===================================================
DIGITAL MEDIA WIRE -- December 19, 2002
===================================================
To Subscribe For Free: http://www.digitalmediawire.com
o Cable TV Firms, TV Manufacturers Reach "Plug-and-Play" Digital TV Accord
o 2002 Video Game Violence Watchdog Report Gives Industry "Failing Grade"
o AOL Wins Potentially Lucrative Instant Messaging Patent
o TNN Cable TV Network to Air Video Game Awards Show in 2003
o Despite Profit Warnings, 2002 Euro Game Sales Poised to Break Records
o USA Interactive Acquires Personals Service uDate for $150 Million
> DMW Publications: Special Rates for DMW Subscribers
o Briefly Noted: Consumer Electronics Assn. - digital audiobook standard,
Netflix - new distribution centers, 3DO - Stan Winston, Nintendo - Tomy,
Wavexpress - AP Digital, WorldWinner.com
_____________________________________________
> Events: Eventeurs
> Marketplace: Homeland Security Directory, Interest-Based Navigation
Full Classifieds located beneath "Briefly Noted" section below.
To post a Classified Ad:
http://www.digitalmediawire.com/mainpostingpage.html
or contact Tinzar Than at tinzar@digitalmediawire.com
_____________________________________________
o Cable TV Firms, TV Manufacturers Reach "Plug-and-Play" Digital TV Accord
Washington -- A consortium of television manufacturers and cable TV
operators announced that they have reached an agreement that will
eventually allow consumers to buy digital TVs that connect to digital
cable without a set-top box, and receive HDTV telecasts. The agreement has
the potential to create a "plug-and-play" standard between digital
television products and digital cable systems and speed the transition
from analog to digital television. Cable companies signing the agreement
included Time Warner Cable, Cox, Comcast, Charter and Cablevision; TV
makers included Sony, Philips, Panasonic, Samsung, Sharp, Thomson, Hitachi
and JVC. The plan proposes both voluntary standards, and several issues
addressed directly to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), asking
for its help in setting regulatory guidelines. "This shows what progress
can be made when both sides are committed to finding solutions rather than
jockeying for regulatory advantage," said FCC chairman Michael K. Powell,
in a statement. "The agreement contains certain requests for FCC action.
We will act expeditiously on those requests after other interested parties
have had the opportunity to comment."
http://www.ce.org/press_room/press_release_detail.asp?id=10134
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-229705A1.doc
http://www.reuters.com/newsArticle.jhtml?type=technologyNews&storyID=1937711
_____________________________________________
o 2002 Video Game Violence Watchdog Report Gives Industry "Failing Grade"
Washington -- The National Institute on Media and the Family, a special
interest group that examines the effects of video games on children, on
Thursday released its seventh annual MediaWise Video Game Report Card,
giving its "first overall failing grade" to the video game industry. The
2002 report card was endorsed by Sen. Joe Lieberman (D-Conn.) and Rep.
Betty McCollum (D-Minn.), and cites concerns such as video game violence
against women; growing levels of video game addiction; inaccuracy of
ratings; parental lack of awareness regarding content; and the failure of
many retailers to restrict children from Mature-rated games. "Video game
violence is now an epidemic, and violence against women has become a black
mark on the entire industry. Rewarding players for having sex with, and
killing, a prostitute is a frightening example to set," said Institute
founder and president Dr. David Walsh, referring to a feature in the
top-selling title "Grand Theft Auto: Vice City." "This failing grade is a
wakeup call for everyone: manufacturers, retailers, and parents."
http://www.mediafamily.org/research/report_vgrc_2002-2.shtml
_____________________________________________
o AOL Wins Potentially Lucrative Instant Messaging Patent
Dulles, Va. -- In what could turn out to be the defining coup of the
instant messaging wars, AOL Time Warner has been awarded a U.S. patent for
its IM technology, Reuters reported on Thursday. The broadly worded
patent, awarded in September with little fanfare, comes at a time when
America Online is battling both Yahoo and Microsoft in the potentially
lucrative IM arena. If it chooses to enforce the patent, which covers
technology that allows users to chat with and identify one another across
a specific "communications network," AOL could potentially stand to
collect millions in royalty fees from its competitors. Both AOL and
Microsoft recently announced plans to develop premium chat services for
corporate clients.
http://biz.yahoo.com/rc/021219/tech_internet_aol_1.html
_____________________________________________
o TNN Cable TV Network to Air Video Game Awards Show in 2003
New York -- The National Network (TNN), a unit of Viacom's MTV Networks,
announced on Thursday plans to produce a two-hour, televised Video Game
Awards show in the fourth quarter of 2003. Executive produced by TNN
president of film and television entertainment Albie Hecht, awards will be
offered in categories including, Game of the Year; Best Game based on a
Movie; Best Celebrity Actor and Actress in a Game; Best Pro-Sports Game;
Best Free For All Carnage; Best Soundtrack; Hottest Graphics; Best Kick
Ass Weapon, and Best All-Around Badass. "Video gaming is hugely popular
with our target 25-34 audience, and The New TNN is the perfect network to
celebrate this genre," said Diane Robina, executive vice president and
general manager of TNN. The network said it will announce details such as
a host and guest appearances for the telecast at a later date.
http://www.thenewtnn.com
_____________________________________________
o Despite Profit Warnings, 2002 Euro Game Sales Poised to Break Records
London -- Despite profit warnings from retailers and game developers,
European video game sales are still poised to break records in 2002,
Reuters reported. The article cites a recent report from U.K.-based market
research firm ScreenDigest, predicting that sales are still on target to
increase 23 percent in 2002 to $5.9 billion. On Tuesday, European video
game retailer giant Game Group Plc. issued a profit warning, following a
similar warning from game developer Activision and several video game firm
stock downgrades by U.S. analysts.
http://www.reuters.com/newsArticle.jhtml;jsessionid=2B1DZWRX1NQ
PYCRBAE0CFEY?type=topNews&storyID=1929155
http://www.screendigest.com
_____________________________________________
o USA Interactive Acquires Personals Service uDate for $150 Million
New York -- USA Interactive, operator of sites including Ticketmaster,
Citysearch, Expedia and personals site Match.com, announced on Thursday
that it has acquired uDate.com, a global online personals site, for about
$150 million in stock. Derby, England-based uDate's services will
complement USA's existing investment in the online personals space with
Match.com; uDate reported revenue of $29.2 million in the first nine
months of 2002, representing growth of 135.6 percent over the same period
in 2001.
http://biz.yahoo.com/bw/021219/192209_1.html
http://www.udate.com
http://www.usanetworks.com
_____________________________________________
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
==========================================
DMW Publications: Available for DMW Subscribers NOW!
November Law & Policy Report | Game Industry Report | iTV Chronicle
==========================================
Contact tinzar@digitalmediawire.com or call 323-464-0793 to order your
copies.
To purchase directly, go to:
http://www.digitalmediawire.com/marketplace.htm
Digital Media Law & Policy Report (November)
A new report every month - must-read publication on legal and policy
matters related to digital media. 38 pages of case summaries, news and
analysis, policy updates, court filings, and exclusive interviews with
legal counsel and business leaders.
**Special Reduced Rates available for a limited time**
Price: $19.00 Per Issue | $195.00 Annual Subscription
http://www.digitalmediawire.com/marketplace.htm
Game Industry Law & Policy Report (published 11/1/02)
Special industry report covering law & policy matters impacting the game
industry. The 15-page report includes case summaries, news and analysis,
feature article and an exclusive interview with Doug Lowenstein,
President, Interactive Digital Software Association. Price: $19.00
http://www.digitalmediawire.com/marketplace.htm
For those who believe in ITV - "INTERACTIVE TELEVISION: The Definitive
Chronicle." Covering the period 2000 to the present, this sourcebook
presents a complete history of the news and events that have shaped the
business of iTV since the beginning of the 21st Century. Culled from
countless sources, including the Digital Media Wire database, this 175
pages PDF (on CD) covers all of the major players as well as the legal and
financial issues that helped shape the industry. Key research and industry
projections as well as a host of facts, figures, resources and thousands
of iTV-related links are included. Price: $ 55.00.
http://www.digitalmediawire.com/marketplace.htm
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
_____________________________________________
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
==================
FEATURED SECTION
==================
Featured Section posting at:
http://www.digitalmediawire.com/featuredpostingpage.htm
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
_____________________________________________
Briefly Noted:
(Arlington, Va.) The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) announced on
Thursday that its Mobile Electronics Committee, in conjunction with the
Audio Publishers Association, has developed technical standards for
digital audiobook players and media. The standards require that devices:
play audiobook content in a standard order; support navigation of
programs, such as book chapters; allow for automatic bookmarking, support
fast forward and fast reverse; accurately present the audiobook's elapsed
time and play content continuously with no unintended pauses.
http://www.ce.org/press_room/press_release_detail.asp?id=10130
http://www.audiopub.org
(Los Gatos, Calif.) Online DVD rental service Netflix announced on
Thursday the opening of distribution centers in Dallas, Texas, and
Stamford, Conn. The centers are the most recent in a series of 11 regional
distribution centers the company has already opened as part of its plan to
reach 70 percent of subscribers with generally overnight delivery by the
end of 2003. Los Gatos, Calif.-based Netflix reported having over 740,000
subscribers as of September.
http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/021219/sfth028_1.html
(Redwood City, Calif.) Game developer 3DO announced on Thursday it is
teaming with movie creature creator Stan Winston -- whose Academy
Award-winning work has appeared in films including "Aliens," "Predator"
and "Terminator 2" -- on a video game title called "Four Horsemen of the
Apocalypse." Winston will serve as a consultant on the game's character
designs, and has optioned the feature film rights. The game will be
released for PC, PlayStation 2, GameCube and Xbox in the fall of 2003.
http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/021219/sfth010_1.html
http://www.3do.com
http://www.stanwinston.com
(Tokyo) Japanese toymaker and video game developer Tomy has reached a
marketing and distribution agreement with game giant Nintendo, the
Associated Press reported. Tokyo-based Tomy currently offers several games
for Nintendo's GameCube console and Game Boy Advance handheld. The first
Tomy title to be marketed and distributed by Nintendo will be "Naruto,"
scheduled for release in the spring of 2003.
http://www.latimes.com/technology/ats-ap_technology14dec19,0,2792966.
story?coll=sns%2Dap%2Dtoptechnology
http://www.tomy.com/800/index.htm
(New York) Wavexpress, a provider of secure broadband distribution of
digital content, announced on Thursday the launch of a video news service
featuring video content from AP Digital, a unit of the Associated Press.
Subscribers to the 24-hour news feed service will be able to view content
exclusively through New York-based Wavexpress' TVTonic player. The basic
TVTonic video subscription service costs $1.95 per month.
http://biz.yahoo.com/bw/021219/192041_1.html
http://www.tvtonic.com
(Newton, Mass.) WorldWinner.com, a provider of online skill-based game
tournaments with cash prizes, announced on Thursday the appointment of
Stephen Killeen as president and CEO. Most recently, Killeen served as
president of Terra Lycos U.S., and was also previously president and CEO
of financial website Raging Bull before it was acquired by Alta Vista.
http://www.worldwinner.com
_____________________________________________
================================================
CLASSIFIEDS - HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS & RED HOT DEALS
================================================
To Post Holiday Specials:
http://www.digitalmediawire.com/marketplacepostingpage.htm
Digital Media Wire's Gift Suggestions for the Holidays:
-Verizon DSL: SIGN UP ONLINE NOW AND YOU COULD WIN $50,000.
http://clickserve.cc-dt.com/link/click?lid=41000000000559414
-Zones: Connecting Businesses & Technology.
http://clickserve.cc-dt.com/link/click?lid=41000000000568318
-The Palm Store: Free Software & Special Savings!
http://clickserve.cc-dt.com/link/click?lid=41000000000564835
-Audiobookclub.com - The World's Greatest Selection of Audiobooks!
http://clickserve.cc-dt.com/link/click?lid=41000000000555804
-Bose - Acoustic Wave Systems. Environmental Speakers. Quiet Comfort.
http://clickserve.cc-dt.com/link/click?lid=41000000000555807
-Totally Fun Toys - Toys that stimulate creativity, learning, and healthy
play! http://clickserve.cc-dt.com/link/click?lid=41000000000556187
-Watchzone - watches at great prices!!!
http://clickserve.cc-dt.com/link/click?lid=41000000000556190
Other Great Gift Ideas:
-Art Gazebo - Custom-framed prints at 40-50% off!
http://clickserve.cc-dt.com/link/click?lid=41000000000578489
-Thompson Cigar: Since 1915! Great Value!
http://clickserve.cc-dt.com/link/click?lid=41000000000574586
-Zany Brainy - Kids learn best when they are having fun!
http://clickserve.cc-dt.com/link/click?lid=41000000000580256
-Wine Enthusiast - Ultimate Wine Cellar, Accessory, and Unique Gift Guide
http://clickserve.cc-dt.com/link/click?lid=41000000000555777
-Nirvana Chocolates - Delicious Belgium Chocolates!
http://clickserve.cc-dt.com/link/click?lid=41000000000556080
-Eddie Bauer: Quality. Classic. Comfort.
http://clickserve.cc-dt.com/link/click?lid=41000000000554928
-Road Runner Sports - World's Largest Collection of Running Shoes
http://clickserve.cc-dt.com/link/click?lid=41000000000556083
-Jos. A Bank - Quality Men's Apparel.
http://clickserve.cc-dt.com/link/click?lid=41000000000555991
______________________________________________________
HOLIDAY PERSONAL SHOPPER
I can help anyone in any department with any gift buying needs... or offer
suggestions... be it jewelry, home, accessories, mens or ladies clothing,
etc..and can be reached at 310-550-5900 ext 2007. GEMMI
______________________________________________________
Rock & Roll One Of A Kinds!
Hipsters Franky & Minx (www.frankyandminx.com) are getting attention with
their tattoo-designed products. There are only a few pieces left of their
hand made cami tops and undies -- which have been featured everywhere from
InStyle to Revolver. Inquiries: Christina Ward [oranjegift@yahoo.com] or
call (414) 294-4709 for availability. To purchase, go to
http://www.oranje.us
______________________________________________________
===================
CLASSIFIEDS - JOBS
===================
To Post Jobs: http://www.digitalmediawire.com/jobpostingpage.htm
_____________________________________________
====================
CLASSIFIEDS - EVENTS
====================
To Post Events: http://www.digitalmediawire.com/eventpostingpage.htm
HOLIDAY CATERING...The best staff and food in town!
Eventeurs uses the top chefs and most attractive staff in the business. We
can do an amazing holiday party for you and work within your budget.
Please call Alan Dunn at 323.466.1835 or go to http://www.eventeurs.net
_____________________________________________
==========================
CLASSIFIEDS - MARKETPLACE
==========================
To Post Marketplace:
http://www.digitalmediawire.com/marketplacepostingpage.htm
Only 35 copies remaining of Directory of Homeland Security
This is your company's final chance to purchase the inaugural edition of
the Directory of Homeland Security: a 160-page book that lists all federal
and state agencies involved in homeland security. The directory includes
names of over 1,500 homeland security officials, profiles of 500 agencies
involved in homeland security, and a detailed list of technology companies
in this sector. The directory is sponsored by NETSEC, Greenberg Traurig,
AT&T and the Northern Virginia Technology Council.
To purchase the directory, go to: http://www.homeland-directory.com
_____________________________________________
Etronica helps you "Find the Good Stuff FAST!"
Etronica's unique software toolset enables "Interest Based Navigation" of
Digital Content. The Patent Pending software tools can be incorporated
directly into content websites and portals, installed in TV settop boxes
or integrated as OEM components. The tools drive the automatic tagging,
indexing, and categorization of text. A recommendation engine suggests
highly relevant new information to users as they interact. Personalized
advertising and commerce offerings can also be automatically served.
Contact us to learn more: info@etronica.com
http://www.etronica.com
_____________________________________________
Digital Media Wire, Inc. leverages its integrated media network to provide
exceptional value to individuals and companies determined to capitalize on
the convergence of media, entertainment and technology. Digital Media
Wire, the first in a series of business-intelligence publications,
delivers original daily briefings on the business, legal and financial
developments shaping digital media.
Digital Media Wire is part of the Tech Wire Media Group, an international
network of publications that includes Potomac Tech Wire, New England Tech
Wire, Southeast Tech Wire, Bay Area Tech Wire, Tri-state Tech Wire and
European Tech Wire. The network reaches more than 62,000 individuals from
over 70 countries worldwide each business day.
Upcoming publications, events & information at:
http://www.digitalmediawire.com
Questions, Comments & Suggestions to:
tinzar@digitalmediawire.com
News Tips, Scoops & Press Releases to:
editorial@digitalmediawire.com
_____________________________________________
Editor: Mark Hefflinger
Chief Executive Officer: Ned Sherman
Marketing Director: Tinzar Than
Copyright 2002 Digital Media Wire, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
|
