MySpace and RIM Shatter Download Records
MySpace, the world’s premier social network, and Research In Motion RIM, a global leader in wireless innovation, today announced record download numbers of the MySpace for BlackBerry smartphones application in its first week of availability.
Since the application’s launch on November 13, 2008 there have been more than 400,000 downloads which represents an all-time high for both MySpace and RIM in terms of first week application downloads. Through the MySpace for BlackBerry® smartphones application, users collectively sent and received more than 15 million messages and updated their mood and status over two million times in the first week.
“We established an innovative and collaborative partnership with RIM to address a key desire of consumers to have greater mobile connectivity and interaction with their friends and the global community at large,” said Chris DeWolfe, co-founder and chief executive officer of MySpace. “This record shows just how much of a force in the mobile consumer space RIM and MySpace have become.”
“This rapid adoption is a reflection of an evolving consumer lifestyle where social connectivity and information access are more important than ever,” said Jim Balsillie, Co-Chief Executive Officer at Research In Motion. “This powerful new mobile application combines social networking and mobility in a highly personalized and empowering manner and we are very excited to see such a positive response in the first week.”
The MySpace for BlackBerry smartphones application is fully optimized to deliver rich content and data to users on the go. MySpace for BlackBerry smartphones integrates MySpace’s primary social networking components with the BlackBerry platform to provide instant, push-based messaging to users. It is available for download at www.blackberry.com/myspace or m.myspace.com from your BlackBerry® Browser. The application is available for a wide variety of BlackBerry smartphones, including the BlackBerry® Bold™, BlackBerry® Curve™, BlackBerry® Pearl™ and BlackBerry® 8800™ Series, and will be available to BlackBerry® Storm™ users beginning November 24, 2008.
About BlackBerry® Hub
The BlackBerry hub on MySpace empowers the MySpace community to access the latest BlackBerry smartphone news, content, videos, games, ringtones, and skins.
About MySpace
MySpace, a unit of Fox Interactive Media Inc., is the premier lifestyle portal for connecting with friends, discovering popular culture, and making a positive impact on the world. MySpace has created a connected global community by integrating web profiles, blogs, instant messaging, e-mail, music streaming, music videos, photo galleries, classified listings, events, groups, college communities, and member forums. MySpace’s international network includes more than 30 localized community sites in the United States, Brazil, Canada, Latin America, Mexico, Austria, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Australia, India, Japan, and New Zealand. Fox Interactive Media is a division of News Corp. (NYSE:NWS)(NYSE:NWS.A)(ASX:NWS)(ASX:NWSLV).
Among the top 2000 domains comScore Media Metrix, September 2008. For more information on comScore Networks, please go to www.comscore.com.
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 to data. 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.
Forward-looking statements in this news release are made pursuant to the “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used herein, words such as “intend” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions made by and information available to Research In Motion Limited. Investors are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, possible product defects and product liability, risks related to international sales and potential foreign currency exchange fluctuations, the initiation or outcome of litigation, acts or potential acts of terrorism, international conflicts, significant fluctuations of quarterly operating results, changes in Canadian and foreign laws and regulations, continued acceptance of RIM’s products, increased levels of competition, technological changes and the successful development of new products, dependence on third-party networks to provide services, dependence on intellectual property rights, and other risks and factors detailed from time to time in RIM’s periodic reports filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, and other regulatory authorities. RIM has no intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
The BlackBerry and RIM families of related marks, images and symbols are the exclusive properties and trademarks of Research In Motion Limited. RIM, Research In Motion and BlackBerry are registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and may be pending or registered in other countries. All other brands, product names, company names, trademarks and service marks are the properties of their respective owners. RIM assumes no obligations or liability and makes no representation, warranty, endorsement or guarantee in relation to any aspect of any third party products or services.
People-Powered Internet Grows Up
On today’s Internet, algorithms rule. But a handful of startups are using large-scale human participation to offer online services that computers alone can’t deliver. Can human judgment scale with the Web?
StumbleUpon Readies for Another Version Release
Around 8:00 pm last night, November 19, 2008, StumbleUpon made an announcement in their Beta Group discussions area that they have rolled the majority of their users back to V2 “to prepare for upcoming changes that will add new features and optimize many existing ones.”
Deck the Halls with Paige Davis and Kodak
“Trading Spaces” Host Paige Davis Shares Five Simple Tips for a Holiday-Ready Home
This holiday season, more and more homeowners are looking for fresh, new ways to add holiday cheer around their homes without breaking the bank. Paige Davis, Host of TLC’s hit reality design show “Trading Spaces,” has teamed with Kodak to share a few of her favorite - and affordable - design tips sure to encourage creativity and transform any home into a haven for the holidays.
“Incorporating festive accessories throughout the home is one of the simplest ways to get your home ready for the season,” says Paige. “Holiday-themed hand towels, scented candles and vibrant pillows will add a beautiful touch to any room without straining your wallet.”
The dinner table is a central part of most holiday festivities, but it’s not necessary to pull out your fine china for every gathering. “Save time and money by stocking up on inexpensive, environmentally friendly serving-ware in fun holiday designs,” says Paige. Mix and match less expensive serving-ware with more traditional elements, like colorful table runners and napkins, to create a lovely holiday setting that is simple to pull off and even easier to clean up.
“A brilliant centerpiece is a must-have holiday accessory to any table setting,” she adds. “For a truly elegant creation, place a bouquet of fresh flowers in a wine cooler or ceramic bowl repurposed as a flower vase. Add some decorative touches like holiday ornaments or pinecones for a stunning display that will leave guests thinking you special ordered the centerpiece from an expensive florist!”
Family gatherings are not only a great time to show off your amazing decorating skills, but also the perfect time to take photos for personalized greeting cards to share with family and friends. “Family time is the essence of the season and a gathering where everyone is dressed in their holiday best is a great time to take family photos,” says Paige. Save time and headaches with a digital camera that automatically adjusts settings, letting you capture the best image possible. The KODAK EASYSHARE M1093 IS Digital Camera has a Smart Capture feature that takes the guesswork out of taking great photos so you can easily create memorable keepsakes.
Houseguests are another staple of the season, so roll out the red carpet with simple touches that promise to help them feel right at home. “Fresh towels and a ready supply of toiletries are always inviting,” says Paige. “For a really special touch, leave a photo album or digital picture frame with a personalized slideshow of your shared memories on the nightstand.” Choose a frame like the KODAK EASYSHARE W1020 Wireless Digital Frame, which lets you wirelessly send and receive pictures directly to the frame in the guest room. It also has a Quick Touch Border so guests can navigate through the menu at the touch of a finger. Guests will love scrolling through pictures and reliving the special shared memories during downtime from all of the holiday hoopla!
To learn more about these tips as well as other home decorating ideas, visit www.holidayhomeideas.com.
About Kodak
As the world’s foremost imaging innovator, Kodak helps consumers, businesses, and creative professionals unleash the power of pictures and printing to enrich their lives.
To learn more, visit www.kodak.com and follow our blogs and more at www.kodak.com/go/followus.
More than 70 million people worldwide manage, share and create photo gifts online at KODAK Gallery –join for free today at www.kodakgallery.com
© Kodak, 2008
KODAK and EASYSHARE are trademarks of Kodak.
TSA and Ad Council Launch Public Education Campaign to Build Greater Awareness of Security Procedures at Airport Checkpoints
Campaign debuts in time for New Security Procedures and Thanksgiving Holiday
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA), an agency of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, is joining with The Advertising Council today to launch a national public awareness and education campaign designed to build awareness of checkpoint security procedures in an effort to better prepare passengers for airport travel. The campaign launch coincides with Thanksgiving, one of the busiest travel periods of the year. More than 23 million people were screened at the nation’s airports during last year’s holiday.
TSA’s passenger feedback shows that travelers are more willing to cooperate with airport security when they better understand the reasoning behind the measures. The new public awareness campaign aims to improve security by compelling airline passengers to become better prepared for security processes, thereby resulting in less frustration and a more positive experience. The campaign builds upon TSA’s ongoing commitment to communicating why certain procedures and requirements are an important part of airport security. For example, the campaign explains why travelers are asked to remove shoes and coats, limit liquids to three ounces and show their IDs.
“TSA encourages passengers to know the rules and be prepared when they reach the security checkpoint. Your safety is the priority of our security officers and you can contribute to a smoother process at the checkpoint,” said TSA Assistant Administrator for Strategic Communications and Public Affairs Ellen Howe.
Last year, the average peak wait time during the Thanksgiving holiday at all airports nationwide was 12.6 minutes, and during the winter holidays, the average peak wait time was 14 minutes. TSA is expanding its popular family lanes nationwide for families and others traveling with medically necessary liquids larger than three ounces. These lanes will be available at all airports and will provide more time for families traveling with children and other passengers who need extra assistance.
“Research shows that Americans are more willing to comply when they understand why certain security measures are in place. Therefore, we have a great opportunity to educate them on their important role in the airline security process,” said Peggy Conlon, President & CEO of the Ad Council. “We are proud to join TSA in this critical effort.”
Campaign activities will be conducted during the course of the year in conjunction with the nation’s busiest travel times: Thanksgiving, the winter holidays and Memorial Day. The campaign will employ a series of informational videos airing in airports and online, social media strategies, as well as national radio sponsorships and public relations tactics in an effort to communicate with the travelling public during these travel periods
All of the campaign strategies direct audiences to visit www.tsa.gov to find travel tips, local airport information, including wait times, and how to get your questions about airline security answered.
This is the first time the Ad Council has partnered with TSA on a public education effort, and TSA’s first national awareness campaign. Since 2003, the Ad Council has been working with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on the Ready Campaign designed to encourage all Americans to prepare for emergencies.
TSA
TSA is a component of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that was formed following the tragedies of September 11, 2001. TSA protects the Nation’s transportation systems to ensure freedom of movement for people and commerce. Its 45,000 transportation security officers are responsible for airport security at more than 450 U.S. airports.
The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.
The Top 20 Facebook Apps
After reviewing tons of facebook applications we have listed some of the useful tools and productive applications for facebook. This is a list of 20 of the Top Applications use on Facebook.
5 Tips for Startups and Entrepreneur’s
That’s the message venture capitalists at the Dow Jones VentureWire Technology Showcase in Redwood City CA today, are offering to entrepreneurs and startups.
25 Creative Business Cards
Some amazing business card designs here minus poor formatting.
46 Tips for the Business iPhone User
From Apple’s App Store to creative productivity tips, the corporate iPhone user now has a world of useful options.
Wirefly Top Hottest Selling and Buzz Worthy Cell Phones for Holidays 2008
Wirefly (www.wirefly.com), the Internet’s leading seller of cell phones and wireless service plans, today announced its “Top 10 Hottest Selling Phones” and predicts the most sought after devices for this year’s holiday shopping season. Smartphones and other feature driven devices with converged technology such as streaming video, MP3 music players, GPS, and hi-resolution cameras, dominate both lists.
“Our current top selling cell phones clearly reflect the tremendous impact the iPhone 3G had on the wireless industry. Based on our current sales trends, it is obvious customers want the newest, most cutting-edge devices with multimedia applications,” said Andy Zeinfeld, CEO. “Consumers are no longer interested in having just a stylish phone. They are now considering both form and function in their wireless purchases. Cell phones with touch screen interfaces, MP3 music players, hi-resolution cameras, GPS, email and streaming video capabilities are among our most popular.”
Wirefly has released its Top 10 Hottest Selling Phones list in advance of the holiday shopping season in an effort to help consumers find the most popular wireless products for that special ‘techno-savvy’ someone.
Wirefly’s Top 10 Hottest Selling Phones
- LG Vu CU920 - The LG Vu has dominated our best-seller list since its arrival. A sleek touchscreen phone with high-speed data and expandable memory, the Vu is specifically tailored for live TV and Video Share services.
- Blackberry Curve 8330 - This CDMA version of the BlackBerry Curve adds high-speed connectivity on EVDO networks, while retaining the other features that make the Curve so popular - including a 2-MP camera, GPS, push email, and memory card slot.
- LG Rumor - The LG Rumor remains an extremely popular option for heavy messaging. The candy bar design hides a full-size slide out QWERTY keyboard, as well as a 1.3-MP camera and quality speakerphone.
- Sony Ericsson TM506 - The TM506 is a well-designed flip phone with large buttons and a full browser that makes it simple to view web pages over a 3G data network. The TM506 also features GPS, a music player, and a camera.
- BlackBerry Bold - The latest BlackBerry to hit our best-seller list, the Bold delivers HSDPA 3G data speeds - faster than any other BlackBerry - and improves screen resolution by twofold. With 1 GB of built-in memory, WiFi, and GPS, the Bold is a powerhouse.
- LG enV2 - The LG enV2 is a uniquely designed successor to previous enV models, bringing more style, less heft, and quicker data speeds. The face of the enV2 flips up to reveal a full QWERTY keyboard, and a large QVGA display.
- Nokia 5610 XpressMusic - This stylish music phone from Nokia is a sleek slider with external controls for navigating your music collection. The 5610 also includes a 3.2-MP camera with auto focus and video capture, and a colorful hi-res screen.
- Samsung Instinct - One of the most popular touch screen phones. The Instinct features a large display, EVDO high-speed data, threaded messaging, a 2-MP camera with video capture, and a high degree of customization.
- LG Shine CU720 - The LG Shine is a thin, high-end slider phone for use on HSDPA high-speed networks. A beautifully constructed metallic form houses plenty of memory for your multimedia, and supports Video Share and voice-dialing.
- Motorola Krave ZN4 - Motorola’s first touch phone is also a remarkably unique one. The Krave includes a large main display with finger-touch technology, and a clear flip cover with a touch surface of its own. GPS, mobile TV, and a 2-MP camera round out the features.
In addition to the top sellers, Wirefly’s own active consumer research indicated several additional devices that have only recently debuted or have yet to launch, but they have already begun to generate a huge buzz and will likely be the most highly sought after devices during the holiday shopping season. Similar to the Wirefly’s Top 10 Hottest Selling Phones, these highly anticipated devices also are optimized for messaging and other advance multimedia features.
Wirefly’s Top 5 “Buzz-Worthy” Phones
- Blackberry Storm - The Storm isn’t scheduled to launch until November 21st, however, based on early indications such as customer inquiries and traffic volume, BlackBerry’s first touch screen device is easily the most anticipated cell phone of the season.
- UTStarcom Quickfire - The touch screen revolution continues with the Quickfire, a horizontal slider phone similar in form to the popular Sidekick, with one significant exception: the beautiful 2.8″ QVGA touch display that slides aside to reveal the full QWERTY keyboard.
- HTC Fuze - The Fuze is a Windows Pro smartphone that shares many of its features with another hugely popular touch screen phone, the HTC Touch Diamond. In addition to the crisp display, the Fuze offers a slide-out keyboard, WiFi, and a 3-MP camera.
- Samsung Behold - The Behold is the fourth phone on our list, and the fourth touch screen device. This beautiful candy bar style cell phone also comes loaded with a best-in-class 5-MP camera, video capture capabilities, and runs on Samsung’s new TouchWiz user interface.
- Samsung Gravity - The Gravity is similar to other messaging-centric cell phones like the LG Rumor, with its slide-out horizontal QWERTY keyboard. This Samsung device comes loaded with a music player, memory card slot, and stereo Bluetooth as well.
Wirefly.com provides an easy and affordable way to shop for wireless phones and accessories. All of the devices listed can be found on www.wirefly.com or through Wirefly’s Holiday Gift Center, an annual gift guide designed to assist shoppers find the perfect gift for a technology fan.
About Wirefly
Wirefly (www.wirefly.com) is the online leader in one-stop comparison shopping for cell phones, wireless service plans and wireless accessories. Owned and operated by Simplexity, Wirefly is an authorized dealer for every major cellular carrier in the U.S. Wirefly also offers discounts and services not available in retail wireless stores, including real-time online order status and tracking, and the guaranteed lowest price - online or anywhere else — on cell phone devices from Motorola, Nokia, Samsung, LG, BlackBerry and many other cell phone handset manufacturers. Wirefly.com has been named Best of the Web by Forbes magazine as the “best all-around number portability portal” and “Best in Overall Customer Experience” by Keynote Performance Systems. For more information on Wirefly, its wireless products and its services, visit www.wirefly.com.