Mike Lazaridis and Doug Fregin Unveil $100 Million Quantum Valley Fund, Focusing on Commercializing Quantum Technology Breakthroughs

Mike Lazaridis and Doug Fregin Unveil $100 Million Quantum Valley Fund, Focusing on Commercializing Quantum Technology Breakthroughs


WATERLOO, OntarioMarch 19, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Mike Lazaridis and Doug Fregin , who together founded BlackBerry, announced today that they have partnered again to establish Quantum Valley Investments, a $100 million private fund that will provide financial and intellectual capital for the further development and commercialization of breakthroughs in Quantum Information Science.  Quantum Valley Investments is headquartered in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.

At the launch of the Quantum-Nano Centre in 2012, Mr. Lazaridis described the quantum research capability that has been developed in Waterloo as the "Bell Labs of the Twenty First Century."  He and Mr. Fregin believe that in the same way discoveries at Bell Labs led to commercialization opportunities that created Silicon Valley, so will the breakthroughs that occur at the Institute for Quantum Computing, the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics, and the Waterloo Institute for Nano Technology lead to transformative commercialization opportunities in the Region. 

Mr. Lazaridis and Mr. Fregin believe that their investments and commercialization efforts will lead to new industries, jobs and value creation that will help transform the Waterloo Region into Canada's Quantum Valley.    

A few research labs around the world have begun a race in pursuit of transformative breakthroughs in quantum information science.  Because of the research capability that has been developed here in the last 12 years, the Waterloo Region has a unique opportunity to play a leading role in this global race.  Mr. Lazaridis and Mr. Fregin believe that the Quantum Valley Investment Fund will help ensure success in this endeavor. 

When asked why he and Mr. Fregin decided to lead this initiative, Mr. Lazaridis responded, "Nothing you see in the classical technology world can prepare you for what you will see in the quantum technology revolution. Doug and I have nearly 30 years' experience as inventors of the BlackBerry, creators of the smart phone industry and builders of Canada's largest global tech business.  We also have significant resources from our success in that business.  Our belief in the power of quantum physics to transform society inspired us to develop a strategy some 12 years ago that led to the world-class quantum research capability that exists in Waterloo today.  This combination of technology and business experience has given us a unique understanding and deep commitment that we believe will be instrumental to the success of both this Fund and the 'Quantum Valley'."

Mr. Fregin added, "Quantum Physics will not only allow us to continue the development of existing ideas, but may also lead to ones which we may not have dreamed of yet.  It gives me much satisfaction not only to participate in this endeavour with Mike, but also to help build on the groundwork that we have helped lay in Quantum Physics and Nanotechnology in this region, bringing commercialization one step closer to realization for the benefit of all people."

Speaking about the potential impact of the new fund on jobs and the economy, Gord Nixon, President and Chief Executive Officer of Royal Bank of Canada and Chair of the Ontario Jobs and Prosperity Council said, "At a time, when international competition faced by Canadian companies has increased dramatically and the need for innovation in this country is key, this initiative is both welcome and timely.  Building on their support and commitment for quantum physics in the Waterloo Region over many years, these nation builders have once again put their money where their mouth is to help keep Canadian breakthroughs in Canada.  These transformational initiatives are critical to our future competitiveness." 

Kevin Lynch , Vice-Chair of BMO Financial Group, Chair of the Board of Governors of the University of Waterloo and Vice Chair of the Ontario Jobs and Prosperity Council added, "Executing on a well thought out strategy that started 12 years ago, Mike and Doug have developed a model for innovation that is compelling.  These visionaries have not only created a platform that will help with value creation in Canada, but in doing so have created the foundation for a quantum commercialization infrastructure in the Waterloo Region that will help to promote breakthroughs, industries and jobs in this Region for years to come. It is great for Waterloo, for Ontario and for Canada."

Mr. Lazaridis concluded, "Today we move forward on the next step toward a Quantum Physics Technology Commercialization infrastructure that will lead to new jobs, industries and value creation in this country. As suggested by its name, Doug and I believe that the private fund we are launching today will help lead to the 'Quantum Valley' here in Waterloo." 

For more information about Quantum Valley Investments, go to: www.quantumvalleyinvestments.com

SOURCE Quantum Valley Investments








































































Vancouver-based Comm100 Enables Zero Downtime Upgrade for Its On-Demand Live Chat Solution

Comm100 Enables Zero Downtime Upgrade for Its On-Demand Live Chat Solution

The Update Means No Interruption to Customers' Live Chats during Comm100's Service Upgrades

VANCOUVER, British ColumbiaMarch 20, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Comm100, the leading global provider of enterprise-level customer service and communication solutions, announced today the release of the "zero downtime upgrade" feature toComm100 Live Chat, the company's SaaS based live chat software used by more than 100,000 businesses.  

Comm100 Live Chat is the industry's first solution that can perform a software upgrade without any interruption to open chat sessions. The company uses dynamic DLL loading technology to ensure customers' chat sessions are not interrupted during Comm100's service upgrades. This technology allows both the old and new version of Comm100 Live Chat to function at the same time, until the upgrade is complete. The upgrade transition is completely seamless and is not visible to the end user.

"Our industry-leading live chat solution is now complemented by our zero downtime upgrade feature which means our customers do not need to suspend their live chat support for even a second during our service upgrades," said Kevin Gao , Founder and CEO of Comm100. "This is absolutely critical for our many online business clients who operate on the 'time is money' saying, and want to ensure all customer questions are answered quickly without interruption. No interruptions in service mean our client's customers can enjoy an optimal website experience, which directly translates into more sales and repeat business."

Comm100 offers fully hosted customer communication tools that enable businesses of any size to better serve, inform, and convert their customers. Comm100 Live Chat provides businesses with a simple-to-implement yet powerful live support solution that allows them to efficiently engage website visitors and manage customer inquiries. Version 7.0 of Comm100 Live Chat was released in January, 2013 and included integration with Salesforce.com and an optimized user-friendly operator console.

Learn more about Comm100 Live Chat at: http://livechat.comm100.com/.

About Comm100 
Comm100 is the leading provider of enterprise-level customer service and communication solutions that enable businesses of any size to better serve, inform, and convert their customers. Comm100 products include Live Chat, Email Marketing, Support Ticket, Help Desk, Forum and Knowledge Base. To date, Comm100 products have been embraced by more than 200,000 businesses around the globe. Learn more at: http://www.comm100.com/.

SOURCE Comm100



























































AceTech Ontario announces the winners of the 2013 AceTech Ontario Leadership Initiative

AceTech Ontario announces the winners of the 2013 AceTech Ontario Leadership Initiative


TORONTOMarch 20, 2013 /PRNewswire-iReach/ -- AceTech Ontario is very pleased to announce

  • Doxim                                              
  • Intelex                                              
  • ENBALA Power Networks           
  • Blueprint                                          
  • Firmex                                             

as the winners of the 2013 Winners of the Leadership Initiative, a program that taps into the knowledge and experience ofOntario's best and brightest technology CEOs. 

AceTech Ontario is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing programs and opportunities for CEOs and their senior executive teams to learn, network and share experiences with a close-knit carefully qualified group of like-minded peers. AceTech Ontario members come from growth oriented, IP-based technology companies with revenues between $2million and$400million, and a desire to develop their leadership skills and drive their company's success. 

The purpose of the AceTech Ontario Leadership Initiative is to tap into the vast knowledge and experience of the CEO member companies.  This program recognizes the expertise and thought leadership of the members and provides a channel to effectively share knowledge and best practices among the membership.  CEO member companies were asked to submit formal proposals outlining their best practices, significant experience and best-of-class processes in a specific topic area.

Winners of the Leadership Initiative commit to providing a workshop for the AceTech Ontario members as well as an article, white paper, or business tool on their topic.  This program will increase the volume and quality of peer to peer knowledge transfer, and will provide a structured approach for generating content and value for the AceTech members.

"AceTech Ontario is proud to recognize each of these companies for this great achievement" said Jo Ann Dizy , Executive Director, AceTech Ontario.  "The Leadership initiative is designed to recognize technology leaders that think out of the box and ahead of the curve, and each of these companies is a great example of those qualities".

Media Contact: Jo Ann Dizy AceTech Ontario, 416 898 1270, jdizy@acetechontario.com

News distributed by PR Newswire iReach: https://ireach.prnewswire.com

SOURCE AceTech Ontario
















































































Oracle Releases Oracle Learn Cloud 13A

Oracle Releases Oracle Learn Cloud 13A

Advanced Global Functionality and Usability Enhancements Provide Richer Learning Experience for Oracle Learn Customers

CLO Symposium, Austin, TX – March 20, 2013


News Facts

To help organizations develop a high-performance and aligned global workforce, Oracle has introducedOracle Learn Cloud 13A.
The latest version of the learning management system (LMS) expands its global reach with additional time zones, languages and date format preferences, along with usability updates to help increase adoption and convenience.
Part of the Oracle Cloud, Oracle Learn Cloud is a comprehensive solution for delivering, tracking, managing and reporting on all types of formal and informal training. Using a single platform to access online, virtual and on-the-job training, organizations can design tailored user experiences through highly configurable learning portals with a unique user interface to manage learning globally.

User-Friendly Enhancements Drive Global Consistency and Efficiency in Learning

Educating and training employees in compliance with company and other federal regulations is crucial for legal purposes. Yet managing learning across geographies and regions can be challenging, particularly when accounting for regional differences in languages, work days, and work weeks.
With updates to usability and global preferences, Oracle Learn Cloud 13A paves the way for a richer learning experience that accelerates learner adoption to enhance performance and streamline the learning process.
New functionality provides customers with more global options, flexibility and consistency using one single learning system:

    o With expanded options for time and date formats, including 36 new time zones, administrators and learners around the world can create and view courses in their local time zones regardless of where they are located. Users can also set their own start day of a work week to avoid schedule conflicts. For example, if you are located in the US and want to schedule a course in China, your learners can attend the same course from China without disruption.

    o Oracle Learn Cloud is now available in 19 languages, including Polish, Dutch and Danish, which were added to this release.

Redesigned interfaces for users and administrators to enrich the user experience, including a tabbed interface that allows administrators to more easily discover content and training opportunities.

Supporting Quote

“Learning is critical to aligning an increasingly global workforce, though organizations must understand there isn’t a ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution to training,” said Jim Obsitnik, group vice president and general manager, Oracle Learn Cloud. “Oracle Learn Cloud incorporates new enhancements to support learning on a global scale, helping organizations achieve maximum efficiency through a centralized cloud-based learning management system that delivers unique, tailored user experiences to maximize learner adoption.”

Supporting Resources

Oracle Cloud Solutions

Oracle provides the industry’s broadest and most complete portfolio of public, private and hybrid cloud offerings. Oracle Cloud delivers a broad suite of subscription-based, enterprise-grade Application Services, Platform Services, Infrastructure Services and Social Services. Oracle also provides a comprehensive portfolio of cloud products and managed cloud services for IT providers to build and manage clouds.

About Oracle Applications

Over 65,000 customers worldwide rely on Oracle's complete, open and integrated enterprise applications to achieve superior results. Oracle provides a secure path for customers to benefit from the latest technology advances that improve the customer software experience and drive better business performance. Oracle Applications Unlimited is Oracle's commitment to customer choice through continuous investment and innovation in current applications offerings. Oracle’s next-generation Fusion Applications build upon that commitment, and are designed to work with and evolve your existing applications investments. Oracle's lifetime support policy helps ensure customers will continue to have a choice in upgrade paths, based on their enterprise needs. For more information on the latest Oracle Applications releases go to:www.oracle.com/applications.

About Oracle

Oracle engineers hardware and software to work together in the cloud and in your data center.  For more information about Oracle (NASDAQ:ORCL), visit www.oracle.com

Trademarks

Oracle and Java are registered trademarks of Oracle and/or its affiliates. Other names may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Contact Info

Danielle Cormier-Smith
Oracle
+1.610.766.3463
danielle.cormier@oracle.com

Joan Levy
Blanc & Otus
+1.415.856.5110
jlevy@blancandotus.com


































































suretap expands to Android and BlackBerry 10 models

suretap expands to Android and BlackBerry 10 models

suretap ready devices certified by MasterCard and Visa as secure and ready for mobile payment solutions on Android and BlackBerry 10 operating systems

TORONTOMarch 20, 2013 /CNW/ - Rogers Communications announced today the certification of its suretap™ service for the Android and BlackBerry 10 operating systems. The certification allows credentials issuers including banks, loyalty and reward programs to develop mobile payment solutions for Android and BlackBerry 10 devices that leverage the secure SIM card in an NFC-enabled device. Rogers suretap service enables smartphones to securely perform payments on mobile devices and as of today, is accepted at tens of thousands of MasterCard PayPass®and Visa payWave® contactless terminals across Canada.

"To continue driving adoption and growth of mobile payments in Canada, it is essential that a strong ecosystem is established to include multiple devices, operating systems and payment networks," said Jeppe Dorff, Vice-President of Transaction Services, Rogers. "We know our customers have strong affinity to the Android platform and we are thrilled to include Android devices amongst smartphones ready to support mobile payment applications built for suretap."

As of today, three Android NFC-enabled smartphones and four BlackBerry® smartphones are suretap mobile-payment-ready - secure and ready for mobile payment solutions to be developed for consumer use. Suretap ready devices now certified as ready to support new mobile payment applications that accept MasterCard and Visa credit cards include:

  • BlackBerry® Bold™ 9900, BlackBerry® Curve™ 9360, BlackBerry® Bold™ 9790 and BlackBerry® Z10 models
  • LG Optimus G
  • Samsung Galaxy S III and Note II models

"The Android operating system holds the largest share of smartphone unit shipments in Canada and in North Americatoday," said Krista Napier, Senior Analyst for Mobility at IDC Canada. "Because of Android's market presence, and Canadians' growing usage of smartphones for many of their daily activities, there is growth potential for mobile payment solutions being offered to Canadians on the Android platform." 

Last year Rogers launched suretap, the first mobile payment solution Canada to leverage the secure SIM card inside an NFC-enabled device. Today, tens of thousands of suretap SIM cards are in market and hundreds of thousands of suretap mobile payment -ready devices are being used by Canadians.

For more information about suretap, visit www.rogers.com/suretap.

About Rogers Communications
Rogers Communications is a diversified Canadian communications and media company. We are Canada's largest provider of wireless voice and data communications services and one of Canada's leading providers of cable television, high-speed Internet and telephony services. Through Rogers Media we are engaged in radio and television broadcasting, televised shopping, magazines and trade publications, sports entertainment, and digital media. We are publicly traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: RCI.A and RCI.B) and on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: RCI).

SOURCE: Rogers Communications Inc.

For further information:

Allison Fitton, Rogers Communications
allison.fitton@rci.rogers.com
416-935-8860



























































IBM Helps ING DIRECT Canada Connect with Mobile, Social Customers

IBM Helps ING DIRECT Canada Connect with Mobile, Social Customers

New mobile innovations make consumer banking available any time, any place

ARMONK, NY and TORONTOMarch 20, 2013 /CNW/ - With today's digital consumers embracing mobile, social and cloud computing, ING DIRECT Canada is applying a Smarter Commerce approach to consumer banking with IBM's help in meeting the rising expectations of its 1.8 million digital customers.  IBM (NYSE: IBM) today announced that it is working with the online bank to deliver innovative financial services that improve ING DIRECT's customer experience including simplified account access across mobile devices and social media channels, voice recognition, and advanced security.

Based on IBM software and services, these innovations support ING DIRECT's Orange Snapshot initiative, designed to provide its clients greater control to manage their accounts within their increasingly mobile and social lifestyle.  Orange Snapshot gives mobile consumers a complete and simplified view of all their accounts, as well as bill payment and email money transfers, in two easy clicks. This allows consumers to sign on once from their mobile device, saving time and aggravation from multiple log-ins.

"There is a seismic shift in what is happening in financial services," said ING DIRECT Canada CIO Charaka Kithulegoda. "Mobile banking is changing not only how people bank, but also what they expect from their banks and, ultimately, whom they choose to bank with. ING DIRECT, with IBM's help, is committed to making banking simpler, engaging and more relevant by giving customers the easy tools they need to bank whenever, wherever and however they want."

Working with IBM, the bank's latest mobile innovation allows clients to easily and securely access their ING DIRECT account information from within Facebook's social networking site. Clients who opt-in to this app are able to view their account balances, history and pending transactions as well as receive account notifications --- real time messages automatically pushed to them within Facebook.  With security and privacy always top of mind, ING DIRECT plans to expand this application further to include transactions such as transfers, bill payments and email money transfers.

Furthermore, ING DIRECT allows clients to share their experiences through Facebook and Twitter to make saving money more intriguing.  In a recent survey, ING DIRECT earned that 52 per cent of consumers were able to forego non-essential purchases when they could better visualize the impact of their spending habits.

For instance, the bank's mobile Small Sacrifices feature helps guide clients through day-to-day decisions that save them money. Clients can choose to make small sacrifices such as passing on a cup of coffee and have the funds instead transferred to their savings account.  With Small Sacrifices, clients are transferring small amounts of money little by little, quickly and securely, showing how those sacrifices add up over time.

IBM's Smarter Commerce initiative is designed to help businesses better connect with the rising tide of digital consumers who prefer to buy through online, mobile and social channels.  It is estimated that there are more smartphones on the planet than humans. According to IDC, by 2016, more than 10 billion smartphones will be in use around the globe.  In Canada, more than half of smartphone users bank from their devices - and that number grows higher when looking at users between the ages 18-34.  

With IBM's MobileFirst initiative, the company is helping clients advance mobile capabilities with new social business, security and other technology solutions to simplify how consumers are able to use the power of their mobile devices.

ING DIRECT continues to work with IBM in seeking new ways to connect to mobile applications in order to advance sales, manage secure transactions, and provide new insights about clients.

The bank has begun experimenting with new voice recognition capabilities on their mobile apps that will allow clients to conduct simple banking transactions by speaking rather than typing or the application can read account information to the customer. ING DIRECT is also exploring the use of biometrics within their mobile apps for purposes such as client login to improve the client experience while maintaining the highest standards of security.  Internal pilots are already yielding positive outcomes.

"From online to mobile to social banking, ING DIRECT Canada has led the Canadian financial services industry in connecting with clients through new channels," said Kevin Custis, IBM's global leader for mobility services.  "IBM has become an essential partner in helping ING DIRECT build a flexible and scalable online and mobile infrastructure that enables the bank to support new devices and other digital channels while responding to changing customer demands."

Recently, Forrester Research, Inc. recognized IBM as a leader in enterprise mobility services, according to theFebruary 2013 report The Forrester Wave TM: Enterprise Mobility Services, Q1 2013 [1]. Based on an analysis of 13 global leaders' enterprise mobility capabilities and how they stack up, the report indicates that IBM "brings clients a world-class design agency combined with breadth and depth of enterprise mobility consulting both in terms of technology capabilities and global presence."

About ING DIRECT Canada

ING Bank of Canada, operating under the trade name of ING DIRECT, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Scotiabank. ING DIRECT is Canada's leadING DIRECT bank with over 1.8 million clients and close to $40 billion in total assets. ING DIRECT is a bright way forward in everyday banking for Canadians, offering value added, simple products such as high interest savings accounts, including TFSAs, GICs and RSPs with no fees or service charges, low rates on mortgages and a no-fee, daily chequing account that actually pays interest. Low cost, index based mutual funds are sold through ING DIRECT Funds Limited. ING DIRECT has been operating in Canada since 1997, and has paid more than $5 billion in interest to Clients. ING DIRECT is open for banking 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at ingdirect.ca, on mobile devices at m.ingdirect.ca or by calling 1-800 ING DIRECT (1-800-464-3473).

Get social with ING DIRECT: Facebook.com/SuperStarSaverTwitter.com/SuperStarSaver;YouTube.com/SuperStarSaver

Follow Peter Aceto: Twitter.com/CEO_INGDIRECTFacebook.com/savingsceo; Direct Talk blog at blog.ingdirect.ca

About IBM

More information on Smarter Commerce can be found at:  www.ibm.com/smarterplanet/us/en/smarter_commerce/overview/

For more information on IBM MobileFirst, visit:  www.ibm.com/mobilefirst

For more information on IBM services and solutions for the financial services industry, visit: www.ibm.com/banking

1"The Forrester Wave TM: Enterprise mobility Services," Q1 2013, February 2013. Copyright (c) 2013, Forrester Research, Inc.

SOURCE: IBM Canada Ltd.

For further information:

Leslie Plant
IBM Media Relations
416.526.5647














































































HP Delivers Business Continuity for Unified Communications


HP Delivers Business Continuity for Unified Communications

New Offerings Deliver Simple, Reliable Communications Across Applications and Geographies

ORLANDO, FL--(Marketwire - Mar 19, 2013) - HP (NYSE: HPQ) today announced integrated, easy-to-use and simple-to-manage solutions designed to improve communications among employees, customers and citizens.

Today's highly distributed workforce has caused organizations to adopt new communication tools like voice, video, instant messaging and shared desktop capabilities that deliver seamless, effective communication across multiple applications and geographies. The adoption of these technologies has highlighted the failure of siloed application infrastructures and legacy networks to cope with the demand of new tools.

Announced at Enterprise Connect, HP's new open standards-based multiservice routers (MSR) include HP MSR Survivable Branch Communications Module (SBM) -- the industry's first complete business continuity solution(1) -- and the new HP MSR Open Architecture Platform (OAP) with VMware vSphere Series. These solutions streamline and simplify communications through true interoperability with Microsoft® and cloud-based platforms, enabling organizations to improve productivity, reduce cost and complexity.

"The onslaught of varied communications tools, coupled with an increasingly distributed workforce, has created complex infrastructure challenges for organizations that legacy networks just can't handle," said Bethany Mayer, senior vice president and general manager, Networking, HP. "HP's solutions enable organizations to create a highly collaborative, productive environment with unified communications, delivering the best employee experience no matter what device they use or where they work."

Maintain productivity during a network outage
While communication is critical to employee productivity, the new capabilities of voice over a data network require the underlying network to deliver secure, reliable voice services across the organization.

The HP MSR SBM comes with Microsoft Lync Survivable Branch software preinstalled into the hardware to create a single, highly modular system for real-time, rich communication, even when a wide area network (WAN) or corporate network is unavailable. It also allows for rapid integration with a customer's network and Microsoft Lync solution, greatly simplifying deployments. The SBM capabilities integrated into the HP MSR30 and MSR50 Series routers deliver high-performance converged routing, switching, wireless, security and voice services for branch networks. Plus, the solution combines storage, Gigabit Ethernet and USB network interfaces to reduce the network's physical footprint, power consumption, cabling and overall costs.

HP is in the process of submitting the HP MSR Series voice gateways for qualification with the Microsoft Lync Unified Communications Open Interoperability Program (UCOIP) to ensure that the routers can make and send calls over the public switch telephone network (PSTN). HP also is a Microsoft Lync Certified Support Partner for Microsoft Lync, enabling customers to have a single source of support for IT environments running Microsoft Lync.

Reduce network complexity with smaller footprint 
The new HP MSR OAP with VMware vSphere Series integrates third-party applications on HP MSR30 and MSR50 Series routers. This allows virtualized services to be delivered on one platform, eliminating the need to purchase additional hardware.

The first HP AllianceONE application supported on HP MSR OAP is the Riverbed® WAN optimization solution, which typically increases application performance by five to 50 times and, in some cases, by up to 100 times,(2) providing fast and reliable access to cloud services. To simplify and speed the deployment of the solution, HP Technology Services offers design, deploy and support services.

Greater productivity through unified communications and mobility consulting
To deliver the universal access enterprises require, HP Technology Services is offering the HP Mobility Transformation Experience Workshop. This interactive, full-day workshop is led by HP consultants and helps align key IT and business stakeholders to build a unified communications and mobility vision that uses HP's deep experience to solve customer problems.

Topics include redefining productivity, enabling unified communications and delivering connectivity. The workshop helps customers identify immediate priorities that can be implemented quickly while also recommending next steps. This starts customers on their journey to enabling an improved user experience, while streamlining communications and improving employee productivity.

Communication without the infrastructure costs
The new HP Enterprise Cloud Services - Unified Communications is a unified communications-as-a-service (UCaaS) offering that combines HP Enterprise Services' deep experience in deploying Microsoft Lync in a high-availability architecture with centralized 24/7 monitoring of communication quality and performance.

HP is further enabling users to quickly deploy real-time unified communications with newly enhanced HP 4120 IP phones that provide easy access to Microsoft Lync and cloud-based offerings, all hosted by HP private cloud for connectivity anytime, anywhere -- without the need for on-premises infrastructure. Users are able to log in to their Microsoft Lync user account directly through the phone by entering their PIN, granting access to voice mail, personal contacts and any customized user profile settings.

HP at Enterprise Connect 2013
HP is demonstrating its new UCC solutions and services at Enterprise Connect Orlando, Fla., March 18-21, at the Gaylord Palms Convention Center in booth 1019.

Availability

  • HP MSR Survivable Branch Communications Module is expected to be available this summer.
  • HP MSR Series voice gateways qualified with the Microsoft Lync Unified Communications Open Interoperability Program are expected to be available this summer.
  • The HP MSR OAP with VMware vSphere Series is available now in module form factors (multifunction interface module and flexible Interface card) for seamless deployment on the HP MSR30 or MSR50 Series routers.
  • The HP Mobility Transformation Experience Workshop is available now worldwide.
  • HP Enterprise Cloud Services - Unified Communications is available now in key countries, including the United States, with UCaaS demand.
  • HP 4120 IP phones are expected to be available this summer. 

HP's premier America's client event, HP Discover, takes place June 11-13 in Las Vegas.

About HP
HP creates new possibilities for technology to have a meaningful impact on people, businesses, governments and society. The world's largest technology company, HP brings together a portfolio that spans printingpersonal computingsoftwareservices and IT infrastructure to solve customer problems. More information about HP is available at http://www.hp.com.

(1) Based on HP internal research. 
(2) Based on Riverbed internal research.

Microsoft is a U.S. registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation.

This news release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. If such risks or uncertainties materialize or such assumptions prove incorrect, the results of HP and its consolidated subsidiaries could differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and assumptions. All statements other than statements of historical fact are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements, including but not limited to statements of the plans, strategies and objectives of management for future operations; any statements concerning expected development, performance, market share or competitive performance relating to products and services; any statements regarding anticipated operational and financial results; any statements of expectation or belief; and any statements of assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. Risks, uncertainties and assumptions include macroeconomic and geopolitical trends and events; the competitive pressures faced by HP's businesses; the development and transition of new products and services and the enhancement of existing products and services to meet customer needs and respond to emerging technological trends; the execution and performance of contracts by HP and its customers, suppliers and partners; the protection of HP's intellectual property assets, including intellectual property licensed from third parties; integration and other risks associated with business combination and investment transactions; the hiring and retention of key employees; assumptions related to pension and other post-retirement costs and retirement programs; the execution, timing and results of restructuring plans, including estimates and assumptions related to the cost and the anticipated benefits of implementing those plans; the resolution of pending investigations, claims and disputes; and other risks that are described in HP's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including HP's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2012. HP assumes no obligation and does not intend to update these forward-looking statements.

© 2013 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. The information contained herein is subject to change without notice. The only warranties for HP products and services are set forth in the express warranty statements accompanying such products and services. Nothing herein should be construed as constituting an additional warranty. HP shall not be liable for technical or editorial errors or omissions contained herein.

































































Survey Highlights the Need for Solutions as Mobile Devices Take Over the Classroom

Survey Highlights the Need for Solutions as Mobile Devices Take Over the Classroom

 Mar. 19, 2013

Spotlighting the mobile application challenges faced by K-12 schools and universities, Partnerpedia today released the results of its Education Mobility Survey. The Partnerpedia survey confirms the need for the right tools to distribute and manage mobile apps in the learning environment, mirroring the challenges faced by many enterprises.

“Technology has long held the promise of transforming the classroom in the same way that it has catalyzed innovation in business,” said Mark Sochan, CEO of Partnerpedia. “This survey validates the need for seamless integration, from procurement to distribution and management of mobile apps across multiple platforms and devices prevalent in the classroom.”

Initiatives to leverage mobile devices for learning are nothing new, but the Education Mobility Survey found that the classroom of today requires the support of multiple devices and platforms. Support for tablets is needed by 78 percent of those surveyed; for laptops, by 76 percent; for smartphones, by 52 percent, and for other devices including e-readers, by 8 percent. With the popularity of the iPad, it was no surprise that more than 75 percent need support for iOS systems. Sixty percent require support for the Windows operating system, and 30 percent need support for the Android platform.

Like many enterprise IT managers, educators are leveraging a mix of policies to expand the reach of mobility in the classroom to more effectively engage students. The large majority surveyed, 73 percent, plan to issue school-owned mobile devices, with 59 percent also adopting a policy of “BYOD” (bring your own device).

Additional findings from Partnerpedia’s Education Mobility Survey:

  • Overwhelmingly, 68 percent of the schools plan to purchase mobile apps as their app-procurement strategy. Thirty percent plan to both build and buy, and less than 2 percent plan to exclusively build apps.
  • Over the next 12 months, nearly half of those surveyed (46 percent) will acquire up to 10 apps. More than 53 percent will acquire more than 10.
  • Schools are also planning rapid adoption of mobile-app management solutions. Fifty-eight percent plan to implement a solution in the next 12 months.

The findings of the Education Mobility Survey included data collected from attendees of FETC 2013, the leading education technology conference, which took place Jan. 28-31. Respondents included IT support, electronic resource managers and technology educators.

Partnerpedia recently announced it has tailored its flagship enterprise app store solution, Enterprise AppZone, to help the education market deal with app management, license auditing, shared device management and BYOD.

The Enterprise AppZone

Enterprise AppZone offers both a private enterprise app store for the distribution and management of mobile and enterprise apps and a curated store for the purchasing and procurement of business apps. Enterprise AppZone is available as a SaaS offering at www.enterpriseappzone.com, as well as under private label.

About Partnerpedia

Partnerpedia is a leading provider of enterprise app store and marketplace solutions. Leveraging the power of mobility and cloud computing, Partnerpedia helps companies maximize business value through monetization, mobility and IT management solutions. For more information about Partnerpedia, visit www.partnerpedia.com.

Acer Brings C7 Chromebook to Canada: Secure, Speedy and Simple


Acer Brings C7 Chromebook to Canada: Secure, Speedy and Simple

MISSISSAUGA, ON--(Marketwire - Mar 19, 2013) -

Editor's Summary:

  • Available for pre-order now in Canada; available in retail stores and Google Play in April
  • Affordably priced starting at only $249.99 CAD
  • Provides hassle-free computing with automatic security and software updates
  • Great for use as an additional home computer
  • Includes built-in apps for productivity, collaboration and entertainment

Acer America today announced that its Acer C7 Chromebook line is available for pre-order now in Canada. This next-generation mobile computer runs Google's Chrome operating system and is priced starting at a low $249.99.

The new Acer C7 Chromebook is the ideal additional laptop for families and students, as well as commercial customers such as school districts and business people that need a fast, easy and secure way to get online to do their computing in the cloud, such as using Gmail, creating and sharing Google Docs, keeping up on social networks, shopping, and paying bills.

"The Acer C7 Chromebook is skyrocketing in popularity as consumers, families, and students are spending more time online and want the security and ease-of-use they provide," said Max Hu, product manager, Acer Canada. "The Acer C7 Chromebook line delivers the advanced capabilities that consumers and businesses need. Its affordable price makes it great for families on a budget, while businesses and schools will also appreciate the reduced total cost of ownership thanks to its manageability and security features."

Speedy, Secure Online Access
Customers can get online quickly with the Acer C7; it boots up in less than 18 seconds and resumes nearly instantly from sleep mode. The overall Chromebook experience is easy-to-use and navigate. Users can access their favorite apps with a single click through the app launcher and find new favorites from the tens of thousands of Chrome apps and games featured in the Chrome Web Store.

Customers will appreciate that the Acer C7 Chromebook has security features built in to defend against malware and viruses. Plus, since the Acer C7 is automatically updated, customers can be assured that they have the latest software version and protection against online threats. It comes with integrated 802.11b/g/n WiFi, so customers can quickly connect to hotspots and wireless networks.

Safe Storage, Convenient access to Content
The Acer C7 Chromebook is easy to maintain and share with others around the home, school or work. Family members and students can have separate accounts and simply log in to get access to their email, documents, website bookmarks and other projects. Once on the Acer C7, it's easy to share and collaborate on documents and projects and share work and personal calendars. Chromebooks come with Google Drive, an online file storage service, so files, documents, photos and more are stored safely in the cloud even if the Acer C7 is lost, damaged or stolen. Customers can also access files offline, or create and edit Google Documents and use Gmail offline as well.

Sleek Design for the Mobile Lifestyle 
The Acer C7 is portable and sleek for today's on-the-go mobile lifestyle. It measures a mere one inch thin, so it can be easily taken anywhere as it fits into a backpack, briefcase or purse. The slim size still houses a full-sized keyboard, so customers can comfortably create and edit documents and spreadsheets.

The Acer C7's integrated HD 1.3MP webcam has an LED indicator and microphone, making it great for video conferencing, as well as capturing video and photos for sharing online. Websites, documents, photos and high-definition video look crisp and clear on the C7's 11.6-inch HD Widescreen CineCrystal™ LED-backlit LCD.

Acer Chromebook Built for Performance
The Acer C7 connects to popular consumer electronics devices such as camcorders, digital cameras and smart phones via its three USB 2.0 ports. It also has an HDMI port for pushing video and content to external displays and HDTVs. In addition, its card reader supports SD card and MMC, so customers can play their music and video directly from the card, or upload photos, video and music to their favorite sites.

Configurations, Pricing, Availability and Warranty
New offerings in the Acer C7 Chromebook line include models that will be sold via retail as well as to commercial customers through Acer's authorized reseller channel.

The Acer C710-2490 Chromebook is priced at $249.99 CAD and is available for pre-order now and will be available in retail stores and on Google Play store in April. This model has a 4-cell battery for 4-hour battery life. (1)

The new Acer C710-2478 Chromebook will be available to commercial customers from authorized Acer resellers for $279 CAD. The Acer C710-2478 comes with a 6-cell battery and provides up to 6-hours of battery life. (1)

Both new Acer C7 models provide the performance specifications to speed through the web, access files, enjoy video and more; they are powered by an Intel Celeron 847 processor (2MB L3 cache, 1.10GHz, DDR3 1333 MHz) and 2GB of DDR3 memory. These new models each have an ample 320GB HDD for storing files.(2)

The new Acer C7 Chromebooks come with a standard one-year parts and labor warranty, which can be extended to three years with the Acer Advantage service. All Acer Chromebooks are backed by toll-free service and support.(3)

About Acer

Established in 1976, Acer is an information and communication technology company dedicated to the research, design, marketing, sale and support of innovative products that enhance people's lives. Acer's green supply chain delivers environmentally friendly PCs, displays, projectors, servers, tablets and smartphones -- tools our customers need to explore beyond limits and experience more. Ranked No. 3 for notebooks globally,(4) Acer employs 8,000 people, and 2011 revenues reached US$15.7 billion. Please visit www.acer.com for more information.

© 2013 Acer America Corp. All rights reserved. Acer and the Acer logo are registered trademarks of Acer Inc. Other trademarks, registered trademarks, and/or service marks, indicated or otherwise, are the property of their respective owners. All offers subject to change without notice or obligation and may not be available through all sales channels. Prices listed are manufacturer suggested retail prices and may vary by location. Applicable sales tax extra.

1.) Actual battery life varies depending on product specifications, computer settings and applications or features launched. All batteries' maximum capacity diminishes with time and use.

2.) Accessible capacity varies: (MB = 1 million bytes; GB = 1 billion bytes).

3.) Limited warranties and service agreements apply. May not be available in all locations. Availability varies. Other conditions apply. For a copy, write to Acer Customer Service, P.O. Box 6137, Temple, TX 76503.

4.) IDC 2012

Contact Information

Canada's Largest Blogging Conference is on the search for Canadian Bloggers

Canada's Largest Blogging Conference is on the search for Canadian Bloggers

Connecting Bloggers and Brands Conference kicks off its cross-Canada tour in Vancouver this April

VANCOUVERMarch 19, 2013 /CNW/ - The first Canadian Connecting Bloggers and Brands Conference will be held in Vancouver on April 30, bringing bloggers and national brands together face-to-face so they can learn about how they can work together. It is the first of a six-city, cross-Canada 2013 tour.

This year, the free conferences will focus on introducing the business of blogging to those new to the digital media world. Active bloggers will get to meet with some of the largest Canadian brands they might write about, while those brands will get to hear about what interests bloggers active in their industries. Attendees will get valuable time to build relationships with representatives from the conference's title sponsor, TELUS, as well as other sponsors including Canada Beef Inc, and Chicken Farmers of Canada.

"The digital media world has truly exploded in the last few years, with more and more consumers consulting their most trusted blogs before making a purchasing decision," said Andrea Goertz, TELUS senior-vice-president of Strategic Initiatives and Communications. "As a parent, I see great value in an online community where moms and dads share experiences about the products and services that make their lives easier. At TELUS, we recognize how powerful word-of-mouth is, and strive to be a brand that bloggers would recommend to their friends, family and online communities. We are thrilled to be part of a conference that brings this community together."

The conference will connect national and local brands to bloggers who specialize in lifestyle, travel, technology, fashion, family, food and more. Conference organizers recognize that a hyper-local approach will offer the most meaningful relationship building opportunities, and are happy to  provide a forum for brands to share their products, services and ideas with some of the country's most influential Bloggers.

"Our goal was to give all bloggers who wanted to work with brands the opportunity to attend the conference for free." said Rania Walker, Conference Organizer

In addition to the Vancouver conference, the Conferences will be held in Calgary, Regina, WinnipegToronto andHalifax.

For more information about this conference and registration please visit:

http://connectingbloggersandbrands.com/blogger-form/

SOURCE: Connecting Bloggers and Brands

For further information:

Media Inquiries:

Rania Walker
Connecting Bloggers and Brands
(647) 727-0964
rania@connectingbloggersandbrands.com

Liz Sauvé
TELUS Media Relations
(604) 719-6715
liz.sauve@telus.com