Sept 20

 

 

Sept 6

 

 

Apple Sets iPhone Price at $399 for This Holiday Season

Apple(R) today announced that it is on track to sell its one millionth iPhone(TM) before the end of September, and to make iPhone affordable for even more customers this holiday season, it is lowering the price of the most popular iPhone model with 8GB of storage from $599 to just $399.

"The surveys are in and iPhone customer satisfaction scores are higher than we've ever seen for any Apple product," said Steve Jobs, Apple's CEO. "We've clearly got a breakthrough product and we want to make it affordable for even more customers as we enter this holiday season."

The 8GB iPhone is available immediately for $399 in the US through Apple's retail and online stores and AT&T retail stores. The iPhone 4GB model will be sold while supplies last.

This press release contains a forward-looking statement about the Company's expected iPhone sales that involves risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ. These risks and uncertainties include those found in the Company's public reports filed with the SEC, including the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006, and its Forms 10-Q for the quarters ended December 30, 2006, March 31, 2007 and June 30, 2007. The Company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements or information, which speak as of their respective dates.

Apple ignited the personal computer revolution in the 1970s with the Apple II and reinvented the personal computer in the 1980s with the Macintosh. Today, Apple continues to lead the industry in innovation with its award-winning computers, OS X operating system and iLife and professional applications. Apple is also spearheading the digital media revolution with its iPod portable music and video players and iTunes online store, and has entered the mobile phone market this year with its revolutionary iPhone.

(C) 2007 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. Apple, the Apple logo, Mac, Mac OS, Macintosh and iPhone are trademarks of Apple. Other company and product names may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Source: Apple

 

August 2

 

iPhone Gets 20,000 Widgets

-- Plusmo announced today the availability of its free and customizable mobile widgets service to users of Apple's new iPhone. A custom interface gives iPhone users access to more than 20,000 Plusmo widgets - most of them created by users. The service is live at http://iphone.plusmo.com/.

Content providers, media houses and bloggers can now extend their services to the iPhone through Plusmo widgets for free within minutes.

Plusmo also enables users to create personalized widgets out of useful web services, XML/RSS based sources including news feeds as well as professional media, and user generated content such as blogs, photos and videos, and other Web 2.0 content.

"Plusmo's personalized homepage makes it easy for iPhone users to discover, install and personalize widgets making them instantly available at the touch of an icon on the iPhone," says Mike Elgan, a leading technology blogger. "Plusmo makes text- and photo-based content far more readable than the iPhone Safari browsers zoom-and-pan interface. Plusmo also offers iPhone users easy access to external iPhone widgets."

Plusmo widgets are mini web applications that offer traffic reports, store locators, games, blogs, specialized searches, live sport updates and much more.

"Plusmo is a wonderfully elegant mobile widget solution. I have come to find it indispensable. It's everything one looks for - easy to use, fast, and nicely designed. No doubt smart marketers will find Plusmo ideal for mobile advertising too," says Scott Kraft, EVP Marketing of Six Apart, one of the leading makers of weblog software and services.

Kelvin Chong, Chief Architect of Plusmo, says, "Plusmo widgets for the iPhone are standards based and use Javascript and XHTML. We eagerly await a developer kit for the iPhone so that we can support other Plusmo features for the iPhone such as idle screen mash-ups, and always-on support for widgets even when there is no connectivity."

Apart from iPhone, Plusmo's device agnostic widget approach supports most Java phones including Symbian devices, RIM Blackberry devices, Windows Mobile Smart phones, Palm Treos, Pocket PC-enabled PDAs as well as WAP-enabled devices.

About Plusmo

Plusmo is a free mobile media service that delivers personalized rich mobile experiences through mobile widgets.

Plusmo, started in June 2006, has a gallery of more than 20K widgets published by users and on an average get 10 million mobile page views monthly. Plusmo enables people to extend social networking through mobile devices, anywhere, all the time on the move.

Simplest way to get mobilized - visit http://www.plusmo.com/ from any mobile device, download, register and personalize. Plusmo service is currently in beta.

  Service is available on 2.5G, 3G and Wi-Fi 

 

July 9

iSee Case for iPhone Debuts in Apple Stores Today

Contour Design Makes the Case for Crystal-Clear iPhone Protection

Contour Design announced today the release of iSee for iPhone -- the newest addition to its award-winning collection of protective iPod cases and accessories. This new contoured crystal-clear case premieres with iPhone itself, in Apple Stores now.

This iSee is built to defend and display the iPhone, providing superior protection while showcasing the phone itself. The iSee is the sleekest, strongest protective shell available. In or out of its coordinating holster, it offers security and accessibility to all connections and controls, including the touch screen. And the case/holster combination is completely flexible: allowing the iPhone to sit in forward, backward, horizontal or vertical positions.

Used on its own, the case allows for easy iPhone insertion or removal. Small rubber feet stabilize it on flat surfaces and the shape of the case complements the shape of the iPhone.

"Our goal was to let the iPhone be an iPhone, to protect both the unit and the user experience," said Mike Jackle of Contour Design. "This iSee, like all others in this product series, is perfectly contoured to complement the spirit and technology of the phone. The result is like the iPhone itself: strong, smart, and stylish."

Key Features

-- Crystal clear design offers all around protection and showcases the

iPhone technology and style

-- Easy insertion and removal, keeping the iPhone completely accessible

-- Full access to all control surfaces, including the touch screen

-- Secure holster keeps the iPhone right where it is needed; the iPhone

can be inserted face in or out, and it can sit in a horizontal or

vertical position

Availability and Pricing

The Contour iSee for iPhone is now available. MSRP is $29.95 US.

About Contour

The iSee for iPhone is part of the contour cases collection created by Contour Design, the industry-leader in innovative iPod accessories. Contour Design offers the best and most beautiful protective shells available anywhere for iPods. In addition, Contour Design Inc., based in Windham, New Hampshire, is a manufacturer of innovative add-on products for Windows, Macintosh and UNIX workstations, specializing in the audio/video and ergonomic markets. Contour Design's European HQ is in Stanmore Middlesex, with distributors in all major EMEA countries.

For more information about Contour Design products and solutions, please visit our website http://www.contourdesign.com/ or contact your authorized Contour Design dealer.

iSee, iSee-Video 30, iSee-Video 60, and Showcase Video are trademarks or registered trademarks of Contour Design, Inc. All other products and brand names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

Source: Contour Design

Web site: http://www.contourdesign.com/

 

July 2

Secure Computing Warns: iPhone Release Immediately Followed By New Web-Borne Malware Threat

-- Secure Computing Corporation (NASDAQ:SCUR) , a leading enterprise gateway security company, today warned that email spam, indicating that the recipient has won a new iPhone, is directing users to a malware hosting website.

Secure Computing has discovered a website that is attempting to exploit over 10 Active X vulnerabilities in its efforts to install a malicious payload including the MSODataSourceControl vulnerability that Secure Computing warned users about only 2 weeks ago. The website is tracking visitors on the site and then redirecting repeat visitors to a different, clean webpage in efforts to thwart security researchers as well as using XOR encryption to obfuscate the attack.

"This yet again confirms the expanding trend in web-borne malware," said Paul Henry, vice president of technology evangelism for Secure Computing. "This threat is particularly insidious in that scripts within the HTML code returned to the user contain exploit code for multiple vulnerabilities to improve the malicious hacker's chances of gaining the necessary access to install the rootkit /spam bot malware. While most organizations fully inspect the traffic directed to their Internet facing web servers, many do not inspect the traffic that is returned to their internal users when visiting Internet web sites."

The initial activity of the rootkit/spam bot malware is to incorporate the compromised PC into a spam sending botnet. Because the malware is rootkit- based, it would be a simple matter for the malicious hacker to at any time update the malware to include other nefarious tasks, such as key logging on the compromised PC to capture the user's financial credentials for use in ID theft.

Viruses, worms, Trojans and other malware have traditionally been distributed over email with further propagation through each compromised users' email address books and made to look like messages coming from them. "With this threat, we again see the addition of a web attack component to traditional email-based malware," said Henry. "Secure Computing has recently seen other evidence of web-borne malware propagating through the use of fake video-hosting sites and fake greeting card messages."

"Because of the popularity of the iPhone brand this is the first in what's bound to be a series of scams involving the iPhone," added Henry.

Customers using Secure Computing's Webwasher(R), the industry's first and only reputation-based Web gateway security solution, are protected against this. Webwasher protects enterprises from spyware, phishing, malware, data leakage, and Internet misuse, while ensuring policy enforcement, regulatory compliance, and a productive application environment. It incorporates global intelligence from the company's industry-leading reputation system, TrustedSource(TM), which provides source-based reputation scores for web page content, messages, attachments and images. Webwasher employs the most sophisticated behavioral and signature-based techniques for stopping malware, as well as patented content analysis software for stopping data leakage.

About Secure Computing:

Secure Computing (NASDAQ:SCUR) , a leading provider of enterprise gateway security, delivers a comprehensive set of solutions that help customers protect their critical Web, email and network assets. Over half the Fortune 50 and Fortune 500 are part of our more than 20,000 global customers in 106 countries, supported by a worldwide network of more than 2,300 partners. The company is headquartered in San Jose, Calif., and has offices worldwide. For more information, see http://www.securecomputing.com/.

This press release contains forward-looking statements relating to the Secure Computing's timely identification of security threats and its ability to protect against such threats, and such statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Among the important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements are delays in product development, undetected software errors or bugs, competitive pressures, technical difficulties, changes in customer requirements, general economic conditions and the risk factors detailed from time to time in Secure Computing's periodic reports and registration statements filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

All trademarks or tradenames used herein belong to their respective owners.

Web site: http://www.securecomputing.com/

 

iLounge.com Offers Top Apple iPhone Videos, Forums, Reviews, and Tutorials Over 114,000 Forum Members and Millions of Readers Talk iPhone, iPod, and iTunes

iLounge.com, the world's largest and most popular web site devoted to Apple's iPod, iTunes, and iPhone products, today debuted the latest innovation in its coverage of the iPhone: a series of five iPhone accessory videos, titled "The First iPhone Accessories," designed to help inform new and prospective iPhone buyers about the wide variety of add-ons coming for Apple's first mobile phone.

Based upon iLounge's popular First Looks section, which offers exclusive photos and details on just-released iPod, iPhone, and Apple TV hardware, software, and accessories, "The First iPhone Accessories" videos place the spotlight solely on the add-ons, rather than iLounge's seasoned editorial team. Each of the videos offers 3-D looks at new cases, with new speakers, cables, earphones, and car chargers appearing, as well.

"iPhone buyers may be surprised to discover that some of their favorite iPod earphones, speakers, and car accessories don't work properly," explained Jeremy Horwitz, iLounge's Editor-in-Chief. "Our new videos and First Looks help viewers learn about the headphone adapter cables, charger compatibility issues, and other insider tips iPhone users need to know before they accessorize."

The First iPhone Accessories videos also show off the wide variety of case designs available and soon to be available for iPhone. Ranging from fur-coated pouches to elaborately contoured clear plastic shells and discreet black neoprene holders, iPhone cases offer your choice of protection, flashiness, or anonymity -- whatever's best-suited to your personal needs.

Since 2001, iLounge.com has hosted the world's most popular discussion forums for iPod, iTunes, and iPhone users. With over 114,000 members and nearly 1.1 million posts, the iLounge Forums have been covering iTunes-compatible phones since before the 2005 launch of the ill-fated Motorola ROKR phone, and now cover iPhones and their accessories. Unlike many other forums online, iLounge's forums are aggressively moderated by a team of superb administrators, moderators, and assistants dedicated to filtering out surreptitious advertising and objectionable posts.

As with all of iLounge.com's content, including its multi-million-downloaded Free iPod Book 3.0 and iPod Buyers' Guide publications, the First iPhone Accessories videos and First Looks are available free of charge from the iLounge.com home page. "iLounge readers depend upon us for honest, objective, and timely coverage of All Things iPod, iPhone, and iTunes," said Dennis Lloyd, Publisher of iLounge. "Between our videos, First Looks, forums, and daily news updates, we've delivered everything iPhone users have asked for, and then some. Just wait until they see what's next!"

About iLounge

Headquartered in Irvine, California, The Media LLC's iLounge.com is the world's leading resource for iPod, iTunes, and iPhone information, not affiliated with or owned by Apple Computer or any other vendor of iPod accessories or services. Founded only days after Apple announced the first iPod in 2001, iLounge has exploded in popularity, today boasting millions of visitors and tens of millions of page views each month. Its editorial content is in no way influenced by advertising, paid placements, or other unsavory practices. iLounge has been hailed by publications such as Forbes, Time Magazine, cNet, and The Wall Street Journal as the leader in iPod-related information online, the former deeming iLounge "The ultimate in product reviews and tutorials on all things iPod." The site, its publisher and editors have been spotlighted by the Associated Press, CNBC, The Guardian (UK), Italian Vogue, The Los Angeles Times, National Post (Canada), The New York Times, PC Magazine, Reuters, Stuff (UK), TechTV, The Age (Australia), The Sun (UK), and USA Today, amongst many other leading newspapers and magazines worldwide.

Web site: http://www.ilounge.com/

New 'iPhone' Policies Needed, Consumer Advocates Warn Apple, AT&T; Questions Raised About Battery Replacement, Cancellation Practices in Letter to Apple CEO Jobs

-- In a letter today, FTCR founder Harvey Rosenfield warned Apple CEO Steve Jobs and the CEO of AT&T that they need to agree to new consumer safeguards in connection with the Apple iPhone that will be introduced to much fanfare later today.

The letter, available at: http://www.consumerwatchdog.org/resources/iPhoneLtr6-29-07.pdf, asks Apple and AT&T to address two serious potential problems:

-- Battery replacement. Unlike all other handheld phones, the iPhone

battery is not user replaceable. If news reports are correct, the

iPhone battery could require replacement within one year. The companies

have not disclosed if they will charge consumers to replace the

battery, or if customers will have to mail their phones to the company

and wait for replacement. FTCR calls upon the companies to provide free

and immediate replacement at their retail locations for the life of the

iPhone.

-- Cancellation penalties. The companies have announced that consumers

must agree to a two-year contract for AT&T wireless service to activate

the iPhone; they will also impose a hefty $175 cancellation fee for

early termination. FTCR says that such fees are unnecessary, and that

consumers should be permitted to cancel the contract at any time based

upon device failure, loss or theft, inadequate wireless

service/coverage or any other reasonable basis.

"The introduction of the iPhone has been heralded as a major evolution in the multifunction cell phone," said Rosenfield. "Apple and AT&T should take this opportunity to adopt policies and practices that respect the rights of their customers."

FTCR is a non-profit, non-partisan citizen advocacy organization. It has brought several lawsuits on behalf of the public challenging the practices, services and charges of wireless companies including AT&T, Cingular, T-Mobil and Nextel. The group has also sued Apple on behalf of customers who bought the second-generation iPod Nano and were charged for replacement of its defective screen. That design has since been discontinued.

Source: Foundation for Taxpayer & Consumer Rights

303

Web site: http://www.consumerwatchdog.org/

 

iPhone2 Releases DialingTree911 for Beta Testing

-- iPhone2, Inc. (Pink Sheets: IPHE), an innovative IP communication solutions provider offering residential and business customers user friendly and affordable ways to communicate more effectively, today announced it has released its new emergency contact product, Dialingtree911, for beta testing.

Dialingtree911 (dialingtree.com) is an emergency messaging contact system that automatically delivers critical messages to parents on an as-needed basis. Dialingtree911 helps schools easily deliver customized emergency messages regarding school closings, Amber Alerts, or other timely, critical matters through a user friendly web portal. Dialingtree911 can dial up to eight contact numbers for each family, ensuring the delivery of urgent message.

Chip Greenberg, the company's CEO stated, "With today's families busier than ever contacting a family member has become increasingly difficult whenever there is a school closing, an ill child, or some other emergency. Dialingtree911 provides schools with an easy to use, affordable solution to this problem. Our initial sales responses indicate our timing for this product is perfect," added Greenberg.

iPhone Inc. http://www.iphone2.com/ (Pink Sheets: IPHE), iPhone2 Inc is an innovative Voice and Video over Internet Protocol communication provider offering residential and business customers user friendly and affordable ways to communicate more effectively. Our proprietary products include ImagePhone a broadcast quality video communication client for your desktop, OfficePhone2.0, the Next Generation of office phone, and Dialingtree911 emergancy messaging system.

For more information, please visit http://www.iphone2.com/, or contact the Company at info@iphone2.com +1-561-952-0300, x 101

Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: This press release may contain certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which are intended to be covered by the safe harbors created thereby. Investors are cautioned that all forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Although iPhone2 believes that the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements contained herein are reasonable, any assumption could be inaccurate, and therefore, there can be no assurance that the forward-looking statements included in this press release will prove to be correct. In light of the significant uncertainties inherent in the forward- looking statements included herein, the inclusion should not be regarded as a representation by iPhone2 or any other person that the objective and plans of iPhone2 will be achieved.

Source: iPhone2, Inc.

Web site: http://www.iphone2.com/
http://www.dialingtee.com/

 

iPling Announces the World's First Location-Based Social Networking Application for the iPhone

-- Today iPling (http://www.ipling.com/) announced the launch of its innovative, location-based social networking service optimized for Apple's iPhone.

The iPling community can utilize their iPhone to discover and communicate with people who share similar interests, no matter where they happen to be. "Community-building has been hindered in the past few years by worries over security and protection. People have become anxious about opening up to new, real-life relationships and experiences," says Manuel Monroy, founder and CEO of iPling. "We believe a large number of us are ready for a change, so we created a set of tools that will inspire confidence and encourage folks to open up and get together. iPling," Monroy adds, "is all about openness."

Social expansion versus social networking

Social networking has, up to now, relied on invitation systems. iPling changes the status quo by giving complete strangers the ability to find each other and interact with the confidence that they each control their own information and the experience itself. Until now, there has simply been no way to connect with others based on their proximity and interests unless they are already friends or friends of friends.

Registering with and discovering people using iPling is free. While logged in, users can easily create one or more profiles based on their interests. These profiles consist of keywords or tags relevant to each of that user's interests. Each interest profile is assigned a color. Your professional profile may be red, your rock-climbing profile may be green and your book club profile could be purple. When these profiles are active, users can see others around them with whom they share common interests -- the color of someone nearby tells you which of your interest groups they match up with. If a user wants to communicate with one of these matches, they can do so securely by way of an anonymous SMS message. To protect users and avoid unwelcome encounters, personal information is secure and kept confidential.

Monroy says, "You'd be surprised by all the amazing people that you pass by every day that could enrich your life. As the world goes mobile, we feel the time is right to introduce our services. And we couldn't ask for a better platform than the iPhone."

About iPling

iPling is a San Francisco based company founded in January 2007 by a group of Silicon Valley veterans, hailing from such companies as Anderson, Apple, WorldCom, Symantec and Yahoo. Anyone may register and use the iPling service free of charge in its current public beta format.

Source: iPling

Web site: http://www.ipling.com

 

June 28

iPhone Premieres This Friday Night at Apple Retail Stores

Free Workshops, Genius Bar Support and One to One Personal Training

CUPERTINO, California—June 28, 2007—Apple’s revolutionary iPhone™ will go on sale this Friday, June 29 at 6:00 p.m. local time at Apple® retail stores nationwide. All 164 Apple retail stores in the US will stay open until midnight, and customers can purchase up to two iPhones on a first come, first served basis. Beginning Saturday morning, iPhone customers can learn how to get the most out of the iPhone with free, in-depth workshops offered throughout the day at all Apple retail stores. Every Apple retail store will offer support for iPhone at the Genius Bar and personal training through Apple’s new One to One program.

“Apple retail stores were created for this moment—to let customers touch and experience a revolutionary new product,” said Ron Johnson, Apple’s senior vice president of Retail. “With our legendary Genius Bar support, free workshops and our One to One personal training, we’re here to help customers get the most from their new iPhone.”

iPhone introduces an entirely new user interface based on a revolutionary multi-touch display and pioneering new software that allows users to control iPhone with just a tap, flick or pinch of their fingers. iPhone combines three products into one small and lightweight handheld device—a revolutionary mobile phone, a widescreen iPod®, and the Internet in your pocket with best-ever applications on a mobile phone for email, web browsing and maps. iPhone ushers in an era of software power and sophistication never before seen in a mobile device, which completely redefines what users can do on their mobile phones.

Pricing and Availability
iPhone goes on sale in the US on June 29, 2007 at 6:00 p.m. local time through Apple’s retail stores and AT&T’s select retail stores. Apple’s online store will be taking orders for iPhone beginning at 6:00 p.m. PDT. iPhone will be available in a 4GB model for $499 (US) and an 8GB model for $599 (US), and will work with either a PC or Mac®. Beginning June 30 and continuing through the summer, Apple Stores in the US will open early at 9:00 a.m. for iPhone sales. Customers can check iPhone availability at their local Apple retail store starting at 9:00 p.m. the night before at www.apple.com/retail.

iPhone goes on sale in the US on June 29, 2007 at 6:00 p.m. local time through Apple’s retail stores and AT&T’s select retail stores. Apple’s online store will be taking orders for iPhone beginning at 6:00 p.m. PDT. iPhone will be available in a 4GB model for $499 (US) and an 8GB model for $599 (US), and will work with either a PC or Mac®. Beginning June 30 and continuing through the summer, Apple Stores in the US will open early at 9:00 a.m. for iPhone sales. Customers can check iPhone availability at their local Apple retail store starting at 9:00 p.m. the night before at .

Apple ignited the personal computer revolution in the 1970s with the Apple II and reinvented the personal computer in the 1980s with the Macintosh. Today, Apple continues to lead the industry in innovation with its award-winning computers, OS X operating system and iLife and professional applications. Apple is also spearheading the digital media revolution with its iPod portable music and video players and iTunes online store, and will enter the mobile phone market this year with its revolutionary iPhone.

 

YouTube Live on Apple TV Today; Coming to iPhone on June 29

Best YouTube Experience on a Mobile Device

—Apple® today announced that iPhone™ users will be able to enjoy YouTube’s originally-created content on their iPhones when they begin shipping on June 29. A new Apple-designed application on iPhone will wirelessly stream YouTube’s content to iPhone over Wi-Fi or EDGE networks and play it on iPhone’s stunning 3.5 inch display.

In addition, Apple announced that YouTube is now live on Apple TV™. Users can download the free software update using Apple TV’s built-in software update feature, and then easily navigate through YouTube’s familiar video browsing categories or search for specific videos. YouTube members can also log-in to their YouTube accounts on Apple TV to view and save their favorite videos.

“iPhone delivers the best YouTube mobile experience by far,” said Steve Jobs, Apple’s CEO. “Now users can enjoy YouTube wherever they are—on their iPhone, on their Mac or on a widescreen TV in their living room with Apple TV.”

To achieve higher video quality and longer battery life on mobile devices, YouTube has begun encoding their videos in the advanced H.264 format, and iPhone will be the first mobile device to use the H.264-encoded videos. Over 10,000 videos will be available on June 29, and YouTube will be adding more each week until their full catalog of videos is available in the H.264 format this fall.

The combination of H.264-encoded videos plus iPhone’s built-in Wi-Fi networking, stunning 3.5 inch display, and custom YouTube application with its multi-touch user interface results in the best YouTube experience on any mobile device.

Pricing & Availability
iPhone will include the built-in Apple-designed YouTube application when it is available in the US on June 29, 2007 in a 4GB model for $499 (US) and an 8GB model for $599 (US). iPhone will be sold in the US through Apple’s retail and online stores, and through AT&T’s retail stores.

iPhone will include the built-in Apple-designed YouTube application when it is available in the US on June 29, 2007 in a 4GB model for $499 (US) and an 8GB model for $599 (US). iPhone will be sold in the US through Apple’s retail and online stores, and through AT&T’s retail stores.

Apple TV users can download the free software update using Apple TV’s built-in software update feature.

Apple ignited the personal computer revolution in the 1970s with the Apple II and reinvented the personal computer in the 1980s with the Macintosh. Today, Apple continues to lead the industry in innovation with its award-winning computers, OS X operating system and iLife and professional applications. Apple is also spearheading the digital media revolution with its iPod portable music and video players and iTunes online store, and will enter the mobile phone market this year with its revolutionary iPhone.

 

 

AT&T and Apple Announce Simple, Affordable Service Plans for iPhone

All Plans Include Unlimited Data & Visual Voicemail

AT&T Inc. and Apple(R) today announced three simple, affordable service plans for iPhone(TM) which start at just $59.99 per month. All three plans include unlimited data, Visual Voicemail, 200 SMS text messages, roll-over minutes and unlimited mobile-to-mobile calling. With everything else already included, iPhone customers can easily choose the plan that's right for them based on the amount of voice minutes they plan to use each month. In addition, iPhone customers can choose from any of AT&T's standard service plans.

"AT&T has the largest voice and data network in America, the largest mobile-to-mobile calling community and the fewest dropped calls," said Randall Stephenson, chairman and CEO, AT&T. "AT&T has invested more than 16 billion dollars in its wireless network between 2005 and 2007, and iPhone customers will enjoy the best voice and data network in the nation."

"We want to make choosing a service plan simple and easy, so every plan includes unlimited data with direct Internet access, along with Visual Voicemail and a host of other goodies," said Steve Jobs, Apple's CEO. "We think these three plans give customers the flexibility to experience all of iPhone's revolutionary features at affordable and competitive prices."

All iPhone plans include Visual Voicemail, an industry first, which allows consumers to see a listing of their voicemails, decide which messages to listen to, then go directly to those messages without listening to previous messages. Just like email, Visual Voicemail on iPhone enables users to immediately and randomly access the messages that interest them most. Unlike most wireless plans that charge additional fees for new features, there are no additional fees for Visual Voicemail.

iPhone introduces an entirely new user interface based on a revolutionary multi-touch display and pioneering new software that allows users to control iPhone with just a tap, flick or pinch of their fingers. iPhone combines three products into one small and lightweight handheld device-a revolutionary mobile phone, a widescreen iPod(R), and the Internet in your pocket with best-ever applications on a mobile phone for email, web browsing and maps. iPhone ushers in an era of software power and sophistication never before seen in a mobile device, which completely redefines what users can do on their mobile phones.

Pricing & Availability

iPhone goes on sale at 6:00 p.m. (local time) on Friday, June 29 and will be sold in the US through Apple's retail and online stores and AT&T retail stores. iPhone will be available in a 4GB model for $499 (US) and an 8GB model for $599 (US), and will work with either a PC or Mac(R). All iPhone monthly service plans are available for individuals and families and are based on a new two-year service agreement with AT&T. Individual plans are priced at $59.99 for 450 minutes, $79.99 for 900 minutes and $99.99 for 1,350 minutes. All plans include unlimited data (email and web), Visual Voicemail, 200 SMS text messages, roll over minutes and unlimited mobile-to-mobile and a one-time activation fee of $36. Family plans are also available.

About AT&T

AT&T Inc. is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates, AT&T operating companies, are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. Among their offerings are the world's most advanced IP-based business communications services and the nation's leading wireless, high-speed Internet access and voice services. In domestic markets, AT&T is known for the directory publishing and advertising sales leadership of its Yellow Pages and YELLOWPAGES.COM organizations, and the AT&T brand is licensed to innovators in such fields as communications equipment. As part of its three-screen integration strategy, AT&T is expanding its TV entertainment offerings. Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com/.

About Apple

Apple ignited the personal computer revolution in the 1970s with the Apple II and reinvented the personal computer in the 1980s with the Macintosh. Today, Apple continues to lead the industry in innovation with its award-winning computers, OS X operating system and iLife and professional applications. Apple is also spearheading the digital media revolution with its iPod portable music and video players and iTunes online store, and will enter the mobile phone market this year with its revolutionary iPhone.

Apple, the Apple logo, Mac, Mac OS, Macintosh, iPhone and iPod are trademarks of Apple. Other company and product names may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Source: AT&T Inc.; Apple

Web site: http://www.apple.com/
http://www.att.com/

 

Apple(R) iPhone(TM) May Struggle Initially to Cross the Chasm

High price point and doubts about utility of a convergence platform could inhibit early adoption

The Apple iPhone may find strong demand among early-adopter technophiles, but building a larger market may be difficult initially, according to The iPhone: A Consumer Perspective. This new white paper from Parks Associates includes primary consumer data from Mobile Entertainment Platforms & Services (Second Edition), a 2007 survey of 2,000 U.S. Internet users. The survey finds only 3% of these consumers have a strong interest in purchasing the iPhone at its $499.99 price point and two-year contract.

"The underlying drivers for converging music, multimedia, and communications capabilities in a device such as an iPhone are certainly prevalent in today's market," said Kurt Scherf, vice president and principal analyst with Parks Associates. "However, the high price point may prevent the iPhone from achieving greater adoption over the short term. It may be an early-adopter product that appeals to technophiles but initially leaves other interested users on the outside looking in."

The white paper concludes with comments from Parks Associates' analysts on the strengths and weaknesses of the iPhone. Among the analyses are insights into the likely response from corporate users, the potential boost to AT&T, and the expansion of Apple's "three-screen" entertainment strategy.

The iPhone: A Consumer Perspective is a free white paper available for download at http://www.parksassociates.com/. It pulls primary consumer data from Parks Associates' consumer study Mobile Entertainment Platforms & Services (Second Edition). For more information about this study, contact Parks Associates at 972-490-1113 or sales@parksassociates.com or visit http://www.parksassociates.com/.

About Parks Associates: Parks Associates is a market research and consulting firm focused on all product and service segments that are "digital" or provide connectivity within the home. The company's expertise includes home networks, digital entertainment, consumer electronics, broadband and Internet services, and home systems.

Parks Associates hosts several fall events and co-hosts CONNECTIONS(TM) and CONNECTIONS(TM) Europe (in partnership with the Consumer Electronics Association) each year. In addition, Parks Associates produces the publication Industry Insights two times per year in conjunction with the CONNECTIONS(TM) Conference series.

 

Source: Parks Associates

Web site: http://www.parksassociates.com/
http://www.connectionsconference.com/
http://www.connectionseurope.com/
http://www.connectionsindustryinsights.com/

 

 

iPhone Visual Voicemail Now Available on BlackBerry and Windows Mobile By SimulScribe

Scroll, click, listen and READ voicemail on mobile phones with SimulSaysBETA from SimulScribe

-- SimulScribe, the U.S. leader in voicemail-to-text services, announced today the launch of SimulSays Beta, a free, downloadable visual voicemail application for the BlackBerry 8800 series, BlackBerry Pearl, BlackBerry Curve and Windows Mobile devices. With SimulSays Beta users can scroll, click and listen to voicemail messages on their phone's display; saving time and money. Users can instantly select any voice message at random to play back with a simple click on the handset.

When SimulSays Beta is combined with SimulScribe's award wining voicemail-to-text service, users can also read their voicemail messages in the application. SimulSays Beta integrates with the mobile phone's contact book, allowing users to reply to the known caller's message by phone, text message or e-mail. SimulSays Beta is currently available at http://www.simulsays.com/ or at mobile.SimulSays.com from a handset.

"I've been testing SimulSays Beta for a few weeks now and find it indispensable," said Josh Rubin of coolhunting.com. "SimulSays Beta beat Apple's iPhone to visual voicemail and took it a step further, you can read your voicemail if you combine it with SimulScribe's voicemail-to-text service."

Once downloaded, the SimulSays Beta application is launched directly from the BlackBerry's main menu. SimulSays Beta requires very little power and always notifies users of new voicemail messages, even when the application is closed. SimulScribe will be rolling out SimulSays on additional mobile platforms in the coming months.

"We strive to deliver voicemail in better, easier and more useful ways," said James Siminoff, founder and CEO of SimulScribe. "SimulSays Beta was created to give our customers better control of their voicemail, saving them time and money. SimulSays Beta is ideal for people looking to add visual voicemail functionality to their existing mobile phones without having to purchase an Apple iPhone."

About SimulScribe

SimulScribe's award wining service converts voicemail to text and delivers it via e-mail or SMS. Voicemail transcribed through SimulScribe's patented technology is delivered in near real-time with the caller's phone number in the e-mail subject line, transcribed voice message in the body and an attached audio file of the original message. SimulScribe provides unlimited voicemail box storage and the voice recognition system has a transcription accuracy of over 95 percent. The company has received numerous awards including: PC Magazine's coveted Four Star Rating, The Business 2.0 Next Net 25 and The Applied Voice Input/Output Society's Best Speech-enabled Unified Communication Solution. SimulScribe's service works with all wireless and wire-line network providers and new users can sign up at http://www.simulscribe.com/.

Web site: http://www.simulscribe.com/

 

 

Who Needs an iPhone? 140 Million People Can Already Do What Apple Promises

Orb's Free MyCasting Service Allows Millions of Mobile Phone Users to Start Enjoying PC-to-Phone Entertainment Today

-- Orb Networks(TM) announced today that the 140 million people worldwide who already own streaming media phones have an alternative to get all of their digital media on the go without paying the hefty price tag of the Apple iPhone, which is scheduled to hit stores this week. A simple download of the free Orb MyCasting service (www.orb.com) provides unlimited access to all the music, photos, and other digital media that's on your PC, as well as anything from the Internet including all of YouTube, TV shows and more, on your mobile phone.

"Let's face it, the iPhone is going to be out of reach for most people," said Joe Costello, Chairman and CEO of Orb Networks. "But if you download a free copy of Orb onto your PC, anything you can play on your computer, you can play on any phone that has a streaming media player. That turns 140 million phones -- models from all major handset makers, and all major carriers -- into media phones. Orb is the media phone for the rest of us."

Costello went on to say that using a streaming media phone with Orb's free service allows you to access an unlimited number of Internet videos, such as on YouTube, without any limitations and offers other advantages. "The iPhone handcuffs you to AT&T and iTunes. Using your own phone with Orb, you have the freedom to select any service provider and music source -- you are in control."

Want to see if your mobile phone works with Orb? Test it by going to www.orb.com/4U on your mobile phone. For more information about using Orb to turn your phone into a media phone, visit www.orb.com/myphones.

How to Get Orb. Download Orb from www.orb.com onto the Windows PC where you have all your media. It takes less than 3 minutes.

Then type: mycast.orb.com into your mobile phone browser and you are set. Remember:

-- If you want to watch TV, you'll need a tuner card. Get started at:

www.orb.com/en/mytv.

-- Anything with a streaming media player and Internet access -- your

mobile device, lap top, PDA, even your home TV using a game console --

can be an Orb player.

-- Keep your home PC always on -- it's the personal broadcasting system

that streams your media to your other devices wherever you are --

personally, securely.

About Orb Networks, Inc.

Orb Networks is an award-winning developer of software and services that unlock the digital media stored on personal computers. Orb MyCasting gives consumers secure, free, instant, and everywhere-access to everything from their photos and video to TV and music on virtually any Web-enabled device. The company's partners and affiliates include: Amino, AOL Winamp, AMD, Creative Labs, Hauppauge, Hutchison, Nokia, Orange and Vodafone. Orb Networks is a privately held company in Emeryville, Calif. For more information about Orb Networks and the Orb MyCasting service, please visit www.orb.com.

Orb and MyCast are trademarks of Orb Networks, Inc. All other trademarks and/or registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Source: Orb Networks, Inc.

Web site: http://www.orb.com/

 

 

Laplink Remote Access Software to be Free for iPhone Users

Laplink Everywhere 5 confirmed to include support for iPhone users

In response to repeated questions and rumors, Laplink Software, Inc. confirmed today that the next version of its popular mobility software will include support for Apple's new iPhone. Laplink also confirmed this new version of Laplink Everywhere will be released in the third quarter and will include a free, fully-compatible version for iPhone users.

"We will continue to support Windows Mobile 5 and 6 and other mobile operating systems, but we have high expectations for the iPhone market," explained Emir Aboulhosn, Vice President Marketing at Laplink Software, Inc. "We believe that Laplink Everywhere 5 will set the new standard in terms of connectivity to your desktop, no matter what device you might be connecting from - and that specifically will include iPhones."

Laplink Everywhere 5 will be squarely aimed at the mobile device market, with a free version of Laplink Everywhere that allows a mobile user to quickly and easily execute a remote search of their desktop PC and then forward files or email resulting from that search - all with very little data actually transferred to or from the mobile device.

"To be truly mobile, a user must have the ability to efficiently locate and forward a file residing on a remote PC located behind a firewall," continued Aboulhosn. "And, it has to be fast and easy over low bandwidth connections like GPRS or EDGE. Because we will offer this functionality at no charge, it is definitely a must-have for mobile users."

Laplink is also developing special functionality optimized for iPhone users which will be disclosed upon official release of the software. Remote control, file transfer, and synchronization performance will also be boosted significantly in Laplink Everywhere 5. Full-version upgrades for current users of Laplink Everywhere 4 will be available at no charge.

About Laplink Software, Inc.

Laplink specializes in PC migration, file transfer, remote access and synchronization solutions that simplify connectivity for business and home users. Whether you need to migrate to a new PC, transfer large files, remotely control and access your computer, share files, keep devices synchronized or back up data, Laplink offers an easy and secure application to do the job. The privately held company was founded in 1982 and is headquartered in Bellevue, Washington with offices in Canada and Europe. For more information, visit www.laplink.com.

Source: Laplink Software Inc.

 

 

Power the New Apple(R) iPhone(R) While In-Flight Via the Coach Seat Music Jack

-- InflightPower.com announced today the introduction of a new product for those travelers interested in recharging the new Apple(R) iPhone(R) while on the fly. The InFlight Power(TM) iPhone recharging cable has just been released for market sales.

The patented device works by storing energy from the passenger seat music jack; it then outputs regulated power to the attached USB charging cable/connector. The InFlight Power(TM) cable works on first class and business/coach class seats.

Engineered for safe use on an airplane, bus or train; the InFlight Power(TM) cable weighs only 3 oz., is small and ultra portable. The unique product is designed to save money on expensive disposables / booster packs and replaces weighty, cumbersome, brick-sized chargers. The interchangeable InFlight Power(TM) USB cable can also recharge cell phones, and game player units.

"A must-have for the business traveler or anyone on the move who wants to keep their power charge," said the product's inventor, Thomas Giannulli MD, MS.

The product has received rave reviews from AIRFAX.com and is available online at the company's website.

For more information http://www.inflightpower.com/

All trademarks acknowledged.

Source: InflightPower.com

Web site: http://www.inflightpower.com/

 

 

Playboy.com Launches 'iPlayboy' for the Apple iPhone

Free Playboy Wallpapers, Pics, Videos and MP3s Customized for the New iPhone

-- Steve Jobs has delivered the hardware and now Hugh Hefner has delivered the software. With the eagerly-anticipated Apple iPhone finally in retail stores, Playboy.com is celebrating the glorious gadget with the launch of "iPlayboy," a collection of multimedia features guaranteed to turn up the heat on that cool, new phone. iPhone owners may visit Playboy.com to download a free set of twelve sexy non-nude Playmate wallpapers, a separate photo album with twelve additional Playmate photos, a complete 1-hour episode of Playboy Radio's "The Playmate Hour" (SIRIUS Satellite Radio # 198) with hosts Miriam Gonzalez (Miss March '01) and Pilar Lastra (Miss August '04) and a Playboy.com Cyber Girl video, all customized for the Apple iPhone. It's the next best thing to having Playmates on speed dial.

"We have always tried to stay ahead of the curve by delivering the fun, sophistication and sexiness of Playboy to our fans on the newest and hottest media platforms," said John D. Thomas, editor of Playboy.com. "And with so much buzz surrounding the all-in-one Apple iPhone, we knew we had to develop something specifically designed just for this device."

Simple instructions for downloading and installing "iPlayboy" are available at http://www.playboy.com/.

 

Visto Announces Secure Corporate Email for Apple iPhone

iPhone Can Now Support Corporate Users on Microsoft Exchange and IBM Lotus Domino

-- Visto, the leading provider of mobile email solutions for business users, today announced the support of corporate email functionality for the Apple iPhone.

Through Visto, iPhone users will be able to experience secure mobile access to current and legacy versions of both Microsoft Exchange and IBM Lotus Domino corporate messaging platforms. Visto will enable access that is easy to implement and administer and will alleviate IT concerns regarding security and reliability.

"The iPhone and other devices to follow will continue to accelerate demand for secure mobile access to corporate data including email, contacts, calendar and other important information sources," said Brian Bogosian, president, chairman and CEO of Visto. "The unique attributes of the iPhone will generate incremental demand for smart devices and will raise the bar for other phone manufacturers to meet and exceed any user experience enhancements that Apple has made. To be useful to business users, it must easily and securely provide access to corporate email -- and that's where Visto adds value and functionality for end users as they consider the iPhone over BlackBerry, Symbian or Windows Mobile devices as their single converged device to support both their personal and business needs."

Visto Mobile will directly offer secure and easy-to-use mobile access to corporate and personal email for the iPhone in the United States. Additionally, Visto Mobile offers iPhone users peace of mind by securing their personal information using end-to-end security. For IT departments, this means that they can encrypt and protect sensitive corporate data without making any changes to their existing security infrastructure.

Availability

Visto Mobile for the iPhone will be available in late Q3 2007. iPhone users will be able to take advantage of a free 60-day trial of the Visto Mobile service. For more details and pre-sign up, go to http://www.vistomobile.com/iphone

About Visto

Visto delivers the leading global platform for mobile operators to provide easy-to-use mobile email to the broadest set of devices. Visto's open solution enables email for the mass market, targeting enterprises, small businesses mobile professionals and consumers. The company's patented Visto Mobile(TM) platform with ConstantSync(TM) technology works in real time with POP3, IMAP, Microsoft Exchange and Lotus Domino email solutions for personal to business use, providing maximum control and flexibility for the operator and choice for the customer. Visto's customized, brandable solutions are available through mobile operators worldwide including Elisa, Rogers Wireless, Qtel, SmarTone, SFR, Softbank Mobile, Sprint-NEXTEL, TELUS, Turkcell and the Vodafone Group.

Established in 1996 and headquartered in Redwood Shores, California, with offices in Seattle, Toronto, London, Milan, Paris, Madrid, Munich, Tokyo, and Tianjin, China, Visto is backed by Oak Investment Partners, Draper Fisher Jurvetson, Altitude Capital Partners, Meritech Capital Partners, DFJ ePlanet Ventures, DFJ Growth Fund, Rustic Canyon Ventures, GKM Newport, Stanford Accelerator and Blueprint Ventures. For more information, visit http://www.visto.com/ or email info@visto.com.

Visto Corporation, Visto, the Visto logo, Visto Mobile, ConstantSync, Constant Synchronization and worklife.freedom are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Visto Corporation. All third-party trademarks, trade names, or service marks are the property of their respective owners and are used only to refer to the goods or services identified by those third-party marks. Visto's technology is protected by U.S. Patents 6,085,192; 5,968,131; 6,023,708; 5,961,590; 6,131,116; 6,151,606; 6,233,341; 6,131,096, 6,708,221 and 6,766,454 and the following NTP U.S. Patents: 5,436,960, 5,438,611, 5,479,472, 5,625,670, 5,631,946, 5,819,172, 6,067,451, 6,317,592 and various other foreign patents. Other patents pending.

Source: Visto Corporation

visto@companycare.com, for Visto Corporation

Web site: http://www.visto.com/

 

Altec Lansing Introduces Upgrader Series(TM) Headphone Series for iPhone, Multimedia Phones and MP3 Players

Broad Portfolio Enables Consumers to Select Personalized Fit for Optimal Sound Experience

-- Altec Lansing, a division of Plantronics, Inc., today introduced an expansive portfolio of premium fit headphones for use with MP3 players and multimedia phones, including the iPhone. The series -- offered with and without a microphone -- provides consumers with an "upgrade" in sound quality, individualized style and fit over generic bundled headphones.

Three of the new Upgrader Series(TM) headphones -- the UHS 302, UHS 306 and UHS 307 -- feature microphones and a specialized 'convertible' adapter developed to connect with the iPhone as well as with most mobile phones.

"As mobile phones and multimedia devices expand their content capabilities to include music, video, games, and the Internet, consumers are demanding headphones that deliver truly immersive experiences," said Robert Heiblim, senior vice president of Marketing for Altec Lansing. "Altec Lansing's new Upgrader Series provides just that. By selecting a fit that matches their personal lifestyle, consumers achieve optimal comfort and superb audio for listening and conversations."

The Upgrader Series features both a UHS line (headphones with a microphone) and UHP line (headphones only). Using materials inspired by specialized sporting goods and eyewear, the Upgrader headphones are designed for a wide variety of environments and lifestyles, including:

-- Audio Enthusiasts: For consumers that want clear, crisp sound with no

outside distractions, the Upgrader line includes headphones with

SnugFit designs that provide noise-isolation and high-fidelity,

including phenomenal bass. The UHP 306, UHP 336, UHP 101 and UH 301 all

feature in-ear designs with silicon tips or pads that conform to the

unique shape of ears and provide all day comfort. The UHS 306 offers

the same sound quality and custom fit, and also features an inline

volume control and microphone for switching between phones calls and

music.

For those who like over-the-ear headphones, the Upgrader Series

includes the UHP 405 that features booming surround sound (optimized

for gaming) and UHP 805 that includes active noise-cancellation

technology, perfect for airplanes.

-- Active Users: For avid joggers, bikers and others that enjoy active

sports, the Upgrader series includes headphones with AirFit designs

that provide great stability and sound, while allowing users to monitor

external noises, such as traffic and workout partners. The UHP 303

includes a moisture-resistant design, breathable ear pads and a

flexible titanium neck band for a great fit. The UHP 302 is also

moisture resistant and features a spring steel ear hanger for a snug

fit. The UHS 307 features a spring steel ear hanger design along with

washable silicon ear tips and an inline volume control and microphone

with mute switch.

-- Casual listeners: For those who enjoy listening to music at work or

during public transportation commutes, Altec Lansing offers AirFit

headphones that go on the ear for rich, full stereo sound. Both the

UHP 302 and UHP 303 feature breathable micro fiber ear pads and

moisture resistant designs -- the UHP 302 is an ear clip fit. The

UHP 304 uses an over-the-head fit featuring a dual titanium headband

design for ultra style and flexibility. The UHS 302 includes an inline

volume control and microphone with mute switch.

 

Broad Device Compatibility

Altec Lansing's UHP headphones can be used with MP3 and CD players, portable DVDs and TVs, game consoles, desktop and laptop PCs, home and professional audio, airplane audio, and home studio equipment.

The UHS headphones come with a gold plated 1/4-inch (3.5mm), four-band connector that fits with the iPhone's unique audio jack and assures a pure audio experience. Devices can be attached via the standard 1/4-inch (3.5mm) gold plated connector or a 1/8-inch (2.5mm) adapter that fits most audio component output ports.

Altec Lansing's Upgrader Series will be available in August 2007 at major retailers and http://www.alteclansing.com/. For more information about the Upgrader portfolio, including pricing, please visit: http://www.plantronics.com/launch.

About Altec Lansing

Altec Lansing, a division of Plantronics, has designed and manufactured high-quality consumer and professional speaker systems for more than 70 years. A market leader in digital audio, Altec Lansing makes a wide range of audio systems for the home and office; a line of headsets and headphones for personal listening; and the popular line of inMotion speaker systems for portable digital players. The company's Professional division manufactures speakers for the fixed installation market. Altec Lansing is headquartered in Milford, PA, with offices in Luxembourg, and Hong Kong, as well as an ISO 9002 and SA8000 certified manufacturing facility in Dongguan, China. The company employs approximately 1,300 people worldwide.

Altec Lansing Upgrader Series is a trademark or registered trademark of Altec Lansing, a division of Plantronics, Inc. Apple and iPod are trademarks of Apple, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. More information can be found at http://www.alteclansing.com/.

Web site: http://www.alteclansing.com/
http://www.plantronics.com/