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Joined: Jul 21, 2004 Posts: 2718 Location: Chelmsford, UK
Posted: Thu Jan 08, 2009 8:04 pm Post subject: TomTom Unveils Connected Portable Navigation Device in US
Press release: 08.01.09 TomTom Unveils Connected Portable Navigation Device in the U.S.
New GO 740 LIVE Offers Enhanced Navigation with Real-Time Traffic, Unique IQ Routes and Other Helpful Features
Concord, MA – January 8, 2009 – TomTom, the world’s leading navigation solutions provider, today announces the GO 740 LIVE, a connected portable navigation device that provides the industry’s best routing and helps drivers take control of their daily drive via automatic delivery of helpful features including: real-time traffic information, TomTom Fuel Price Service, Local Search powered by Google, TomTom Weather, QuickGPSfix™ and TomTom Buddies.
Optimal Routing
The TomTom GO 740 LIVE device enables users to always drive the smartest and most efficient routes, whenever or wherever they go. The new device comes pre-programmed with a new and extended version of TomTom’s innovative IQ Routes™ Technology, which calculates routes based on historical travel time information for every road, every day of the week and now even the time of day. The feature is powered by millions of global TomTom customers within the Company’s installed base who anonymously report historic traffic flow data as they drive. Over the past two years, more than 1.8 trillion miles of roads have been recorded by the TomTom community and implemented into this unique technology.
Wireless Real-Time Traffic Feeds
In addition to TomTom’s embedded IQ Routes Technology, the GO 740 LIVE automatically and wirelessly receives real-time traffic speed and incident reports every two to five minutes. Traffic delays can be heard audibly on the device as well as displayed on the screen. The driver can either choose to remain on their current route based on the new estimated time of arrival, or can take advantage of a faster, alternative route suggested by the device based on its knowledge of traffic conditions. Drive time minutes saved and the new arrival time are displayed on the screen.
Smart Combination: Fastest Routes and Most Accurate Arrival Times, 24/7
The powerful combination of TomTom’s IQ Routes Technology and real-time traffic feeds uniquely enables the TomTom GO 740 LIVE to provide drivers with the fastest routing and most accurate travel times without the need for Bluetooth connectivity or wires - 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
“The TomTom GO 740 LIVE sets a new standard for the navigation industry and will dramatically change the way navigation devices are used,” said Jocelyn Vigreux, president of TomTom Inc. “In addition to helping drivers get to their destination in the fastest and most efficient way, the GO 740 LIVE will become a daily ‘driving companion’ that keeps drivers informed of all the factors that could affect their route, and puts them back in control of their drive.”
“The addition of connected services is a critical evolutionary step for navigation devices,” says Thilo Koslowski vice president and automotive practice leader at Gartner. “Connected services offer daily relevance and create contextual value propositions for the user. This will ultimately enrich the navigation experience and create new business opportunities.”
TomTom LIVE Services*
In addition to real-time traffic, the TomTom GO 740 LIVE also comes with a range of other relevant services delivered directly ‘over-the-air.’ All LIVE Services work right out of the box via a built-in SIM card and GPRS modem. One free year of service is included in the box.
Local Search powered by Google
Through a two-way wireless data connection, drivers can automatically access a countless number of points of interest (POIs) with Local Search powered by Google. This tool gives TomTom users access to information and location details of more than 11 million businesses and turns search results into a destination with the press of a button. Results show the location name, a user-generated rating (if available) and phone number, so drivers can call ahead to book a restaurant or hotel of their choice, for example.
TomTom Fuel Price Service
TomTom’s over-the-air fuel price search allows users to locate pricing information, and is refreshed up to six times a day from 120,000 gas stations across the U.S. Drivers can choose which type of gas they would like tracked—regular, mid-grade, premium or diesel—and find the lowest prices along their route or in their local area.
TomTom Weather
The TomTom GO 740 LIVE also provides five-day weather reports in the local area, or for a chosen destination, and allows users to plan their trip according to road conditions.
TomTom QuickGPSfix™
QuickGPSfix allows drivers to begin their trip even faster by automatically locating and updating satellite locations on their device.
TomTom Buddies
With TomTom Buddies, drivers can link their TomTom device to those of their friends so they can locate each other on the map, share favorite locations, as well as exchange and share location information and text messages.
Additional Features
New Form and Interface
The new GO 740 LIVE is redesigned with TomTom’s iconic thin form and an elegant user-interface that features optimized icons for even easier navigation through the device menu. The enhanced Advanced Lane Guidance feature provides expanded coverage and even clearer lane information for complex highway junctions that indicate which lane to take when multiple exits are close together. The GO 740 LIVE comes with a windshield mount that includes a system connector and twisting locking mechanism to ensure easy docking and charging.
Voice Recognition
With safety in mind, the TomTom GO 740 LIVE also features expanded voice recognition. Activated by tapping a single on-screen icon, drivers can direct the GO 740 LIVE with over 130 different voice commands. Drivers can plan an entire route, adjust volume or screen brightness or even make a phone call with their compatible cell phone by simply using their voice.
TomTom Map Share™
Like all TomTom devices, the GO 740 LIVE comes with TomTom Map Share, TomTom’s unique community-based map improvement technology that allows drivers to make specified improvements to their map instantly on their device. Leveraging its base of 25 million users to date, TomTom has received over five million map improvements thus far. The combination of superior Tele Atlas map updates and Map Share allows TomTom to deliver the most up-to-date and accurate maps in the industry.
Availability and Price
The TomTom GO 740 LIVE will sell for $499 at major retailers in the United States beginning in Q2 2009. One year of TomTom LIVE Services will be included in the box.
Product Specifications:
Unit Dimensions (H x W x D): 3.4” x 5.0” x 0.9”
Unit Weight: 7.9 oz.
Touch-screen: 4.3 inch full TFT color LCD (480 x 272 pixels, supports 64K colors)
Memory: 2 Gb Internal Flash (micro-SD slot for additional storage)
Maps: Pre-loaded maps of USA, Canada from Tele Atlas
GPS: High-sensitivity GPS chipset
Bluetooth: for Hands-Free calling
Connected: Built-in SIM card and GPRS modem for plug-and-play connectivity
Battery: Rechargeable internal 3 hour battery
* TomTom LIVE Services are available in the US only.
About TomTom
TomTom NV is the world’s leading navigation solutions provider. TomTom's products are developed with an emphasis on innovation, quality, ease of use, safety and value. TomTom's products include all-in-one navigation devices which enable customers to navigate right out of the box; these are the award-winning TomTom GO family, the TomTom XL and TomTom ONE ranges and the TomTom RIDER. Additionally, independent research proves that TomTom products have a significant positive effect on driving and road safety. TomTom offers a portfolio of content and services for TomTom’s navigation products, which are easily available through TomTom HOME. TomTom also provides navigation software products that integrate with third party devices; the TomTom NAVIGATOR software for PDAs and smartphones. TomTom WORK combines industry leading communication and smart navigation technology with leading edge tracking and tracing expertise. TomTom’s products are sold through a network of leading retailers in over 30 countries and online. TomTom was founded in 1991 in Amsterdam and has offices in Europe, North America, Asia Pacific and South Africa. TomTom is listed at Euronext Amsterdam in The Netherlands. For more information, go to http://www.tomtom.com _________________ Robert Brady
Joined: Jul 21, 2004 Posts: 2718 Location: Chelmsford, UK
Posted: Thu Jan 08, 2009 8:19 pm Post subject: France Digital Maps Added to Intermap Technologies’ NEXTMap
Press release: 08.01.09 France Digital Maps Added to Intermap Technologies’ NEXTMap Europe Countrywide Mapping Database
3D Digital Elevation Maps Completed for 50% of Western Europe
Denver,CO--Intermap Technologies today announced that its NEXTMap® Europe program reached another significant milestone in December by making elevation data for the entire country of France commercially available. For the first time, uniformly accurate 3D digital elevation models and high-resolution orthorectified radar images are available for the largest country (551,695 square kilometers) in the European Union. France joins Germany, Great Britain, and Luxembourg as complete European countries benefitting from Intermap’s elevation models and images. Intermap now offers clients more than 1.2 million square kilometers of European data – representing 50% of the NEXTMap Europe initiative that already includes the above mentioned full country datasets and portions of Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, and The Netherlands.
NEXTMap datasets include digital surface models (1 meter or better vertical accuracy) that depict the earth’s surface (including cultural features such as vegetation, buildings, and roads), digital terrain models displaying the bare earth (with all cultural features digitally removed), and orthorectified radar images corrected to remove normal geometric distortions (grayscale and color images that accentuate topographic features).
“Intermap is on track to deliver on its commitment to provide users across Europe with a consistent, accurate, and up-to-date geospatial dataset that can help meet the insurance risk assessment, energy development, resource management, and other environmental challenges facing many EU nations,” said Brian Bullock, Intermap Technologies’ president and chief executive officer. “Moreover, the completion of each new countrywide dataset enables additional cross-border applications and collaboration across the region – a collaboration that was nearly impossible prior to our NEXTMap Europe initiative.”
Over the coming months, the Company will continue adding entire country datasets to the NEXTMap Europe library until the completion of its NEXTMap Europe program. Data is currently available through the Company’s direct sales team, online via www.TerrainOnDemand, or through Intermap’s worldwide partner network.
About Intermap Technologies
Intermap (TSX: IMP.TO, AIM: IMAP.L) is a preeminent digital mapping company creating uniform high-resolution 3D digital models of the earth’s surface. The Company is proactively remapping entire countries and building uniform national databases, called NEXTMap®, consisting of affordably priced elevation data and geometric images of unprecedented accuracy. Demand for NEXTMap data is growing as new commercial applications emerge within the GIS, engineering, automotive, GPS maps, insurance risk assessment, oil and gas, hydrology, environmental planning, wireless communications, transportation, aviation, and 3D visualization markets.
Headquartered in Denver, Colorado, Intermap employs more than 850 people worldwide, with additional offices in Calgary, Detroit, Jakarta, London, Munich, Ottawa, Paris, Prague, and Washington D.C. For more information, visit www.Intermap.com or www.TerrainOnDeman.com
NEXTMap® is a registered trademark of Intermap Technologies Corporation _________________ Robert Brady
Joined: Jul 21, 2004 Posts: 2718 Location: Chelmsford, UK
Posted: Thu Jan 08, 2009 8:23 pm Post subject: Microsoft Keynote, CES Unveiled and Major Company Announceme
Press release: 08.01.09 Microsoft Keynote, CES Unveiled and Major Company Announcements Kick off 2009 International CES
LAS VEGAS --(Business Wire)-- Jan 08, 2009 A first time keynote address from Microsoft’s Steve Ballmer and cutting-edge product launches fueled momentum on the eve of the 2009 International CES®. Produced by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)®, the 2009 International CES, the world’s largest tradeshow for consumer technology, opened today in Las Vegas and runs through Sunday, January 11.
“The pre-CES events created an incredible buzz throughout Las Vegas and around the globe as the world waits in anticipation for the innovative products that will launch this week from the International CES,” said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO, CEA. “With 2,700 exhibitors, including 300 new technology companies, spanning 1.7 million net square feet of exhibit space, the products introduced at this year’s CES will change the shape of our industry and energize the global economy.”
During a market research presentation on Tuesday afternoon, CEA released the Global CE Sales and Forecast. According to new data from CEA and the Gfk Group, CEA projected worldwide revenue for consumer electronics will grow more than four percent to reach $724 billion in 2009.
On Tuesday evening, the fifth annual CES Unveiled: The Official Press Event of the International CES, launched the pre-CES media events at the Sands Expo and Convention Center/The Venetian. The event hosted a record number of more than 900 media, which was a 10 percent increase over the 2008 event. With 56 exhibitors, including AMD, Boxee, Lenovo and Phoenix Technologies, CES Unveiled showcased the latest products and technologies in home networking, text to sign language technologies, innovative gaming keyboards, embedded technologies, digital imaging and more.
Product debuts continued on Wednesday with CES’ Press Day, which featured 11 exhibitor press conferences. CES exhibitors making product announcements included LG, which announced a wireless wristwatch phone with video chat and text messaging capabilities; NETGEAR, which introduced an Internet TV player and a 3G Mobile Broadband router and Panasonic, which unveiled the world’s thinnest Plasma TV, measuring one third of an inch thick, with NeoPDP technology making the product very energy efficient.
Steve Ballmer, CEO of Microsoft Corporation, delivered his first CES keynote address on Wednesday evening. Ballmer discussed the economy and noted that the challenges we face today should be viewed with optimism. “No matter what happens with the economy, our digital lives will only get richer,” he said.
Ballmer outlined three opportunities that lay ahead for the technology industry – the convergence of the PC, phone and TV; a more natural consumer interaction with devices that will incorporate speech and hand gestures and the connected experience between devices.
Ballmer announced that Windows 7 is on track to deliver the ultimate Windows experience, complete with “simplicity, reliability and speed.” A beta version will be available for worldwide download on Friday. Ballmer also announced exciting partnerships with Facebook, Verizon and Dell, which will pre-install Windows Live and Live Search on its entire consumer line of PCs.
Robbie Bach, president of Microsoft’s Entertainment & Devices Division, returned to the CES keynote stage to discuss the latest in Microsoft gaming. Bach announced the upcoming release of two new Halo titles, Halo Wars in February, and Halo 3ODST in the fall.
For the latest news and developments from the 2009 International CES, visit www.CESweb.org, the source for all CES-related information.
About CEA:
The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the $173 billion U.S. consumer electronics industry. More than 2,200 companies enjoy the benefits of CEA membership, including legislative advocacy, market research, technical training and education, industry promotion and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA also sponsors and manages the International CES – Where Entertainment, Technology and Business Converge. All profits from CES are reinvested into CEA’s industry services. Find CEA online at www.CE.org.
Follow the 2009 International CES on Twitter at http://twitter.com/2009CES and visit the International CES Page on Facebook.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Digital Music Forum East
February 24-25, 2009, New York, NY
Greener Gadgets Conference
February 27, 2009, New York, NY
EHX Spring 2009
March 10-14, 2009, Orlando, FL
Digital Patriots Dinner
April 22, 2009, Washington, DC
CEA Washington Forum
April 22-23, 2009, Washington, DC
LA Games Conference
April 28-29, 2009, Hollywood, CA
CONNECTIONSTM: The Digital Living Conference and Showcase
June 2-4, 2009, Santa Clara, CA
Digital Downtown
June 10-12, 2009, New York, NY
13th Annual CEO Summit
June 17-20, 2009, Dana Point, CA
2009 SINOCES
July 9-12, 2009, Qingdao, China
2009 CEA Industry Forum
October 18-21, 2009, Phoenix, AZ
CES New York Press Preview featuring CES Unveiled @ NY
November 10, 2009, New York, NY _________________ Robert Brady
Joined: Jul 21, 2004 Posts: 2718 Location: Chelmsford, UK
Posted: Thu Jan 08, 2009 9:36 pm Post subject: Mobile Devices to Introduce First Connected Open Platform fo
Press release: 08.01.09 Mobile Devices to Introduce First Connected Open Platform for Advanced Services & Navigation with the Launch of Dreevo 2 at CES 2009
LAS VEGAS --(Business Wire)-- Jan 08, 2009 As gas prices fall and more consumers hit the open road again, there is increasing demand for more intuitive, real-time navigation and information support to help consumers get where they’re going. In response to this need, Mobile Devices announces the worldwide release of Dreevo 2, a wireless enabled navigation device, and its accompanying ecosystem. The Dreevo 2 delivers real-time, critical driving information extending far beyond the basic directional capabilities of most GPS systems.
Today, more than 350 service providers are connected to the Dreevo ecosystem to provide consumer and professional drivers across the globe with in-vehicle, real-time access to dynamic content and services such as:
Fuel prices for nearby stations – Budget-conscious drivers will be able to find the lowest gas prices within a specified distance of their current location with up-to-the-minute pricing information.
Traffic information – Live traffic updates will help drivers get to their destination as quickly as possible.
Live, safety/speed camera notification – Drivers will receive an alert when they are approaching a camera so they know to slow down, and they can then notify other drivers of newly-added cameras in their cities with database update capabilities.
Parking spot availability – Drivers will be able to save time and gas searching for a parking spot because Dreevo 2 will show them exactly where all of the open spots are in select public lots.
Local search – People will spend less time on the phone trying to find their destination and more time paying attention to the road with the local information search capabilities of Google, the White Pages and the Yellow Pages. Available information will include addresses/directions and contact information.
Instant messaging – Chat with friends, family and other drivers safely with live chat, e-mail and SMS capabilities via Push to Talk.
These services, most of which are currently available on the European version of Dreevo 2, will be available through Mobile Devices’ application store for subscription and wireless download in 2009. All services will be demonstrated live at CES 2009 at Mobile Devices’ booth #4619.
More than 100,000 devices around the world utilize the Dreevo ecosystem, which Mobile Devices launched last year at CES. The ecosystem includes:
a range of connected OEM devices;
an open embedded platform running Linux with a complete development environment;
a communication server that handles a real-time two-way directional link between content providers; and,
an application store that enables any developer to offer new services.
The Dreevo ecosystem enables the quick deployment of a connected navigation solution, in both the consumer and professional markets. With an easy-to-use interface for consumers and appropriate applications such as billing for businesses, the Dreevo ecosystem fulfills all the requirements and technical challenges for all audiences.
Mobile Devices’ focus on the standardization of telematics software applications and continuous validation process enabled the rapid market release of Dreevo 2. The Dreevo product family was first introduced in the U.S. at CES 2008 and Mobile Devices has since leveraged the insights and applications of more than 300 companies in its developer program to ensure that Dreevo 2 achieves the highest market ratings.
Dreevo 2 is currently available worldwide for the professional market - such as taxi companies, trucking companies and other mobile workforces - as well as to the consumer market through specialized retail and car dealers. Mobile Devices plans to complete its rollout of Dreevo 2 to the global consumer retail market, including U.S. retail chains, by the end of Q2 2009.
About Mobile Devices
Founded in 2002, Mobile Devices has become an undisputed leader for its high performance GPRS/GPS technology that enables businesses and consumers to develop smart navigation, driver information and fleet management applications. Based on a distinctive hardware and software platform, Mobile Devices’ product line offers a comprehensive range of solutions to meet the needs of today’s challenging mobility market from small tracking devices to connected navigators and multi-IO gateways. Headquartered in Le Kremlin Bicêtre, near Paris, Mobile Devices’ worldwide customers include Trafficmaster, Thales, Alpha Taxis, SITA Suez group, Geodis, Spie, Antargaz, and Gps Buddy. To learn more about Mobile Devices and its products please visit the web site: www.mobile-devices.fr/
Mobile Devices Cyril Zeller _________________ Robert Brady
Joined: Jul 21, 2004 Posts: 2718 Location: Chelmsford, UK
Posted: Fri Jan 09, 2009 3:44 pm Post subject: $8.6 Billion LTE Base Station Forecast Shows There Is Still
Press release: 09.01.09 $8.6 Billion LTE Base Station Forecast Shows There Is Still Enthusiasm for Deployment
NEW YORK - January 9, 2009 -
More than eighteen operators globally have announced LTE deployment plans, and the tough economy does not seem to have dampened their enthusiasm. In fact, Verizon has announced acceleration of its LTE deployment timetable, bringing the launch forward from 2010 to 2009. Many of the others are looking at a 2011-2012 timeframe, by which time, they hope, much of the current pain will have passed.
According to ABI Research senior analyst Nadine Manjaro, “ABI Research believes that NTT will also deploy LTE in Japan in 2009. We forecast that by 2013 operators will spend over $8.6 billion on LTE base station infrastructure alone. For operators that have already deployed 3G networks, LTE will be a key CAPEX driver over the next five years.”
LTE application development will also drive investment as operators work to determine which services to deploy on this high speed, low latency network.
Sprint and Verizon have both announced that they will provide third-party access to their GPS data. ”The resulting new applications will tie mobility and presence aspects together to create more compelling services than in the past,” says Manjaro. “This is significant because it represents the beginning of a new generation of application development which will leverage the vast amounts of data in operators’ networks.”
Application developers already talking to these carriers include WaveMarket, Inc. and uLocate Communications, Inc.
ABI Research’s recent report “Long Term Evolution (LTE)” charts the LTE timeline, operators’ strategies, and migration plans. It discusses IPR, backhaul, and security, includes forecasts for subscribers, base stations and femtocells, and lists planned LTE trials and deployments.
It forms part of the firm’s Mobile Networks Research Service.
ABI Research is a leading market research firm focused on the impact of emerging technologies on global consumer and business markets. Utilizing a unique blend of market intelligence, primary research, and expert assessment from its worldwide team of industry analysts, ABI Research assists hundreds of clients each year with their strategic growth initiatives. For information, visit www.abiresearch.com _________________ Robert Brady
Joined: Jul 21, 2004 Posts: 2718 Location: Chelmsford, UK
Posted: Fri Jan 09, 2009 3:53 pm Post subject: Braxton and Raytheon Team Demonstrate GPS OCX Advances
Press release: Braxton and Raytheon Team Demonstrate GPS OCX Advances
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Braxton Technologies today announced significant achievements as a member of the Raytheon Team working the ongoing 18-month, $160 million Global Positioning System (GPS) Operational Control Segment (OCX) program administered by the Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center, Los Angeles Air Force Base, Calif.
During testing that started October 25, 2008, Braxton and the Raytheon Team validated the ability to monitor and control the GPS Ground Antenna (GA), command and process telemetry through the GA, and interface with the GPS monitoring station. The Raytheon Team also validated Braxton’s high-fidelity simulator, AceSIM.
"Braxton and the Raytheon Team have taken a decisive step in implementing OCX," commented Dutch Heuzen, Braxton GPS OCX Program Manager. "We are pleased with this accomplishment and appreciative of the professionalism and teamwork of the Raytheon OCX Team."
About Braxton Technologies
Braxton Technologies, LLC delivers products and professional services for government and commercial applications. Global Positioning System (GPS) launch, early-orbit, operations, and disposal command and control functions are currently performed by Braxton’s ACE Premier™ product suite. ACE Premier™ includes configurable applications, tools, and simulators that dramatically reduce cost and accelerate deployment of command and control systems. Braxton is headquartered in Colorado Springs, Colo. _________________ Robert Brady
Joined: Jul 21, 2004 Posts: 2718 Location: Chelmsford, UK
Posted: Fri Jan 09, 2009 3:55 pm Post subject: Ford, Microsoft Introduce New SYNC Features at ShowStoppers
Press release: Ford, Microsoft Introduce New SYNC Features at ShowStoppers Press Event
90 Companies Demo to 1,000-plus Journalists, Analysts, Bloggers
Ford Also Previews 2010 Fusion Hybrid, the Most Fuel-Efficient Mid-Size Sedan in America
ShowStoppers @ CES 2009
2009 International CES
LAS VEGAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Ford (F), Microsoft (MSFT) and eight partner companies together introduced the latest new features for SYNC -- the hands-free information and entertainment system for drivers -- during ShowStoppers, the press-only special event during the Consumer Electronics Show (CES).
Ford also previewed the 2010 Fusion Hybrid, which goes on sale this spring, as "America's most fuel efficient mid-size car" with a government mileage rating of 41 miles per gallon in the city and 36 on the highway, which beats the Toyota Camry Hybrid by 8mpg in the city.
The world-first demonstrations by Ford, Microsoft, Airbiquity, Gracenote, INRIX, MACOM, Sirius, TeleNav, Tellme and THX followed the announcement of SYNC at a CES keynote by Alan Mulally, Chief Executive Officer, Ford Motor Company.
The invitation-only event featured company launches, product introductions, sneak previews and hands-on product demos by 90 companies to more than 1,000 top journalists, columnists, selected bloggers, and industry and financial analysts, who cover business, consumer, lifestyle and digital products for work, home and play.
The new version of SYNC expands on a range of services first introduced in the 2008 Ford Focus and demonstrated to the press a year ago during ShowStoppers @ CES 2008.
With industry-leading voice-recognition software, integrated GPS technology and a customer’s Bluetooth mobile phone, SYNC with Traffic, Directions and Information provides simple hands-free access to personalized traffic reports, precise turn-by-turn driving directions, and up-to-date information such as business listings, news, sports and weather. The new services will be available on nearly all 2010 Ford, Lincoln and Mercury models with no monthly subscription fees for the first three years of service, which is included with a new vehicle purchase.
About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 224,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company’s core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.ford.com.
About ShowStoppers
Now in its 16th year, ShowStoppers, http://www.showstoppers.com, is the global leader in producing press-only events. Industry leaders, innovators, startups and upstart companies exhibit during the year at ShowStoppers events to help generate news coverage and product reviews, make new connections, promote brand, and open new markets.
The next ShowStoppers events are ShowStoppers @ Mobile World Congress, 15 Feb. 2009, in Barcelona, Spain; and ShowStoppers @ CTIA Wireless, 1 Apr. 2009, in Las Vegas.
ShowStoppers also produces in Berlin, Germany, the official press event of IFA, one of the largest consumer-electronics trade fairs in the world. _________________ Robert Brady
Joined: Jul 21, 2004 Posts: 2718 Location: Chelmsford, UK
Posted: Fri Jan 09, 2009 3:57 pm Post subject: Best Buy Reports December Revenue of $7.5 Billion, Continues
Press release: Best Buy Reports December Revenue of $7.5 Billion, Continues Market Share Gains
Company Updates Fiscal 2009 Annual EPS Guidance Range
2009 International CES
LAS VEGAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Best Buy Co., Inc. (NYSE:BBY):
Monthly Revenue Summary – Fiscal December
(U.S. dollars in billions)
Fiscal December 2009 Fiscal Fiscal
Revenue
Revenue Change
December 2009
Comparable Store
Sales Change1
December 2008
Comparable Store
Sales Change1
Total Company $7.5 4% (6.5%) 1.5%
Domestic Segment $5.9 (1%) (6.8%) 0.3%
International Segment $1.6 29%2 (4.2%) 7.6%
1 Comprised of revenue at stores, call centers and Web sites operating for at least 14 full months, as well as remodeled and expanded locations. Relocated stores are excluded from the comparable store sales calculation until at least 14 full months after reopening. Acquired stores are included in the comparable store sales calculation beginning with the first full quarter following the first anniversary of the date of the acquisition. The calculation of the comparable store sales change excludes the effect of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. The method of calculating comparable store sales varies across the retail industry. As a result, Best Buy’s method of calculating comparable store sales may not be the same as other retailers’ methods.
2 Revenue change includes an unfavorable foreign currency exchange rate impact of 16 percentage points. Consistent with prior presentations, results of operations in China and Europe are reported on a two-month lag.
Best Buy Co., Inc. (NYSE:BBY), from the Consumer Electronics Show, today reported that revenue for the fiscal month ended Jan. 3, 2009, rose 4 percent to $7.5 billion, which was in line with company expectations. The revenue for the five-week period compared with $7.3 billion in revenue for the five-week period ended Jan. 5, 2008. Gains from the inclusion of Best Buy Europe’s revenue and the net addition of 194 new stores in the past 12 months were largely offset by a 6.5-percent decline in comparable store sales and the unfavorable impact of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates.
In commenting on fiscal December’s revenue results, Brad Anderson, vice chairman and chief executive officer, stated, “While the environment continues to be as challenging as we expected, consumers are being drawn to brands that they trust, and they are responding to our customer-centric model. In this light, we believe the market share gains we’ve been making will be sustained.”
The company’s domestic segment generated $5.9 billion in revenue for fiscal December, which was nearly unchanged compared with last year’s period. The domestic revenue performance included gains from the net addition of 138 new stores in the past 12 months, offset by a comparable store sales decline of 6.8 percent. The comparable store sales decline reflected a decrease in traffic, which was partially offset by an increase in average ticket. The company stated that this year’s December calendar shift did not have a significant impact on domestic comparable store sales.
Brian Dunn, president and chief operating officer of Best Buy, said, “I would like to thank our employees for once again rising to the challenge and delivering extraordinary service. They helped our customers make the most of their entertainment and technology purchases during the busy holiday shopping season.”
The company’s international segment increased its fiscal December revenue by 29 percent to $1.6 billion. International revenue, except for the company’s Canadian operations, is reported on a two-month lag and therefore reflects fiscal October results. The increase was driven primarily by the inclusion of Best Buy Europe’s revenue and the net addition of 56 new stores over the past 12 months (including 25 new store openings in Europe). These gains were partially offset by the impact of unfavorable foreign-currency exchange rates and a comparable stores sales decline of 4.2 percent, with the latter being driven by general weakness in the global economy.
Bob Willett, CEO of International, said, “Despite the uncertain economy, Canada stores and Web sites modestly exceeded our revenue expectations. Our teams delivered superior execution during the important Boxing Week shopping period. The majority of stores had revenue on Boxing Day in excess of $1 million, with many stores significantly surpassing that figure. Revenue in China was modestly below plan, as we saw in the United States during calendar October as well. In Europe, we were satisfied with results, including steady top-line growth. We believe we made further strides in market share in Europe, particularly with prepaid mobile phones.”
December Highlights
The company believes it continued to gain market share during the holiday shopping season, particularly in mobile phones, computing, home theater and music, due to new store openings and its customer centricity strategy.
The domestic segment’s comparable store sales were strongest in categories where the company has recently enhanced its customer experience, including flat-panel TVs, notebook computers, and mobile phones and accessories.
The company’s revenue from its Web sites grew approximately 34 percent for the fiscal month, as more consumers migrated to this purchasing channel.
The company continued to manage its inventory levels aggressively and believes it is on track to finish the fiscal year with domestic inventory levels (in dollars) flat with the prior year-end levels.
U.S. Performance of Flat-Panel TVs, Notebooks and Mobile Phones Remains Strong
The home office revenue category, which accounted for 24 percent of fiscal December domestic revenue, posted a comparable store sales gain of 6.5 percent. This growth was driven primarily by very strong double-digit comparable store sales growth in mobile phones and accessories. Total connections increased by the solid double digits. In the prior year’s period, only 181 U.S. Best Buy stores offered the Best Buy Mobile experience, which is now available at all U.S. Best Buy stores. Notebook computers experienced low double-digit comparable store sales growth due to the company’s broad assortments and the availability of services.
The services revenue category, which comprised 4 percent of fiscal December domestic revenue, posted a 0.5-percent comparable store sales decrease for the month.
Consumer electronics, which represented 44 percent of fiscal December domestic revenue, posted an 8.7-percent comparable store sales decline. The total television category posted a high single-digit comparable store sales gain, while flat-panel TVs showed low double-digit comparable store sale increases on even stronger unit growth. The strength in televisions was more than offset by comparable store sales declines in digital cameras and MP3 players, which experienced a reduction in consumer demand during the month. In addition, GPS products had significant declines in average selling prices, which more than offset strong double-digit unit increases.
The entertainment software revenue category, which comprised 25 percent of fiscal December domestic revenue, experienced a comparable store sales decline of 12.2 percent. Music and movies experienced double-digit comparable store sales declines. Video gaming comparable store sales declined by the mid single digits, primarily due to a shift toward software and reduced sales of large-ticket consoles, as well as comparisons with strong results in the prior year’s period.
The appliances revenue category, which accounted for 3 percent of fiscal December domestic revenue, declined by 24.5 percent on a comparable store sales basis. The decline was driven primarily by continued weakness in purchases of major appliances.
Year-to-Date Revenue Rises 12 Percent
For the first 10 months of fiscal 2009, Best Buy reported revenue of $37.8 billion, an increase of 12 percent compared with the same period last year. The revenue growth reflected the acquisition of Best Buy Europe and gains from new store openings since the prior year period, which was partially offset by a 0.9 percent comparable store sales decline. The comparable store sales decline for the 10-month period included a 1.1-percent decline for the company’s domestic segment and a 0.2-percent gain for the company’s international segment.
Company Updates Fiscal 2009 Annual EPS Guidance Range
Best Buy updated its guidance for fiscal 2009 annual earnings per diluted share to a range of $2.50 to $2.70, which excludes the $111 million investment impairment charge taken during the fiscal third quarter, expenses related to its voluntary separation program and any other restructuring charges to streamline operations in preparation for a challenging fiscal 2010 environment. This new earnings guidance represents a narrowing of the prior range of $2.30 to $2.90 per diluted share. The guidance assumes a comparable store sales decline of 2 percent to 3 percent for fiscal 2009.
In mid-December, the company announced a voluntary separation package available to nearly all corporate employees in order to reduce future non-customer facing expenses. Based on the number of employees who accepted the offer, the company expects to recognize in its fiscal fourth quarter a charge of approximately $60 million for this voluntary program, as reported on Jan. 8 in an SEC filing. This estimate was limited to the cost of the voluntary separation package and excludes other restructuring activities, such as the cost of future involuntary workforce reductions, if any.
Commenting on the updated earnings range, Jim Muehlbauer, executive vice president and chief financial officer, said, “Given the expected volatility in consumer spending over the holiday shopping season, we prepared plans that reflected a wide range of potential outcomes. Our employees did an outstanding job of execution and truly focused on solving customers’ problems. They delivered revenue results for December that both were in line with our expected range, and reflected strong market share gains. December revenue trends improved as the month progressed, and we were pleased with the effectiveness with which we managed our promotions. While we have limited visibility to consumer spending patterns in the post-holiday period, we feel confident in narrowing the range of our annual EPS guidance, given the proportion of the year that is behind us.”
On March 26, 2009, the company expects to report fiscal fourth-quarter earnings and to provide its initial earnings guidance for fiscal 2010.
Best Buy’s financial results and other news releases can be found on the Internet at the company’s Web site, www.BestBuy.com by clicking on the “For Our Investors” link, or accessed via Business Wire’s Web site at www.businesswire.com. _________________ Robert Brady
Web-Centric Platform and New Palm Pre Phone to Debut Exclusively on Sprint’s Mobile Broadband Network in First Half of 2009
2009 International CES
LAS VEGAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Palm, Inc. (NASDAQ:PALM) today unveiled its groundbreaking Palm® webOS™ mobile platform, built from the ground up to be constantly connected to the web, and the new Palm Pre™, the first phone based on the new platform.(1) Pre is scheduled to be available exclusively from Sprint in the first half of 2009.
Palm webOS is a brand-new kind of platform, invented exclusively for mobile use. webOS recognizes that you want your people, calendars and information to move with you, wherever you are, wirelessly, as opposed to being bound to a personal computer. Palm webOS is the first mobile platform to automatically bring your information from the many places it resides – on your phone, at your work or on the web – into one simple, integrated view.(1) The new Palm Pre and webOS are designed to be so in sync with your needs that it feels like Pre is thinking ahead for you.
“Palm products have always been about simplifying lives and delivering great user experiences,” said Ed Colligan, Palm president and chief executive officer. “webOS and Pre bring game-changing simplicity to an increasingly mobile world by dissolving the barriers that surround your information. It’s technology that seems like it’s thinking ahead to bring you what you care about most – your people, your time, and your information – in the easiest and most seamless way.”
“Pre continues Sprint’s leadership in open access to the content customers want for a great web-connected experience,” said Dan Hesse, Sprint chief executive officer. “We look forward to bringing this remarkably innovative device to our customers on America’s most dependable 3G network.”(2)
Palm’s new OS is the first mobile platform to be built from the ground up to combine standard technology, innovation and integration. At its core, webOS leverages several industry-standard technologies, including web technologies such as CSS, XHTML and JavaScript. On top of that, Palm has included creative and innovative advancements to enhance the overall user experience and provided a deep integration of all elements within the platform.
The new platform was designed to allow a vast ecosystem of partners, including developers, hardware suppliers, and accessories manufacturers, to develop core solutions to complement the platform and product line. For developers, webOS shatters traditional barriers to mobile-application development by offering a rich open development environment that’s familiar to tens of millions of web developers. More people can develop for the platform and can do it faster than ever before. The platform’s flexible environment will also allow developers to distribute their applications over-the-air via an on-device Palm application store.
Your Life, Brought Together
The new platform introduces Palm Synergy™, a key feature of webOS that brings your information from all the places it resides into one logical view. You don’t have to worry about tracking multiple calendars, contacts and messaging applications – Synergy brings it to you for a more comprehensive and truly representative view of your life.
Linked contacts – With Synergy, you have a single view that links your contacts from a variety of sources, so accessing them is easier than ever. For example, if you have the same contact listed in your Outlook(3), Google and Facebook accounts, Synergy recognizes that they’re the same person and links the information, presenting it to you as one listing. And if you update a contact on your webOS device, it also will be updated in your various accounts, whether on a personal computer or on the web.
Layered calendars – Your calendars can be seen on their own or layered together in a single view, combining work, family, friends, sports teams, or other interests. You can toggle to look at one calendar at a time, or see them all at a glance.
Combined messaging – Synergy lets you see all your conversations with the same person in a chat-style view, even if it started in IM and you want to reply with text messaging. You can also see who’s active in a buddy list right from contacts, and start a new conversation with just one touch.
Your Information, Effortlessly
By smartly integrating your information, webOS is designed to think ahead for you and keep you on top of the things that happen in your life, but that’s just the first step. The platform’s unique interface brings your information to you with the ease that only Palm can offer.
Web-connected applications – Applications are seamlessly connected to the web and always active(4), ensuring you have the most up-to-date information.
Run multiple applications at the same time – Palm’s revolutionary webOS lets you manage multiple activities more effectively than any other mobile platform today. It lets you keep multiple applications open and instantly flip from one to another.(4)
Instinctive user interface – With its multi-touch interface, webOS lets you move easily between activities like flipping through a deck of cards and rearrange items simply by dragging them; when you are done with something, just throw it away. And finding what you need is easy with universal search – as you type what you’re looking for, the OS narrows your search and offers results from both your device and the web.(5)
Intuitive and unobtrusive notifications – When important things come up or new updates arrive, you’ll receive notifications with a diplomacy that’s a radical departure from other mobile platforms. For example, if you receive a text message or email, a scrolling notifications bar at the bottom of your screen lets you address it right away or leave until later. webOS alerts are one step ahead, ensuring that you never miss a thing, but never lose your place or train of thought.
Palm Pre: The First webOS Phone
Pre has a breakthrough interface and hardware design that makes it the most integrated and user-friendly phone for mobile users. Featuring a smooth, rounded ergonomic design and a physical keyboard that slides out only when needed, Pre is engineered to feel natural in the hand and comfortably small in the pocket. When closed, the phone is ideal for phone calls, web browsing, music, photos and videos; when open, Pre is optimized for email and text messaging. With its curved slider and gesture-controlled touch interface, Pre fuses exquisite design with the revolutionary webOS software for fast access to anything on the device or web. It’s an instinctive user experience that seems to anticipate your needs.
“As our lives revolve more and more around the web, devices like Palm Pre that transform how we interact with the web will lead the way,” said Hesse. “We are focused on bringing our customers a superior experience that includes easy-to-use devices, simple pricing and value with Simply Everything all-inclusive offerings, plus Ready Now, our exclusive retail program that helps customers leave the store feeling comfortable and confident they know how to use their new device.”
Pre will support a variety of differentiated on-device Sprint services, including Sprint TV®, offering an extensive selection of live and on-demand programming. Sprint Navigation provides GPS-enabled audio and visual turn-by-turn driving directions, one-click traffic rerouting and more than 10 million local listings. Sprint also offers more than a dozen streaming-radio applications, including Sprint Radio with more than 150 channels.
Palm Pre features include the following:
High-speed connectivity (EVDO Rev. A or UMTS HSDPA)
Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g(6)
Integrated GPS(7)
Large 3.1-inch touch screen with a vibrant 24-bit color 320x480 resolution HVGA display
Gesture area, which enables simple, intuitive gestures for navigation
Slide-out QWERTY keyboard
Email, including Outlook EAS (for access to corporate Microsoft Exchange servers), as well as personal email support (POP3, IMAP)
Robust messaging support (IM, SMS and MMS capabilities)(4)
High-performance, desktop-class web browser
Great multimedia experience and performance (pictures, video playback, music), featuring a 3-megapixel camera with LED flash and extended depth of field, and a standard 3.5mm headset jack
Bluetooth® 2.1 + EDR with A2DP stereo Bluetooth support
8GB of internal user storage (~7.4GB user available)
USB mass storage mode
MicroUSB connector with USB 2.0 Hi-Speed
Proximity sensor, which automatically disables the touch screen and turns off the display whenever you put the phone up to your ear
Light sensor, which dims the display if the ambient light is dark, such as at night or in a movie theater, to reduce power usage
Accelerometer, which automatically orients web pages and photos to your perspective
Ringer switch, which easily silences the device with one touch
Removable, rechargeable battery
Dimensions: 59.57mm (W) x 100.53mm (L, closed) x 16.95mm (D) [2.35 inches (W) x 3.96 inches (L, closed) x 0.67 inches (D)]
Weight: ~135 grams [4.76 ounces]
An array of compelling accessories also will be available for Pre, including the first inductive charging solution for phones (sold separately). Simply set Pre down on top of the elegantly designed Palm Touchstone™ charging dock without worrying about connection, orientation or fit. Pre is active while charging, so you can access the touch screen, watch movies or video, or use the speakerphone.
Availability and Pricing
Palm Pre is scheduled to be available first in the United States exclusively from Sprint in the first half of 2009, and will be followed by a world-ready UMTS version for other regions. Sprint’s pricing for the phone has not yet been determined.
Customers who would like to register to receive additional information about Pre and be notified when it’s available can register at www.palm.com or www.sprint.com/palmpre.
About Palm, Inc.
Palm, Inc. is a leading mobile products company, creating instinctive yet powerful mobile products that enable people to better manage their lives on the go. The company’s products for consumers, mobile professionals and businesses include Palm® Treo™, Pre™ and Centro™ phones, as well as software, services and accessories.
Palm products are sold through select Internet, retail, reseller and wireless operator channels throughout the world, and at Palm online stores (http://www.palm.com/store).
NOTE TO EDITORS: Multimedia materials, including photos and video, are available at www.palm.com/MeetPre.
Please add the tag #MeetPre to your tweets or “MeetPre” to your blog posts about the Palm Pre phone, and follow Palm on Twitter at www.twitter.com/palm_inc
SATELLITE INFORMATION
Video highlights of today’s Palm press event at CES will be available via satellite at the following coordinates:
DATE/TIME:
Start Date/Time: Thursday, Jan. 8, 2009 4:00 PM ET (1:00PM Local)
End Date/Time: Thursday, Jan. 8, 2009 4:15 PM ET (1:15PM Local)
Package will broadcast twice:
First Broadcast Start Time: 4:00PM ET (1:00PM Local)
First Broadcast End Time: 4:07PM ET (1:07PM Local)
Second Broadcast Start Time: 4:08PM ET (1:08PM Local)
Second Broadcast End Time: 4:15PM ET (1:15PM Local)
Satellite:
Galaxy 17 / k 20 slot B 9 MHz
Uplink freq: 14395.5 H
Downlink freq: 12095.5 V
Digital Unencrypted SD 4:2:0
Data Rate: 10.167974
FEC: 5 / 6
Sym: 6.620
(1) Use of this device requires providing a valid email address, mobile phone number, and related information for account setup and activation. Unlimited usage data plan strongly recommended; additional data charges may apply. Within wireless coverage area only. Number of applications and actual performance will vary depending on applications used and actions performed.
(2) Claims: Largest based on square miles (including roaming). Based on independent, third-party drive tests for 3G data connection success, session reliability and signal strength for the top 50 most populous markets from March ‘08 to Sept. ‘08.
(3) Within wireless coverage area only. Requires data services at additional cost. Microsoft Direct Push Technology requires Microsoft Exchange Server 2003 with SP2 or Exchange Server 2007. Additional fees may apply.
(4) Within wireless coverage area only. Use of some third-party web applications may impact performance.
(5) Searches web and user’s applications, contacts, and dialing information. Web search within wireless coverage area only, requires data services at additional cost.
(6) Within range of 802.11b/g Wi-Fi network. Some Wi-Fi hotspots require fee for usage.
(7) GPS requires data services at additional cost. Coverage not available in all areas at all times.
Palm, webOS, Pre, Synergy, Touchstone, Treo and Centro are among the trademarks or registered trademarks owned by or licensed to Palm, Inc. All other brand and product names are or may be trademarks of, and are used to identify products or services of, their respective owners. _________________ Robert Brady
Joined: Jul 21, 2004 Posts: 2718 Location: Chelmsford, UK
Posted: Fri Jan 09, 2009 4:01 pm Post subject: Mio Announces Breakthrough "Spirit" Navigation Sof
Press release: Mio Announces Breakthrough "Spirit" Navigation Software at CES 2009
Concept Mobile Internet Device also revealed
The world’s leading Portable Navigation Device (PND) maker — Mio has launched its breakthrough navigation software “Spirit” at CES 2009 today. Mio’s Spirit software boasts a simple and intuitive user interface (UI), an industry first “Explore Mode™” presenting all nearby Points-of-Interest (POI) at a glance, and a “Capture Button” to record favorite locations along with an added voice memo. The new Spirit software incorporates more functionality in a simpler way, leading the future of the PND industry.
Mio also announced its concept Mobile Internet Device at the show.
In order to develop the industry's first user-centric UI and navigation software, Mio conducted international research to provide consumer insight through all age ranges, and found that most PNDs only focus on "going" from place to place and leave out the rest of a journey. Taking two years to accomplish, "Spirit" is designed to improve on the "Planning" and “Doing” phases of a journey, thereby, providing a total navigation experience. The intuitive, easy-to-use UI also allows consumers to enjoy the convenience that a PND brings. Mio's Spirit software will be implemented throughout 2009's new products.
Samuel Wang, President of Mio Technology Corp. says: "Mio's Spirit software stands out as a breakthrough in current navigation software design. By shortening the flows within the human-oriented interface, Spirit will enhance its impression to users, thus securing Mio's advantage in stretching into more market segments." He highlighted that through the implementation of Spirit, PNDs can provide more fun, confidence and happy memories from journeys and at the same time help users save money, time and effort.
Spirit's key features include:
Explore Mode™: Easily browse maps to see all nearby POIs, save time and effort searching for POI's under separate categories. The floating POI menu shows extensive information as an integrated travel book, helping users to explore more easily. The Capture button: Conveniently capture any location along your journey, creating a personal travel book for sharing or revisiting. Friendly UI: Symbolized icons can be easily understood even by first-time users. The logic of the menu system eliminates the need to go back and forth to set up routes or find POIs. TruMap™: Designed to look like a traditional paper map, the clear and clean map view gives you an easier reading and navigating experience. NavPix™ Photo Navigation and pre-loaded Travel Books help plan your trip ahead and provide detailed information on important points-of-interest.During CES 2009, Mio is also demonstrating its first concept Mobile Internet Device, targeted at users who are increasingly accessing web-based services. To increase the unit's portability, the Mobile Internet Device weighs as little as 600g yet still boasts an 8-hour long battery life, enabling users to communicate anytime, anywhere and Location-based services can be easily accessed via an integrated GPS receiver. The specifications and launch schedule are expected in Q2 2009.
Visit Mio at the Las Vegas Convention Center – North Hall, Booth 4024
Mio Technology Corporation
Mio Technology develops and markets products which enable users to take advantage of the latest developments in mobile services. The brand was established in May 2002 and now has operations in Taiwan, mainland China, Europe, North America, Australia, Japan and South Korea. Mio currently employees 1,200+ employees worldwide and sells and markets its products in over 47 countries and territories.
It is Mio's prediction that mobile life and mobile business will be the mainstay of life in the future. Products, including Car navigation, Portable navigation and navigation PDA systems, have been developed by focusing on the needs of customers. Mio's brand tagline, "Explore More", focuses on changing the way people experience the world and letting users know that they can explore the world easily and freely.
Annette Leach
Harvard PR _________________ Robert Brady
Joined: Jul 21, 2004 Posts: 2718 Location: Chelmsford, UK
Posted: Fri Jan 09, 2009 4:07 pm Post subject: Ford Selects INRIX to Power New Ford SYNC with Traffic, Dire
Press release: 09.01.09 Ford Selects INRIX to Power New Ford SYNC with Traffic, Directions and Information
INRIX Connected Services enables new Ford innovations and rapid time to market
INRIX announced today that it has been selected by the Ford Motor Company to enable the new Ford SYNCTM with Traffic, Directions and Information (announced by Ford separately on January 7th) featuring personalized driving content and technology from INRIX Connected Services. The new Ford SYNC is the latest version of the award winning fully-integrated, voice activated in-car communication and entertainment system for your mobile phone and digital music player.
New Ford car and truck owners will benefit from the latest generation Ford SYNC in-car connectivity platform with personalized voice-enabled traffic reports, traffic-influenced turn-by-turn directions, and traffic alerts provided to Ford, exclusively from INRIX. SYNC with Traffic Directions and Information will be demonstrated at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas this week and will be available in the Spring of 2009.
Using integrated GPS technology, Ford SYNC with Traffic, Directions and Information connects consumers to personalized traffic reports, precise turn-by-turn directions, business search, news, sports and weather. INRIX has also developed and is hosting components of the Web site for Ford SYNC users at www.syncmyride.com, where users can input preferences such as routing destinations and alert requests to further personalize their Ford SYNC experience.
“In SYNC with Traffic, Directions and Information, we’re bringing to life the vision for the ultimate in-car experience that integrates best-in-class technology into the vehicle in a useful way. The personalized traffic, directions, content and alerts that INRIX provides are critical to delivering on that vision,” said Doug VanDagens, Director, Ford Connected Services Organization, Ford Motor Company. “We collaborated closely on the design and development of their connected services platform to meet Ford’s requirements.”
INRIX Connected Services enhances the SYNC experience with:
• The introduction of the world’s first 3rd Generation Routing Engine which uses both real-time and predictive traffic information to deliver true time-intelligent, traffic-influenced directions, taking the driving experience to a new level through smart routing and traffic congestion avoidance.
• The nation’s broadest and most accurate real-time traffic information leveraging the INRIX Traffic Fusion engine which intelligently blends real-time data from nearly a million GPS-enabled taxis, service vehicles, airport shuttle services and other commercial vehicles as well as consumer cellular GPS-based devices and traditional road sensor information.
• INRIX Total Fusion Traffic which provides speed information on more than 800,000 miles of roadways, including busy city streets and arterials, in addition to freeways and highways across the U.S.
• The new INRIX Alerting service which allows users to receive personalized traffic alerts delivered in the car via Web and voice-enabled user configuration.
• New location-aware, consumer-friendly access to traffic information, allowing SYNC users to get answers to questions such as “Traffic Ahead,” “Fastest Route Home,” and “Traffic Around Me,” leveraging the new integrated GPS feature in new vehicles shipping with Ford SYNC.
“We are proud to partner with Ford to provide innovative solutions for the latest-generation of SYNC,” commented Bryan Mistele, president and CEO of INRIX. “Ford is at the forefront of enabling two-way connectivity in the car and together with INRIX Connected Services, we will continue to ease commutes and improve the driving experience all over the country, one car at a time.”
Ford SYNC owners will have access to a variety of features that leverage traffic and navigation in their everyday life. Via a simple button click, drivers will have instant voice access in SYNC-enabled cars to receive personalized location-relevant traffic information, traffic conditions along their most frequented routes and traffic-optimized directions along less familiar routes. Using the intuitive SYNC voice interface, a driver can get answers to questions like “what is traffic like between here and Las Vegas?” and “what is the fastest route to work right now?” On Syncmyride.com, Ford owners can also easily set up customized alerts for triggering real-time and predictive traffic reports sent via SMS messages to their phones.
“With SYNC, Ford is once again delivering a compelling technology breakthrough that showcases how auto OEMs can successfully differentiate to win in today’s economy,” said Phil Magney, vice president, automotive practice, iSuppli Corporation. “Tapping into SYNC’s unique approach to two-way connectivity, INRIX adds tremendous value to the in-car experience for Ford with its industry-leading traffic and directions.”
To enable the delivery of traffic speed maps on www.syncmyride.com and accurate driving directions, INRIX partnered with Tele Atlas, a leading global provider of digital maps and dynamic content for navigation and location based solutions (LBS).
About Ford SYNC with Traffic, Directions and Information
Ford SYNC with Traffic, Directions and Information will be available on most 2010 Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles starting in Spring, 2009. New vehicle owners will receive a free three year subscription that features all SYNC driver services including traffic, directions and information in addition to the recently launched 911 Assist and Vehicle Health Report services.
About INRIX
INRIX® is the leading provider of accurate real-time, historical and predictive traffic information in North America and Europe, with 68 customers and industry partners including Ford, TomTom, TeleNav, Networks in Motion, MapQuest, Microsoft, Clear Channel Radio’s Total Traffic Network, I-95 Corridor Coalition, Tele Atlas, deCarta, ITIS Holdings, Mio, Navigon, TCS, Telmap, ANWB, ARC Europe, and TNO. INRIX delivers the highest quality data and broadest coverage available for personal navigation, mapping, telematics and other location-based service applications in the car, online and on mobile devices.
INRIX Traffic Services leverage sophisticated statistical analysis techniques, originally developed by Microsoft Research, to aggregate and enhance traffic-related information from hundreds of public and private sources, including traditional road sensors and the company’s unique network of nearly a million GPS-enabled vehicles and cellular probes. INRIX delivers traffic information today for over 120 markets in North America and via ARC Europe for 16 European countries. To experience the traffic technology revolution behind the next generation of navigation and location-based service applications, visit www.INRIX.com.
Joined: Jul 21, 2004 Posts: 2718 Location: Chelmsford, UK
Posted: Fri Jan 09, 2009 4:08 pm Post subject: Nanomatic introduces Integration of nanonavi
Press release: 09.01.09 Nanomatic introduces Integration of nanonavi
Leading mobile social location aware application, and devices, now offered on GSM networks worldwide
Las Vegas, NV--Today, Nanomatic, a global company that makes secure mobile social applications and location aware devices, presented the integration of its mobile social application nanonavi, with its devices called nanofinders, at CES 2009. The integration of social networks with true location based devices has long been desired by consumers; a nanofinder, in conjunction with nanonavi, provides this solution.
First, nanonavi is a social application for consumers to plug in on social networks and download to their mobile phone. It mashes up all the relevant profile information of friends and family from every major social network to map to locations using GPS on any GSM network in the world. Consumers can stay connected with a whole new layer of information to share and receive, including real-time mapped locations, Geo-tagged photos or videos, and points of interest to show to friends across all major social networks so they can stay in contact via maps or satellite images.
nanonavi runs on all the major mobile smart phones including Nokia, Sony-Ericsson, Samsung, and Windows Mobile. nanonavi is currently free for download on Facebook, MySpace, BeBo, Hi5, and Orkut. The product also differentiates itself by allowing people to access their contacts across their social networks, something unavailable in today's market.
nanofinders are small global devices that work with all GSM carriers worldwide – and connect with nanonavi to allow consumers to locate the things and people they care about in real-time. nanofinders fit on a pet's collar, child's belt, or that can be attached to a car or other objects to be remotely monitored from a social network or phone. nanofinder's can synch with the nanonavi application on mobile phones for real-time location information using GPS, and any GSM network in the world. Information from all of the major social network platforms are integrated into the nanonavi application. Additionally, all those in the social networks who purchase nanofinders can use the nanonavi application to see the activity of their nanofinder (or the authorized devices used by their friends and family).
Current nanofinders include the PersonalFinder, PetFinder, CarFinder, FriendFinder, the TimeFinder. The devices are found in the nanoStore at the nanonavi.com site.
"Families can finally have the full mobile/devices offering that allows them to find, connect and provide constant care through the complete integration of devices and secure mobile social applications," said August Schnabel, Chairman of Nanomatic. "We believe that consumer comfort with devices is at a new height, and that they want new ways to view their children, elderly family members and animals. And, because social networks are powering behavior within groups, the integration of mobile apps, social networks and devices is a great offering. With nanonavi and nanofinders, we can now relate and find each other on an active, non-static platform. This integration is a needed step for consumer adoption of the best that the 'nano' movement has to offer."
About Nanomatic
Nanomatic is a leader in Nano-Information-Technology, and creates software for enterprises around the world, as well as secure mobile social applications and location aware devices for the consumer market. The company was founded in London, has R&D headquartered in Hong Kong, with marketing and sales offices in Silicon Valley, California. For more information please visit www.nanomatic.net and www.nanonavi.com. All nanoFinders can be purchased at the Nanomatic nanoStore today. _________________ Robert Brady
Joined: Jul 21, 2004 Posts: 2718 Location: Chelmsford, UK
Posted: Fri Jan 09, 2009 6:29 pm Post subject: DIGITAL ENTERTAINMENT, IN-VEHICLE TECHNOLOGIES AND KEYNOTES
Press release: 09.01.09 DIGITAL ENTERTAINMENT, IN-VEHICLE TECHNOLOGIES AND KEYNOTES LAUNCH THE 2009 INTERNATIONAL CES
Global Product Debuts and Leaders from Sony, Ford and Disney-ABC Highlight Day One of the 2009 CES
Las Vegas, Nevada - 1/9/2009
The 2009 International CES® opened with the world’s largest debut of consumer technology products from 2,700 companies, including 300 new exhibitors, and keynote addresses from industry leaders. Produced by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)®, the 2009 International CES, the world’s largest tradeshow for consumer technology, runs through Sunday, January 11 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Gary Shapiro, president and CEO, CEA, opened his 2009 International CES keynote on Thursday morning with the debut of an innovative new video platform from Yoostar, which featured personalized footage from classic Hollywood movies. Shapiro noted that this “personalization meets content” technology epitomizes what CES is all about: innovation, technology and enhancing life. Shapiro discussed how the consumer technology industry is resilient and will lead the way to economic recovery. He also announced CEA’s plans to work closely with president-elect Obama, the nation’s first digital president, who was elected on a message of change.
To assist the new Administration and Congress in evaluating technology legislation and its impact on our innovation economy, Shapiro announced that CEA is launching an Innovation Checklist. It is a simple test for any legislation that touches technology: Does it create jobs? Does it spur new technology? Does it encourage the best and brightest to come to the U.S.? Does it reward risk taking? Does it promote exports? Will it help deploy broadband? Shapiro stated these simple questions ask Washington to do no harm to the technology companies that are the economic backbone of our nation.
Sony’s president and CEO, Sir Howard Stringer, kicked off his opening keynote address at the 2009 International CES by unveiling the “CES Seven,” key imperatives for creating the critical user experience. These included the concepts that products should interact seamlessly across industries, be service-based, multi-functional, support open technologies, advance the new shared experience, create new value chains and be green. Stringer stated that Sony intends to create the total Sony experience so that by 2011, 90 percent of Sony’s product categories will connect wirelessly to the Internet and to each other.
To help illustrate Sony’s cross-platform entertainment strategy, offering content and services at home and on the go, Stringer was joined onstage by a variety of entertainment stars, including Tom Hanks, Usher, Jeffrey Katzenberg, Reggie Jackson , Dr. Oz and John Lasseter.
In addition, Stringer announced a host of new Sony products, including the Wi-fi Cyber-shot camera which allows people to send photos to a networked Bravia TV, as well as to websites, blogs and photo sharing sites and a new Internet- enabled alarm clock, created in cooperation with Chumby, that provides personalized content, including news, sports, weather, music, videos and Internet radio.
Stringer also announced a partnership with MTV Networks to deliver 2,000 hours of programming for Sony’s Video Delivery Service, a new line of Eco TV products that are 40 percent more power-efficient than current models and the new Sony Vaio P series Lifestyle PC, a full-featured lifestyle PC that fits in a jacket pocket, is wireless and has built-in GPS.
In the Thursday’s SuperSession “Connect2Car: The Automobile’s Convergence with Consumer Electronics,” top industry executives discussed efforts to increase efficiency and effectiveness of in-vehicle technologies. Moderated by SEMA’s John Waraniak, panelists provided solutions to improving the quality of the traveling experience, including the implementation of more efficient HMI, telematics and eco-friendly technologies. Panelists recognized that the industry is going through tough economic times, but encouraged automakers and suppliers to take advantage of the opportunities driving change.
During the SuperSession “What Will They Think of Next? Consumer Technology in 2025,”a panel of industry experts moderated by Kara Swisher, co-executive editor, All Things D, discussed what the future might hold for consumers and the industry. The experts predicted a world without wires, stressing the importance of wireless networks, the advances of 3D technology and content, and how the everyday consumer device will be Internet-enabled.
To demonstrate his message of “The Future is Fusion” at Thursday’s Industry Insider presentation, Dirk Meyer, president and CEO of AMD introduced several of AMD’s industry partners, including LucasFilm Ltd., LightStage/OTOY, MTV, HP, AlienWare and Electronic Arts. Meyer noted that the CE industry needs to become more collaborative in order to provide users with more options and a more personalized computing experience. The audience enjoyed demonstrations of advanced computer graphics including real-time rendering, gaming via cloud computing, a new super gaming PC- the Dragon System – and both ultra-thin and personalized notebook computers.
At the “Wireless Meets Consumer Electronics: The Fundamental Shift to Mobility” SuperSession, senior executives from Intel, Panasonic, Nokia and Verizon Communications discussed what wireless means to the industry and to future opportunities. The panel agreed that wireless technology helps give consumers a user-friendly experience with the content they want, while getting them out of the house and into the world. They concluded that the potential of the 4G network will lead to an explosion of new devices and capabilities.
Anne Sweeney, co-chair of Disney Media Networks and president of Disney-ABC Television Group, delivered Thursday afternoon’s Industry Insider address at the Hilton Theater. Sweeney spoke about the ways Disney and ABC are providing entertainment and news content across various platforms for consumers to enjoy in their home or on the go. “Digital devices equal consumer content connectors,” Sweeney said, as she described the changing ways consumers are being entertained. Sweeney also discussed ABC and Disney’s position of creating original and supplemental online programming, noting that online content adds a new experience for fans, context to current shows and drives future storylines. Sweeney also delighted many in the crowd by showing a sneak-peak from the series premiere of Lost.
At CNET’s Next Big Thing SuperSession, "the cloud" was announced as the next big thing in consumer technology. The session focused on three aspects of connecting to and experiencing "the cloud" - devices, services and connectivity. The panelists noted that the challenge facing manufactures, content and service providers is to provide consumers with a seamless process to connect and have access to their devices. Consumers want to have a personalized experience and are starting to demand quality over convenience.
During the afternoon CES keynote address Alan Mulally, president and CEO of Ford Motor Company, showcased the latest additions to the Sync infotainment and connectivity platform. Joining recent Sync additions, such as 911 Assist and Vehicle Health Report, were personalized traffic reporting and driving direction features. Mulally also unveiled Ford’s new concept of a totally configurable cockpit, developed in collaboration with Sharp, Microsoft, Sony and Nuance, and featuring SmartGauge with Eco Guide fuel economy capabilities.
Additionally, the inaugural Global Media Awards were held on Thursday evening, a program jointly produced by the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS) and CEA. The awards program, held at The Venetian, focused on technology and content programming.
For the latest news and developments from the 2009 International CES, visit www.CESweb.org, the source for all CES-related information.
About CEA:
The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the $173 billion U.S. consumer electronics industry. More than 2,200 companies enjoy the benefits of CEA membership, including legislative advocacy, market research, technical training and education, industry promotion and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA also sponsors and manages the International CES - Where Entertainment, Technology and Business Converge. All profits from CES are reinvested into CEA's industry services. Find CEA online at www.CE.org.
Follow the 2009 International CES on Twitter at twitter.com/2009CES and visit the International CES Page on Facebook. _________________ Robert Brady
Joined: Jul 21, 2004 Posts: 2718 Location: Chelmsford, UK
Posted: Fri Jan 09, 2009 7:27 pm Post subject: Ford Motor Company Selects TeleNav to Power In-Car GPS Navig
Press release: Ford Motor Company Selects TeleNav to Power In-Car GPS Navigation
TeleNav-Powered Ford SYNCTM with Traffic, Directions and Information Scheduled to Be Available in Ford Vehicles Later This Year
LAS VEGAS, NV--(Marketwire) - TeleNav, Inc., the largest wireless navigation services provider in North America, announced today that Ford Motor Company will use TeleNav's GPS navigation software in the newest version of Ford's in-car connectivity system, SYNC with Traffic, Directions and Information. With this new version, users now have hands-free access to personalized traffic reports, precise turn-by-turn driving directions, and up-to-date information such as business listings, news, sports and weather.
"Connected navigation is a natural next step for SYNC," said Doug VanDagens, Director of the Connected Services Organization at Ford Motor Company. "TeleNav is a partner that brings a reputation for innovative, reliable and user-friendly GPS navigation solutions for mobile devices."
Introduced initially in the fall of 2007, SYNC provides customers the convenience and flexibility to bring Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones into their vehicles and operate various devices and services via voice commands. SYNC offers hands-free calling, hands-free digital music access, audible text messaging, 911 Assist and Vehicle Health report. Vehicles with SYNC are compatible with most Bluetooth-enabled cell phones and consumers can use any compatible cell phone with any compatible vehicle.
SYNC with Traffic, Directions and Information will expand this feature set to include voice-activated GPS navigation. Unlike other GPS navigation systems currently available in cars, SYNC will provide consumers the ability to access turn-by-turn voice and in-dash driving directions, just by syncing their Bluetooth-enabled cell phones with SYNC-compatible Ford, Lincoln or Mercury vehicles.
"Ford leads the automotive world in demonstrating how advanced connected navigation can be integrated into a variety of vehicles," said HP Jin, president, CEO and co-founder of TeleNav. "Whether customers are using SYNC for their daily commutes or while driving across the country, Ford offers a navigation experience that is simple to use and connected to the information they need. TeleNav is thrilled to help Ford deliver this experience."
Once paired, SYNC will allow customers the option of using voice commands to speak in destinations (addresses), providing a hands-free interface. After the destination is entered, traffic-optimized turn-by-turn directions will appear on the radio face plate and audio directions will be provided through the vehicle's speaker system. Audio and in-dash directions include street names and if drivers miss a turn, they will be provided with an option to receive an updated route.
SYNC is available on several Ford, Lincoln and Mercury cars and trucks. For more information on SYNC, please visit www.syncmyride.com.
Representatives from Ford and TeleNav will be available to answer questions and provide a demonstration of the new version of SYNC this evening at the CES Showstoppers media event from 6:00 p.m. until 10 p.m. in the Lafite Ballroom at the Wynn Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.
TeleNav, Inc., a privately-held company headquartered in Sunnyvale, California, was the first to launch a cell phone GPS system in the United States. Deployed by 14 carriers in 21 countries, TeleNav is a global leader in wireless location-based services (LBS). Currently, the company's solutions are available in four continents, including North and South America, Asia and Europe.
TeleNav's solutions include GPS navigation, Mobile Resource Management (MRM), social networking and local search. The company's flagship service, TeleNav GPS Navigator™, offers functionalities comparable to in-car systems and standalone navigation devices, such as automatically-updated maps and business locations, full-color 3D moving maps, traffic alerts with one-click rerouting, location-sharing, business reviews, speech recognition, Wi-Fi hotspot finder, gas price finder and more. TeleNav also delivers its award-winning navigation service on the TeleNav Shotgun™, a standalone GPS personal navigation device (PND) tailored specifically for business travelers. TeleNav's enterprise application, TeleNav Track™, incorporates GPS-enabled tracking, time sheets, wireless forms and navigation. TeleNav Track is a widely adopted service with over 9,000 customer organizations using it today.
TeleNav services are available on more than 450 wireless devices and run on most major mobile platforms currently available. TeleNav's partners include Alltel, AT&T, Bell Mobility, Boost Mobile, China Mobile, deCarta, Ford Motor Company, Hewlett-Packard, HTC, INRIX, LG, Motorola, NAVTEQ, NII Holdings, Nokia, Palm, Qualcomm, Research In Motion (RIM), Rogers, Samsung, Sanyo, SouthernLINC Wireless, Sprint Nextel, T-Mobile Austria, T-Mobile UK, T-Mobile USA, Telcel, Tele Atlas, Verizon Wireless and Vivo Brazil.
"TeleNav," the TeleNav logo, and "telenav.com" are registered and unregistered trademarks and/or service marks of TeleNav, Inc. Unless otherwise noted, all other trademarks, service marks, and logos used in this press release are the trademarks, service marks or logos of their respective owners.
Mary Beth Lowell
TeleNav, Inc. _________________ Robert Brady
Joined: Jul 21, 2004 Posts: 2718 Location: Chelmsford, UK
Posted: Fri Jan 09, 2009 7:29 pm Post subject: New Patent, New Product, and New Acquisition: GTX Corp Start
Press release: 09.01.09 New Patent, New Product, and New Acquisition: GTX Corp Starts Strong in 2009
LOS ANGELES, CA--(Marketwire - January 9, 2009) - GTX Corp (OTCBB: GTXO), a leader in the 2-Way GPS/PLS marketplace, is pleased to announce its state of the union as it commences the new year with an increase in its IP portfolio, a consumer-ready mobile product, and the acquisition of a new company dedicated to locating missing persons across the country.
GTX Corp was awarded US Patent No. 7,474,206 B2 entitled "Footwear with Embedded Tracking Device and Method of Manufacture." The company continues to pursue licensing opportunities with footwear brands for its embedded 2-Way GPS/PLS platform. This significant patent addition adds to the increasing portfolio of intellectual property specifically designed for use in the footwear category. GTX Corp believes footwear is the best consumer product to house its miniaturized GPS module to monitor children and seniors.
To capture market share for those not included in the children or senior segments, GTX Corp plans to release consumer product LOCime, a mobile tracking application that turns the latest iPhone into a tracking device capable of using the GTX Corp platform. LOCime version 1.2 will be distributed through the Apple App Store (pending the App Store certification). Currently LOCime versions 1.0 and 1.1 are available through the company. Version 1.2 will be the first national commercial release of LOCime followed by versions 2.0, 2.1, and 2.2 in Q1 and Q2.
In an ongoing effort to locate missing persons, GTX Corp entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement with BigHits.Com, Inc. on Dec. 24, 2008. GTX Corp purchased certain assets of BigHits to operate the business of Code Amber News Service (CANS), the predominant online news publisher of local, state and national missing person's alerts. CANS' websites include www.codeamber.com,www.codeamber.org, and www.codeamber.net. In addition, GTX Corp retained the services of Code Amber's management team, Bryant Harper (President) and Linda Spagnoli (Director of Communications), pursuant to consulting agreements.
Many companies have been impacted by the current economic climate and face significant near-term challenges. The company's cash position gives us the ability to help weather this storm. Management is making adjustments to preserve its cash position while the economy works to overcome the temporary setbacks caused by the collapse of the global financial markets, such as reducing management's cash compensation.
True to its seven year history, GTX Corp is committed to providing innovative technology platforms that locate people in real-time and continues to invest in its future for the benefit of its shareholders, employees, customers and the communities it serves.
About GTX Corp
GTX Corp develops miniaturized Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) tracking and location-transmitting technology solutions for integration into branded licensee consumer products. The company's Personal Location Services (PLS) platform consists of a matchbook-sized, location-reporting module that utilizes GTX Corp's "always-on" Assisted-GPS tracking capabilities. At the convergence of technology, media and telecommunications -- the TMT sector of the telecom industry -- GTX Corp continues its efforts to advance 2-Way GPS technology as it defines the PLS space. The gpVector™ system uses cellular transmission provided by our wireless carrier partner, AT&T, to deliver real-time geographic coordinates, rendered on Google Maps, to subscribers via secure internet connections. GTX Corp melds technology and form factor seamlessly to deliver the right solution to specific markets. The company is headquartered in Los Angeles, California, with an R&D facility in Palo Alto California. www.gtxcorp.com _________________ Robert Brady
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