TripCase Connect to send employees important policy information,
security notices, safety tips and more while on the road
-- Prevent data from being shared with third parties
Built on TripCase, the award winning mobile travel management application, TripCase Corporate will be shown next week at the Sabre booth #1527 during the GBTA Conference in San Diego.
About Sabre
Sabre Holdings is a global travel technology company, serving the world's largest industry - travel and tourism. We provide software to travel agencies, corporations, travelers, airlines, hotels, car, rail, cruise and tour operator companies through our four businesses: Sabre Airline Solutions, Sabre Hospitality Solutions, Sabre Travel Network and Travelocity.
TripCase is an award-winning travel management application that aggregates all travel itinerary information into one easy-to-access location. Built around a patent-pending messaging platform, TripCase delivers itinerary-specific messages via web, mobile browsers and a mobile app for Apple and Android phones. With TripCase, travelers have access to critical travel alerts like flight delays, gate changes and reservation cancellations as well as integrated tools like weather, seat maps and driving directions - all free of charge.
By delivering innovative travel technology, Sabre makes the world a better place. Our innovative technology is used by more than a billion people around the world to plan, book and get to their destination at a time and price that's right for them. We work behind the scenes to make the world a better place, one journey at a time.
Headquartered in Southlake, Texas, Sabre has approximately 10,000 employees in 60 countries around the world. It has large development and customer care centers in the United States, Argentina, India, Philippines, Poland and Uruguay. Sabre has won numerous awards for being a top employer and corporate citizen in Argentina, Brazil, India, Mexico, Peru, Poland, and the United States. Sabre is privately owned by Texas Pacific Group (TPG) and Silver Lake Partners.
Wheaties® teams-up with PickPointz to launch its first Mobile Sports Game with Wheaties Baseball MVP available on Android and iOS Devices
ST. PAUL, Minn., Aug. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- As part of Wheaties® continuing efforts to engage with fans in the digital space, The Breakfast of Champions® has teamed up with PickPointz--a free, mobile sports pick'em app that rewards players with real-value, redeemable points for correctly predicting the outcome of live sporting events. PickPointz players can test their baseball IQ all season long by playing the Wheaties® Baseball MVPGame. Play daily, challenge your friends and family, and you could win great prizes.
"Wheaties has been associated with sports for 80 years, beginning with a sponsorship for the Minneapolis Millers in 1933," said Kimberly Seifert, Associate Marketing Manager for Wheaties. "We are always looking for new ways to challenge our fans, and PickPointz is a fun way to do it."
"PickPointz is proud to partner with Wheaties® to bring sports competition and a winning conversation to the breakfast table through our inclusive, family-friendly sports app and the Wheaties® Baseball MVP Game," said Jordan Mauer, Chief Marketing Officer, PickPointz and 2020 Marketing Group.
PickPointz is the ultimate mobile sports app made for true sports fans, combining elements of fantasy sports with the excitement of picking daily winners. Unique to PickPointz, fans can interact and engage throughout a game--be it baseball, hockey, football, or basketball--while earning points that can be redeemed for real rewards and merchandise. As the game changes, so can the picks, right up to the end of the game. That means players are never out of the game.
As of July 1, baseball fans can make their picks in the Wheaties® Baseball MVP Game, and be entered to win a number of great prizes over the 13 week stretch. Prizes include:
Season Long (13 weeks)- The MVP Players who earn the most points playing the Wheaties® Baseball MVP Game across the 13 week contest could earn the following prizes:
1st Place - Grand Prize MVP Experience:
-- $250 ScoreBig Gift Card for Game Tickets
-- $150 Hotel Voucher for One Night
-- Wheaties® MVP Jacket
-- Custom Wheaties® MVP MaxBat
-- 1 Year Subscription to Stadium Journey
2nd Place - Grand Prize:
-- $200 Gift Card to PSA Sport Auctions
-- Wheaties® Wireless Speakers
-- Wheaties® MVP Jacket
-- 1 Year Subscription to Stadium Journey
3rd - 5th Place:
-- Wheaties® MVP Jacket
-- 15,000 PickPointz Points
Monthly (July, August, September) - The Top 2 players who earn the most points playing the Wheaties® Baseball MVP Game during each month of the contest will win the following prizes:
-- $100 Gift Card to PSA Sport Auctions
-- Wheaties® T-Shirt
Weekly Prizes - The following prizes will be awarded each week of the 13 week contest. Winners are drawn at random. At least one pick made in any Wheaties® Baseball MVP Game each week on PickPointz awards a player an entry into the weekly drawings.
-- 1 Ogio Wheaties® Gear Bag
-- 1 Wheaties® Wireless Speaker
-- 10 Wheaties® T-Shirts
Unlimited Winners - Make picks in the Wheaties® Baseball MVP Game during the contest to receive the following offers:
-- Free 6 Month Digital Subscription to Stadium Journey (one per player)
-- $20 ScoreBig e-Gift Code good on your first order of $50 or more (one
per player)
2020MarketingGroup.com is the developer of PickPointz. You can follow PickPointz on Twitter @PickPointz and like them on Facebook at facebook.com/PickPointz, or to learn more visit http://www.pickpointz.com.
SOURCE 2020 Marketing
2020 Marketing
CONTACT: JDP Communications, Jeff Pomeroy, 678-471-6590, jpomeroy@jdppr.com
OVERLAND PARK, Kan., Aug. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Motorola Mobility introduced Moto X(TM), the first smartphone designed, engineered and assembled in the USA. Sprint (NYSE: S) plans to offer the Moto X smartphone later this summer. Powered by Android(TM) 4.2.2, Jellybean, Moto X will provide customers the Sprint Unlimited Guarantee - unlimited talk, text and data while on the Sprint network guaranteed for the life of the line of service.
Moto X will be available for $199.99 (excluding taxes) with a new line or eligible upgrade and two-year service agreement in all Sprint retail channels, including Web (http://www.sprint.com) and Telesales (1-800-SPRINT1). Exact availability will be shared closer to launch. Customers can get more information and preregister for Moto X from Sprint at http://www.sprint.com/motox.
The Sprint Unlimited Guarantee promises customers unlimited talk (calls to any wireline or mobile phone), text and data while on the Sprint network, for the life of the line of service. This guarantee is available to new and existing customers who sign up for Sprint's new Unlimited, My Way(SM) or My All-in(SM )plans.
"Sprint is excited to bring the benefit of a lifetime unlimited guarantee to the new Moto X," said Fared Adib, Sprint senior vice president-Product Development. "Moto X is an exciting product that is highly anticipated by the market and will be a great option for customers looking to switch to Sprint and gain the value of the new device and also our unlimited lifetime guarantee."
The new Unlimited, My Way and My All-in rate plans feature unlimited talk, text and data while on the Sprint network for as little as $80 per month (excluding taxes and fees). The Unlimited, My Way plan can offer customers a significant savings when compared to competitors' capped data plans. For example, smartphone customers can save $20 per month vs. Verizon's comparable plan with only 2GB of data.(1)
Moto X is the first smartphone that responds to customers' needs, delivering the best of Google services, while providing unprecedented personalization such as:
-- Touchless Control - Without touching the phone at all, users can check
the weather, get directions, or do just about anything - just by saying
"OK Google Now." Because it learns their voice and with the power of
Google Now, Moto X doesn't guess like other phones do. It knows.
-- Active Display - Moto X is always paying attention. Information quietly
appears on the screen to tell customers what they need to know.
-- Quick Capture - Just by two twists of the wrist, Moto X is ready to
shoot. Touch anywhere on the screen, and you'll get an amazing shot. All
in just a few seconds.
Sprint 4G LTE currently reaches 151 markets, including Atlanta, Boston, Brooklyn, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, Miami and Puerto Rico. For the most up-to-date details on Sprint's 4G LTE portfolio and rollout, visit http://www.sprint.com/network. For detailed 4G LTE maps, visit http://www.sprint.com/coverage. Customers are encouraged to check back often because the maps will be updated whenever coverage is enhanced.
About Sprint
Sprint offers a comprehensive range of wireless and wireline communications services bringing the freedom of mobility to consumers, businesses and government users. Sprint served more than 53 million customers at the end of the second quarter of 2013 and is widely recognized for developing, engineering and deploying innovative technologies, including the first wireless 4G service from a national carrier in the United States; offering industry-leading mobile data services, leading prepaid brands including Virgin Mobile USA, Boost Mobile, and Assurance Wireless; instant national and international push-to-talk capabilities; and a global Tier 1 Internet backbone. The American Customer Satisfaction Index rated Sprint as the most improved company in customer satisfaction, across all 47 industries, during the last five years. Newsweek ranked Sprint No. 3 in both its 2011 and 2012 Green Rankings, listing it as one of the nation's greenest companies, the highest of any telecommunications company. You can learn more and visit Sprint at http://www.sprint.com or http://www.facebook.com/sprint and http://www.twitter.com/sprint.
(1)Sprint's Unlimited, My Way plan featuring unlimited talk, text and data compared to Verizon Share Everything with 2GB of Data ($100). Additional data options are available.
OmniVision Launches Native 16:9 10.5-Megapixel RGBC Camera Solution for Smartphones and Tablets
OV10820 Enables Ultra High Resolution 4K2K Video Recording with New RGBC Color Filter Format to Double Low-Light Sensitivity
SANTA CLARA, Calif., Aug. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- OmniVision Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: OVTI), a leading developer of advanced digital imaging solutions, today announced a complete 10.5-megapixel camera solution with a new RGB Clear (RGBC) color filter that delivers exceptional low-light performance. The camera solution is composed of a native 16:9 OV10820 sensor that offers 4K2K and 1080p full high definition (FHD) video, and a new OV660 companion chip that converts the RGBC data into standard RGB Bayer data. The combination of the OV10820 and OV660 provides an ultra-compact, complete high performance camera solution for next-generation smartphones and tablets.
"The inherent tradeoff between smaller pixels and improved sensitivity or image quality continues to drive innovation. The OV10820 delivers the best of both worlds: 10.5-megapixel high resolution imaging with unparalleled low-light sensitivity from RGBC in a compact footprint," said Devang Patel, senior product marketing manager at OmniVision. "The sensor offers 4K2K and fast frame rate FHD video in a native 16:9 aspect ratio, addressing the need to capture video for increasingly popular widescreen mobile displays and next-generation TVs with extremely high resolutions. Furthermore, the OV660 companion chip converts the RGBC data into RGB Bayer format, allowing manufacturers to integrate the camera solution with standard ISPs."
The 1/2.6-inch OV10820 utilizes a 1.4-micron OmniBSI-2(TM) pixel architecture with a RGBC color filter pattern to deliver exceptional low-light sensitivity, enabling high quality video recording in difficult lighting conditions. It records full-resolution 10.5-megapixel video at 30 frames per second (FPS), and supports 4K2K (3840 x 2160 pixels) at 30 FPS and 1080p FHD video at 60 FPS while maintaining full field of view (FOV) with binning functionality for RAW output. The OV10820 fits in a camera module form factor of 9.5 x 9.5 x 6.4 mm, which includes auto focus functionality.
The OV660 converts OmniVision's RGBC RAW data into industry standard RGB Bayer RAW data. The OV660 supports a primary RGBC camera sensor of up to 20-megapixel in resolution and a secondary RGBC front-facing camera sensor. The OV660 eliminates the need for manufacturers and backend processors to modify their existing standard Bayer imaging pipeline and algorithms. The OV660 is available in a 4 x 4 mm WLCSP package.
The OV10820 features a high-speed 4-lane MIPI output interface to support the required high data transfer rate. The OV660 features two MIPI input ports and one MIPI output port. Both devices are currently shipping in volume production.
About OmniVision
OmniVision Technologies (NASDAQ: OVTI) is a leading developer of advanced digital imaging solutions. Its award-winning CMOS imaging technology enables superior image quality in many of today's consumer and commercial applications, including mobile phones, notebooks, tablets and webcams, digital still and video cameras, security and surveillance, entertainment devices, automotive and medical imaging systems. Find out more at http://www.ovt.com.
Safe-Harbor Language
Certain statements in this press release, including statements regarding the expected benefits, performance, capabilities, and potential market appeal of the OV10820 and OV660 are forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. These risks and uncertainties, which could cause the forward-looking statements and OmniVision's results to differ materially, include, without limitation: potential errors, design flaws or other problems with OV10820 and OV660, customer acceptance, demand, and other risks detailed from time to time in OmniVision's Securities and Exchange Commission filings and reports, including, but not limited to, OmniVision's annual report filed on Form 10-K and quarterly reports filed on Form 10-Q. OmniVision expressly disclaims any obligation to update information contained in any forward-looking statement.
OmniVision® and the OmniVision logo are registered trademarks of OmniVision Technologies, Inc. CameraChip(TM) and OmniBSI-2(TM) are trademarks of OmniVision Technologies, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
SOURCE OmniVision Technologies, Inc.
Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130801/SF57528 http://photoarchive.ap.org/
OmniVision Technologies, Inc.
CONTACT: Media Contact, Martijn Pierik, Impress Labs, 602.366.5599, martijn@impresslabs.com; Company Contact, Scott Foster, OmniVision Technologies, 408.567.3077, sfoster@ovt.com; Investor Relations, Arnab Chanda, OmniVision Technologies, 408.653.3144, invest@ovt.com
SOL REPUBLIC And Motorola Make Music Social With New Wireless Speaker
Heist Mode Wireless Technology Lets Up to Five People Pair Simultaneously and Take Turns Controlling the Music
NEW YORK, Aug. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Linked by a passion for sound, style and technology, SOL REPUBLIC and Motorola, a Google Company, are proud to announce the DECK portable wireless speaker. Built on the companies' mutual commitment for improving people's music experience, DECK is the first and only wireless speaker featuring 360-degree Full Sound, 300-Foot Wireless Range and Heist Mode(TM), which allows up to five friends to simultaneously pair to DECK and take turns controlling the music. Music was meant to be shared and DECK is the first mobile speaker that enhances the shared music experience for everyone.
"Expanding beyond headphones has been part of our strategy since the company was founded," said Scott Hix, President and Co-Founder, SOL REPUBLIC. "We believe in the power of music and wanted to create a mobile speaker that not only has big sound, but also enhances how people share music. And, like we did with headphones, our speaker has to differentiate the category. DECK's revolutionary design, 360-degree powerful sound and Heist Mode redefine how music fans will use a portable speaker and make music social."
With unique styling and the power of 360-degree Full Sound, DECK ensures music sounds loud and pure no matter where you are in the room. DECK is the first wireless speaker with Heist Mode, allowing up to five people to simultaneously pair to the device and control the music. Now everyone can be the DJ and "heist" DECK to share their favorite track or change it up with a different sound. Heist Mode is supported through Bluetooth and Near Field Communication (NFC) and allows for seamless pairing or super-easy "Tap and Play." To show who has control of DECK, a backlit logo on the speaker changes colors as different users "heist" DECK with a new song.
"Motorola and SOL REPUBLIC share a passion for music and a mission to develop products that enhance the sound experience," said Matt Vokoun, Vice President, Companion Products, Motorola Mobility. "Our first product created from the partnership, DECK, shows how much we can do together to create products that will change experiences for music listeners in ways they didn't know were possible before, but won't want to live without."
Powered by R2 Sound Engines, DECK delivers full sounding music and maintains bass in a slim, portable design. Unlike other portable speakers that come with small speaker sound, the extra-large R2 Sound Engines combined with a bass port, high-watt amplifier, and huge lithium ion battery for power offer bigger sound than you would expect from a pocket-sized speaker.
Featuring Outdoor Mode, DECK allows you to press a button for a boost in sound that travels further when you want to listen to music outside. Plus, you can actually walk away from DECK and keep your device in hand with Super Power Wireless range, offering up to 300 feet of wireless range.
With stereo in and out ports you can connect DECK to your home or car audio system and use Heist Mode through your amplified systems. You can daisy-chain multiple DECKs together to create an unrivaled wall of sound. DECK even moonlights as a crystal-clear speakerphone as well so you'll never miss a call. Use DECK nearly everywhere in its standard, acoustically-transparent case so you can protect it while you listen to it.
DECK is available for pre-order today at SOLREPUBLIC.com/deck, http://www.motorola.com and will be at leading retailers worldwide, including Radio Shack, Verizon, Best Buy, AT&T and Target within the next 30 days for $199.99. DECK is available in multiple finishes including Gunmetal, Lemon Lime, Electro Blue and Vivid Red.
About SOL REPUBLIC
SOL REPUBLIC is a global consumer electronics company dedicated to enhancing people's lives through style, sound and technology. Comprised of music fanatics, SOL REPUBLIC develops its products from the ground up to look, sound and feel unlike anything else in the market. For more information, visit http://www.SOLREPUBLIC.com.
ABOUT MOTOROLA
Motorola Mobility, owned by Google, creates smartphones, tablets and wireless accessories that simplify, connect and enrich people's lives. For more information, visit motorola.com/mobility.
First ENERGY STAR® Certified OLED TV Is 'CURVED OLED' From LG Electronics
Now Available to U.S. Consumers, New Super-Thin TV Combines Energy Efficiency, Picture Quality, Unique Design
WASHINGTON, Aug. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- LG Electronics' groundbreaking new "CURVED OLED TV," which went on sale in the United States last week, is the first OLED HDTV to be ENERGY STAR certified, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
The 55-inch class (54.6-inch diagonal) LG CURVED OLED TV (Model 55EA9800) combines energy efficiency with the highest levels of picture quality and design to deliver the ultimate in home entertainment display technology. The 55EA9800 joins the list of more than 125 LG-brand ENERGY STAR-certified TVs on the market in 2013.
Among its energy-saving features is LG's "Intelligent Sensor," which automatically adjusts the display brightness according to the viewing environment. According to the Federal Trade Commission's "Energy Guide" label, the LG 55EA9800 has an estimated yearly energy cost of only $18.*
"As a long-time leader in ENERGY STAR certified TVs, LG is proud that our innovative new CURVED OLED TV has been recognized, both for its unmatched performance and design and for its energy efficiency," said Wayne Park, President and CEO of LG Electronics USA, a 2013 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year. "This proves that with LG, it's all possible. Consumers don't have to sacrifice performance or style while cutting energy consumption and addressing climate change."
"We are thrilled that LG has certified its OLED TV. This demonstrates LG's leadership, not only in the TV industry but also in advancing energy efficiency. The climate and consumers are both winners," said Una Song, U.S. EPA's ENERGY STAR Consumer Electronics Program Manager.
Game-Changing TV Display Technology
OLED TV is the next generation in television technology, representing the most significant change in display technology since the introduction of flat-panel TVs. At only 0.17 inches thin - the width of three credit cards - at the edge of the screen and weighing less than 38 pounds, the new LG CURVED OLED TV produces astoundingly vivid and realistic images thanks to LG's proprietary WRGB technology.
The unique WRGB four-color pixel system features a white sub-pixel that works in conjunction with conventional red, green and blue pixels to create the perfect color output. LG's exclusive Color Refiner delivers even greater tonal enhancement, resulting in images that are more vibrant and natural than anything seen before. OLED TV technology from LG Electronics delivers an infinite contrast ratio for optimal contrast levels regardless of ambient brightness or viewing angle.
In addition to earning the ENERGY STAR label, this is the world's first OLED TV to achieve THX® Display Certification, signifying that it passed more than 600 THX laboratory tests to ensure it delivers the picture quality of a professional post production display. Three international testing and certification bodies, TÃV Rheinland, Intertek and VDE, also have recognized the LG CURVED OLED TV for its superb picture quality.
With its gently curved screen, the new LG CURVED OLED TV represents a unique design statement for discerning high-end consumers. This represents the first major design change in the industry since the widespread introduction of flat-panel TVs to the consumer marketplace more than a decade ago. With more than five years of research behind developing the optimal curvature, the LG CURVED OLED TV delivers an IMAX-like viewing experience in the home.
Complementing its unique screen design, the LG CURVED OLED TV features thin transparent film speakers in a handsome crystal clear stand, providing high-quality audio performance. The LG CURVED OLED TV took the top Red Dot "Best of the Best" honor at the prestigious 2013 red dot international design competition.
The LG CURVED OLED TV also benefits from the innovative features consumers have come to expect from LG: Smart TV capabilities with Magic Remote and natural voice recognition features to enable gesture and voice controls, and LG CINEMA 3D capabilities to enable a more immersive 3D viewing experience.
First OLED TV Available Now to U.S. Consumers
As LG's exclusive OLED TV launch partner, Best Buy began selling the ENERGY STAR-certified LG CURVED OLED TV last week at its flagship Magnolia Design Center store in Richfield, Minn. In the coming weeks, Magnolia stores inside Best Buy in Los Angeles, New York, Miami, Houston, Dallas, San Francisco, Chicago, Seattle and San Antonio will display and begin selling the thin new premium TV for $14,999.
The U.S. launch solidifies LG's early lead in the OLED TV race. Global demand for OLED TV is expected to grow to more than 7 million units by 2016, according to DisplaySearch. LG is the first company to commercialize both the flat screen OLED TV, which has been sold to consumers in Korea since February, and the innovative new CURVED OLED TV, available in Korea since April.
* The FTC's calculations are based on 11 cents per kWh and 5 hours use per day. Your cost depends on your utility rates and use. Visit ftc.gov/energy.
About LG Electronics USA
LG Electronics USA, Inc., based in Englewood Cliffs, N.J., is the North American subsidiary of LG Electronics, Inc., a $45 billion global force and technology leader in consumer electronics, home appliances and mobile communications. LG Electronics, a proud 2013 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year, sells a range of stylish and innovative home entertainment products, mobile phones, home appliances, commercial displays, air conditioning systems and solar energy solutions in the United States, all under LG's "Life's Good" marketing theme. http://www.lg.com
About ENERGY STAR
Products, homes, and buildings that earn the Energy Star label prevent greenhouse gas emissions by meeting strict energy efficiency requirements set by the U.S. EPA. In 2012 alone, Americans, with the help of Energy Star, saved $24 billion on their utility bills and prevented greenhouse gas emissions equal to those of 50 million vehicles. To date, more than 1.4 million new homes and 20,000 facilities, including offices, schools, hospitals, and industrial plants have earned the Energy Star label. Learn more: http://www.energystar.gov
SOL REPUBLIC Announces Strategic Partnership With Motorola, A Google Company, To Redefine The Music Experience
Companies Join Forces to Create and Develop New and Unique Products for Music Fans Everywhere
NEW YORK, Aug. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Linked by a passion for sound, style and technology, SOL REPUBLIC today announced a strategic partnership with Motorola, a Google Company, to redefine the music experience. Beginning today, SOL REPUBLIC and Motorola will roll out a new collaboration of audio products to change the way music fans experience and share music through customization, innovation and cutting-edge technology.
"SOL REPUBLIC believes great music has the power to move and inspire, and we consistently strive to provide better sound for music fans everywhere," said Scott Hix, SOL REPUBLIC President and Co-Founder. "Partnering with Motorola will allow us to build on our success with disruptive wireless solutions as we align the expertise, passion and creativity of two unique brands to redefine the music experience through new products."
As part of the Moto X launch, the smartphone designed by you, SOL REPUBLIC will release a series of in-ear and on-ear headphones in unique colors with a single-button remote and microphone. Now, consumers can buy SOL REPUBLIC Jax in-ear headphones or Tracks on-ear headphones that complement their Moto X phones, giving consumers more choices that reflect their personal expression.
Collaborating on their first product, SOL REPUBLIC and Motorola are launching DECK, a portable wireless speaker. Designed and engineered from the ground up, DECK is the first wireless speaker to feature 360-degrees Full Sound, 300-Foot Wireless Range and Heist Mode(TM)( )allowing up to five people to simultaneously pair and take turns controlling the music.
"With this partnership, we can extend Motorola's commitment to creating innovations that matter, and bring to life new wireless experiences that will change the way music is heard and shared," said Matt Vokoun, Corporate Vice President, Companion Products at Motorola Mobility. "When we looked for a music partner to expand our 10+ years of wireless audio experience and leadership, SOL REPUBLIC was a natural fit. We know that the mobile phone is now the primary music player so we've worked closely with SOL REPUBLIC over the last year to create some great products we're confident our users will love."
Motorola has defined itself as a true communications innovator while establishing a long list of technological firsts, including the first smartphone to be assembled in the USA, Moto X, and many years back the first wireless audio headset. SOL REPUBLIC has cultivated a reputation as not only a headphone company, but as a music lifestyle brand, leading a passionate community of music fans known as the SOLdiers of Sound, and partnering with professional artists, athletes and musicians all over the world known as Saviors of Sound. As creator of the first completely interchangeable, virtually indestructible, incredible sounding headphones, SOL REPUBLIC is committed to changing the world one listener at a time.
About SOL REPUBLIC
SOL REPUBLIC is a global consumer electronics company dedicated to enhancing people's lives through style, sound and technology. Comprised of music fanatics, SOL REPUBLIC develops its products from the ground up to look, sound and feel unlike anything else in the market. For more information, visit http://www.SOLREPUBLIC.com.
ABOUT MOTOROLA
Motorola Mobility, owned by Google, creates smartphones, tablets and wireless accessories that simplify, connect and enrich people's lives. For more information, visit motorola.com/mobility.
SOURCE SOL REPUBLIC
SOL REPUBLIC
CONTACT: SOL REPUBLIC: Pippa Edelen, +1.503.702.0060, pippaedelen@solrepublic.com, or Joe Perri, MWW, +1. 201.507.9500, jperri@mww.com; MOTOROLA: Kristine Mulford, +1 224-321-2995, kristine@motorola.com
AT&T Customers Are the First to Enjoy Unique Device Customizations on the Nation's Fastest and Most Reliable 4G LTE Network
DALLAS, Aug. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- If you can customize what you wear or drive a car that matches your personality, why not do the same with your smartphone? AT&T* today announced plans to welcome the customizable Moto X from Motorola, as well as the standard Moto X, to its 4G LTE smartphone portfolio. The customizable version of Moto X is the first smartphone designed by you, assembled in the USA and available only at AT&T.
Designing your own Moto X is simple. Using an online "studio", you can select:
-- Color options for the front and back
-- Accent colors for the power key, volume key and camera ring
-- Adding your name or short message on the phone
-- Unique wallpapers
-- Wake-up message
-- Memory capacity - 16GB or 32GB
Once you've designed and purchased your custom device, it will be assembled in the USA and shipped to you for free in four days or less** with no hassle returns. In the future, AT&T customers will be the first to have the opportunity to select unique materials, such as real wood, for the back of their Moto X.
Register today at http://www.att.com/MotoX for a chance to be one of the first few lucky customers to purchase and design your Moto X before launch***. At launch, customers can begin their Moto X customization at AT&T stores and http://www.att.com/MotoX. AT&T will offer the 16 GB Moto X for $199.99 and the 32 GB Moto X for $249.99 with a two-year agreement.
If customization isn't your thing, you can also pick up the 16 GB version of Moto X in black or white. To see more Moto X features in action, check out this video.
"Moto X promises to be unlike any device we've offered before," said Jeff Bradley, senior vice president--Devices, AT&T. "Not only is Moto X designed by you, you'll also be able to enjoy your customized smartphone on the nation's fastest and most reliable 4G LTE network. We are thrilled to be the first U.S. carrier to offer this flagship device from the new Motorola."
The Moto X runs on Android 4.2 Jelly Bean, and features a 4.7-inch HD display. Other device highlights include:
-- Touchless Control lets you check the weather, get directions, make a
call or search for just about anything--just by saying "OK Google Now."
Because you tune Moto X to your voice, it's always ready to respond to
you.
-- The Quick Capture function makes the 10 megapixel rear-facing camera
with LED flash and 2 megapixel front-facing camera even easier to use.
Just pick up your Moto X, twist your wrist twice and you're ready to
shoot. Touch anywhere on the screen, and you'll get an amazing shot. Its
high-quality sensor can capture scenes in low light or stop motion blur
in bright light.
-- With Active Display, information efficiently appears on the screen. It
doesn't interrupt and it's battery friendly. You don't have to wake up
Moto X to look at the time or see your messages, satisfying that
constant itch to check your phone.
AT&T now has the most reliable 4G LTE network. According to independent third-party data, AT&T has the highest success rate for delivering mobile content across nationwide 4G LTE networks.**** And AT&T was named America's fastest 4G LTE network in PC Magazine's 2013 Fastest Mobile Networks 30-market study - and also swept the top rankings in all six U.S. regions from coast to coast: Northeast, Southeast, North-Central, South-Central, Northwest and Southwest. *****
* AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.
** Subject to parts availability.
*** AT&T will randomly select a limited number of entrants with Gmail accounts who will be given the opportunity to purchase and customize before the scheduled launch date. Corporate responsibility user accounts are ineligible for the random selection process. By registering your email you consent to AT&T sharing your email address with Motorola to ensure eligibility and designate winners. AT&T reserves the right to modify or cancel the random selection process if technical limitations or other factors prevent it from running as planned.
**** Speed claim based on comparison of national carriers' average 4G LTE download speeds for Android(TM) and Windows smartphones and iPhone 5. Reliability claim compares data transfer completion rates on nationwide 4G LTE networks. Limited 4G LTE availability in select markets. LTE is a trademark of ETSI. 4G speeds not available everywhere.
***** PC Magazine, June 17, 2013; http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2420333,00.asp
About AT&T
AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) is a premier communications holding company and one of the most honored companies in the world. Its subsidiaries and affiliates - AT&T operating companies - are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and internationally. With a powerful array of network resources that includes the nation's largest 4G network, AT&T is a leading provider of wireless, Wi-Fi, high-speed Internet, voice and cloud-based services. A leader in mobile Internet, AT&T also offers the best wireless coverage worldwide of any U.S. carrier, offering the most wireless phones that work in the most countries. It also offers advanced TV services under the AT&T U-verse(®) and AT&T ?DIRECTV brands. The company's suite of IP-based business communications services is one of the most advanced in the world.
Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com. This AT&T news release and other announcements are available at http://www.att.com/newsroom and as part of an RSS feed at http://www.att.com/rss. Or follow our news on Twitter at @ATT.
Gameloft Announces Order & Chaos Online, the First MMORPG Available on OUYA
PARIS, August 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --
Gameloft, a leading global publisher of digital and social games, today announced that
its hit game Order & Chaos Online will be the first MMORPG available on the new OUYA and
can be downloaded for free from DISCOVER, the OUYA Store.
Since its release in 2011, Order & Chaos Online has brought several million fans from
around the world together on smartphones and tablets. Fans of the franchise can now meet
and battle against other players and complete a myriad of quests on a large screen.
"We're thrilled to release one of our most popular games on the new OUYA console,"
states Alexandre Tan, Vice President of Business Development & Brand Partnerships at
Gameloft. "Thanks to OUYA, we can offer players an even more immersive gaming experience
on their TV screens right in their own living room."
"OUYA is excited to be working with Gameloft to bring the wildly popular Order and
Chaos Online to the consoles world for the first time," said Julie Uhrman CEO and founder
of OUYA. "This also marks our first MMORPG expanding the gaming possibilities for all OUYA
gamers."
Order & Chaos Online is now free to download from DISCOVER, the OUYA Store.
About Gameloft:
A leading global publisher of digital and social games, Gameloft(R) has established
itself as one of the top innovators in its field since 2000. Gameloft creates games for
all digital platforms, including mobile phones, smartphones and tablets (including
Apple(R) iOS and Android(R) devices), set-top boxes and connected TVs. Gameloft operates
its own established franchises such as Asphalt(R), Real Football(R), Modern Combat, and
N.O.V.A.: Near Orbit Vanguard Alliance(R), and also partners with major rights holders
including Disney(R), Marvel(R), Hasbro(R), FOX(R), Mattel(R) and Ferrari(R).
Gameloft is present on all continents, distributes its games in over 100 countries and
employs over 5,000 developers.
Gameloft is listed on NYSE Euronext Paris (NYSE Euronext: GFT.PA, Bloomberg: GFT FP,
Reuters: GLFT.PA). Gameloft's sponsored Level 1 ADR (ticker: GLOFY) is traded OTC in the
US.
Join Forces With Wonder Woman Or Her Nemesis Circe In DC Universe(TM) Online: Sons Of Trigon
Battle Trigon and His Offspring to Achieve Peace or Power in Game's Eighth DLC Pack
SAN DIEGO, Aug. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Online Entertainment, LLC (SOE) today announced the next chapter in the DC Universe(TM) Online (DCUO) story - Sons of Trigon. DCUO's eighth downloadable content (DLC) pack will enable players to battle alongside Wonder Woman or her adversary, Circe,in new high-level multiplayer and solo adventures, as they race to confront Trigon on a quest for power or peace. DCUO's 11(th) Power, Celestial, will be introduced with the new DLC, granting Blessed or Cursed abilities focused on healing, as well as New Legends PvP characters Donna Troy and Cheetah. The new DLC will be available for download on the PC and PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system later this fall.
"In Sons of Trigon we finally get the answers to some critical questions that have been left unresolved since DCUO launched more than two years ago," said Jens Andersen, Sr. Creative Director, DC Universe Online. "Players get to explore a nightmare version of Gotham like nothing they have seen before, while battling alongside Wonder Woman or Circe to eventually defeat Trigon and restore peace, or steal Trigon's power for their own use."
Sons of Trigon DLC picks up where the Sins of the Father storyline left off. Through blood ritual, Trigon escaped his dimension and was preparing to attack the Earth. However, he became trapped in a nightmare version of Gotham City, a wasteland filled with sin. In this new DLC, Heroes and Villains will explore these wastelands as they race to confront Trigon and his sinful sons. As the story unfolds, players will have access to an assortment of new multiplayer adventures, solo missions, power and gear.
Sons of Trigon will feature:
-- New Celestial Power, focused on Healing abilities
-- New shared area - Gotham City reduced to a wasteland - featuring daily
solo missions
-- New alert - featuring a final battle with Trigon
-- Three new duos battling Trigon's sons who represent six of the seven
deadly sins
-- New Legends PvP characters Cheetah and Donna Troy
-- New Gear, including PvE iconic gear based on Brother Blood and Raven
-- New Feats and Collections
DCUO's Sons of Trigon DLC pack will be a free download for the game's Legendary members and will be available later this fall for purchase by Free and Premium players via the PlayStation®Network, the in-game Marketplace, or for PC players via the DCUniverseOnline.com website.
DCUO is licensed by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment on behalf of DC Entertainment. For more information about DCUO, visit http://www.DCUniverseOnline.com.
About DC Universe Online
Lex Luthor has traveled back through time with news of a dire future: While the heroes and villains spent years battling amongst themselves, Brainiac has been feeding on their powers, building strength to return to Earth and destroy humanity. To change the future, Lex has come back to set off a device that bestows super powers to thousands of every-day citizens and give humanity a fighting chance. Can Brainiac be stopped, or is this another nefarious Lex Luthor plot?
For the first time, players and fans will be able to enter the DC Universe as an active force for good or evil. A massively multiplayer experience, DC Universe Online delivers unparalleled high-energy, physics-powered combat that brings the player's extraordinary powers to life.
DC Universe Online was created in the artistic vision of legendary comic book artist Jim Lee, and set within a world created by famous DC writers including Geoff Johns and Marv Wolfman.
Rated T for Teen with Mild Blood, Mild Language, Mild Suggestive Themes and Violence, DC Universe Online is available for the PC and the PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system. DCUO Legendary access is available for a $14.99 monthly fee.
About Sony Online Entertainment LLC
Sony Online Entertainment LLC (SOE) is a recognized worldwide leader in massively multiplayer online games. Best known for its blockbuster hits and franchises, including EverQuest(®), EverQuest(®)II, Champions of Norrath(®), PlanetSide(®), Free Realms(®), Star Wars®: Clone Wars Adventures(TM), DC Universe(TM)Online, and the recently launched PlanetSide(®)2, SOE creates, develops and provides compelling online entertainment for a variety of platforms. SOE is building on its proven legacy and pioneering the future of online worlds through creative development and inspired gameplay design for audiences of all ages. To learn more, visit http://www.soe.com.
SOE, the SOE logo, EverQuest, Champions of Norrath, PlanetSide and Free Realms are registered trademarks of Sony Online Entertainment LLC. All other trademarks and trade names are properties of their respective owners. All rights reserved.
About Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment
Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, a division of Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Group, is a premier worldwide publisher, developer, licensor and distributor of entertainment content for the interactive space across all current and future platforms, including console, handheld and PC-based gaming for both internal and third party game titles.
About DC Entertainment:
DC Entertainment, home to iconic brands DC Comics (Superman, Batman, Green Lantern, Wonder Woman, The Flash), Vertigo (Sandman, Fables) andMAD, is the creative division charged with strategically integrating its content across Warner Bros. Entertainment and Time Warner. DC Entertainment works in concert with many key Warner Bros. divisions to unleash its stories and characters across all media, including but not limited to film, television, consumer products, home entertainment and interactive games. Publishing thousands of comic books, graphic novels and magazines each year, DC Entertainment is the largest English-language publisher of comics in the world. In January 2012, DC Entertainment, in collaboration with Warner Bros. and Time Warner divisions, launched We Can Be Heroes--a giving campaign featuring the iconic Justice League super heroes--to raise awareness and funds to fight the hunger crisis in the Horn of Africa.
SOURCE Sony Online Entertainment LLC
Sony Online Entertainment LLC
CONTACT: Ben Conrad, Sony Online Entertainment, +1-858-790-3605, bconrad@soe.sony.com ; Stacy Miles, Bender/Helper Impact, +1-415-847-4400, stacy_miles@bhimpact.com
SCIC Releases Free Pocket Buying Card to Help Consumers During Back-To-School Shopping
TALLAHASSEE, Fla., Aug. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Consumers considering whether to buy an extended warranty for their important back-to-school purchases now have a convenient, free tool to help them make good choices. The Service Contract Industry Council (SCIC) is offering a simple and handy pocket buying guide with key questions that consumers should ask when considering a warranty.
The pocket buying guides can be downloaded free of charge from SCIC's website. The cards are small enough to fit in a wallet so consumers can easily carry them into a store to review before making a final purchase decision.
"Electronic tools offer today's students a level of access to information that couldn't be imagined by kids just a generation ago," said Tim Meenan, Executive Director of the SCIC. "Because of these advances, electronics are becoming necessities on parents' back-to-school shopping lists."
"Unfortunately, just because these educational tools are more sophisticated doesn't mean our kids are any better at taking care of them, and a service contract may be parents' best way to protect their investment," Meenan said. "However, parents should be prepared with the right questions to ask when it comes to protecting their family's laptops, cell phones, printers and other essential electronics."
The National Retail Federation conducted a survey in 2012 about parents' predicted back-to-school shopping expenses. The survey found that six in 10 parents would invest in some kind of electronic. Also, parents estimated they would be spending $217.88 on electronics. These expensive items can have high repair rates.
According to Consumer Reports, laptop computers are among the most service-prone consumer purchases - about one in three laptops and desktops require repair within four years. With repairs sometimes costing more than replacement, extended warranties provide an alternative to throwing the product out and spending money out-of-pocket for a replacement.
"We hope these cards will help people be smarter consumers and better shoppers," said Meenan. "We designed this tool with consumers in mind, to help customers make informed choices to protect their valued purchases."
The card lists seven questions about the length of the warranty, what it covers and what cancellation and refund rights a consumer has. The answers to these questions will help the consumer decide whether a particular extended warranty is a wise investment.
SCIC's goal is to educate consumers so they can avoid the pitfalls that can arise from buying a service contract without understanding it. The pocket guide can help ensure that consumers are knowledgeable about common questions concerning extended warranties.
Visit http://www.go-scic.com to download a pocket buying card or to find out more information about extended warranties.
The Service Contract Industry Council is a national trade association whose member companies collectively offer approximately 80 percent of the service contracts sold in the U.S. for home, auto and consumer goods. The SCIC educates consumers about service contracts, encourages its members to pursue high standards of customer satisfaction, and has developed and promoted model legislation to regulate the industry with standards designed to protect the consumer and the industry.
Robotics Fans And Extreme Play Seekers, Mark Your Calendars! LEGO® MINDSTORMS® EV3 Hits Shelves On September 1st
Consumer Robotics Pioneers Reveal 12 Bonus Models Created by Community Experts; Online Availability Expected Later this Month for Pre-Order
BILLUND, Denmark, Aug. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The LEGO Group today announced that LEGO® MINDSTORMS® EV3, the new award-winning consumer robotics platform, will hit retail shelves on September 1, 2013 and may start appearing later this month at select online retailers for pre-order. To inspire tinkerers of all ages with the limitless possibilities of the platform, the company unveiled the full collection of 12 bonus models designed by an international group of MINDSTORMS community experts that join five hero models introduced earlier this year.
Since the first public preview of MINDSTORMS EV3 at the Consumer Electronics Show in January, new and existing fans of all ages have been eagerly awaiting the updated system. The third evolution in the platform's 15 year history, EV3 continues the legacy by energizing and growing the leading consumer robotics community of both children and adults. Since 1998, LEGO MINDSTORMS has expanded its influence across nations and generations from inspiring FIRST® LEGO League - the middle school robotics program with over 20,000 teams competing annually in more than 70 countries - to having real-world impact for prototyping at major research centers and manufacturers.
Powered by a stronger, faster intelligent brick and packing more memory and a larger processor, EV3 also features additions like a USB port, SD expansion slot and new infrared sensor for more control and capabilities. A Linux-based firmware provides endless programming possibilities to encourage hobbyists to push boundaries and imaginations and continue to grow the MINDSTORMS community's library of over 15,000 creations. Users can also look forward to greater on-brick programming, full iOS and Android compatibility and first-ever 3D building instructions for tablets to bring the experience away from the computer when desired.
A multinational group of nearly 70 members of MINDSTORMS Community Partners (MCPs) from around the world contributed to the design process of the EV3 platform. The user-experts worked on a variety of topics including apps, hacking environments and creating the 12 bonus models that accompany the five hero robots at launch. The 12 bonus models include a never-before-seen robotic scribe, interactive shell game and robotic bulldozer, to further guide any new user's exploration of robotics done the LEGO way.
"In the 15 years since MINDSTORMS debuted, the consumer robotics audience has grown exponentially and showcases increased tech savviness and creativity," said Michael McNally, brand relations director for LEGO Group. "We've been overwhelmed by the public's positive reactions since we introduced EV3 earlier this year; now with retail availability upon us we can't wait to see how users will inspire us with their robotic creations."
LEGO MINDSTORMS EV3 highlights include:
EV3 Intelligent Brick
-- Stronger and faster ARM9 robotic processor
-- Embedded 16MB FLASH memory
-- 64 MB RAM plus SD expansion slot
-- LINUX operating system, released under open source
-- USB 2.0 interface allows for WiFi connectivity
-- 4 input ports / 4 output ports allow up to four intelligent bricks to be
connected together
-- Matrix display with loudspeaker
-- Building-compatible button interface with status indication
-- Enhanced on-brick programming
-- Bluetooth( ®) v2.1
-- iOS and Android compatible
Hardware
-- 3 Interactive Servo Motors: 2 large and 1 medium
-- Touch Sensor
-- New IR Seeker Sensor measures distance, movements and detects objects
-- New IR Beacon remotely controls robot from up to 6 feet away
-- Improved Color Sensor detects 6 colors plus the absence of color
-- Backwards-compatible with LEGO MINDSTORMS NXT
-- Assortment of 594 LEGO TECHNIC(®) elements for easy, more stable
building with improved functionality and movement capabilities
Programming Software
-- Free PC and Mac compatible downloadable software available online
starting September 1
-- Icon-based drag and drop environment with new interactive content that
helps de-bug programming
-- Ability to zoom out on big programs aids creation of advanced concepts
like parallel executions and arrays
Building Instructions
-- Step-by-step building instructions for 5 hero models: humanoid, snake,
scorpion, gripper and tracker
-- Detailed building instructions for 12 bonus models including: arcade
style game, bulldozer, shell game, robotic scribe, dinosaur, electric
guitar, line follower, forklift, brick measurer, racing truck, prankster
and droid, as seen in the news section of the MINDSTORMS web community
-- First-ever 3D interactive, step-by-step building instructions app
powered by Autodesk lets builders rotate and zoom each step to model
creation
LEGO MINDSTORMS EV3 will be available September 1, 2013 at most toy and discount merchandise retailers and online stores and will have a suggested retail price of $349.99(USD), EUR349.99(EUR) and $399.99(CAD). To meet increasing global demand, native language editions for Russia, China, Korea, Japan, Spain and Denmark will be released in addition to the English, French, German and Dutch language versions previously available. For more information, visit LEGO.com/mindstorms
For educators interested in bringing the engagement of robotics into STEM-related curriculum in middle school and high school classrooms, a new version of the MINDSTORMS platform optimized for school and institutional use is available now. The LEGO MINDSTORMS Education EV3 platform includes customizable curriculum; engaging, hands-on models and an easy-to-use programming platform.
Note to editors: Information and product images can be downloaded from aboutus.LEGO.com/news-room
About the LEGO Group
The LEGO Group is a privately held, family-owned company, based in Billund, Denmark. It was founded in 1932 and today the group is one of the world's leading manufacturers of play materials for children. The LEGO Group is committed to the development of children's creative and imaginative abilities. LEGO products can be purchased in more than 130 countries. For more information, visit http://www.LEGO.com
New blu eCigs Starter Pack Appeals To E-Cigarette Consumers' Desire For Superior Performance And Ultra Portability
New Slim Design, On-the-Go Rechargeable Starter Pack from blu eCigs Offers Unique, Low-Cost Choice for Smokers with Multiple Charging Options and Improved Battery Management, All in a Smartphone-Sized Case
CHARLOTTE, N.C., Aug. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- blu eCigs, the electronic cigarette brand widely known for superior style and quality, today introduced its new on-the-go rechargeable Starter Pack, an affordable and convenient option for e-cigarette users. Available in retail locations now, the new blu eCigs(®) Starter Pack offers a lower price point for e-cigarette consumers, providing a unique option between disposable singles and premium rechargeable packs. The blu eCigs Starter Pack features the convenience of car and laptop charging options, a superior battery management system to ensure long-lasting usage, and an ultra-portable design that is as tall as a pack of cigarettes and as slim as a smartphone.
The new Starter Pack from blu eCigs is the latest in e-cigarette evolution and features:
-- On-the-go recharging, flexible USB and car plug charging options for
active lifestyles.
-- Two rechargeable batteries and a Smart Proprietary Battery Management
System that delivers maximum battery performance for extended use.
-- Ultra-portable design that fits comfortably in a person's hand, pocket
or purse, but with enough interior space to hold 1 extra battery and 3
flavor cartridges.
-- A five-pack of replaceable flavor cartridges, with choice of tobacco,
menthol, or a variety pack.
Once the blu eCigs Starter Pack is fully charged, it can recharge the included batteries 2-3 times before needing to be plugged back in - ideal for e-cigarette users on-the-move for work, summer and holiday travel, or personal day trips.
"We are committed to giving smokers alternatives that fit their lifestyles and continue to deliver products that meet the demands of the growing blu community," said Jim Raporte, president of blu eCigs. "The new Starter Pack is a continuation of this commitment, offering the quality elements we are known for, on-the-go recharging, battery performance, and flavor options, with the added convenience of a slimmer profile for easier carrying."
Already lauded by its customer base of adult smokers, blu eCigs Premium and Premium 100 rechargeable packs are similar in size to a standard pack of cigarettes. For e-cigarette users on-the-go, the new blu eCigs Starter Pack offers a much smaller profile at a lower cost. Based on long-term use, all of blu eCigs' rechargeable packs provide significant savings compared to purchasing traditional cigarette products.
Since its inception in 2009, blu eCigs has consistently led the charge to introduce e-cigarettes as a new smoking alternative to the US market, and has done so in a pragmatic way--always keeping the customer experience as the central focus. In April 2012, blu eCigs was acquired by Lorillard, Inc. (NYSE: LO), solidifying blu eCigs as a market trailblazer and further advancing the tremendous growth opportunity in the e-cigarette industry. Today, North Carolina-based blu eCigs continues to set the standard in product innovation and responsible marketing.
blu eCigs' disposable singles, the new Starter Pack, and flavor cartridges can be found in over 100,000 retailers nationwide. Premium and Premium 100 Starter Kits, disposables, flavor cartridges, and a variety of other accessories are available online at http://www.blucigs.com. For more details on how blu eCigs' New Starter Pack works, check out this video.
About blu eCigs Electronic Cigarettes
blu eCigs(®) electronic cigarettes offer the feel of traditional cigarettes - without the tobacco smoke, ash, or smell. Because they mimic the physical act of smoking, blu eCigs offer a realistic alternative to tobacco cigarettes, creating a vapor "puff" that evaporates within seconds. blu eCigs made a conscious choice to offer a product that clearly is not mistaken for a traditional cigarette, evident by the e-cigarette's black casing and blue LED glowing tip when in use. With a lifestyle-driven design and innovative technology to enhance the experience for consumers, blu eCigs e-cigarettes allow smokers the chance to take back their freedom. blu eCigs e-cigarettes have been featured at high-profile awards shows, professional motorsports events, major music festivals, and more, and are used by A-list actors, musicians, and other celebrities around the world. Available online and at retailers nationwide, blu eCigs e-cigarettes come in convenient disposables or rechargeable packs for regular use, with or without nicotine, and in a variety of flavors. Based in Charlotte, NC, the company is a subsidiary of Lorillard, Inc. (NYSE: LO). For more, information visit http://www.blucigs.com.
FISU Summer Universiade [http://www.fisu.net/en/Summer-Universiades-3490.html ] is an
international sporting and cultural festival that is staged every two years in a different
city. Almost 10,000 student athletes, representing universities from about 160 countries
throughout the world, participated in hundreds of games and events over the 12 days of the
Universiade. RRsat was engaged by TGVN to deliver 65 live games as well as additional
programming to ESPN, using cost effective solutions that successfully delivered up to 4
simultaneous live events.
RRsat mobilized its considerable capabilities to meet the challenges of simultaneously
broadcasting multiple events live in HD. Resources from RRsat teleports in Hawley,
Pennsylvania and in Israel, were activated in concert to ensure that delivery of all
events would be seamless.
"In RRsat, TGVN found an outstanding partner for delivering live Summer Universiade
games from the city of Kazan in HD," said Craig Jonas, COO of TGVN. "RRsat met our
rigorous demands to deliver multiple games concurrently in real time, together with
supplementary material, without a hitch-and at reasonable cost."
"We were pleased to provide TGVN with an excellent and cost-effective solution for
delivering the Summer Universade games to ESPN," said Avi Cohen, Chief Executive Officer
of RRsat. "The games provide an important opportunity for university students to
demonstrate friendship and sportsmanship with their counterparts from around the world,
and we are proud to have played a part in making them available to viewers."
About TGVN
TGVN is a newly established, but fully distributed entertainment network owned by BTI
Events, Seattle, WA. The venture leverages existing BTI Events to partner with national
and international broadcast organizations for the delivery of high-quality collegiate
themed programming.
About RRsat Global Communications Network Ltd.
RRsat Global Communications Network Ltd. (NASDAQ: RRST) provides global, end-to-end,
content management and distribution services to the rapidly expanding television and radio
broadcasting industries, covering more than 150 countries. Through its RRsat Global
Network, composed of satellite and terrestrial fiber optic capacity and the public
Internet, RRsat provides high-quality and flexible global distribution services 24/7 to
more than 630 channels reaching multiplatform operators, Internet TV and direct-to-home
viewers worldwide and also offers occasional use services for sports, news and events with
a fleet of flyaways and over 10 transportable satellite news gathering services (SNG)
units. More than 130 television and radio channels use RRsat's advanced production and
playout centers comprising comprehensive media asset management services. Visit the
company's website http://www.rrsat.com [http://www.rrsat.com/?utm_source=PR_Universiades ]
Information in this press release concerning TGVN is based on information provided by
TGVN and has not been independently verified by RRsat.
Safe Harbor Statement
This press release contains forward looking statements within the meaning of Section
27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks
and uncertainties and are based on current expectations, assumptions, estimates and
projections about the companies and the industry as of the date of this press release. We
undertake no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent
occurring events or circumstances, or to changes in our expectations, except as may be
required by law. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that
may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by the
forward-looking statements, including the risks indicated in our filings with the
Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). For more details, please refer to our SEC
filings and the amendments thereto, including our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year
ended December 31, 2012 and our Current Reports on Form 6-K.
Company Contact Information:
Miki Hakak, Head of Marketing
Tel: +972-3-9280808
marketing@RRsat.com
Toshiba TEC Announces e-STUDIO306LP/ RD30 With Ground-Breaking Erasable Toner Technology
CHERTSEY, England, August 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --
Toshiba TEC UK Imaging Systems has announced the launch of its highly anticipated
e-STUDIO306LP/ RD30 multifunction product (MFP), which sets a new industry benchmark in
sustainable printing by incorporating the company's unique erasable toner technology.
Although erasable technology itself isn't new, previous systems have relied on
specially made plastic coated paper that erases toner via a printer's thermal heads.
However, these systems have remained on the periphery due to the prohibitive cost of the
paper. The e-STUDIO306LP/ RD30 represents a massive leap forward in this respect, as it
uses standard copier paper.
Jeremy Spencer, Toshiba TEC's marketing director, explained, 'Users can print and copy
as they would on a typical MFP. However, when used paper is fed into the eraser unit it
heats the toner and de-colourises the print and provides a blank sheet to use again. Just
as importantly, each piece of paper can be reused over and over again with a conservative
average reuse of 5 times, reducing paper costs and waste by 80%. This dramatically cuts
paper usage and saves businesses money - so not only is it good for the environment, it
offers an excellent return on investment.'
The e-STUDIO RD30 eraser unit is able to detect if the sheet is reusable and
automatically places spent sheets in a separate bin. Documents can be annotated with the
support of the Pilot FriXion pen series. The unique gel ink responds to the heat generated
by the e-STUDIO RD30 removing notes and comments as part of the erasing process.
In order to prevent a document being 'wiped' by mistake, or a user realises they need
it at a later date, the e-STUDIO RD30 converts the contents of a document into an
electronic file, which is stored in a document management system (DMS), and can therefore
never be lost. Individuals can then access it from any location and amend it as part of a
workflow. High volume paper environments with 'temporary' document usage such as
educational establishments, publishing, local governments and general office will
experience the biggest benefits from its features, as the majority of their printed pages
consist of internal documents, emails and memos.
The e-STUDIO306LP/ RD30 is part of Toshiba TEC's ongoing commitment to designing,
developing and introducing solutions that help organisations achieve their operational and
corporate social responsibility based objectives. Jeremy Spencer concluded, 'I firmly
believe that the e-STUDIO306LP/ RD30 opens the door to a new way of working by offering
businesses a way to reduce the massive amount of waste paper that is created in offices
every day, while saving money at the same time.'
Toshiba TEC UK Imaging Systems Ltd is part of the globally operating Toshiba
Corporation, active in various high-tech industrial sectors. Toshiba TEC is a leading
supplier of information technology and office equipment products ranging from printers and
multifunctional systems (both colour and monochrome), to fax machines and digital document
management products. The range is completed by barcode/label printers for various
capabilities in industry, logistics and trade as well as in the public health and service
sectors. Toshiba TEC UK Imaging Systems is headquartered in Chertsey, UK.
About Toshiba TEC (TERIS)
Toshiba TEC Europe (TERIS) manages product planning, marketing, sales, service support
and distribution of point of sale systems, cash registers, scales, barcode printers,
peripherals and software information systems throughout Europe, the Middle East and
Africa. As a total solution provider, TOSHIBA TEC Europe offers a complete package from
consulting and system design to system installation, operation and maintenance.
Headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, TERIS has three divisions: the Retail division; the
Auto ID division and the Services Division.
About Toshiba
Toshiba is a world leader and innovator in pioneering high technology, a diversified
manufacturer and marketer of advanced electronic and electrical products spanning
information & communications systems; digital consumer products; electronic devices and
components; power systems, including nuclear energy; industrial and social infrastructure
systems; and home appliances. Toshiba was founded in 1875, and today operates a global
network of more than 740 companies, with 204,000 employees worldwide and annual sales
surpassing 6.3 trillion yen (US$68 billion).
CONTACT: For media enquiries please contact: The Henley Group International, Linda Tyrrell, Linda@henley.co.uk, Tel: +44(0)1491-570-972, http://www.henley.co.uk
Change your Perspective with the New LUMIX DMC-GX7 DSLM (Digital Single Lens Mirrorless)
A Premium Flat Body Camera with a Host of Creative Functions for Photo Enthusiasts and Artisans
NEWARK, N.J., Aug. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Panasonic is pleased to announce a new addition of LUMIX G Digital Single Lens Mirrorless (DSLM) Camera, the DMC-GX7, featuring high photographic performance and a sleek design which incorporates a tiltable LVF (Live View Finder).
Dressed in magnesium alloy full diecast frame in black and silver the new LUMIX GX7 allows photographers to change their viewing perspective with a newly integrated 90-degree tiltable LVF. The new LVF features 2764K-dot high resolution and 100% color reproduction based on a Field Sequential Color Accuracy method**. This 16:9 Wide Screen LVF boasts approx.1.39x / 0.7x (35mm camera equiv.) magnification and 100% field of view. The tiltable LVF offers extraordinary angle of view with unique shooting style - looking down into the viewfinder to level the camera straight on the subject. It comes with an Eye Sensor that automatically turns ON/OFF according to the photographer's action. The Eye Sensor AF (Auto Focus) automatically begins to focus when a user looks into the LVF, so no shooting opportunity is missed. An Eye Cup, DMW-EC1GU, made of elastic material is sold separately to enhance comfort in viewing either with the naked eye or glasses.
The LUMIX GX7 is a new breed of digital camera suitable for the Hybrid Photographer. It's capable of recording full HD 1920 x 1080 60p smooth, high quality video recording in AVCHD Progressive and MP4 with stereo sound. The practical full-time AF and tracking AF is also available in video recording mode. The cinema-like 24p video with the bit rate of max. 24Mbps or P/A/S/M mode provides richly expressive afterimage with exquisite image quality. The Digital Live MOS Sensor greatly improves motion picture quality.
The LUMIX GX7 incorporates Creative Panorama, Time Lapse Shot, Stop Motion Animation or Clear Retouch in addition to the popular Creative Control mode with a total of 22 fascinating filter effects
A new in-body Image Stabilizer is nearly as effective as the MEGA O.I.S. found in Panasonic's conventional DSLM lenses, which makes it easier to take clear photos with mounted non-stabilized and classic lenses. The LUMIX GX7 is also compatible with Focus Peaking for more precise control of focusing. In Silent Mode, the camera switches the shutter from mechanical to electronic and turns all sound (AF operation) off while suppressing emission of AF assist lamp and flash with just a single setting for special shooting occasions. Furthermore, the LUMIX GX7 allows photographers to use a max. 1/8000 shutter speed for more impressive expression with high speed lens options.
Panasonic developed a new 16.00-megapixel Digital Live MOS Sensor for LUMIX GX7 that achieves both high resolution and high sensitivity image recording with minimum noise by utilizing cutting-edge Semiconductor Fine Technology to improve color saturation by approx. 10% and a redesigned on-chip lens that enhances light condensation to achieve approx.10% higher sensitivity. Noise generation is minimized in both pixel circuit and digital signal readout circuit for better S/N ratio by approx. 25% and detail reproduction by approx.10% compared to the LUMIX DMC-GX1, making it possible to capture clear images even in low lit situations. The image processor Venus Engine features advanced noise reduction systems, including Multi-process NR (Noise Reduction) and Detail Reproduction Filter Process, which enhances the limit resolution. The combination of the digital Live MOS Sensor and the Venus Engine achieves max. ISO 25,600.
The Contrast AF System of the LUMIX GX7 excels in both speed and accuracy by exchanging digital signals between the camera and the lens at max. 240 fps. A variety of extensive AF functions including Low Light AF (-4EV), Pin-point AF and One-shot AF enhances usability to comply with a wide-range of shooting situations. In Pinpoint AF, picture-in-picture display is available and the magnification ratio of in-frame picture is selectable from 3x to 6x. The One Shot AF function can be allocated to the AF/AE Lock Button (AF/MF Switch Lever) for more flexible control over focusing.
The LUMIX GX7 incorporates high speed response desired for the digital single lens mirrorless camera, taking only approx. 0.5 sec* to get ready to shoot after startup. The LUMIX GX7 also realizes the high speed burst shooting at 5 fps and max. 40 fps using an electronic shutter. Also, AF Tracking enables consecutive shooting to capture moving subject in sharp focus at 4.3 fps.
At the same time, Panasonic designed ease of operation into the LUMIX GX7. Two separate dials on front and back offer direct control over aperture, shutter speed or exposure, which achieves smooth manual shooting. The Live View function is also digitally advanced, making it possible to adjust highlight / shadow separately with the front/rear dial. Three patterns of settings can be customized in addition to three patterns of presets. In addition, the Fn (Function) tab is newly integrated into the menu, which means a total of nine functions can be assigned (five in tab and four with the button).
The LUMIX GX7 integrates Wi-Fi® connectivity (IEEE 802.11 b/g/n) with NFC (Near Field Communication) technology to offer a more flexible shooting experience and seamless instant image sharing. All of these flexible shooting, browsing, and sharing styles are made possible with the LUMIX GX7 and Panasonic's dedicated application software and the Panasonic Image App for iOS / Android smartphones/tablets.
* With H-FS1442A, based on the CIPA standard.
**Based on Adobe RGB color space, Panasonic in-house comparison based on the CIE 1931 x, y color space.
About Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America
Based in Newark, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America, a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American Subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation and the hub of Panasonic's U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations, offers a wide-range of consumer solutions in the U.S. and Canada. The Company's portfolio of innovative consumer products ranges from VIERA Smart TVs, Blu-ray players, LUMIX Digital Cameras, Camcorders, Home Audio, Cordless Phones, Home Appliances, Wellness and Personal Care products and more.
Panasonic Announces The Fastest Interchangeable Lens For The LUMIX G Series Cameras
NEWARK, N.J., Aug. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --Panasonic today announced the LEICA DG NOCTICRON 42.5mm/F1.2 lens, the fastest(1) interchangeable lens in the Micro Four Thirds standard for the LUMIX G Series cameras.
Previously, Panasonic has marketed interchangeable lenses meeting LEICA specifications, including the LEICA DG SUMMILUX 25mm/F1.4 ASPH. and the LEICA DG MACRO-ELMARIT 45mm/F2.8 ASPH./MEGA O.I.S. The name "NOCTICRON" was defined by Leica Camera AG for this lens type continuing LEICA's legendary elements of large diameter, high quality lenses. The LEICA DG NOCTICRON 42.5mm/F1.2 achieves the fastest(1) F1.2 for a Micro Four Thirds interchangeable lens, becoming the first large diameter, high performance NOCTICRON lens.
Panasonic will continue to further advance its product development to meet the diverse needs of customers in the globally expanding Micro Four Thirds market.
Note 1. For an AF interchangeable lens, as of August 1, 2013, according to research by Panasonic.
*LEICA is a registered trademark of Leica Microsystems IR GmbH.
*SUMMILUX, ELMARIT and NOCTICRON are registered trademarks of Leica Camera AG.
About Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America
Based in Newark, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America, a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American Subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation and the hub of Panasonic's U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations, offers a wide-range of consumer solutions in the U.S. and Canada. The Company's portfolio of innovative consumer products ranges from VIERA Smart TVs, Blu-ray players, LUMIX Digital Cameras, Camcorders, Home Audio, Cordless Phones, Home Appliances, Wellness and Personal Care products and more.