Rhodes

Smartphone apps made easy.

Rhodes is an open source framework to rapidly build NATIVE apps for all major smartphone operating systems (iPhone, Windows Mobile, RIM, Symbian and Android). These are true native device applications (NOT mobile web apps) which work with synchronized local data and take advantage of device capabilities such as GPS, PIM contacts and camera.

Rhodes is the ONLY smartphone app framework which has:

* support for ALL smartphones
* synchronized offline data
* a Model View Controller (MVC) framework
* an Object Relational Manager (ORM) to avoid direct SQL coding
* the first mobile Ruby
* a hosted development service

Rhodes takes the best of modern enterprise and web development techniques and applies them to native smartphone development. It offers the following major benefits to developers:
Productivity

In general, developer productivity is much higher in Rhodes than writing to diverse native device operating systems and APIs since most of your UI customization can be done in HTML templates (ERB files).
Portability

A single set of source written with Rhodes can be compiled to run on all major smartphone devices: iPhone, Windows Mobile, Research in Motion (BlackBerry), Symbian and Android.
Device Capabilities

Rhodes also provides access to native device capabilities such as GPS geolocation, PIM contact reading and writing, and camera image capture.
Synced Data

Using the optional RhoSync server component, Rhodes applications excel at offline and disconnected access to data. This makes Rhodes ideal for interacting with SaaS and other enterprise backend applications.
Hosted Development

You can write your app online and build there for all major smartphone operating systems with RhoHub.
Purchasing

Rhodes is free and open sourced under the MIT License. Those companies requiring commercial grade support can purchase an Enterprise License for $1,000. To purchase the License please click the link below. Note: Purchase of the Rhodes Enterprise License indicates acceptance of the Enterprise License agreement.

MeeGo Basics

Lock Screen
Presented when user first wakes up the device.
Home
Access to open applications through the switcher. Favorite applications are presented, as well as access to launcher.
Launcher
Access to all applications available in the device
Overview of Gestures and Touch Interactions
Symbol Name Action Result
gesture-tap.png Tap (Press, Release) Open items/Select buttons/links
Insert cursor (in text field)
Reveal hidden controls
Stop kinetic scrolling
gesture-tap.png Long press (Press, Wait) Reveal Object Menu
Repeat (qwerty) key press
gesture-drag.png Drag (Press, Drag, Stop, Release) Pan/Scroll content
Paint to select text in text field (interaction needs to be first started horizontally, otherwise panning is triggered)
gesture-flick.png Flick (Press, Drag, Release) Kinetic Pan/Scroll content (in some cases, bringing in new content, such as Gallery, switching to next picture)
gesture-Double-tap.png Double Tap (2*Press&Release within time limit) Switch between zoom levels (touch screen)
Silence alert (accelerometer)
gesture-pinch.png Pinch (Press, Release) Zoom in/out (points touched on screen follow fingers)
gesture-twoFingerLongPress.png Two-finger long Press (Press, Wait, Release) Select text (non-editable text fields)
Lock Screen

The lock screen is presented when the user presses the power key to wake the device from idle state.

lock-screen1.png

The screen presents the wallpaper (which the user can personalize), date and time, and the lock action button. The device is unlocked by dragging the lock button into the wallpaper area.

Notifications are also supported in the lock screen. They stack up in a similar way to the Notification Drawer.
Launcher

The launcher is a view that contains links to all applications installed in the device. In the launcher, the user can browse through the applications and add up to 4 links to the quick launch bar at the bottom of the screen. In editing mode, the user can also change the order of application links.

Launcher-1.png

Applications are presented in a 4 x 4 grid. In the case where there are more than 16 applications, more pages of the same grid are added to the right. Paging through the different grids is done by swiping the current grid off screen, hence bringing the new one into view. When the user installs a new application, it goes to the end of the application grid.

The user opens the launcher by selecting an icon at the bottom of the Homescreen (placed together with Favorite Application links). To close, the same icon is used.

All applications require a name and icon for the launcher.
Switcher

Users will often want to (or have to) use more than one application at a time, such as listening to music while writing a message. This is known as multitasking, and the switcher is an area where multiple tasks are managed. The basic behavior of the switcher is as follows:

switcher.png

When an application is first launched, a new task starts. This task is represented in the switcher by a live thumbnail of the current content within the application, that is a blog web page would always display the latest blog entry. The switcher is always accessible via the home button in the top left corner.

Whenever a second application is opened, the new task is included within the switcher. With that, MeeGo allows users to quickly switch between applications by pressing the home button. Applications can be opened from the launcher and from other applications, such as opening a map from an email.

When the user clicks on an application in the launcher, that is already open in the switcher, the system opens the window that was already open. It does not restart the application.
Order of Applications, Browsing, and Changing Modes

Tasks are shown in the order they were opened, from left to right. Every time a new task is opened, it pushes the previous task panels to the left and adds its thumbnail view to the far right.

The default view of the switcher presents the latest accessed task in focus, with the other, different tasks running to the right. Thumbnails are presented in chronological order, as they are opened.

switcher-2.png

It is possible to browse through the thumbnails, one by one, by slowly dragging them, or to use a quick swipe to rapidly pan from one side of the list to the other. During this quick swipe, a tap stops the transition at tapped point, but does not open the application. To open the application, the user needs to tap the desired thumbnail.

Users can use a pinch multi-touch motion to change the switcher into an overview mode. By pinching in, thumbnails move into a grid display. The grid can scale up to a 3x3 version, thereafter the switcher then starts to create new pages. Pinching out, while in the grid mode, changes the view back to larger stacked mode.
Core Interactions
UI Feedback

Direct feedback refers to the response the user receives when using the touch UI. When there is a change, the user must get feedback. Indirect feedback refers to the response the user receives while, either not using the device, or using it so that the attention is not directed to the UI.

Direct feedback can be haptic, auditory, or visual feedback from interaction with the touch screen or hardware buttons. Indirect feedback is typically in the form of notifications. Notifications may contain both sound and haptics, but they can also be visual only, or contain only visuals and sounds (or in principle also visuals and haptics alone).

When you need to catch the user’s attention, you can use auditory and haptic feedback, in addition to visual feedback. The user’s attention is usually directed away from the device, when the device’s UI is locked and the screen is blank. However, the user’s attention can be elsewhere also, when the UI is in use. A time-consuming operation may cause the user to look elsewhere, or the user’s attention may be on the hardware keyboard, so the events on the screen are easily missed. When feedback is needed almost immediately after the user’s last action (such as when the user tries to send an email without defining a recipient), a visual notification is usually enough, because the user’s attention is already on the device.

In some cases, you can also use auditory and haptic feedback to emphasize the visual message. For example, a confirmation query may have an additional questioning sound to emphasize that the user needs to pay special attention to the device. However, be careful with this kind of use for sounds and haptics, because users find it annoying if the UI requires a lot of attention all the time. You can use sounds alone for presenting events, or sounds combined with visuals, but do not use sounds alone with haptics.

You can use haptic feedback alone when you do not know whether the user’s attention is on the device. For example, when downloading a web page lasts so long that the user’s attention is not likely to be on the device, even though the device is not locked, a subtle tactile pulse can be a useful indicator.

You can use tactile feedback alone, when it is appropriate to confirm the user’s action, but a visual confirmation message is too much. For example, connecting the charger and the device starting to charge (as opposed to not starting, due to a wrong charger type, for example). In this case, haptic feedback can also be used because the user is in physical contact with the charger connector and the device.

Note that the presentation of alerts and notifications depends both on the settings in the active profile and on the current UI state. For example, during a phone call, the auditory part of many alerts is changed (presented as a beep, or the auditory part can be a simplified version of the original, or the sound may be omitted altogether).
Text Input

MeeGo provides support to both virtual and hardware keyboards.

The virtual keyboard is invoked automatically when an input field is in focus (that is when the user taps an input field). The title bar and status disappear to optimize screen real estate. It has a portrait and landscape layout, opening according to the orientation it is being called from. If the user rotates the device, the layout is smoothly changed according to the new orientation.
text-input-1.png
The user can close the virtual keyboard by either tapping outside the text field or by dragging down the virtual keyboard. Note that the virtual keyboard does not act as a drawer in the sense that the user cannot pull it up. It will come up again once the text field is actioned again.
text-input-2a.png
Whenever the hardware keyboard is opened, the virtual keyboard does not get loaded.
Clearing

Pressing backspace clears a single character. The long press clears characters with key repeat. Long press duration and key repeat rate are the same as with a hardware keyboard. If the user selects the text and hits backspace, the whole selection is cleared. This is script (written language) dependent.
Language

The language is set automatically, based on the UI language that the user selects in the first device startup. This can be changed in Settings.
Extra keyboard line

The framework offers the possibility of customizing the keyboard by adding an extra virtual line to the pad. This line may receive custom-made buttons, for example, a ‘.com’ button for the browser keyboard. When the hardware keyboard is opened, the extra virtual line still appears (it is possible to dismiss it by dragging it down).
extra-line1.png
In addition, the system uses this extra line for advance functions, such as Copy/Paste. If the user selects a section of the text (drag and hold gesture), the extra line appears with the copy function available. Once the user actions copy, the same button reverts to paste.
Confirming

In most cases, applications present confirm buttons as part of their UI. This is true when sending a message or login in a website. Other applications perform actions as the user types. The perfect example is search, which automatically updates the list result with every letter typed.

However, other methods can be used. In a one liner text field, the enter key works as a natural confirmation key (similar to websites and other operating systems). This works when entering a password, for example.
confirming.png
It is also possible to add a confirmation button to the extra line. It is not recommended for UIs like messaging, where an overall view is desired before confirming (tapping outside the text brings the whole UI back), but useful for quicker inputs. This option could be used in a form, with a next action linking to the next text field.
Full Screen Mode

For applications that need to provide a more immersive experience, Full Screen Mode is available. It is important, however, to always provide a way out of the application (and to application navigation when appropriate). Full Screen can be presented in two different ways:
Controls a tap away

All controls (Title Bar, Status, extra controls, etc) are removed, presenting only the maximized content. Controls are made visible by tapping the screen. This is especially useful for media-related experiences.
fullscreen-01.png
Fixed controls

Because MeeGo may run in devices with no other hardware navigation keys, it is important to provide a persistent way out of the application. In some cases, it is not possible to use the tap to show the controls (for example, a Flash Player application displaying interaction content). Whenever that happens, a persistent access to exiting the full screen is still mandatory (back or close).
Embedding Exit in Application Content

In a few specific cases, like games, a more immersive experience might be desired, with no chrome. It is only possible to remove the persistent navigation out of the application if an easy to access exit command is available.

MeeGo Handset Project Day 1 is Here

The MeeGo project is happy to announce "Day 1" of the MeeGo Handset user experience project. Many of you will remember this "Day 1" concept from March, when we first made the MeeGo core OS source code available and started development towards the MeeGo 1.0 release. Today, the handset baseline source code is available to the development community. This code is being actively developed as MeeGo 1.1, which is scheduled for release in October. The team has been preparing MeeGo Gitorious with all the sources and infrastructure to perform the weekly builds for MeeGo 1.1 development. The MeeGo UI team has also been busy creating the handset reference user experience and preparing the MeeGo UI design principles and interaction guidelines. This milestone marks the completion of the merger of Moblin and Maemo as major architecture decisions and technical selections have been determined. Today, we are also opening the MeeGo Build Infrastructure.

meego-handset-day1-screenshots.png

The MeeGo Project Handset Day 1 includes:

* MeeGo APIs, incorporating Qt and MeeGo Touch UI Framework (MTF)
* Subset of the handset reference UI and applications
o Status Bar: clock, network, Bluetooth, 3G connection, notifications, and battery charge
o Home Screen
o Lock Screen
o Application Launcher
o Virtual Keyboard
o Applications: Dialer, SMS, Browser, Contacts, and Photo Viewer
* MeeGo Core OS (including the middleware components)
* Hardware adaptation support for Intel Atom-based handset (Moorestown) and ARM-based Nokia N900

See it for yourself--check out the cool UI Handset Day 1 screenshots and video. Or better yet, try it out on a device for yourself by downloading a developer preview image or browse the source code. The MeeGo Handset Day 1 image is provided as a community developer preview and we are in a very early and active development state. While we don't recommend installing it on your primary phone just yet, we invite all developers who are interested to have an early look using a development device.

iPhone 4 Review

Mobile-review have posted a review of the new iPhone 4. Here is their final impression.

Why so little, you may ask? The answer is provided at the beginning of the article; that is much has already been said. Moreover, I want to prolong the pleasure and to treat you and myself to a detailed iPhone 4 in-use report in some time. What I liked, what I disliked, how it is on the whole, and so on.

What I liked in the iPhone 4:

* Design, materials, build quality, the way it feels in one's hand – it all is beyond praise;
* Good display;
* The device is fast; you just tap on the screen – and it's done;
* Good sound quality;
* Plenty of software for various usage scenarios;
* iOS 4 with multitasking and other features;
* FaceTime must be quite handy, although I haven't had the chance to use it yet;
* Long range Wi-Fi with support for 802.11n;
* Absolutely different, better gaming experience thanks to the built-in gyroscope. I didn't want to draw your attention to that in the review on purpose; there is hardly any difference in existing titles.

That must be it. Now, let's talk about the disadvantages:

* There hasn't been any breakthrough in terms of the camera; pictures look great on the device screen, though. The same is true for video. Yet it is definitely better than before;
* Bluetooth 2.1 with EDR that you still can't use to transfer files;
* There is no built-in software for working with documents; they could have thrown in iWork for free.
* The light sensor won't work correctly sometimes;
* For many, another disadvantage is the proprietary nature of the device, lack of support for the poplar audio and video formats. To heck with audio, but the device has an excellent display and processor. Why not allow the users to watch their AVI clips without prior conversion? But again, we have to resort to torrents, search for iPhone 4 video, etc. Fed up with that;
* A meager headset in the bundle. It is obvious that the metal and glass are worth something and the company wants to earn extra cash on the accessories. Yet the stock ear buds are terribly uncomfortable!

On the whole, the iPhone 4 doesn't have a tinge of "seen that", "here we go again", "boring!" There is no plastic there. There is no lagging there. The price is quite reasonable. No need to even mention the impressions – i.e. those who perceive the reality through touch will fall in love with the case; neurasthenics and coke addicts will be astonished by the speed (yeah, the phone is on speed, how cool is that!); the sharp-eyed will get high with the display… Even the smell, the gorgeous smell of new Apple hardware has been deliberately selected.

The phone is highly recommended for purchase.

P.S. Please be patient; I will provide you with further details about a number of peculiar features. I just need to spend some time with the device.

Review of GSM/UMTS Smartphone LG Optimus (GT540)

Mobile-review have posted a review of the LG Optimus (GT540). Here are the phone's features and their final impression.

I had no complaints about the reception quality of the LG Optimus during the test period. The speech quality during phone conversations is not bad; the speaker volume is good, there is some reserve for the noisy settings there. The loudspeaker is actually not that loud, which is compensated for by very clear standard ringer tones. Hence if you don't want to miss an incoming call, you'd better pick a standard tune. The vibration level is average or slightly lower than that; you may not be able to feel it while on the move sometimes.

Quietly and peacefully, LG has managed to release the strongest solution in the low-end 'robot' segment and to secure itself the leading position there, since the HTC and Samsung smartphones are still on their way to the market and will be more expensive at that. It is a neat device, and that says it all. It has quality case materials, decent screen resolution, complete interface suite, good working speed, support for the DivX and Xvid codecs, reasonably updated Android operating system – and all that at the price of a regular touch-sensitive phone. If you are in the market for your first Android, most likely, you should buy the LG Optimus.
Description:

* Class: Android smartphone;
* Form factor: candybar;
* Competing models: Gigabyte G1305, Acer beTouch E110;
* Case materials: plastic;
* Operating system: Android 1.6 + LG shell;
* Networking: GSM/EDGE 850/900/1800/1900 MHz, UMTS/HSDPA 900/2100;
* Platform: Qualcomm MSM7227, 600 MHz processor;
* RAM: 256 MB;
* User memory: 512 MB (~140 MB free) + microSD memory card slot (2 GB card bundled);
* Interfaces: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 2.1+EDR (A2DP), microUSB (USB 2.0) slot for charging/synchronization, 3.5-mm headset jack;
* Screen: TFT, resistive, 3” in diagonal, 480x320 pixels (HVGA) resolution;
* Camera: 3 MP with autofocus and VGA video capture;
* Navigation: GPS based on Qualcomm gpsOne chip (A-GPS support);
* Other features: FM radio, G-Sensor;
* Battery: user-replaceable Li-Ion, 1500 mAh;
* Dimensions: 107 x 54 x 12,8 mm
* Weight: 115 g.

EMBLAZE LTD - Trading Update

Ra'anana, Israel, 30 June 2010 - Further to the management statement dated 18
June 2010, Emblaze is hereby providing the following updates:

ELSE Mobile

In October 2007, the Company announced that its subsidiary, ELSE Ltd. (formerly
Emblaze Mobile), partnered with ACCESS CO. LTD and Sharp Corporation, embarked
on an ambitious project targeted to introduce an innovative approach to mobile
experience.

In November 2009, ELSE first unveiled the First ELSE™ mobile device, which was
designed to showcase the capabilities and advantages of ELSE Intuition™, its
new Linux based mobile platform.ELSE's products attracted excitement and
interest from potential partners, as well as the media and mobile analysts, for
its unique innovation and user experience.

ELSE' management have since invested considerable time and effort to secure a
partnership for the sale of the First ELSE mobile devices. While there was
encouraging interest in the device by potential partners, management was not
able to confirm a deal on terms acceptable to Emblaze to proceed to the
production of the device.

Due to critical delays in deliveries and the current status of the project, the
board has now decided to cease any further investment towards manufacturing of
the First ELSE mobile device and to concentrate efforts only on licensing the
ELSE Intuition platform and technology in order to realize its potential
upside.

This decision will drastically reduce the Company's operational and development
costs and will positively contribute to its route to profitability.

The Company's management believes that this decision aligns well with the
Group's overall core competency and skills in the software arena, which
includes the following:

Formula Systems

Formula Systems, through its subsidiaries, is engaged in the development,
production and marketing of information technology solution and services. Its
appealing offerings coupled with aggressive cost-saving measures have made
Formula resilient to the recession and enabled its constant growth in revenue
and net income. For the period ending 31 March 2010, Formula reported
significant improvement in profitability with net income attributable to
Formula of $4.8 million, an increase of 41% compared to $3.4 million in first
quarter of 2009.
Going forward, Formula will continue to focus on profitability as well as
accretive acquisitions.

Android 2.2 Official Video

Highlights from the latest Android platform release.

Meego Handset Project Day 1

Early build (Developer Preview) of MeeGo running on a handset (Aava) which is not feature complete.

Sony Ericsson Xperia X8 Preview

PhoneArena presents a video preview of the Sony Ericsson Xperia X8 - a mid-end Android-powered smartphone. While not as impressive in the build quality department, the phone still feels good in the hand and looks quite elegant and stylish. It has a 3-inch capacitive HVGA screen, 3.5mm jack, microUSB port and 600MHz processor.

Microsoft Previews Windows Phone 7 at NYC Event

Last night at a press event in New York City, Vin Rock (from Naughty by Nature) and I got to preview a bunch of new Microsoft products coming out this year, including some new builds of Windows Phone 7.

There were a couple of Microsoft representatives showing off Windows Phone 7 on prototype hardware. The devices seemed a bit thick, but we hear the real phones that you'll be able to actually buy later this year will be much nicer. The venue had some issues with network connectivity so you may notice some slowness on network-dependent features like Bing maps, but otherwise, the new operating system is looking to shape up very nicely. The Microsoft representative mentioned that he flashes new builds every day yet is still using the device as his personal primary phone.

iPhone 4 Vs. iPhone 3GS

Other iPhone 4 Videos:
iPhone 4 Unboxing: http://cuthut.com/q5i
FaceTime Demo: http://cuthut.com/8iA
iPhone 4 Retina Display: http://cuthut.com/aCo
iPhone 4 vs. iPhone 3GS: http://cuthut.com/Lds
iPhone 4 Vs. HTC EVO 4G: http://cuthut.com/HBW

SHS is Most Awarded Agency in National Business Marketing Association Competition

Kansas agency wins Top IMC Program within the United States.

WICHITA, Kan. -- Sullivan Higdon & Sink (SHS) won a total of 14 b-to-b awards in the Business Marketing Association's (BMA) B2 competition, making the Kansas agency the most awarded b-to-b firm in the nation. The Chicago-based BMA sponsors the largest annual competition where the best business communication companies, brands and agencies are recognized.

Among the awards SHS earned were:

1) Top IMC program in the nation for INTRUST Bank rebrand; 2) Best B2C2B marketing for INTRUST Bank rebrand; 3) Best sponsorship in the nation for INTRUST Bank rebrand; and 4) Best custom publishing.

"To have our work recognized as the top IMC program in the country within the competition is very gratifying, especially when the work is judged by top marketing professionals from major brands like Motorola, FedEx and Cisco," said Tom Bertels, SHS managing partner. "These awards prove the depth and talent of our team that is producing nationally recognized work."

SHS has ranked among the top five agencies for the last 13 years of the BMA competition.

"SHS is easily one of the most award-winning agencies in BMA history," said Gary Slack, BMA chairman, and chairman and chief experience officer of Slack Barshinger. "That kind of success comes only when an agency is committed to bringing sharp thinking and unexpected creative solutions to b-to-b communications."

B2 honors b-to-b marketing with measurable results. B2 was formerly known as the ProComm Awards. The complete list of winning entries is posted at www.marketing.org.

About SHS

SHS is nationally known for its business-to-business communications experience and has earned Agency of the Year and Creative Team of the Year honors from the Business Marketing Association. With offices in Wichita, Kansas City and Washington, D.C., the agency is taking care of a client roster that includes Pratt & Whitney, Borden Cheese/Dairy Farmers of America, Inc., Cargill, Pizza Hut, American Century Investments, Lycoming – A Textron Company, Merial Animal Health, CareFusion, Spirit AeroSystems, Swiss Re, Kansas Health Foundation, INTRUST Bank and Westar Energy. Follow SHS at www.wehatesheep.com or www.twitter.com/wehatesheep.

More Business Anywhere with New SprinxCRM Mobile for Apple's iPhone and Motorola's DROID

LOS ANGELES and PRAGUE -- SprinxCRM announced the launch of SprinxCRM Mobile optimized for the iPhone®, DROID® and other Android-based smart phones, making it possible for businesses to access customer data and business solutions quickly and easily in a mobile environment.

Now, SprinxCRM Mobile for the iPhone® and Android OS phones expands the company's mobile solutions lineup which already includes access for BlackBerry® and Windows Mobile® handsets.

"SprinxCRM gives mobile users of CRM more choices when it comes to running their business on-the-go with the latest mobile devices," said Radko Jelinek, Sprinx' Director of Sales. "We also see this release as a key step towards providing CRM and business solutions for users of the iPad® and other electronic tablets."

This update to SprinxCRM also includes improvements to SprinxCRM OutlookSync, a data synchronization application for Microsoft Outlook®.

Highlights of SprinxCRM OutlookSync:






* Supports 64-bit Microsoft Windows® and Microsoft Office®




* Zero deployment costs




* SmartClient set up




* Supports meeting request




* Automatic refresh and updates




Sprinx Systems LLC is a worldwide provider of CRM solutions and related business marketing applications. SprinxCRM is a powerful, web-based CRM tool with important sales management and reporting elements that allows its users to analyze, as well as gather, critical customer data. Sprinx Systems is also a Microsoft Gold® Certified Partner.

For more information and free trials, please visit SprinxCRM at www.sprinxcrm.com.

Apple, iPhone, and iPad are registered trademarks of Apple, Inc. DROID is a trademark of Lucasfilm Ltd. and its related companies. MOTOROLA and the Stylized "M" Logo are registered in the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office. The BlackBerry and RIM families of related marks, images and symbols are the exclusive properties and trademarks of Research In Motion Limited. Microsoft, Microsoft Gold, Microsoft Office and Microsoft Windows are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.

asknet and Baynote Extend Recommendation and Search Optimization Technology to Global Electronic Software Industry

aynote's Collective Intelligence Technology Improves Online Customer Experience Instantly, Automatically.

KARLSRUHE, Germany -- asknet AG, a leading provider of outsourcing solutions for the global electronic software distribution (ESD) industry, announced a partnership with Baynote, an innovator in adaptive Web solutions. Through the agreement, asknet will market and distribute Baynote's products to its network of ESD clients.

Currently, visitors to a website will click three times to find what they want before returning to Google to repeat their search. Complicated accessibility leads to a decrease in conversion rates and therefore in sales, while at the same time causing frustration for potential buyers and users. With Baynote's Collective Intelligence Platform(TM), which is delivered as a software service, asknet now offers its clients a solution to deliver relevant online experiences that adapt to their customers' changing interests in real-time. As a result, more visitors are converted into purchasers and the average order value (AOV) is increased. The aim is to make the website as personal and relevant as possible for the visitor.

Software vendors use Baynote's recommendation and search optimization technology to automatically display the best products and content online based on an individual's unique intent. For example, Baynote can instantly guide a website visitor to the answers to technical questions in FAQs by observing what other like minded individuals also found useful.

"A major U.S. software vendor was able to improve the hit rate on its FAQ website by 500 percent using our Collective Intelligence Platform. As a result, calls to customer service have decreased by a factor of four, which on the one hand represents a tremendous cost savings and on the other an increase in customer satisfaction," confirms Dr. Rolf Dorr, Director of Business Development for Central Europe at Baynote.

"For our customers who sell digital products online, we see great potential in Baynote's methodology based on collective intelligence. It allows vendors to boost customer satisfaction and therefore conversion rates, which leads directly to higher online sales. At the same time we make it possible to establish a basis for cross-selling recommendations for cooperating vendors of complex software solutions," notes Katja Speck, asknet's Vice President of Global Marketing.

About asknet

asknet offers its clients customized outsourcing solutions for global software sales via the Internet. Founded in 1995 as a spin-off of the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT, formerly the University of Karlsruhe), the company has become the number two independent global provider for electronic software distribution. In addition to its fully integrated shop solutions for software publishers, the company develops and maintains portals for software distribution such as softwarehouse.de, one of Europe's largest. In 2009, asknet posted sales of approximately 68.9 million euros. In 2009 the Karlsruhe company was named in the Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu "Technology Fast 50" ranking of the fastest-growing technology firms in Germany. asknet's clients include numerous providers of specialty software such as CollabNet, DivX, F-Secure, Nero, Panda Security, Steganos, and NetObjects. The company also supplies software products to around eighty percent of German universities. Further information is available from http://www.asknet.com.

About Baynote

Launched in 2006, Baynote's Collective Intelligence Platform(TM) delivers on-demand recommendation technology and social search. Baynote's SaaS solutions are easy to implement on top of existing infrastructure to increase online revenue, leads, and impressions. Baynote delivers billions of recommendations each month to hundreds of leading enterprise, media and e-commerce companies, including Expedia, Intuit, Motorola, NASA, Symantec, and Urban Outfitters. For more information, please visit http://www.baynote.com.

Court Decision Backs Consumers in Price Fixing Lawsuit Against Tech Giants, Says Hagens Berman

Consumers nationwide demand a refund saying they overpaid for certain hi-tech devices.

SAN FRANCISCO -- Consumers won a victory in their fight against a group of technology companies including Sony (NYSE: SNE), Hitachi (NYSE: HIT) and Philips (NYSE: PHG), who are accused of fixing prices of optical disc drives (ODD) common in computers, DVD and Blu-Ray players among other devices.

In a ruling on June 24, Judge Walker rejected a motion to postpone evidence gathering for a class-action lawsuit filed by consumers while the defendants address criminal charges. The judge's ruling allows the attorneys representing consumers to continue to build the case against these corporations that dominate the ODD market.

Published reports state that ODD manufacturers sell 313 million drives a year for use in personal computers, and another 200 million for other applications, with revenue topping $45 billion between 2004 and 2008, and estimated at $14 billion for 2010.

Individual losses vary depending on the number of ODDs purchased, but attorneys believe the amounts are significant. "We intend to prove that the defendants conspired to inflate and sustain prices of ODDs simply to increase profit, all at the expense of consumers," said Steve Berman, founding partner of Hagens Berman and lead attorney representing consumers.

"While the Department of Justice is working on the criminal investigation, we think it is vitally important for us to push forward with our civil class action," said Berman. "While one of the goals of the criminal action is to punish the guilty, our goal is solely to return what we believe are ill-gotten profits to the pockets of consumers."

The relatively small numbers of ODD manufacturers, including the defendants, have a long history of joint ventures and other close working arrangements that gave ample opportunity to share information, the complaint states.

Berman said that the high cost of entry into the ODD market adds to the tight control the defendants have over the ODD marketplace. "When you can lock out competition, it makes it much easier to artificially – and illegally – set prices and bar competition."

Earlier this month, the Department of Justice (DOJ) asked the court to postpone Hagens Berman's efforts to collect evidence, saying the actions could interfere with its criminal investigation. The court's ruling allows the civil case to continue forward parallel to the criminal investigation.

"The court's decision supports our belief that consumers' claims are as important as the criminal investigation and that our prosecution of those claims can commence alongside the DOJ investigation," Berman added.

Some of the defendants have been involved in the DOJ investigations on related issues in the past. Samsung, for example, paid a $300 million fine following claims of price fixing involving Dynamic Random Access Memory chips (DRAM). Hagens Berman was lead counsel in the DRAM litigation.

The DOJ also launched an investigation of Samsung, LG Electronics, Toshiba and Hitachi, among others, probing claims of collusion in the manufacture of liquid crystal displays. The ongoing criminal investigation has led to admissions of guilt by LG Electronics, who paid a $400 million fine and Hitachi who paid $31 million.

On Monday, October 26, 2009, Toshiba Samsung Storage Technology Corp., a joint venture between defendants Toshiba and Samsung Electronics; Hitachi-LG Data Storage, a joint venture between defendants Hitachi and LG Electronics; and Sony Optiarc America confirmed that they received subpoenas from the DOJ concerning a criminal antitrust investigation including possible price fixing charges. In Philips Electronics' 2009 annual report issued a few weeks later, the Dutch electronics company also disclosed it was a subject of the same investigation.

Since the investigation was launched, the defendants have been the subject of a grand-jury investigation. "Rarely does the Department of Justice go to the extent of convening a grand jury unless they have solid reasons to believe that a crime has occurred," Berman added.

Under antitrust law, customers who can prove that they have been overcharged as a result of price fixing may collect damages worth three times the amount of the overcharge. Attorneys intend to prove that the defendants in the ODD case agreed to manipulate prices and overcharged consumers for certain devices.

Hagens Berman is representing consumers who purchased ODD devices after November 1, 2005. Consumers interested in tracking the progress of the case can view court documents and relevant updates at www.hbsslaw.com/ODD.

About Hagens Berman

Hagens Berman LLP is a consumer-rights class-action law firm with offices in San Francisco, Seattle, Chicago, Boston, Los Angeles, and Phoenix. Since 1993, HBSS continues to successfully fight for consumer rights in large, complex litigation. More about the law firm and its successes can be found at www.hbsslaw.com.

MarketsandMarkets: Global Advanced Phase Change Material (PCM) Market Worth US$ 1,488.1 Million by 2015

DALLAS -- The 'Advanced Phase Change Material Market: Global Forecast (2010 - 2015)' analyzes the PCM market by materials and applications and studies the major market drivers, restraints, and opportunities for the advanced phase change material market in America, EMEA, and Asia-Pacific.

Browse market data tables and in-depth TOC on Advanced Phase Change Material Market: Global Forecast. http://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/pcm-market-250.html Early buyers will receive 10% customization of reports.

The increasing demand for energy-saving and environment-friendly technology is driving the growth of the global phase change material (PCM) market. The global PCM market is expected to grow from $300.8 million in 2009 to $1,488.1 million in 2015, at an estimated CAGR of 31.7% from 2010 to 2015. Industry participants with the most significant product developments include BASF, Honeywell, Outlast Technologies, and Samsung.

The paraffin-based PCM market commands the largest share of the overall PCM market in terms of value, while salt hydrate-based PCMs lead the market in terms of volume. Building and construction forms the largest application market due to the globally increasing demand for cooling buildings, which in turn has arisen due to the shift from heavy thermal mass design to lightweight architecture. While this application contributed 22% to the global PCM market revenues in 2009, textile applications are expected to have the highest CAGR of 38.5% from 2010 to 2015.

Scope of the report

This research report categorizes the global market for phase change material on the basis of applications, materials, and geography; forecasting revenues and analyzing trends in each of the following submarkets:

On the basis of applications: Building and construction, Commercial refrigeration, HVAC, energy storage, textile, shipping and transportation and other applications such as electronics, healthcare and telecommunications

On the basis of materials: Salt hydrates, paraffin, and other materials such as fatty acids and eutectic salts

On the basis of geography: Americas, EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa), Asia-Pacific

About MarketsandMarkets

MarketsandMarkets (M&M) is a global market research and consulting company based in the U.S. We publish strategically analyzed market research reports and serve as a business intelligence partner to Fortune 500 companies across the world. MarketsandMarkets also provides multi-client reports, company profiles, databases, and custom research services.

M&M covers thirteen industry verticals, including advanced materials, automotive and transportation, banking and financial services, biotechnology, chemicals, consumer goods energy and power, food and beverages, industrial automation, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, semiconductor and electronics, and telecommunications and IT.

We at MarketsandMarkets are inspired to help our clients grow by providing apt business insight with our huge market intelligence repository. To know more about us and our reports, please visit our website http://www.marketsandmarkets.com

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Names Michele Nadeem Vice President, Global Corporate Communications

MIAMI -- Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. has named Michele Nadeem to the position of vice president, Global Corporate Communications. Nadeem is responsible for leading Royal Caribbean's overall global communication strategies and community relations efforts throughout all of its brands, and reports directly to the company's chairman and CEO, Richard D. Fain.

"We are delighted to have Michele join our team," said Fain. "We feel Michele's extensive international and domestic accomplishments and experience in corporate communications leadership roles will make her invaluable when the company needs to deliver clear and consistent messages across the organization and to the public."

A highly versatile communications professional with over 25 years of experience, Nadeem has achieved success in the fields of transportation, logistics, crisis/issues management, internal/external communications, reputation management, technology (software solutions), analyst relations, public and private sector relations, corporate sponsorships, social responsibility, community relations and healthcare.

Most recently, Nadeem was the vice president of Corporate Communications, Public Affairs, Corporate Social Responsibility, Media and Industry Analyst Relations for DHL Express US (part of DPWN/Deutsche Post) and a member of the parent company's global Corporate Communications Counsel. While at DHL, Michele led and developed an 18-person team, formulated internal and external strategies for brand visibility, strategic relationships with media and analysts and was also the spokesperson for breaking news, US Congressional Hearings, and crisis situations. Prior to her role at DHL, Nadeem founded multinational PR agency Media Boston International (MBI), and served as the president and CEO. In this role, Nadeem grew the agency internationally and led clients such as the US Department of Transportation, US Army, US Merchant Marine Academy, Teradyne, IDC, Samsung and Siemens. Before this, she worked in corporate communications at Siemens, where she started her international work experience. Nadeem began her career in television news.

Nadeem holds a Master's of Science degree in Broadcast Journalism, magna cum laude from Boston University and a Bachelor's of Arts in Economics and Speech Communications from Boston College.

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. is a global cruise vacation company that operates Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Pullmantur, Azamara Club Cruises and CDF Croisieres de France. The company has a combined total of 39 ships in service and three under construction. It also offers unique land-tour vacations in Alaska, Asia, Australia/New Zealand, Canada, Dubai, Europe and South America. Additional information can be found on www.royalcaribbean.com, www.celebritycruises.com, www.pullmantur.es, www.azamaraclubcruises.com, www.cdfcroisieresdefrance.com or www.rclinvestor.com.

Staples Launches iGoDigital's Product Recommendation Platform

INDIANAPOLIS -- iGoDigital, the market and technology leader in Personalized Product Recommendations, announced that Staples has replaced its cart-level product recommendations system with iGoDigital. The Internet's largest office superstore, ranked #2 on the Internet Retailer 500 with more than $9.8 billion in annual sales, selected iGoDigital based on its proven record of success with 6 of the top 10 online retailers.

iGoDigital's team of experts worked closely with Staples to understand their specific business goals. Some of the major factors that were addressed include the need to improve AOV (Average Order Value) and the desire for extensive merchant control over the logic behind the solution.

Now, with iGoDigital's Product Recommendation Platform, Staples is able to offer a complete "basket" of related and compatible products to every site visitor that adds an item to the Staples shopping cart. This is accomplished through the display of product recommendations from the most relevant product categories presented to each customer after they've added an item to their shopping cart. This strategically placed page is presented to each customer before they begin checkout and is designed to increase AOV, items per order, and conversion rates.

iGoDigital's intelligent merchant tool, customized to the specific needs of the Staples business teams, allows Staples to have vital input when determining the "basket" of items that will ultimately be displayed to the shopper. Furthermore, Staples has access to iGoDigital's suite of reporting tools, which provide insight into the effectiveness of the recommendations and their overall impact on revenue, average order value, and conversion rates.

About Staples Inc.

Staples Inc. is the world's largest office supply retail store chain, with over 2,000 stores worldwide in 27 countries. It also does business via the Internet: http://www.Staples.com. The company has catalog and delivery businesses and serves customers globally.

About iGoDigital

iGoDigital provides a suite of web-based commerce tools designed to personalize every customer interaction by emulating and, in many cases, improving the in-store shopping experience. iGoDigital currently serves many of the world's most successful and respected brands, including Best Buy, Walmart, Nokia, Cisco and Dell.

iGoDigital is headquartered in Indianapolis, IN and was named to the 2008 "Inc 500" of the fastest growing private companies. Please visit the company's website at www.iGoDigital.com or follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/igodigital.

Jack Morton Worldwide Wins a Silver Lion at Cannes Lions International Advertising Festival

NEW YORK -- Global brand experience agency Jack Morton Worldwide has been awarded a Silver Lion in the Film Craft category at Cannes Lions. The award was given for special effects and computer graphics for "Nokia Focus Group," a digital viral film created for the N900 phone made by Nokia.

The film was created to re-engage tech-passionate consumers in the Nokia brand and to generate online buzz around the N900, Nokia's new Maemo mobile device. The viral needed to do the unexpected and generate conversations about the brand. The goal was to achieve 100,000 hits over 30 days--a target reached in two days. Extensive, sometimes contentious, comments on the video added needed edginess to the brand perception. Click here to watch (http://www.canneslions.com/work/craft/entry.cfm?entryid=3209&award=3).

"I'm extremely pleased about the creative work that went into wining this prestigious award at the Cannes Lions International Advertising Festival," said Josh McCall, Chairman and CEO of Jack Morton. "This award is evidence of our ongoing dedication to producing great work for our clients."

About 57th Cannes Lions International Advertising Festival, 20-26 June 2010, Cannes, France

The International Advertising Festival - Cannes Lions - is the world's biggest celebration of creativity in communications. As the most prestigious international annual advertising awards, over 22,500 entries from all over the world are showcased and judged at the Festival. Winning companies receive the highly coveted Lion trophy honouring the most creative film, print, outdoor, interactive, radio, design, sales promotion & activation and integrated advertising, as well as the best media, direct marketing, PR and Titanium ideas. The Festival is also the only truly global meeting place for advertisers, advertising and communication professionals. Over 8,000 delegates from 90 countries attend seven days of exhibitions, screenings, as well as over 50 high-profile seminars, 30 workshops and master classes presented by renowned worldwide industry leaders. As the networking and learning opportunity of the year, Cannes Lions is the must-attend event for anyone involved in brand communication.

About Jack Morton Worldwide

Jack Morton Worldwide is a global brand experience agency. We create experiences that strengthen relationships between brands and the people who matter most to them—thereby helping our clients become talked-about experience brands. Rated among the top marketing service agencies worldwide, we integrate live and online experiences, digital and social media, and branded 3D environments that engage and inspire consumers, business partners and employees. Jack Morton has a staff of 500 employees in the US, Europe and Asia-Pacific that drive our idea-led agency culture and is part of the Interpublic Group of Companies, Inc. (NYSE: IPG). More information is available online at www.jackmorton.com, or follow us on Twitter @jackmorton.

Location Labs Expands Management Team to Support Rapid Growth

Akash Agarwal Joins as Senior Vice President to Spearhead Business Development.

SAN FRANCISCO -- Location Labs Inc., the leader in providing mobile location-based services, announced Akash Agarwal has joined the company's executive team as Senior Vice President of Business and Corporate Development. In his role at Location Labs, Agarwal will help accelerate the company's business development efforts and design the go-to-market strategy for new and existing product initiatives. This announcement comes on the heels of the company launching its Location-as-a Service Platform earlier this month.

Agarwal, who most recently held the position of VP of Business Development, and Sales at Plusmo Inc. (AT&T), brings significant sales, mobile and business development experience to Location Labs. During his tenure with Plusmo, the company's sales and market ranking catapulted, making it the #1 provider of mobile widgets before its acquisition by AT&T (AT&T Interactive, Yellow Pages, Division). Prior to his work at AT&T Agarwal was founder/CEO of Greennote.com, a leading venture-backed company in the social networking and microfinance space. In addition to this entrepreneurial work, Agarwal also held management roles at Mercury Interactive, Hewlett-Packard and Oracle Corporation.

"Akash is a great addition to our team. He combines the qualities of both an entrepreneur and an experienced general manager which is extremely critical to us as we grow," said Tasso Roumeliotis, CEO of Location Labs. "His extensive knowledge of mobile products and business will be valuable as we continue to expand our footprint and push the location-based services market into the main stream."

Location Labs' product strategy centers around providing developers and enterprises with access to industry leading geo-location APIs and the ability to locate over 180M phones through its carrier partnerships. Agarwal will work with Locations Labs' development team to continue to drive the innovation behind the company's Smartphone (iPhone®, Android, BlackBerry, Nokia & Windows) product initiatives which will target developers, marketers, and platform partners.

"Location Labs is a company at the forefront of the red hot Location-as-a-Service market and I am excited to be a part of this innovative team," said Akash Agarwal. "Location is a critical component of nearly all mobile applications today and I look forward to working with our developer and marketing partners to make the most of this unique opportunity."

Location Labs is hiring! If you are interested in new and exciting opportunities in the mobile location-services market, please review the jobs section on our website for details: http://location-labs.com/jobs.php

About Location Labs

Location Labs is the leader in providing mobile location-based services. The company's Location-as-a-Service Platform offers solutions to developers and enterprises to leverage location capabilities. The company's Universal Location Service Platform can locate well over 180MM devices in the U.S., while Location Labs' smartphone SDKs enable advanced location features, like Geofencing, for smartphone application developers. The company's technology also powers its industry-leading Family Management services across a number of different operator networks.

Location Labs has strategic partnerships with AT&T, Sprint-Nextel, T-Mobile, Qualcomm, Intel, as well as a number of other global partners. Location Labs was formerly operating as WaveMarket, Inc.

More information: http://www.location-labs.com

RIM to Hold Annual General Meeting on July 13, 2010

Waterloo, ON - Research In Motion Limited (RIM) (Nasdaq: RIMM; TSX: RIM) will hold its Annual General Meeting of Shareholders on Tuesday, July 13, 2010 at the Centre for International Governance Innovation (CIGI), 57 Erb Street West, Waterloo, Ontario.

A live webcast will be held beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET, which will be accessible by logging on at http://www.rim.com/investors/events/index.shtml.

About Research In Motion (RIM)
Research In Motion is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of innovative wireless solutions for the worldwide mobile communications market. Through the development of integrated hardware, software and services that support multiple wireless network standards, RIM provides platforms and solutions for seamless access to time-sensitive information including email, phone, SMS messaging, internet and intranet-based applications. RIM technology also enables a broad array of third party developers and manufacturers to enhance their products and services with wireless connectivity. RIM’s portfolio of award-winning products, services and embedded technologies are used by thousands of organizations around the world and include the BlackBerry® wireless platform, the RIM Wireless Handheld™ product line, software development tools, radio-modems and software/hardware licensing agreements. Founded in 1984 and based in Waterloo, Ontario, RIM operates offices in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. RIM is listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market (NASDAQ: RIMM) and the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: RIM). For more information, visit www.rim.com or www.blackberry.com.

eBay and RIM Offer eBay Application for BlackBerry Smartphones in Six More Countries

eBay application allows sellers to relist items directly within app; buyers can access more information about sellers.

san Jose, Calif. and Waterloo, Ont. - Research In Motion (RIM) (Nasdaq: RIMM; TSX: RIM), a world leader in wireless innovation, and eBay, a global leader in mobile commerce and the world’s largest online marketplace, jointly announced that the free eBay Application for BlackBerry® smartphones is immediately available on BlackBerry App World™ in six more countries: Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom.* The application is also now officially available to North American BlackBerry smartphone users after a successful beta preview period.
”We are thrilled to be extending eBay’s mobile presence to millions of BlackBerry smartphone users around the globe,” said Steve Yankovich, vice president of platform business solutions and mobile at eBay Inc. ”When developing any mobile application, we take into account the unique features and advantages of the device to better meet our customers’ needs. With BlackBerry’s Push Service and multi-tasking technology, eBay buyers and sellers are able to stay up-to-date on great deals and sales.”

With the eBay Application for BlackBerry smartphones, users can search, bid, buy and check their eBay buying and selling activity virtually anywhere. The application leverages the BlackBerry® Push Service to allow users to be wirelessly notified of the status of eBay listings in real-time. With alerts, eBay buyers can be notified when they have won an item or have been outbid, or if a listing on their Watch List is ending soon. Further, eBay sellers can be notified when a sale ends and will be provided with buyer information and the sale price. All notifications are directed to the user’s BlackBerry® Email inbox and, because the BlackBerry OS supports multi-tasking, users can simply click the email notification to automatically launch or switch to the eBay application.

“The idea of making eBay listings more conveniently accessible and manageable on BlackBerry smartphones is a 'natural', and the seamless mobile experience enabled by the unique push-based BlackBerry platform provides a perfect complement to the purchase process,” said Alan Brenner, senior vice president, BlackBerry Platform at Research In Motion.

The official eBay Application for BlackBerry smartphones includes features such as:
· Add to Calendar – Add the end time for listings to the BlackBerry Calendar and set reminders
· Daily Deals – View limited time bargains on popular items, where items are often over 50% off the original price and include free shipping**
· My eBay – Access personal eBay activity including Watched items, Bids, Sales, Saved Searches and Favorite Sellers
· Member Messages – Receive and reply to messages and emails sent through My eBay
· Payments – PayPal account users can purchase items within the application***
· Re-List Items – Re-list items for sale when current listing ends with no sale
· Sort Search Results by Distance – Sort search results by distance from location (up to 1,200 miles)

As a leading force in global mobile commerce, eBay Inc. is expected to generate $1.5 billion in gross merchandise volume (GMV) in 2010 through its mobile platforms. With the international availability of the eBay Application for BlackBerry smartphones, more mobile shoppers will have access to the 200+ million listings across eBay’s global marketplace. Today, over half of eBay’s mobile GMV comes from outside the United States.

For more information on the eBay Application for BlackBerry smartphones, please visit www.blackberry.com/ebay.

To view a demo of the eBay application for BlackBerry, please visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhDB2XVLKd0

Availability
The eBay Application for BlackBerry smartphones is free and is now available on BlackBerry App World in North America, Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom (www.blackberry.com/appworld).

Azteca America Launches Rich Mobile Spanish Entertainment Experience On V CAST Video From Verizon Wireless

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Verizon Wireless said that a wide variety of full-length programs from Azteca America, the alternative choice in broadcast television for Spanish-speaking families residing in the United States, are now playing on V CAST Video, available on the nation’s most reliable and largest wireless voice and 3G data network.

“We’re excited to continue offering top-notch Azteca America programming on new platforms. V CAST Video gives users a unique selection of unmatched high-quality video on the go,” said Rawdon Messenger, director of new media for Azteca America.

“Verizon Wireless continues to add to the choices available to customers using V CAST Video, and Azteca’s line-up of Spanish-language shows offers great entertainment and sports,” said Terry Denson, vice president of content acquisition and strategy at Verizon.

“Azteca America has some of the most popular Spanish-language programming on television. We are bringing the very best of Azteca America to Verizon Wireless phones with daily entertainment news shows such as ‘Ventaneando’ and exciting, full-length sports, drama and telenovela titles,” said Maryann Moschides, president of Red Planet Media.

The Azteca America offerings on V CAST Video include top programs in entertainment, drama, sports and telenovelas.

Entertainment

* “Ventaneando” – The hottest celebrity news from Mexico and the United States. The program is hosted by Pati Chapoy, Atala Sarmiento, Daniel Bisogno, Ricardo Casares, Jimena Pérez and Pedro Sola, featuring a studio in Mexico City and mobile units in Southern California and South Florida.
* “ExtraNormal” – A program that takes a closer look at the paranormal with the most astonishing stories, testimonies and first-hand experiences.
* “Al Extremo” – A high-impact television news magazine program that features human interest stories, police tales, miraculous events, entertainment news and all the scandal that can fit on a television screen.
* “Lo que la Gente Cuenta” – Terror and suspense-filled tales of people who swear they’ve experienced paranormal encounters.

Drama

* “Lo Que Callamos las Mujeres” – A single-episode series that presents the biggest challenges facing women in their daily struggles. The program resolves issues such as infidelity, anorexia, sexual abuse, domestic violence and discrimination through scripted drama.
* “El Milagro de Los Santos” – A program about searching for faith and hope. This single-episode dramatic series inspires belief by miracles as characters begin journeys that are inspired by the saints that are present on Mexican street corners, an image kept in a wallet or purse, or even parts of popular sayings and expressions.

Sports

* “Antesala Deportiva” – A sports commentary and analysis show hosted by Carlos Guerrero and Paco González that features detailed highlights of your favorite games, as well as expert opinions on games to come.

Telenovelas

* “Bellezas Indomables” – The story of three beautiful sisters who live the good life until an unfortunate turn of events leaves them penniless. Forced to make it on their own, each sister seeks true love. María Fernanda is reunited with her nanny’s son, Manuel, but their love must overcome the greed and jealousy of the evil Gregorio.
* “Cuando Seas Mía” – Paloma works as a coffee picker but strives for a better life. She finds her knight in Diego, an heir to the plantation. However, as a battle to control the family business arises, their love is in jeopardy.
* “La Heredera” – María Claudia is the daughter of one of Latin America’s most successful entrepreneurs. Upon returning from MBA studies abroad, she discovers that her father plans to name her as the sole heir to his fortune. But, María Claudia unexpectedly finds love when her plane crashes and the Mexican-American soldier Antonio not only saves her life, but also opens her heart.

V CAST Video customers can view full episodes of their favorite shows as well as live sports events, including the 2010 FIFA World Cup™. Content from Azteca America can be found on V CAST-capable phones in the Media Center/Get It Now® under V CAST Video/Latino/Azteca America. Customers with select BlackBerry® smartphones can find Azteca America content on their devices under Menu/V CAST Video/Latino/Azteca America, and customers with Android smartphones can find the app in Android Market™ by searching for V CAST Video.

V CAST Video on Demand is available for a $10 monthly subscription. There are no megabyte charges to download, stream or watch V CAST content with any V CAST subscription; however, customers must subscribe to a data package for a data usage allowance. For more information about V CAST Video, including how to subscribe, visit www.verizonwireless.com/vcast.

For more information about Verizon Wireless products and services, visit a Verizon Wireless Communications Store, call 1-800-2 JOIN IN or go to www.verizonwireless.com.

About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless operates the nation’s most reliable and largest wireless voice and 3G data network, serving nearly 93 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 81,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE, NASDAQ: VZ) and Vodafone (LSE, NASDAQ: VOD). For more information, visit www.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.

About Azteca America
Azteca America is the alternative choice in broadcast television for Spanish speaking families residing in the United States. Azteca America operates in 70 markets nationwide and can also be seen on DIRECTV Mas Channel 441 (AZA 441), as well as DISH Network Channel 825. Wholly owned by Mexican broadcaster TV Azteca, S.A. de C.V., Azteca America has access to the best programming from TV Azteca’s three national networks, including a library with over 200,000 hours of original programming and news from local bureaus in 32 Mexican states. The network complements Mexican programming with an innovative line-up of shows from international producers and distributors to ensure the finest programming for Spanish-speaking viewers and unique advertising solutions for partners seeking to reach the most dynamic market in the country. Visit Azteca America at: www.aztecaamerica.com.

About Red Planet Media
Red Planet Media, Inc. is a mobile video distribution services company that provides end-to-end mobile distribution solutions to video content owners, producers and advertisers, enabling them to effortlessly deliver video assets to mobile phones worldwide. For more information visit Red Planet Media at www.redplanetmedia.com.

Wichita, Kansas, Residents To Benefit From Verizon Wireless, Alltel Network Integration

Verizon Wireless and Alltel Wireless Network Integration Delivers Increased Wireless Voice and Data Capacity and Coverage.

WICHITA, KS — Verizon Wireless, the company serving the most wireless customers, today announced it has completed the integration of its network with Alltel’s in the Wichita metropolitan area to provide customers with clearer reception, fewer dropped calls and more capacity and coverage, including stronger in-building coverage.

The massive $15 million effort took place over the past 17 months and included upgrading the technology at dozens of cell sites to increase capacity, add 3G wireless data service and expand overall coverage. A total of 85 Verizon Wireless cell sites now serve the Wichita metropolitan area.

Verizon Wireless’ voice and high-speed 3G data network combined with Alltel’s creates the largest wireless network footprint in the United States. The integration in Wichita enables more customers to use their wireless phones concurrently to make calls; send and receive e-mail and text, picture and video messages; access the Internet; view high-quality videos; and download music, games and ringtones, on the nation’s most reliable 3G wireless network.

“The addition of Alltel’s network to the Verizon Wireless network provides our customers with unmatched wireless coverage in the Wichita metropolitan area,” said Brendan Fallis, president – Kansas/Missouri Region, Verizon Wireless. “Our high-speed 3G broadband wireless network is the largest in the United States, and network reliability is the No. 1 reason customers choose and stay with Verizon Wireless. We are committed to continuing to perfect our network so that our customers in Kansas know they can depend on us every time they use their wireless devices.”

Verizon Wireless has been working to integrate Alltel’s network since completing its purchase of the company in January 2009. Alltel’s data and voice network was upgraded and combined with Verizon Wireless’ existing data and voice network in Wichita to run the latest revision of 3G wireless broadband technology. The combined, upgraded network provides faster delivery of activities that use data, such as sending e-mail and browsing the Internet, along with better in-building coverage.

Verizon Wireless invests more in its network than any other wireless service provider in the United States. The company has spent more than $59 billion since it was formed – $5.7 billion on average every year – to increase the coverage and capacity of its premier nationwide network and to add new services. In 2009 alone, Verizon Wireless invested $7 billion to expand and advance its network, $44 million of which was spent on its Kansas network.

Sprint's Networks and Emergency Response Staff Are Prepared for the First Storm of the 2010 Atlantic Hurricane Season

More than $245 million invested to enhance Sprint networks along the Gulf coast; Sprint builds on emergency response experience in South Texas.

Sprint (NYSE:S) said this it is making significant preparations and closely tracking the path of Hurricane Alex as it approaches the coast of South Texas and is anticipated to intensify before making landfall.

In 2009, Sprint invested more than $245 million to add new cell sites and enhance its Nationwide Sprint Network and Nextel National Network in states and hurricane-prone areas in the Gulf coast, including more than $9 million in South Texas and more than $15 million in New Orleans.

A primary reason for the loss of wireless service in a hurricane is the loss of commercial power to the cell site. As it does for every impending tropical storm or hurricane, Sprint is staging hundreds of backup generators and experienced network personnel in strategic locations to manage potential service impacts.

"With the projections made for this hurricane season especially, the first major storm is always a good test of wireless carrier's ability to keep emergency workers, businesses and residents connected during a crisis," said John Stevens, southwest regional vice president for Sprint. "Sprint has an exceptional history of excelling in this area with strategic resources, well-trained staff and unmatched experience."

Sprint ERT ready to assist first responders

Sprint has a strong track record of providing critical communications and personnel to assist first responders and other emergency personnel with relief efforts. The Sprint Emergency Response Team (ERT), which has a hub in the Dallas-Forth Worth Metroplex - a few hours drive from South Texas, is prepping its reserve of Cell Sites on Wheels (COWs) and Satellite Cell on Light Trucks (SatCOLTS) to readily restore wireless service quickly for customers and disaster response efforts.

During the 2009 Atlantic Hurricane Season, the Sprint Emergency Response Team participated in two-large scale emergency training and hurricane-simulation exercises in Austin and Brownsville, Texas with local first responders, including the Texas National Guard.

Since its creation in 2002, Sprint ERT has conducted more than 4,400 deployments and provided emergency wireless support for more than 1,200 events, including the recent mining accident in Montcoal, W.Va., the 2009 shooting massacre in Fort Hood, Texas, the 56th Presidential Inauguration in 2009 and Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005.

Sprint ERT maintains a 24-hour hotline, 365 days a year, to rapidly address client needs and during times of state and federally-declared national disasters, provides 25 mobile devices and wireless service free-of-charge for 14 days to state and local agencies.

Emergency mobile apps and preparedness tips

Sprint customers can also use their mobile phones obtain important information during a crisis situation by accessing a series of emergency mobile apps, such as:

* In Case of Emergency (ICE) - Available in the Android Market and BlackBerry App World, this app provides EMTs with critical personal and medical data including name, important notification telephone numbers, blood type, allergies, physician's name and number, and existing medical conditions.
* First Aid - This app offers concise, clear instructions to offer first aid. It includes illustrations, videos and short texts that show how to take the necessary action in the correct order. Available in Android Market.
* Medical Spanish - AUDIO - Available for Android phones like Sprint's HTC Hero(TM) and Samsung Moment(TM) and for BlackBerry smartphones, the Emergency Medical Spanish Guide (EMSG) is a tool designed for non-Spanish speaking health Care professionals to quickly ascertain vital medical information from their Spanish-speaking patients.
* Droid 911 - HTC Hero and Samsung Moment users can use Droid 911 to find the nearest police stations, fire stations, hospitals, tow trucks, auto repair shops, gas stations and ATM machines, based on your location. Available in Android Market.

Wireless consumers can also use the following tips to prepare for a hurricane, severe flood or other natural disaster:

* Keep your wireless phone and backup batteries charged, but be aware that an interruption of wireline and commercial power could affect wireless calls.
* If possible, get extra batteries and charge them.
* In times of commercial power outages, a car adapter for your wireless phone should enable you to recharge the battery.
* Keep phones and necessary accessories in a sealed plastic bag to avoid water damage.
* Load family and emergency numbers into your wireless phone.
* Use your Sprint camera phone to take digital pictures or video of your property and valuables before the storm hits. Upload the images to your personal pictures inbox on www.sprint.com so you have "before" pictures in the event of any storm damage.
* Wireless networks sometimes experience heavy traffic during emergency events, so remember to use Nextel Direct Connect(R) or send a text message.

Texas is the biggest Sprint 4G state

Additionally, as part of its ongoing work with Mark Sudduth of HurricaneTrack.com, Sprint has supplied his team with Sprint 3G and 4G mobile broadband devices to give them fast and reliable mobile Internet connectivity during their weather data reporting this hurricane season.

With speeds that are up to 10 times faster1 than 3G Internet service, Sprint 4G is currently available in 36 markets, including Austin, Corpus Christi, Dallas-Fort Worth and Houston - making Texas the "biggest 4G state" in terms of the number of people who have access to the Sprint 4G mobile network.

For more information about Sprint Nextel hurricane preparation efforts, or to learn what you can do to prepare for a major storm, visit www.sprint.com/hurricaneinformation. Public safety officials seeking information about services from the Sprint Emergency Response Team should call 1-888-639-0020 or email ERTRequests@sprint.com.

AT&T U-verse TV Customers Can Choose and Watch Their Favorite Channels Simultaneously with New Exclusive "My Multiview" App

New U-verse TV Customers Also Benefit from $25 Off Popular U-verse TV Packages for Six Months with New Offer.

If you could watch any four of your favorite channels at one time on your TV screen, what would they be? AT&T U-verse® TV customers can now make their choice.

AT&T* announced the launch of My Multiview, the latest TV app from AT&T U-verse that lets customers choose the channels displayed on screen in their Multiview. You can view a My Multiview video demo here.

AT&T News Want to watch the news, baseball, reality TV and a cooking show at the same time? You can create your own Multiview by selecting up to 55 channels as favorites. You can watch up to four of your favorite channels on your screen at one time and control which channel appears as the main picture with audio. Instead of browsing through the program guide or surfing one channel at a time, you can tune to My Multiview to scroll through the picture-in-picture screens to see all your selected favorite channels.

“For the first time ever, you can customize your Multiview so you can choose and control which of your favorite channels you watch on your TV screen at one time. AT&T U-verse and My Multiview are changing how you watch TV,” said Jeff Weber, vice president of video services, AT&T Mobility and Consumer Markets. “The channel combinations for My Multiview are virtually endless, and we’re proud to offer our U-verse customers even more personalization with this exclusive app.”

My Multiview is customizable for each U-verse receiver in the home, so each family member can create and save their own Multiview based on their personal preferences. You can access the app by selecting menu on your remote while watching live TV, and scrolling down to select My Multiview. You can easily create your favorite channels list by selecting info while you’re in the app, and choosing the add option next to the channels you want to appear in your Multiview. The app is rolling out on a market-by-market basis to all U-verse TV customers at no extra charge.

AT&T has also introduced an offer that gives new U-verse TV customers a $25 monthly discount on U-verse TV packages for six months. Under the new offer, popular U-verse TV packages with a DVR start as low as $29 a month, and customers who take advantage of U-verse Choice bundles receive even more monthly savings.

The launch of My Multiview builds on the popularity of several other AT&T U-verse Multiview apps. AT&T introduced the award-winning Multiview app in fall 2009, including a Sports Multiview, Kids Multiview and News Multiview available at no extra cost. AT&T has also made special Multiviews available for several major sporting events this year.

AT&T U-verse is a leader in interactive apps and features that give you better control over your TV experience, including the ability to manage and playback your recorded programs from a single DVR on any U-verse connected TV in the house with Total Home DVR; the ability to program DVR recordings from your Web-connected mobile phone or PC; personalized, on-screen weather, sports, traffic and stock information via AT&T U-bar; the ability to stream your personal photos and music files from your PC to your U-verse TV with Media Share; the ability to check the current weather conditions and forecasts in any U.S. city with Weather On Demand; and more.

AT&T U-verse TV is the only 100 percent Internet Protocol-based television (IPTV) service offered by a national service provider, making AT&T U-verse one of the most dynamic and feature-rich services available today. AT&T U-verse TV ranked “Highest in Customer Satisfaction in the South and West Regions Two Years in a Row,” according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2008 and 2009 Residential Television Service Provider Satisfaction StudiesSM.

For additional information on AT&T U-verse — or to find out if it’s available in your area — visit www.att.com/u-verse.

AT&T Ready for Tropical Storm Alex

Offers Communications Tips for Consumers and Businesses.

With current weather reports showing Tropical Storm Alex headed for the Texas gulf coast, AT&T* announced that it is prepared to respond quickly with an arsenal of disaster response equipment and personnel, enabling a quick response post landfall. To help customers and businesses in the Rio Grande Valley and along the coast prepare, AT&T is also providing important communications tips for use before, during and after a storm.

“The Texas coast has been tested by inclement weather and hurricanes in the past and AT&T has always been quick to respond and restore service to impacted communities,” said Chris Penrose, vice president and general manager for AT&T in South Texas. “Our customers rely on us to be prepared and keep them connected during emergencies, and we are committed to fulfilling those needs.”

AT&T’s Network Disaster Recovery (NDR) capabilities are the industry’s largest and most advanced with unmatched resources to help ensure the flow of both wireless and wired communications during times of need. AT&T has invested more than $500 million in its NDR capabilities since the formation of its NDR. AT&T’s NDR resources include more than 300 technology and equipment trailers that can be quickly distributed anywhere in the U.S. or worldwide to respond to disaster situations such as severe hurricanes. AT&T invested $145 million in recovery and restoration efforts related to the 2008 hurricanes.

AT&T has continued to enhance network redundancy in hurricane-prone areas, which includes the installation of more back-up and permanent generators at critical cell sites and switching facilities, location of critical equipment to less vulnerable areas, upgrade of electronics in many locations, replacement of copper wiring with fiber optic cable, elevation of switches critical to network operations above expected flood levels, and protection of physical facilities against flooding.

A critical element of AT&T’s efforts to maximize network reliability is its ability to swiftly respond when disaster strikes. AT&T’s Global Network Operations Center, the state-of-the-art command center, monitors and maintains its global networks 24/7 and conducts readiness drills and disaster simulations throughout the year to ensure that the networks and personnel are ready to respond in a moment’s notice. The NDR team works closely with local AT&T network personnel and Emergency Operations Centers (EOC’s) to restore and maintain service until permanent repairs can be made.

AT&T’s standard pre-storm network preparations include:

* Adding capacity to the wireless network to accommodate increased call volume.
* Testing the high-capacity backup batteries located at every cell site.
* Distributing extended battery life and portable generators, and maintaining existing fixed generators.
* Topping off generators with fuel at cell sites and central and field-level switching facilities.
* Using natural gas in some of the permanent generators to eliminate the need to refuel.
* Staging generators in safe locations for their immediate deployment once a storm has passed.

Response equipment readied in the wake of a storm:

* Mobile cell sites and mobile command centers
* Emergency communications vehicles
* A self-sufficient base camp, complete with sleeping tents, bathrooms, kitchen, laundry facilities, on-site nurse and more than 10,000 meals ready to eat (MREs), plus more
* Hazmat equipment and supplies
* Equipment-trailers to provide infrastructure support and mobile heating ventilation and air conditioning
* Internal and external resources for initial assessment and recovery efforts

“Staying in touch during a disaster is critical,” said state Rep. Solomon Ortiz, Jr. “Businesses and consumers alike should have a plan in place, and that includes making the best use of available communications tools.”

AT&T offers the following recommendations for consumers and small business owners in preparation for this year’s hurricane season.

Consumer Tips:

* Have a family communications plan in place. Designate someone out of the area as a central contact, and make certain that all family members know whom to contact if they become separated. Most important, practice your emergency plan in advance.
* Be sure you have a “Hurricane Phone.” It’s a good idea to have a wireless phone on hand and at least one corded (landline) telephone that is not dependent on electricity in case of a power outage. Cordless telephones usually have receivers that are electrically charged, so they won’t work if you lose your power.
* Program all of your emergency contact numbers and e-mail addresses into your mobile phone. Numbers should include the police department, fire station and hospital, as well as your family members.
* Keep your wireless phone batteries charged at all times. Have an alternative plan to recharge your battery in case of a power outage, such as charging your wireless device by using your car charger or having extra mobile phone batteries or disposable mobile phone batteries on hand.
* Keep your wireless phone dry. The biggest threat to your device during a hurricane is water, so keep your equipment safe from the elements by storing it in a sealable plastic bag or some other type of protective covering.
* Forward your home number to your wireless number in the event of an evacuation. Because call forwarding is based out of the telephone central office, you will get incoming calls from your landline phone even if your local telephone service is disrupted at your home. In the unlikely event that the central office is not operational, services such as voice mail, call forwarding, remote access call forwarding and call forwarding busy line/don’t answer may be useful.
* Track the storm and access weather information on your wireless device. Many homes lose power during severe weather. If you have a wireless device that provides access to the Internet, you can watch weather reports through AT&T Mobile TV or keep updated with local radar and severe weather alerts through My-Cast® Weather, if you subscribe to those services.
* If you have a camera phone, take, store and send photos — even video clips — of damaged property to your insurance company from your device.
* Take advantage of location-based mapping technology.

Small Business Tips:

* Set up a call-forwarding service to a predetermined backup location. Set up a single or multiple hotline number(s) for employees, employees’ families, customers and partners, as appropriate, to call so that all parties know about the business situation and emergency plan. For this to be most effective, maintain an updated contact list, including mobile and home phone numbers and e-mail addresses, for all employees.
* Protect hardware/software/data records/employee records, etc. Routinely back up these files to an off-site location. Use a generator for supplying backup power to vital computer hardware and other mission-critical equipment. Prearrange the replacement of damaged hardware with vendors to ensure quick business recovery.
* Outline detailed plans for evacuation and shelter-in-place plans. Practice these plans (employee training, etc.). Establish a backup location for your business and meeting place for all employees.

* Assemble a crisis-management team and coordinate efforts with neighboring businesses and building management. Be aware that disasters affecting your suppliers also affect your business. Outline a plan for supply chain continuity for business essentials.

Maximizing Service During and After a Hurricane:
During an emergency, more people are trying to use their phones at the same time. The increased calling volume may create network congestion, leading to “fast busy” signals on your wireless phone or a slow dial tone on your landline phone. If this happens, hang up, wait several seconds and then try the call again. This allows your original call data to clear the network before you try again.

* Try wireless text/short messaging service (SMS). During an emergency situation, text messages will often go through quicker than wireless voice calls because they require less network resources. All of AT&T’s wireless devices are text messaging capable. Also, if you have a wireless data device such as a BlackBerry® Bold or Samsung Propel™ Pro, you can use its messaging capabilities to communicate. Depending on the call plan, additional charges may apply.
* Keep non-emergency calls to a minimum, and limit your calls to the most important ones. If there is severe weather, chances are many people will be attempting to place calls to loved ones, friends and business associates.

Additional information and tips for disaster preparedness can be found at www.att.com/vitalconnections.

AT&T Announces 3G Mobile Broadband Network in Kankakee Following Gov. Quinn's Signing New, Modern Telecom Law

Local wireless network upgrade extends access to advanced products, services and applications as new telecom law supported by local legislators makes Illinois more attractive for private sector investment in broadband and wireless.

AT&T* announced the availability of its third generation (3G) mobile broadband network in Kankakee, opening the door to a new era of mobile services, devices and feature-rich audio and video content for customers in the area.

The activation of 3G technology on more than 10 cell sites will enhance wireless coverage for residents and businesses in Kankakee and neighboring communities such as Bourbonnais, Bradley, Manteno and Peotone.

AT&T is an industry leader in delivering the benefits of mobile broadband networks, devices and applications. With the nation’s fastest 3G network, AT&T provides accelerated mobile data speeds and simultaneous voice and data capabilities for an amazing wireless voice and data experience.

The network expansion in the Kankakee area is part of AT&T’s ongoing efforts to drive investment and innovation to deliver the nation’s best, most advanced mobile broadband experience for customers.

The announcement follows Gov. Pat Quinn’s signing of the state’s new, modern telecommunications law designed to attract private sector investment in broadband and wireless to meet consumer demands and attract jobs across all sectors of the Illinois economy.

“When he signed the new telecom law, Governor Quinn made Illinois an attractive place for AT&T to invest in broadband, wireless and emerging technologies,” said Paul La Schiazza, president, AT&T Illinois. “We applaud Gov. Quinn for his leadership in promoting broadband coverage and job creation in Illinois.”

"Today's announcement ensures that more people in Illinois will have access to enhanced broadband technology, which is essential to expanding our 21st century economy," said Governor Quinn. “Illinois has created more new jobs than any other Midwestern state this year, and we'll continue putting people to work by encouraging new investment in the latest technologies."

Local legislators were essential in advancing the new telecom policy when it came to a vote in the General Assembly in May. AT&T recognized four local legislators for their support of the measure, State Rep. Lisa Dugan (D – Bradley), State Sen. Toi Hutchinson (D – Olympia Fields), State Rep. Careen Gordon (D – Coal City) and State Sen. Gary Dahl (R – Granville).

“Governor Quinn, Attorney General Lisa Madigan, the four legislatives leaders — Senate President John J. Cullerton, House Speaker Michael J. Madigan, Senate Republican Leader Sen. Christine Radogno and House Republican Leader Rep. Tom Cross — as well as every member of the General Assembly has in this new law created a positive economic environment to attract business and retain and grow jobs,” La Schiazza said. “Today we wish to recognize Rep. Dugan, Sen. Hutchinson, Rep. Gordon and Sen. Dahl. They cast a vote for keeping and creating Illinois jobs and attracting private sector broadband to the state. As today’s announcement demonstrates, already their support is reaping benefits for Illinois.”

Public Act 96-0927, which updates Illinois’ 25-year-old telecommunications law, was sponsored by State Rep. Kevin McCarthy (D – Orland Park) and State Sen. Michael Bond (D – Grayslake) and co-sponsored by State Rep. Mike Bost (R – Murphysboro) and State Sen. Randy Hultgren (R – Winfield). The law, which passed the General Assembly unanimously, was crafted to attract private sector investment in new technologies by leveling the playing field for all telecommunications providers. Gov. Quinn signed the legislation into law on June 15.

“I am excited about AT&T’s 3G broadband coming to the Kankakee area because it is important for jobs and our economy. In Illinois, our state policies should work to attract new technologies that can help keep and create jobs,” said Rep. Dugan. “The new telecom law we passed and Gov. Quinn signed will help Illinois attract private sector investment in broadband and wireless technologies — and today is an example of how the modern telecom law can benefit the state.”

“Broadband is the most important economic infrastructu re for the 21st century,” said Sen. Hutchinson. “With this new access to AT&T’s 3G wireless broadband network, the Kankakee area will now have access to the wonderful technologies that consumers want and that businesses need to keep and create jobs. This is a great day for the future of our corner of Illinois.”

“In this difficult economy it is important that we as state lawmakers set the right policy to encourage job retention and job growth in Illinois,” said State Rep. Careen Gordon. “I am encouraged that the new telecom law is already bringing new private sector broadband investment to our area. This policy truly is the key for fueling more economic opportunities for the citizens of Illinois.”

“Today’s economy is extremely competitive and our state is competing with others for jobs and investment from the private sector. The modern state telecommunications law will help Illinois capture jobs and economic opportunities,” said State Sen. Gary Dahl (R – Granville) “Today and into the future, broadband is the key to jobs in all sectors of our economy — education, health care, transportation, professional services and public safety. Today’s news is great news. The more broadband, the better for Illinois.”

“Whether businesses are looking to compete across the state, across the nation or across the world, they need access to broadband,” said Kankakee Regional Chamber President David Hinderliter. “This announcement from AT&T demonstrates what can happen when good public policy passes and is signed into law. Today, our organization would like to thank AT&T, but more importantly, we’d like to thank Rep. Dugan, Sen. Hutchinson, Rep. Gordon and Sen. Dahl for understanding how important this new telecom law is for jobs in our area. We commend you all — and Gov. Quinn — on a job well done for updating our state’s telecom law.

Wireless data traffic on the AT&T network grew more than 5,000 percent from 2007 to 2009, largely attributed to the increasing popularity of advanced smartphones and the performance of AT&T’s 3G network, the nation’s fastest.

“Demand for wireless bandwidth is growing, whether it’s for sharing video and photos with friends, watching a movie, checking the latest scores, or listening to music on a phone, netbook or other mobile devices on the go,” said Dave Fine, vice president and general manager for AT&T Mobility and Consumer Markets in Illinois. “With this expansion, our customers can enjoy the nation’s best, most advanced mobile broadband experience with emerging devices and tens of thousands of mobile applications.”

Earlier this year, AT&T completed a software upgrade at 3G cell sites nationwide that prepares the nation’s fastest 3G network for even faster speeds. The deployment of High-Speed Packet Access (HSPA) 7.2 technology is the first of multiple initiatives in AT&T’s network enhancement strategy designed to provide customers with an enhanced mobile broadband experience, both today and well into the future. Faster 3G speeds are scheduled to become available this year and in 2011, as AT&T combines the new technology with the increased deployment of high-speed backhaul connections to cell sites, primarily with fiber-optic technology.

AT&T’s 3G mobile broadband network is based on the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) family of technologies that includes GSM and UMTS, the most widely used wireless network platforms in the world. AT&T has the best international coverage of any U.S. wireless provider, delivering voice service in over 220 countries and data service in more than 195 countries. AT&T also offers voice and data roaming coverage on more than 140 major cruise ships, as well as 3G services in more than 120 countries.

For more information about AT&T’s 3G coverage in Illinois or anywhere in the United States, consumers can visit http://www.wireless.att.com/coverageviewer. The online tool can measure the quality of coverage based on a street address, intersection, ZIP code or even a landmark.

For updates on the AT&T wireless network, please visit www.att.com/networknews.