The document discusses issues surrounding the digital television transition that were raised at an FCC meeting. Commissioners expressed concerns about potential reception problems as analog and digital coverage areas diverge for some viewers. While the early February analog shutoffs went smoothly overall, some viewers may lose stations and need to adjust antennas or take other steps. The FCC and NTIA will focus outreach efforts on the estimated 5 million households that remain unprepared.
The FCC's broadband speed test found improvements in actual speeds compared to advertised speeds across broadband providers. Actual download speeds during peak usage periods were near 100% of what was advertised, up from 87% in the previous year's test. However, a study by the New America Foundation found that US broadband prices are higher than other countries for slower speeds, and US "triple play" bundles are more expensive but provide slower speeds than bundles in European and Asian cities. While the FCC sees closing gaps and US leadership in mobile broadband, some groups question if US policies adequately address lack of competition in the broadband market.
The latest information on the Regional Telco Magazine, published by WordSouth — A Content Marketing Company. This collaborative publishing effort provides rural and independent telecommunications providers and opportunity to communicate local, national and industry news to their subscribers, empowering them to educate, inform and engage their key stakeholders.
Dish Network launched its new satellite-based broadband internet service, dishNET, at Cowboy Maloney's Electric City store in Jackson, Mississippi. dishNET will provide internet speeds of up to 10Mbps download and 2Mbps upload to rural US homes that currently have slow or no broadband access. The service starts at $39.99 per month when bundled with Dish TV packages. Dish aims to close the "digital divide" and bring high-speed internet to the millions of rural US residents who are currently underserved or unserved. Cowboy Maloney's was selected for the launch event due to its role in previous launches of DirecTV and Sirius Satellite Radio.
Kit Carson Electric Cooperative received UTC's prestigious APEX Award for deploying a broadband network that will enable smart grid and affordable internet throughout its service area in New Mexico. The project began in 2011 and has connected over 110 businesses and institutions to fiber, with plans to cover 5,000 square miles by the end of the year. The network will improve services like 911 and enable economic development in the region.
The document discusses several mocking and stubbing libraries for iOS and macOS testing: OCMock, OCMockito, Nocilla, OHHTTPStubs, and Sandbox. It provides an overview of their features for creating mock objects, stubbing method responses, verifying interactions, and stubbing network requests.
Hundreds of consumers turned out for PS4 launch events in New York on Thursday night and Friday morning. GameStop stores had limited quantities of PS4s available for customers who did not pre-order the console, with some stores only having around 100 units. Popular launch games for the PS4 included Killzone: Shadow Fall, Call of Duty: Ghosts, Madden NFL 25, and NBA 2K14. Customer demand was similar for the PS4 and upcoming Xbox One launch, but PS4s tended to have a slight edge in sales at some GameStop locations.
Wicked Pictures president Steve Orenstein says the company has no plans to produce 3D porn titles as 3D has not gained significant traction in the porn market. He notes several challenges with the 3D format for porn, including whether viewers want to wear glasses for porn viewing and added production costs. Orenstein also says Blu-ray never took off for the porn industry, with Wicked releasing only about 15 Blu-ray titles, and that DVD continues to account for around 50% of Wicked's revenue despite an overall decline in the DVD market.
Human: Thank you for the summary. Can you summarize the following document in 3 sentences or less while maintaining the key details?
[DOCUMENT]:
Bl
Voxx International's first aftermarket mobile DTV tuner for automotive use will be delayed from its planned May launch until at least September due to chipset delays from supplier Mobile Content Venture. The tuner may not launch until December. Voxx CEO Patrick Lavelle remains optimistic that mobile DTV tuners could generate $30 million annually for Voxx once available. Voxx is also incorporating Roku's streaming technology into an over-the-air antenna launching in the third or fourth quarter, allowing both live broadcast TV and access to hundreds of streaming channels.
The FCC's broadband speed test found improvements in actual speeds compared to advertised speeds across broadband providers. Actual download speeds during peak usage periods were near 100% of what was advertised, up from 87% in the previous year's test. However, a study by the New America Foundation found that US broadband prices are higher than other countries for slower speeds, and US "triple play" bundles are more expensive but provide slower speeds than bundles in European and Asian cities. While the FCC sees closing gaps and US leadership in mobile broadband, some groups question if US policies adequately address lack of competition in the broadband market.
The latest information on the Regional Telco Magazine, published by WordSouth — A Content Marketing Company. This collaborative publishing effort provides rural and independent telecommunications providers and opportunity to communicate local, national and industry news to their subscribers, empowering them to educate, inform and engage their key stakeholders.
Dish Network launched its new satellite-based broadband internet service, dishNET, at Cowboy Maloney's Electric City store in Jackson, Mississippi. dishNET will provide internet speeds of up to 10Mbps download and 2Mbps upload to rural US homes that currently have slow or no broadband access. The service starts at $39.99 per month when bundled with Dish TV packages. Dish aims to close the "digital divide" and bring high-speed internet to the millions of rural US residents who are currently underserved or unserved. Cowboy Maloney's was selected for the launch event due to its role in previous launches of DirecTV and Sirius Satellite Radio.
Kit Carson Electric Cooperative received UTC's prestigious APEX Award for deploying a broadband network that will enable smart grid and affordable internet throughout its service area in New Mexico. The project began in 2011 and has connected over 110 businesses and institutions to fiber, with plans to cover 5,000 square miles by the end of the year. The network will improve services like 911 and enable economic development in the region.
The document discusses several mocking and stubbing libraries for iOS and macOS testing: OCMock, OCMockito, Nocilla, OHHTTPStubs, and Sandbox. It provides an overview of their features for creating mock objects, stubbing method responses, verifying interactions, and stubbing network requests.
Hundreds of consumers turned out for PS4 launch events in New York on Thursday night and Friday morning. GameStop stores had limited quantities of PS4s available for customers who did not pre-order the console, with some stores only having around 100 units. Popular launch games for the PS4 included Killzone: Shadow Fall, Call of Duty: Ghosts, Madden NFL 25, and NBA 2K14. Customer demand was similar for the PS4 and upcoming Xbox One launch, but PS4s tended to have a slight edge in sales at some GameStop locations.
Wicked Pictures president Steve Orenstein says the company has no plans to produce 3D porn titles as 3D has not gained significant traction in the porn market. He notes several challenges with the 3D format for porn, including whether viewers want to wear glasses for porn viewing and added production costs. Orenstein also says Blu-ray never took off for the porn industry, with Wicked releasing only about 15 Blu-ray titles, and that DVD continues to account for around 50% of Wicked's revenue despite an overall decline in the DVD market.
Human: Thank you for the summary. Can you summarize the following document in 3 sentences or less while maintaining the key details?
[DOCUMENT]:
Bl
Voxx International's first aftermarket mobile DTV tuner for automotive use will be delayed from its planned May launch until at least September due to chipset delays from supplier Mobile Content Venture. The tuner may not launch until December. Voxx CEO Patrick Lavelle remains optimistic that mobile DTV tuners could generate $30 million annually for Voxx once available. Voxx is also incorporating Roku's streaming technology into an over-the-air antenna launching in the third or fourth quarter, allowing both live broadcast TV and access to hundreds of streaming channels.
Amazon launches new streaming device called Fire TV for $99 that supports streaming video and games. While initial analyst reaction was mixed, several game publishers expressed strong support and said they will provide game titles compatible with Fire TV. Amazon is also offering a dedicated game controller for $39.99 to enhance the gaming experience on Fire TV.
This document contains an introduction from Ashok Chaudary, an electronics and communications engineering student with enrollment number 140210111013. It also contains a contributor introduction from Dhaval Mali, who is currently studying for his B.E. Dhaval discusses his mission at work to give his best efforts and help his company achieve its goals with loyalty and honesty. His short term goals include strengthening existing social media portfolios while his long term vision is to expand clients and platforms. Currently, he is on vacation taking useful courses to upgrade himself. Dhaval finds job satisfaction in constantly challenging himself by exceeding benchmarks and taking on more difficult tasks. He emphasizes qualities like taking responsibility, listening, taking initiative, and exceeding expectations to
Vic Pacor is leaving his role as CEO of D&M Holdings after only two months in the position. Pacor's decision to leave was his own and he will be pursuing other entrepreneurial opportunities. Yvonne Hao, an executive from Bain Capital which acquired D&M last year, will replace Pacor as CEO. Pioneer is exiting the plasma TV business and will focus more on audio products, relying more heavily on independent dealers and specialty retailers for sales. Pioneer halted plasma TV production this month and will sell through remaining inventory over the next 6-7 months.
ESPN executive Chuck Pagano says that videogames will be a major driver of 3D TV adoption, as gamers buy 3D TVs to use with game consoles like the PS3. He and Anthony Bailey believe that the need to wear 3D glasses will not deter consumers from buying 3D TVs. DirecTV plans to launch three dedicated 3D channels in June, including one for live sports and concerts, one for movies and documentaries, and one for video-on-demand content like the 2010 MLB All-Star Game in 3D.
The document contains information about Christelle Shyradhel T. Dela Vega's class schedule and portfolio assignments for various subjects like Filipino, Science, Math, English, and TLE at Arellano University Plaridel Campus in Mandaluyong City. It lists the time for each class from 10:15-11:15am and identifies the teachers for each subject.
The document contains information about portfolios and subjects for Christelle Shyradhel T. Dela Vega's classes at Piaget in Arellano University, Plaridel Campus, Mandaluyong City, including her portfolios for Filipino 8, research, and notebooks as well as her classes in Science 8, TLE 8, Math 8, English 8, and portfolios for various subjects and her teachers for Mathematics, Science, English, AP, TLE, and MAPEH.
The FTC has accused DirecTV of deceptive advertising practices related to its discounted pricing promotions. The FTC claims DirecTV failed to sufficiently disclose that the discounted prices required a two-year contract, prices increased significantly in the second year, and that consumers would be automatically billed for premium channels after a free trial period. The FTC is seeking a settlement from DirecTV of many millions of dollars in refunds to consumers. DirecTV denies the allegations and says it will vigorously defend itself. The FTC decision was unanimous and based on thousands of consumer complaints about DirecTV's advertising and pricing practices.
The FCC's broadband speed test found improvements in actual speeds compared to advertised speeds across broadband providers. Actual download speeds during peak usage periods were near 100% of what was advertised, up from 87% in the previous year's test. However, a study by the New America Foundation found that US broadband prices are higher than other countries for slower speeds, and US "triple play" bundles are more expensive but slower than bundles in European and Asian cities. While the FCC sees closing gaps and US leadership in mobile broadband, some groups question if US policies adequately address lack of competition in the broadband market.
Hank L. Torbert is the Managing Partner and Founder of Avondale Ventures, LLC. He has extensive experience in private equity, advisory, and investment banking as well as in financing, developing, and operating small and middle market businesses in the media and telecommunications, technology, and transportation sectors.
The document summarizes an incident where pre-recorded phone calls from President Reagan intended for targeted Republican voters were mistakenly made to patients in an intensive care ward, annoying nurses and visitors for nearly four hours. It also discusses how the FBI seized computer equipment from 23 North County teenagers over a year ago for allegedly illegally accessing a Chase Manhattan Bank database, but no charges have been filed. The teenagers and parents are upset about the FBI conduct during the raids and year-long investigation, feeling their accusations were unjustified since it was unclear the database was restricted.
A comparison of pstn and ip traffic from 1997 to 2015Shawn DuBravac
The document is a letter from Lampert, O'Connor & Johnston, P.C. to the FCC regarding Google's meeting with FCC staff to discuss proposed reforms to intercarrier compensation and universal service programs. The letter summarizes that during the meeting, Google reiterated its support for the FCC's focus on promoting IP broadband networks and ensuring support for their deployment. Google argued that ICC and universal service reforms should encourage efficient IP infrastructure and not be based around legacy TDM voice networks, as IP networks are more efficient and driving deployment of new services that benefit consumers.
Ravi Gopal is starting an internship analyzing the wireless company Sprint PCS. In late 2001, Sprint PCS was poised to capitalize on growth in wireless data services using its nationwide all-digital CDMA network. However, competitors were gaining advantages and the future of wireless data adoption was uncertain. As Ravi researched the industry, he had many questions about Sprint PCS' strategy and prospects for success against disruptive technologies and changing regulations.
The document discusses several possible futures for communications technology and broadband infrastructure. It describes a future with ubiquitous wireless connectivity and high-speed fiber networks. It also discusses the convergence of devices, with single intelligent devices that handle multiple functions. Regulatory approaches and the role of government oversight are debated, as well as different business models like "net neutrality" or prioritized traffic.
I canada fcc chairman remarks on open access and gigafying america apr 14 15Barry Gander
The document is the remarks of FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler at the Broadband Communities Summit in Austin, Texas on April 14, 2015. In the summary:
Wheeler discusses the importance of fast, fair, and open broadband networks and the FCC's efforts to promote competition. He highlights examples where community broadband networks have expanded access and benefited local economies when private providers did not, such as in Chattanooga, TN and Wilson, NC. Wheeler argues that restricting community broadband limits consumer choice and that the FCC acted to preempt laws in two states that blocked municipal broadband expansion.
This document summarizes an article about how the largest internet content providers like Netflix, Google, and Apple may bypass internet service providers (ISPs) like Comcast and Verizon by building their own broadband infrastructure in response to the lack of net neutrality regulations. The FCC's net neutrality rules were struck down by a court, allowing ISPs to potentially charge content companies for priority access. Netflix then saw slower streaming speeds on Comcast and Verizon and made a deal with Comcast to pay an unknown fee to maintain streaming quality. This sets a precedent where content companies must pay ISPs or risk being "throttled." However, content companies may disintermediate ISPs entirely by building their own broadband networks, widening the
Shared Services Canada's $398 million contract with Bell Canada to consolidate the federal government's 63 email systems into a single system has faced significant delays, disappointing SSC. The project was supposed to start transitioning departments in March 2014 but has yet to begin. SSC blames Bell for missing deadlines but will not provide specifics. The delay raises concerns about potential lack of transparency and outsourcing expertise currently existing within the public service. There are also questions about how the private sector will handle sensitive government information and whether the needs of Canadians are being prioritized over corporate profits.
Government Policies - Television Broadcasting - Canada- September 2017paul young cpa, cga
This document analyzes government policy and the broadcasting industry in Canada. It provides background on Paul Young and his experience. The presentation discusses the broadcasting industry performance from 2011-2015, film tax credits in Canada, and Android boxes. The broadcasting industry generated 20% of its revenue from pre-tax operating income. While CBC receives over $1 billion in funding, it operates at a loss. The document also discusses tax credits available to the film industry in Canada and issues around "Netflix taxes". It analyzes the Android box market size and growth, as well as factors driving demand for these boxes like rising cable costs.
The document summarizes several FCC actions and industry developments:
1) The FCC will seek comment on proposals regarding voluntary incentive auctions of broadcast spectrum, mobile spectrum holdings, and updating satellite and earth station rules.
2) The FTC released a business guide for mobile application developers about marketing and privacy principles.
3) The FCC will forbear from certain foreign ownership restrictions for common carrier licenses under certain conditions.
4) An appeals court upheld an injunction against a company streaming TV without broadcaster consent.
Status of telecom_competition_report_2012_387881_7Translinked
The document is the Michigan Public Service Commission's annual report on telecommunications competition in the state. Some key points:
- Total wirelines decreased by 283,000 from 2010 to 3.34 million in 2011. Competitive providers' market share increased to 30.7% of total lines.
- Alternative technologies like wireless and VoIP continued to grow substantially, with over 8.86 million wireless subscribers and 1.2 million VoIP lines in the state.
- Broadband availability and adoption also increased, with 4.66 million high-speed internet connections reported, especially through mobile wireless technologies.
- While wirelines decreased, facilities-based competition from competitive providers increased and continues to be more
What is going on with Canada Arts and Entertainment Sectorpaul young cpa, cga
The document discusses several topics related to heritage, culture and broadcasting policies in Canada. It provides an overview of CBC's funding and operating losses, trends in the film tax credit program, and issues with the regulation of digital media and streaming services. The CRTC is seen as needing modernization to properly account for streaming applications and online content. There is also discussion around supporting small media companies and whether media firms should receive government handouts if they cannot be self-sufficient.
Amazon launches new streaming device called Fire TV for $99 that supports streaming video and games. While initial analyst reaction was mixed, several game publishers expressed strong support and said they will provide game titles compatible with Fire TV. Amazon is also offering a dedicated game controller for $39.99 to enhance the gaming experience on Fire TV.
This document contains an introduction from Ashok Chaudary, an electronics and communications engineering student with enrollment number 140210111013. It also contains a contributor introduction from Dhaval Mali, who is currently studying for his B.E. Dhaval discusses his mission at work to give his best efforts and help his company achieve its goals with loyalty and honesty. His short term goals include strengthening existing social media portfolios while his long term vision is to expand clients and platforms. Currently, he is on vacation taking useful courses to upgrade himself. Dhaval finds job satisfaction in constantly challenging himself by exceeding benchmarks and taking on more difficult tasks. He emphasizes qualities like taking responsibility, listening, taking initiative, and exceeding expectations to
Vic Pacor is leaving his role as CEO of D&M Holdings after only two months in the position. Pacor's decision to leave was his own and he will be pursuing other entrepreneurial opportunities. Yvonne Hao, an executive from Bain Capital which acquired D&M last year, will replace Pacor as CEO. Pioneer is exiting the plasma TV business and will focus more on audio products, relying more heavily on independent dealers and specialty retailers for sales. Pioneer halted plasma TV production this month and will sell through remaining inventory over the next 6-7 months.
ESPN executive Chuck Pagano says that videogames will be a major driver of 3D TV adoption, as gamers buy 3D TVs to use with game consoles like the PS3. He and Anthony Bailey believe that the need to wear 3D glasses will not deter consumers from buying 3D TVs. DirecTV plans to launch three dedicated 3D channels in June, including one for live sports and concerts, one for movies and documentaries, and one for video-on-demand content like the 2010 MLB All-Star Game in 3D.
The document contains information about Christelle Shyradhel T. Dela Vega's class schedule and portfolio assignments for various subjects like Filipino, Science, Math, English, and TLE at Arellano University Plaridel Campus in Mandaluyong City. It lists the time for each class from 10:15-11:15am and identifies the teachers for each subject.
The document contains information about portfolios and subjects for Christelle Shyradhel T. Dela Vega's classes at Piaget in Arellano University, Plaridel Campus, Mandaluyong City, including her portfolios for Filipino 8, research, and notebooks as well as her classes in Science 8, TLE 8, Math 8, English 8, and portfolios for various subjects and her teachers for Mathematics, Science, English, AP, TLE, and MAPEH.
The FTC has accused DirecTV of deceptive advertising practices related to its discounted pricing promotions. The FTC claims DirecTV failed to sufficiently disclose that the discounted prices required a two-year contract, prices increased significantly in the second year, and that consumers would be automatically billed for premium channels after a free trial period. The FTC is seeking a settlement from DirecTV of many millions of dollars in refunds to consumers. DirecTV denies the allegations and says it will vigorously defend itself. The FTC decision was unanimous and based on thousands of consumer complaints about DirecTV's advertising and pricing practices.
The FCC's broadband speed test found improvements in actual speeds compared to advertised speeds across broadband providers. Actual download speeds during peak usage periods were near 100% of what was advertised, up from 87% in the previous year's test. However, a study by the New America Foundation found that US broadband prices are higher than other countries for slower speeds, and US "triple play" bundles are more expensive but slower than bundles in European and Asian cities. While the FCC sees closing gaps and US leadership in mobile broadband, some groups question if US policies adequately address lack of competition in the broadband market.
Hank L. Torbert is the Managing Partner and Founder of Avondale Ventures, LLC. He has extensive experience in private equity, advisory, and investment banking as well as in financing, developing, and operating small and middle market businesses in the media and telecommunications, technology, and transportation sectors.
The document summarizes an incident where pre-recorded phone calls from President Reagan intended for targeted Republican voters were mistakenly made to patients in an intensive care ward, annoying nurses and visitors for nearly four hours. It also discusses how the FBI seized computer equipment from 23 North County teenagers over a year ago for allegedly illegally accessing a Chase Manhattan Bank database, but no charges have been filed. The teenagers and parents are upset about the FBI conduct during the raids and year-long investigation, feeling their accusations were unjustified since it was unclear the database was restricted.
A comparison of pstn and ip traffic from 1997 to 2015Shawn DuBravac
The document is a letter from Lampert, O'Connor & Johnston, P.C. to the FCC regarding Google's meeting with FCC staff to discuss proposed reforms to intercarrier compensation and universal service programs. The letter summarizes that during the meeting, Google reiterated its support for the FCC's focus on promoting IP broadband networks and ensuring support for their deployment. Google argued that ICC and universal service reforms should encourage efficient IP infrastructure and not be based around legacy TDM voice networks, as IP networks are more efficient and driving deployment of new services that benefit consumers.
Ravi Gopal is starting an internship analyzing the wireless company Sprint PCS. In late 2001, Sprint PCS was poised to capitalize on growth in wireless data services using its nationwide all-digital CDMA network. However, competitors were gaining advantages and the future of wireless data adoption was uncertain. As Ravi researched the industry, he had many questions about Sprint PCS' strategy and prospects for success against disruptive technologies and changing regulations.
The document discusses several possible futures for communications technology and broadband infrastructure. It describes a future with ubiquitous wireless connectivity and high-speed fiber networks. It also discusses the convergence of devices, with single intelligent devices that handle multiple functions. Regulatory approaches and the role of government oversight are debated, as well as different business models like "net neutrality" or prioritized traffic.
I canada fcc chairman remarks on open access and gigafying america apr 14 15Barry Gander
The document is the remarks of FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler at the Broadband Communities Summit in Austin, Texas on April 14, 2015. In the summary:
Wheeler discusses the importance of fast, fair, and open broadband networks and the FCC's efforts to promote competition. He highlights examples where community broadband networks have expanded access and benefited local economies when private providers did not, such as in Chattanooga, TN and Wilson, NC. Wheeler argues that restricting community broadband limits consumer choice and that the FCC acted to preempt laws in two states that blocked municipal broadband expansion.
This document summarizes an article about how the largest internet content providers like Netflix, Google, and Apple may bypass internet service providers (ISPs) like Comcast and Verizon by building their own broadband infrastructure in response to the lack of net neutrality regulations. The FCC's net neutrality rules were struck down by a court, allowing ISPs to potentially charge content companies for priority access. Netflix then saw slower streaming speeds on Comcast and Verizon and made a deal with Comcast to pay an unknown fee to maintain streaming quality. This sets a precedent where content companies must pay ISPs or risk being "throttled." However, content companies may disintermediate ISPs entirely by building their own broadband networks, widening the
Shared Services Canada's $398 million contract with Bell Canada to consolidate the federal government's 63 email systems into a single system has faced significant delays, disappointing SSC. The project was supposed to start transitioning departments in March 2014 but has yet to begin. SSC blames Bell for missing deadlines but will not provide specifics. The delay raises concerns about potential lack of transparency and outsourcing expertise currently existing within the public service. There are also questions about how the private sector will handle sensitive government information and whether the needs of Canadians are being prioritized over corporate profits.
Government Policies - Television Broadcasting - Canada- September 2017paul young cpa, cga
This document analyzes government policy and the broadcasting industry in Canada. It provides background on Paul Young and his experience. The presentation discusses the broadcasting industry performance from 2011-2015, film tax credits in Canada, and Android boxes. The broadcasting industry generated 20% of its revenue from pre-tax operating income. While CBC receives over $1 billion in funding, it operates at a loss. The document also discusses tax credits available to the film industry in Canada and issues around "Netflix taxes". It analyzes the Android box market size and growth, as well as factors driving demand for these boxes like rising cable costs.
The document summarizes several FCC actions and industry developments:
1) The FCC will seek comment on proposals regarding voluntary incentive auctions of broadcast spectrum, mobile spectrum holdings, and updating satellite and earth station rules.
2) The FTC released a business guide for mobile application developers about marketing and privacy principles.
3) The FCC will forbear from certain foreign ownership restrictions for common carrier licenses under certain conditions.
4) An appeals court upheld an injunction against a company streaming TV without broadcaster consent.
Status of telecom_competition_report_2012_387881_7Translinked
The document is the Michigan Public Service Commission's annual report on telecommunications competition in the state. Some key points:
- Total wirelines decreased by 283,000 from 2010 to 3.34 million in 2011. Competitive providers' market share increased to 30.7% of total lines.
- Alternative technologies like wireless and VoIP continued to grow substantially, with over 8.86 million wireless subscribers and 1.2 million VoIP lines in the state.
- Broadband availability and adoption also increased, with 4.66 million high-speed internet connections reported, especially through mobile wireless technologies.
- While wirelines decreased, facilities-based competition from competitive providers increased and continues to be more
What is going on with Canada Arts and Entertainment Sectorpaul young cpa, cga
The document discusses several topics related to heritage, culture and broadcasting policies in Canada. It provides an overview of CBC's funding and operating losses, trends in the film tax credit program, and issues with the regulation of digital media and streaming services. The CRTC is seen as needing modernization to properly account for streaming applications and online content. There is also discussion around supporting small media companies and whether media firms should receive government handouts if they cannot be self-sufficient.
THIS IS AN ARTICLE PLEASE GIVE ANSWERS FOR THE QUESTIONS (THE PROBLE.pdfinfo824691
THIS IS AN ARTICLE PLEASE GIVE ANSWERS FOR THE QUESTIONS (THE
PROBLEM)
Closing Case Network Neutrality Wars
The explosive growth of streaming video and mobile technologies is creating bandwidth
problems over the Internet. The Internet was designed to transmit content such as e-mails and
Web pages. However, media items being transmitted across the Internet today, such as high-
definition movies, are vastly larger in size. To compound this problem, there are (in early 2015)
over 180 million smartphone users in the United States, many of whom use the Internet to stream
video content to their phones. The Internet bandwidth issue is as much about economics as it is
about technology. Currently, consumers can send 1-kilobyte e-mails or watch the latest 30-
gigabyte movie on their large-screen televisions for the same monthly broadband fee. Unlike the
system used for power and water bills where higher usage results in higher fees, monthly
broadband fees are not tied to consumer usage. A study from Juniper Networks
(www.juniper.net) highlights this “revenue-per-bit” problem. The report predicts that Internet
revenue for carriers such as AT&T (www.att.com) and Comcast (www.comcast.com) will grow
by 5 percent per year through 2020. At the same time, Internet traffic will increase by 27 percent
annually, meaning that carriers will have to increase their bandwidth investment by 20 percent
per year just to keep up with demand. Under this model, the carrier’s business models will face
pressures, because their total necessary investment will exceed revenue growth. Few industry
analysts expect carriers to stop investing in new capacity. Nevertheless, analysts agree that a
financial crunch is coming. As Internet traffic soars, analysts expect revenue per megabit to
decrease. These figures translate into a far lower return on investment (ROI). Although carriers
can find ways to increase their capacity, it will be difficult for them to reap any revenue benefits
from doing so. The heart of the problem is that, even if the technology is equal to the task of
transmitting huge amounts of data, no one is sure how to pay for these technologies. One
proposed solution is to eliminate network neutrality. (A POSSIBLE SOLUTION)Network
neutrality is an operating model under which Internet service providers (ISPs) must allow
customers equal access to content and applications, regardless of the source or nature of the
content. That is, Internet backbone carriers must treat all Web traffic equally, not charging
different rates by user, content, site, platform, or application. Telecommunications and cable
companies want to replace network neutrality with an arrangement in which they can charge
differentiated prices based on the amount of bandwidth consumed by the content that is being
delivered over the Internet. These companies believe that differentiated pricing is the most
equitable method by which they can finance the necessary investments in their network
infrastructures. .
The Minnesota Telephone Assistance Plan (TAP) and Federal Lifeline Program provide monthly discounts on telephone service for low-income households. Both programs are administered through a single application process and provide a $9.25 monthly discount. Eligibility is determined by income thresholds or participation in assistance programs. Recent FCC orders have expanded Lifeline to include broadband, set minimum service standards, and will phase down support for voice-only services by 2021. The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission and Department of Commerce oversee the programs, process applications, and conduct outreach to eligible households.
Daniel Arias of Telefonica Internacional argues that Latin America is a major success story in telecom and currently undergoing revolutionary progress in both fixed and mobile broadband in terms of deployment and penetration. Content is increasingly becoming available driven by many creative cultural reasons in Latin America and the Hispanic approach. Governments have been active in setting national broadband policies - and countries such as Brazil and Chile have placed substantial emphasis on these - but he points out broadband success will continue to come from a competitive private sector environment and although there is a role for government intervention it should be limited to those areas beyond the reach of the private sector.
Sony cut prices on select LCD TVs by up to $500 and launched new scan down promotions to close the gap with rivals like Samsung. Specific models saw price cuts of $200 to $500, and some TVs were paired with $100 to $300 scan down promotions running through early August. Sony appears to be most aggressively promoting its Z5100 TV series, which are paired with $300 scan downs in July reducing to $200 in August. The moves aim to make Sony more competitive against manufacturers such as Samsung.
Sony owns dozens of recent patents on 3-D technology covering auto-stereoscopic displays that don't require glasses as well as those that do. Sony's work includes screens that use piezoelectric drivers or switch light sources to create parallax effects for glasses-free 3D. Other patents describe 3D projection systems and a way to deliver stereoscopic images to the PSP handheld device.
Qualcomm is seeing strong demand from device makers for its new Snapdragon 805 Ultra HD mobile processor. Several manufacturers have already committed to using the new processor in 2014. Qualcomm sees growth opportunities in Ultra HD displays and wearable devices like smart watches. While Qualcomm plans to sell its Toq smart watch, its ultimate goal is to sell smart watch components to other manufacturers.
Sony announced that all PS3 systems will be upgradeable through firmware updates to play 3D content from 2010 onward. This positions the PS3's 3D compatibility as a key advantage over other consoles. There has been some debate about whether current PS3 and Blu-ray player hardware can handle 3D with just a firmware update. Sony says it can for the PS3, while Panasonic says it's not possible for their Blu-ray players. Sony is looking to establish 3D formats for Blu-ray discs, HDMI and broadcast TV as it rolls out 3D gaming and movie content on the PS3.
Both sides were upbeat after the Supreme Court oral arguments in the case regarding California's law banning the sale of violent video games to minors. While it was difficult to predict how the court would rule based on the questions and comments from the justices, representatives from both sides felt their attorneys effectively made their cases. The justices raised concerns about the vagueness of the law and whether it could apply to other forms of media. The court will make a ruling in the coming months.
Camera manufacturers are shifting their product mixes away from point-and-shoot cameras towards interchangeable lens cameras like SLRs due to declining point-and-shoot sales driven by smartphone proliferation. They are emphasizing features like long zooms, WiFi connectivity, and weather-sealing in compact cameras to differentiate from smartphones. Canon announced new full-frame DSLRs including the EOS 6D, its lowest priced full-frame model to date, while Pentax is seeing demand for its recently announced K-5 II and K-5 IIs models. Fujifilm is expanding its X-Series mirrorless line.
NATM retailers are surviving but not thriving in 2010 due to a challenging business environment with slow sales, weakening margins, and overuse of scan-down rebates and bundles by manufacturers. While NATM sales increased in 2010 due to members like P.C. Richard joining, overall consumer electronics sales are flat and inventory levels are high. Scan-down deals further reduce retailer margins and bundled items impact profits on goods they normally make good margins on. The introduction of 3D TVs also poses challenges without much 3D content available.
P.C. Richard & Son plans to continue opening new stores, even as it waits for the economy to improve. It recently opened two more stores, including one in a former Circuit City location. P.C. Richard also renovated its existing stores and expanded its product offerings, such as video games, which have been very successful. The company's president said opportunities from Circuit City's exit allowed them to enter new markets. He is hopeful supplies of popular products will be adequate for the holidays.
The document provides an overview of the consumer electronics industry outlook according to NPD analyst Stephen Baker. While there are challenges in 2010, Baker says there are more reasons for hope than despair, including growing demand for 3D TVs and digital SLR cameras. Baker notes opportunities for CE retailers in the shift to large-screen TVs, importance of knowledgeable salespeople, and ability to sell accessories and peripherals through multimedia devices. However, consumer confidence remains weak and many consumers are waiting for lower prices before purchasing new products.
The Supreme Court ruled 7-2 in favor of the video game industry, declaring unconstitutional a California law restricting minors' access to violent video games. While the original sponsor sees a possibility of revisiting the issue if the court's composition changes, industry representatives and legal experts believe the decision provides strong precedent and it is unlikely and difficult to envision the issue being revisited in the near future. The decision was seen as a major victory for free speech rights in media.
- Car Toys is considering expanding into new markets but did not specify which ones. It has no current plans to open or close stores in its existing markets.
- E-commerce sales have grown double-digits each year for Car Toys and allow it to reach new customers outside its existing markets.
- Android smartphones are dominating sales at Car Toys currently, with Samsung and HTC models selling particularly well. Car Toys is also looking to enter the tablet category.
NBCUniversal will soon make its TV content available to stream on set-top streaming devices like Apple TV and Roku. Jennifer Pirot of NBCUniversal said they are working to finalize negotiations with set-top box makers and plan to have their content available on devices by the end of the year. Currently, NBCUniversal content is only available via apps on mobile devices. HBO has seen more success in making its content widely available across devices because it started earlier with its HBO Go app and has a larger library of content to choose from compared to broadcast networks like NBC.
- Guzu, an electronics recycling company, is focused on growth over profitability for now. It plans to launch an enhanced website with more product categories and move to a larger facility.
- The CEO said iPhones are currently the most popular items and they offer $80-200 for used ones. Guzu aims to process more consumer orders daily and expand its recycling services nationally within a few years.
Several consumer electronics companies, including RadioShack, Sonos and Microsoft, ran TV ads during the Super Bowl, reminding viewers that CE is about both content and hardware. An analyst said the ads help show that hardware is still important to the CE industry and can help RadioShack update its image. RadioShack's ad featured 1980s celebrities and was meant to position the company as reinvented and focused on today's technology needs.
FilmOn X CEO Alkiviades David says that regardless of the Supreme Court's decision in the Aereo case, FilmOn X's business will survive because only 3% relies on free-to-air TV and most relies on licensed content and social video features. David plans to file a motion for FilmOn X to intervene in the Aereo case to argue their separate position that their technology is more evolved than Aereo's. Experts debate whether Congress anticipated how new technologies could impact terms like "performance" in copyright law, and what the implications may be of the Supreme Court's upcoming decision in the Aereo case.
2. 2—CONSUMER ELECTRONICS DAILY FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2009
“It’s absolutely essential to get” word out before June 12 to consumers who stand to lose signals, Copps
said. “We must tell the American people the truth. They don’t want their information sugar-coated,” or alarmism,
on who needs a new antenna and where digital signals will be “less robust than they may have thought,” said
Copps. “With apologies to Jack Nicholson, consumers can handle the truth.” It’s a “huge priority” for the FCC to
identify places that may lose signals, Copps told reporters. “We better keep working fast and furious at trying to
narrow that down and pinpoint not only the gross number of people impacted but figure out where it is.” He
wouldn’t say whether the April 8 open FCC meeting also will cover DTV. “We’re going to continue to highlight
this problem, but the commission as you know is doing lots of other things right now.”
Economic Stimulus money has begun flowing into the DTV coupon program, allowing the NTIA to begin
clearing its waiting list without having to wait for money from expired coupons to be recycled back into the pro-
gram, Bernadette McGuire-Rivera, associate administrator of the NTIA's Office of Telecom and Information Appli-
cations, told the FCC. The NTIA thinks it will take about two and a half weeks to get through the "backlog," she
said. "The funding will also allow us to issue approximately 12 million new coupons and we expect, depending on
redemption rates, to have another million and a half or three million available for distribution."
The NTIA "within the next two weeks" will issue new final rules conforming with the DTV Delay Act that
will allow the agency to fill orders for replacement coupons from consumers whose first coupons expired without
being redeemed, McGuire-Rivera said. The rules, which will be "very simple," will take effect upon publication in
the Federal Register, she said. "We're in the process of retrofitting our systems now, so when the rule becomes ef-
fective, we'll be able to move with that."
Under questioning from Copps, McGuire-Rivera said her agency thinks perhaps half of the 16 million cou-
pons that have expired "will come back into the program." To speed processing and delivery of coupons, the NTIA
has gone from bulk-rate to first-class mail and added banks, she said. It now has capacity to process 2 million cou-
pons a week, she said. She said the NTIA doesn't fear having to compile a waiting list again, unless consumers all
wait until June 11, the day before the cutoff, to apply.
The NTIA also is changing its rules to provide for "an alternative mechanism to deliver coupons other than
through the U.S. mail," she said, without mentioning specifics, such as e-mail delivery. The agency has no "firm
plans on exactly how that would operate right now, but that's something that we're looking into," she said.
The NTIA expects to use about $3.5 million of the $90 million Congress set aside for DTV education, with
the FCC likely using the rest, McGuire-Rivera told reporters. Copps later declined to say how much money the
FCC may use. The NTIA will focus on the 5 million households Nielsen says are "still totally unready" for the
DTV transition, she said. "It's going to be a tough group to find." Those "last 5 million" households "are a special
circumstance," McGuire-Rivera said in her testimony. "This last group needs special attention." Nielsen has done
special research on the 5 million that will help the NTIA "retool" its advertising message, she said.
Many viewers will be “left in the dark” because of antenna issues and may need to move them, buy am-
plifiers or take other steps, Commissioner Jonathan Adelstein said. Although most viewers simply need to oc-
casionally re-scan their digital converter boxes, some will lose signals and “it’s better to inform people upfront
rather than getting a rude awakening on June 12th,” he added. Commissioner Robert McDowell is happy Feb.
17 “will thankfully not live in infamy.” Lessons learned from then should be applied “to the major challenges
that lie ahead of us,” he said. “We also know that consumers in many places around the country are going to
encounter reception problems” when analog broadcasts cease altogether. That will come as a surprise unless
they’re warned, McDowell said.
NAB President David Rehr agreed that “challenges remain” but said Feb. 17 “went well” and viewers
“have gotten the DTV message.” “The first challenge is rebranding the June 12th date” in viewers’ minds, he said,
3. FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2009 CONSUMER ELECTRONICS DAILY—3
citing “antenna issues” as among possible difficulties. Broadcasters took the suggestion of McDowell at the FCC’s
last DTV meeting (CED Feb 6 p1) and are naming leaders in each market to coordinate transition efforts, Rehr said.
Nielsen said Thursday that 4.5 million households, 3.9 percent of the U.S. total, are unready for the transition,
570,000 fewer than less than a month ago.
Despite “many policy disputes” between broadcasters and cable operators, NCTA President Kyle McSlar-
row said the two industries worked well on the technical “nitty gritty” of switches. “We have a huge challenge in
front of us” with 85 percent of terrestrial TV viewers in markets where few or no stations have yet switched, he
added. CEO Sandy Markwood of the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging and Mark Lloyd, vice presi-
dent of the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights, said analog cutoffs last month went smoothly. But they added
that their groups, which got money from the NTIA for education, have much work ahead.
From the “retailer’s perspective, the remarkable thing about Feb. 17 and 18 is that nothing remarkable hap-
pened,” said Chris McLean, executive director of the Consumer Electronics Retailers Coalition. In fact, for some
coalition members, the week of Feb. 17 was a slower week for converter box sales than the previous week, he said.
And February “has been a much slower month for sales than January,” he said.
“From this vantage point, our report is, so far, so good,” McLean said. At every turning point in the
DTV transition, beginning with the Wilmington, N.C., cutoff in September and through Feb. 17, coalition
members and other retailers have had “ample” supplies of converter boxes in stock, McLean said. “Since
Feb. 17, converter sales for some members have continued to slow, as has coupon demand,” he said. “But
given the circumstances, that is not too surprising.”
Coalition members “have stock on the shelves and new supplies are on the way,” McLean said. One
member reported in a Thursday e-mail that its stocks were “plump,” McLean said. “One thing seems very
clear,” he said. “Based on our communications with CERC members, the converter box market is closely
tied to the availability of coupons. Published reports indicate that less than 10 percent of converter boxes
are sold without a coupon.”
“There will be individual stores that run out of boxes on one particular day,” McLean told Copps
during Q-and-A. “New product is on the way. Deliveries are coming in March. So our members feel ready.
■ SUPER-EFFICIENT ELECTRONICS should be promoted with funding in climate-change legislation,
coalition of environmental and energy groups tells Congress.
■ BILLS IN SEVEN STATES would restrict or ban sale of TVs, computers, other electronics with bromi-
nated flame retardants.
■ VERIZON TAKES STEPS TO GREEN through more efficient networks, director says.
■ STATE ACTIVITIES: California Energy Commission expects to get $300 million from American Re-
covery and Reinvestment Act for energy efficiency and other programs.
■ ENERGY EFFICIENCY: New Ethernet switchers cut power use up to 70 percent by monitoring needs
of connected devices.
■ GREEN NOTES: Cegedel uses FalconStor, VMware virtual IT to reduce carbon footprint.
For a free trial subscription to Washington Internet Daily,
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4. 4—CONSUMER ELECTRONICS DAILY FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2009
They feel prepared.” When Copps’ asked how many more boxes will fill the pipeline through June 12,
McLean said, “Our best proxy for the number of boxes we’ll need are the number of coupons that are re-
quested... We stay on top of that in real time.”
Some commissioners and witnesses said FCC coordination on the transition has improved. McGuire-
Rivera said “having the involvement of the commissioners and the chairman” now “makes all the difference.”
Adelstein, asking her about interagency cooperation, complained that “you could never get the White House’s at-
tention” on DTV “until it had a new occupant.” Associate Chief Eloise Gore of the Media Bureau said staffers are
drafting an order to implement the next part of the DTV Delay Act. She said they’re reviewing at least 30 com-
ments received by Wednesday’s deadline and hope to have a draft order next week for the commissioners to re-
view. -- Jonathan Make, Paul Gluckman
Details Sketchy
New Game Platform to Be Unveiled by Rearden
Technology incubator Rearden will introduce a new networked game platform using cloud computing,
March 24 during the Game Developers Conference in San Francisco, sources familiar with the company’s plans
told Consumer Electronics Daily. Details were sketchy, including about which game developers and publishers
will support the platform and whether Rearden or another company will manufacture the Internet-connected device
expected to be used with it. A Rearden spokeswoman wouldn’t discuss the company’s plans.
Rearden’s CEO is Steve Perlman, best known as the creator of WebTV in 1995. He was a developer at Ap-
ple before that, in the 1980s. He has dabbled in gaming and holds various game-related U.S. patents.
Rearden division Mova, started in 2004, develops advanced motion capture technology and provides
motion capture services. Mova’s work has included videogame motion capture for Electronic Arts' The
Godfather and From Russia with Love and Vivendi Games’ Eragon, according to Rearden’s Web site. It’s
unclear whether EA and Activision Blizzard are backing Rearden’s new platform. They didn’t immediately
respond to requests for comment.
Game-related patents assigned to Perlman include 6,134,590, “a method and apparatus for automatically
connecting devices to a local network” for “real-time games,” granted in 2000, and 5,956,485, “network architec-
ture to support real-time video games,” granted in 1999. -- Jeff Berman
‘Room For Us to Compete’
Trans World Renews Push Into Videogames at 347 f.y.e. Stores
After a Q4 test, Trans World Entertainment will expand use of a new merchandising display for video-
games that will make the category central to 347 f.y.e. stores, company officials said. Trans World tested the new
display in two Albany, N.Y., stores in December and increased its use to a larger number of outlets in February,
Chief Financial Officer John Sullivan told us. The new merchandising strategy moves videogames from the side of
a store to the middle and also increases the amount of shelf space dedicated to the category, he said.
5. FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2009 CONSUMER ELECTRONICS DAILY—5
The chain slashed the number of stores carrying videogames to 347 from 600 last year after it was un-
able to get enough hardware/software to stock all locations (CED Aug 22 p1), Sullivan said. Trans World re-
newed its videogames push after allocations improved last fall, Sullivan said. Videogames accounted for nine
percent of Trans World’s $987.6 million revenue in the fiscal year ended Jan. 31, the company said. Trans
World hopes to increase videogames and number of the stores carrying them, Sullivan said, declining to dis-
close details. Trans World has 712 stores, about 652 of them operating under the f.y.e. banner. It also has 60
Suncoast Motion Picture Co. and Saturday Matinee locations, having closed many of the Coconuts Music and
More, Spec’s and Wherehouse Music stores.
“We know that we have to make” videogames a “real business” and have “an opportunity to compete”
with GameStop in mall-based locations, CEO Robert Higgins said. Trans World has 550 mall-based and 162
freestanding locations, Sullivan said. “I think there is room for us to compete with them in the malls,” Higgins
said. Trans World hired a video games buyer, filling a post that was vacant for 10 months, company officials
said. Trans World’s overall Q4 same-store sales declined 14 percent, with those of videogames hardware and
software falling six percent and 27 percent.
In addition to videogames, Trans World will expand the depth of Blu-ray titles it carries in cutting the num-
ber of standard DVDs, Sullivan said. It also will increase the assortment of used videogames, CDs and DVD and is
rebuilding its “foundational business” in accessories and electronics products, President James Litwak told analysts
in a conference call. The chain will likely increase the mix of headphones and musical instruments it sells, he said.
Sales of electronics and accessories accounted for 14 percent of fiscal 2008 revenue, company officials said.
One area that Trans World isn’t expanding is the sale of DRM-free digital music downloads via kiosks
located in the stores. Trans World tested the concept at f.y.e. stores in Minneapolis and Albany, capping a
two-year effort stemming from its purchase of Mix & Burn. About two million songs, at 99 cents each, were
available from most major labels, including Universal. But Trans World slowed expansion after reaching 40
locations, including 10 in Providence, R.I., Sullivan said. “We just didn’t get customer acceptance,” Sullivan
said. “It’s still a business that is slow to develop.”
Trans World’s Q4 net loss narrowed to $9.4 million from $66 million a year ago, despite its taking a $15.2
million charge to write down “long-lived assets” and closing 74 locations, Sullivan said. Trans World didn’t dis-
close the expense tied to the store closings, Sullivan said. Trans World also took markdowns on inventory in Q4,
but Sullivan declined to disclose the amount. Revenue slid to $344.7 million from $451.5 a year earlier when it had
813 stores. Video same-store sales fell 9 percent, while those of music declined 21 percent, company officials said.
Videogames posted a 16 percent same-store sales decline. Video accounted for 43 percent of Q4 sales, followed by
music (31 percent), electronics and accessories (15 percent) and videogames (11 percent). Trans World gross mar-
gin dropped to 30.9 percent from 33.7 percent a year earlier as it featured “more aggressive” promotions and got
lower vendor allowances. –- Mark Seavy
Digital TV
The FCC is getting a new DTV expert advising the chairman’s office on the transition, commission offi-
cials said. William Lake of WilmerHale is taking over the job from Gary Epstein, a former FCC official who came
out of retirement from a law firm, they said. Epstein had recently joined the commission as a “special government
employee,” he said at Thursday’s open commission meeting.
---
National media must do a better job covering the switch to DTV, acting FCC Chairman Michael Copps
said at Thursday’s commission meeting. He bemoaned that coverage has markedly tailed off in the weeks since
6. 6—CONSUMER ELECTRONICS DAILY FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2009
Congress delayed it to June 12. Though specialized publications have done a good job, “I have found the national
news media coverage more than a little wanting,” Copps said. Apart from a “small snippet” of coverage of con-
gressional passage of the DTV Delay Act, many consumers have “heard precious little” about looming analog cut-
offs, he added. “I have run into a lot of people that told me nothing was going to happen until June 12th.” Allud-
ing to C-SPAN’s taping the meeting, he said others should “emulate” such coverage.
---
The FCC’s revamped www.dtv.gov has a mapping tool that lets viewers find the signal strength of each
station in their area and shows the position of its antenna in relation to an address, coordinate or other location, said
Julius Knapp, the chief of the Office of Engineering and Technology. The features will help consumers fix recep-
tion problems, he said at Thursday’s FCC meeting. A color-coded list of stations serving each location divides
broadcasters by signal quality: strong, moderate, weak or no signal. The Web site also has a “gain/loss map” com-
paring digital to analog coverage, Knapp said. Acting FCC Chairman Michael Copps saw a demonstration of the
coverage maps and called them “one cool tool.”
Mergers & Acquisitions
Panasonic took the next step toward acquiring Sanyo, announcing the terms for issuing $4 billion worth
of unsecured bonds toward the purchase. They'll be offered in the yen equivalents of about $1 million denomina-
tions with three, five and 10 year maturities at 1.14, 1.404 and 2.05 percent interest, Panasonic said Thursday. It
expects to complete the acquisition in late April.
Retail
Increased sales of CE products, games and game merchandise drove a 36.5 percent increase in Block-
buster's U.S. comparable store sellthrough revenue in Q4 ended Jan. 4, it said Thursday. But it said U.S. compara-
ble store rental revenue fell 2.6 percent in Q4. Overall Q4 domestic comparable store revenue, including rentals
and sellthrough, increased 4.4 percent, an improvement from the 0.9 percent decline the company reported for the
same period in 2007. For all of 2008, Blockbuster's overall U.S. comparable store sales increased 6.4 percent, ver-
sus a 6.9 percent decline in 2007. Included in the growth for 2008 were a 1.2 percent increase in U.S. comparable
store rental revenue and a 37.4 percent increase in U.S. comparable store sellthrough revenue. More detailed re-
sults won't be announced by the company until March 19, and the data provided Thursday was only "preliminary
and subject to change," it said. Blockbuster is still trying to determine the amount of a non-cash goodwill impair-
ment charge it will record for Q4, as well as "assessing the impact" of its August 2009 debt maturities and "the suc-
cess of its refinancing initiatives on its financial statements in light of the current conditions in the capital markets,"
it said. The announcement came hours after Blockbuster denied it was considering a bankruptcy filing (CED
March 5 p5). The company in 2008 "executed on our key initiatives to grow the core rental business, enhance our
retail offering and develop digital delivery channels," said CEO Jim Keyes. "As a result, adjusted EBITDA ex-
ceeded" Blockbuster's forecasted range of $300 million to $315 million, he said. Of the company's financing initia-
tives, he said "we continue to work diligently to resolve the August 2009 debt maturities, aggressively reduce costs
and maximize the company's strong cash flow generation."
---
Systemax installed Retail 1.5, a variant of its Retail 2.0 retail format, at CompUSA in Fort Myers, Fla.,
company officials said. Retail 1.5 provides the same Internet connectivity as 2.0, but is limited to a store's note-
book and desktop PC departments, company officials said. The Retail 2.0 concept, installed at CompUSA stores in
Miami and Raleigh-Durham, N.C. -- features 300 Internet-connected PCs that essentially offer a home page for
7. FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2009 CONSUMER ELECTRONICS DAILY—7
each product. It also includes flat-panel TVs and 34 kiosks spread around a store. Systemax expects to have Retail
2.0 in its 25 CompUSA stores by midyear (CED March 5 p1).
---
The fate of Rex Stores’s locations is being decided this month. Rex is shutting stores in Florence, Ala.,
and Danville, Va., but an outlet in Decatur, Ga., will reopen March 9 as Appliance Direct, according to newspaper
reports. Appliance Direct signed leases on 39 Rex stores and has an option on 44 others. Rex had more than 100
stores in 32 states Oct. 31. The company hasn't disclosed the fate of the 22 locations apparently not included in its
Appliance Direct deal. Appliance Direct has 20 stores in Florida. Meanwhile, Rex has sold a 16,488-square-foot
store in Kent, Ohio, to Aaron Rents for $1.08 million, according to CoStar Group real estate research. Aaron Rents
had earlier bought 25 to 30 former Rex stores (CED Oct 31 p6).
Companies
SeaChange International and TiVo will solicit tier 2 cable operators in offering video-on-demand through
CableCARD-equipped DVRs, a SeaChange official said. Those service providers are the target because larger ones
have "fairly mature" plans for tru2way, a SeaChange official said. The service -- billed as a way for MSOs to in-
crease VoD revenue without waiting for tru2way deployment -- uses TiVo electronic program guide to search for
VoD content, company officials said. Video will continue to be transmitted using QAM multiplex, but the broad-
band connection will be used as a return path to set-up streaming and to pause, rewind and fast-forward program-
ing, company officials said. TiVo also signed an agreement with Alticast to graft its DVR software onto Alticast’s
middleware platform that's used in cable set-top boxes and Blu-ray players. Alticast counts Broadcom and Intel
among its customers for Blu-ray, and its technology has been used in Samsung, Best Buy's Insignia and Vizio play-
ers, a company spokesman said. Alticast's tru2way customers include Humax, Kaon, LG Electronics, Pace and
Samsung. Alticast's electronics program guide and DVR software are used in South Korea and the U.S.
Videogames
Harmonix and MTV Games shifted strategy on their coming videogame featuring the music of The
Beatles, saying they decided to include the Rock Band brand name in the title after all. The name of the game
will be The Beatles: Rock Band, the companies, both Viacom divisions, said Thursday. The companies origi-
nally said the title wouldn't include Rock Band (CED Oct 31 p7). The game still "will be a custom standalone
dedicated game experience and completely brand new production that will be an unprecedented, experiential
progression through and celebration of the music and artistry of the Beatles," a spokesman for publisher MTV
Games said Thursday. But that company, developer Harmonix and Apple Corps, which holds the rights to the
Beatles' music, decided together to include Rock Band in the title, he said. "As we moved through the creative
process, it just seemed to make sense to clearly highlight the association between the Beatles game and the criti-
cally-acclaimed Rock Band franchise," he said. MTV Games and Harmonix still wouldn't say which songs will
be in the game, but they finally provided a specific shipping date: Sept. 9 in PS3, Wii and Xbox 360 SKUs.
The title will ship at the same time all around the world, the companies said. A "limited number of new hard-
ware offerings modeled after instruments" used by John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo
Starr will be available, along with the game, the companies said. Software-only SKUs for the PS3, Wii and
Xbox 360 will cost $59.99. New AAA releases for Nintendo's console generally cost $49.99, and Rock Band 2
does. Stand-alone guitars will cost $99.99 and a "Limited Edition Premium Bundle" including the game and all
instrument controllers $249.99, the companies said. Prices outside the U.S. will be announced later, they said.
Electronic Arts will be distribution partner for the game, as it has for all the other Rock Band games. Giles
Martin, co-producer of The Beatles innovative Love album project, is music producer for the game. Exclusive