SAN DIEGO, March 20 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Today at the CompTel Spring
2006 Convention & Expo, XO Communications announced a significant expansion in
the availability of XO Ethernet Services, using Ethernet over copper
technology to extend the reach of its Ethernet services footprint beyond its
fiber network to businesses served by last mile copper.
XO Ethernet Services now enable businesses at copper-fed locations to
leverage the expanded XO Ethernet footprint in more than 60 metropolitan
markets to connect multiple locations or receive high-speed, IP-ready network
access for the first time. Businesses with widely dispersed locations served
by either fiber or copper facilities will now be able to integrate all of
their offices and employees onto a single corporate network and for high-speed
Internet access. XO is offering the service directly to businesses and
service providers on a wholesale basis.
"The ability to extend the reach of XO Ethernet Services will be a major
boost to business customers as they grapple with an ever-expanding world of
content and applications across geographically diverse locations," said
Charlie Cary, vice president of marketing at XO Communications. "In addition
XO Ethernet Services eliminate network bottlenecks and unnecessary costs to
improve the operation, management, and performance of their vital
communications infrastructure."
Monday, March 20, 2006
Tuesday, February 14, 2006
Broadband National Names Greg Miller VP of Business Development
Vero Beach, FL—Broadband National today announced the appointment of Greg Miller as Vice President of Business Development. Prior to joining Broadband National full time Miller was a consultant and instrumental in the architecture of Broadband National’s “IBIS” system, one of the telecom industry’s most sophisticated national databases. Based on Millers knowledge of the system and experience he will assume responsibility for the company’s Business Development unit as well as the company’s Affiliate and product partner relationships.
Prior to joining Broadband National Mr. Miller was Co-Founder of Prediction Analytics, Inc., a global research and analytics company, that was purchased in 2005 by Experian, a leading worldwide provider of data and information solutions to businesses and consumers, where he was responsible for business development and sales functions. Prediction Analytics leverages predictive science to develop custom, web-based modeling systems. Those systems provide intelligent decision support for successful retail growth, marketing and customer-acquisition strategies. Miller is considered a pioneer in the use of database management systems to increase sales effectiveness, having managed complex systems for BellSouth, SBC Internet Services and DIRECTV. From 1997-99, he served as Vice President of Sales and Operations for PrimeCo PCS, a division of Verizon Wireless. Prior to that, he served more than 20 years in various senior management positions with Radio Shack Corp.
“Greg was instrumental in architecting the IBIS platform that drives our tremendous growth. Greg is the perfect candidate to head our business development and at the same time be responsible for the demands of our many customers and partners,” states Vinny Olmstead, President of Broadband National.
Broadband National with offices in Vero Beach and Orlando Florida is the leading comparative shopping service for broadband and VoIP related products and services to consumers and businesses nationwide. Broadband National’s proprietary software - the Integrated Broadband Information System (“IBIS 3.0”) - allows customers objective comparisons including service offers, product offers, and guaranteed lowest pricing. A partnership with more than 50 companies such as AT&T, Qwest, Time Warner, Comcast, Covad, and Verizon ensures a comprehensive customer solution. Broadband National also licenses the IBIS 3.0 system to more than 1,500 companies such as retailers, VoIP suppliers, online marketers, and integrators allowing the same robust experience, while monetizing their customer base.
Broadband National’s IBIS platform is the leading consumer and commercial broadband aggregation platform. For more information on platform use, business development and strategic partnerships, please visit www.broadbandnational.com. For Broadband National press or investor relation’s inquiries, please contact Mark Ballard at 772-539-0618 or email markb@broadbandnational.com
Prior to joining Broadband National Mr. Miller was Co-Founder of Prediction Analytics, Inc., a global research and analytics company, that was purchased in 2005 by Experian, a leading worldwide provider of data and information solutions to businesses and consumers, where he was responsible for business development and sales functions. Prediction Analytics leverages predictive science to develop custom, web-based modeling systems. Those systems provide intelligent decision support for successful retail growth, marketing and customer-acquisition strategies. Miller is considered a pioneer in the use of database management systems to increase sales effectiveness, having managed complex systems for BellSouth, SBC Internet Services and DIRECTV. From 1997-99, he served as Vice President of Sales and Operations for PrimeCo PCS, a division of Verizon Wireless. Prior to that, he served more than 20 years in various senior management positions with Radio Shack Corp.
“Greg was instrumental in architecting the IBIS platform that drives our tremendous growth. Greg is the perfect candidate to head our business development and at the same time be responsible for the demands of our many customers and partners,” states Vinny Olmstead, President of Broadband National.
Broadband National with offices in Vero Beach and Orlando Florida is the leading comparative shopping service for broadband and VoIP related products and services to consumers and businesses nationwide. Broadband National’s proprietary software - the Integrated Broadband Information System (“IBIS 3.0”) - allows customers objective comparisons including service offers, product offers, and guaranteed lowest pricing. A partnership with more than 50 companies such as AT&T, Qwest, Time Warner, Comcast, Covad, and Verizon ensures a comprehensive customer solution. Broadband National also licenses the IBIS 3.0 system to more than 1,500 companies such as retailers, VoIP suppliers, online marketers, and integrators allowing the same robust experience, while monetizing their customer base.
Broadband National’s IBIS platform is the leading consumer and commercial broadband aggregation platform. For more information on platform use, business development and strategic partnerships, please visit www.broadbandnational.com. For Broadband National press or investor relation’s inquiries, please contact Mark Ballard at 772-539-0618 or email markb@broadbandnational.com
Wednesday, February 01, 2006
Broadband National Secures $3.25 Million in Financing From Constellation Ventures
Bear Stearns' Constellation Ventures Funds Fast-Growing Broadband National
VERO BEACH, Fla., Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Broadband National, the leading
online marketing company that promotes broadband related products and
services, is announcing completion of its Series C funding round. The new
round of $3.25 million was funded by Constellation Ventures, a Bear Stearns
Asset Management Venture Capital Fund. This was Broadband National's first
institutional financing that was supported by the individual investors from
its Series A and B rounds.
The company plans to use the proceeds of the new funding to expand its
business offerings to include managed services, VoIP, and an enterprise
telecom inventory system; to expand consumer offerings such as video, voice,
Internet security and content; to expand sales channel growth; and to enhance
its customer experience by further development of its underlying technology
and user interface.
Broadband National's proprietary Integrated Broadband Information System
("IBIS") aggregates more than 50 broadband and VoIP service providers into one
platform. Companies such as AT&T, Comcast, Covad, Qwest, Sprint, Time Warner
and Verizon have integrated with the IBIS system, enabling customers to
compare pricing, features, and broadband speeds. A customer can purchase
these services on the IBIS system through its online ordering forms, which are
immediately transmitted to the carriers via XML technology, initiating the
service provisioning process.
Broadband National leases the IBIS system to companies that are looking to
monetize their customer base by selling incremental products and services.
More than 1000 companies privately brand the IBIS system for online sales,
call center application, and retail kiosks.
In conjunction with this funding, Tom Wasserman of Constellation Ventures
will serve on the company's board of directors. Additional Board seats will
be filled by Pat Welsh (Welsh Carson Anderson and Stowe), Ray Oglethorpe
(former president, AOL), Charlie Dill (Two Rivers Associates), and Michael
Leitner (Tennenbaum Capital Partners).
"Constellation evaluated several companies in this space and found that
Broadband National has both a back engine that is robust and scalable, and
incredible online marketing capabilities based on proprietary software,
technology, and processes," said Tom Wasserman of Constellation Ventures.
"Broadband National is an online leader that has simplified the buying process
in the fragmented broadband and voice access business. We see incredible
growth opportunity in this vertical for both the consumers and businesses they
support."
"Constellation is a terrific strategic fit for Broadband National," said
Vinny Olmstead, President of Broadband National. "Their focus and experience
in the media and communication vertical will be invaluable to our company.
Tom's industry experience and accomplishments are welcome enhancements of
leadership for the business, and will assist with execution of our business
plan."
About Constellation Ventures
Constellation Ventures, a Bear Stearns Asset Management Venture Capital
Fund, manages $450 million in venture capital through offices in New York and
Tokyo. The fund invests in early- to mid-stage companies that enable the
distribution, management and control of information over emerging digital
networks. Constellation Ventures provides its portfolio companies strategic
value-added services by leveraging its Limited Partners that include Bear
Stearns, Sony, Viacom, Young & Rubicam, Tribune, Dai Nippon Printing, NTT
Data, Acxiom, Toyota and Singapore Technologies. For more information, please
visit http://www.constellationventures.com .
About Broadband National
Broadband National is the leading comparative shopping website for
broadband related services and products. Residential and business customers
can use Broadband National's IBIS (Integrated Broadband Information System)
technology to compare services from more than 50 local, regional and national
service providers. Companies such as Comcast, AT&T, Sprint, Qwest, Dlink, Time
Warner, and Verizon are offered at http://www.broadbandnational.com .
Broadband National utilizes their online marketing capabilities to attract
customers and ultimately complete sales for their marketing customers.
The private company was formed in 2003 as a solution to a fragmented and
confusing broadband market place. Millions have used the website to compare
services, with more than 300,000 consumers and businesses having purchased
broadband, VoIP, and similar broadband related products and services.
The robust IBIS system is also utilized by several companies including
selected "Big Box" stores such as Office Depot and more than 1,000 others
companies that lease the technology to offer broadband products and services
on their websites and in retail stores.
For Broadband National press or investor relations inquiries, please
contact Mark Ballard at 772-539-0618 or visit
http://www.broadbandnational.com .
VERO BEACH, Fla., Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Broadband National, the leading
online marketing company that promotes broadband related products and
services, is announcing completion of its Series C funding round. The new
round of $3.25 million was funded by Constellation Ventures, a Bear Stearns
Asset Management Venture Capital Fund. This was Broadband National's first
institutional financing that was supported by the individual investors from
its Series A and B rounds.
The company plans to use the proceeds of the new funding to expand its
business offerings to include managed services, VoIP, and an enterprise
telecom inventory system; to expand consumer offerings such as video, voice,
Internet security and content; to expand sales channel growth; and to enhance
its customer experience by further development of its underlying technology
and user interface.
Broadband National's proprietary Integrated Broadband Information System
("IBIS") aggregates more than 50 broadband and VoIP service providers into one
platform. Companies such as AT&T, Comcast, Covad, Qwest, Sprint, Time Warner
and Verizon have integrated with the IBIS system, enabling customers to
compare pricing, features, and broadband speeds. A customer can purchase
these services on the IBIS system through its online ordering forms, which are
immediately transmitted to the carriers via XML technology, initiating the
service provisioning process.
Broadband National leases the IBIS system to companies that are looking to
monetize their customer base by selling incremental products and services.
More than 1000 companies privately brand the IBIS system for online sales,
call center application, and retail kiosks.
In conjunction with this funding, Tom Wasserman of Constellation Ventures
will serve on the company's board of directors. Additional Board seats will
be filled by Pat Welsh (Welsh Carson Anderson and Stowe), Ray Oglethorpe
(former president, AOL), Charlie Dill (Two Rivers Associates), and Michael
Leitner (Tennenbaum Capital Partners).
"Constellation evaluated several companies in this space and found that
Broadband National has both a back engine that is robust and scalable, and
incredible online marketing capabilities based on proprietary software,
technology, and processes," said Tom Wasserman of Constellation Ventures.
"Broadband National is an online leader that has simplified the buying process
in the fragmented broadband and voice access business. We see incredible
growth opportunity in this vertical for both the consumers and businesses they
support."
"Constellation is a terrific strategic fit for Broadband National," said
Vinny Olmstead, President of Broadband National. "Their focus and experience
in the media and communication vertical will be invaluable to our company.
Tom's industry experience and accomplishments are welcome enhancements of
leadership for the business, and will assist with execution of our business
plan."
About Constellation Ventures
Constellation Ventures, a Bear Stearns Asset Management Venture Capital
Fund, manages $450 million in venture capital through offices in New York and
Tokyo. The fund invests in early- to mid-stage companies that enable the
distribution, management and control of information over emerging digital
networks. Constellation Ventures provides its portfolio companies strategic
value-added services by leveraging its Limited Partners that include Bear
Stearns, Sony, Viacom, Young & Rubicam, Tribune, Dai Nippon Printing, NTT
Data, Acxiom, Toyota and Singapore Technologies. For more information, please
visit http://www.constellationventures.com .
About Broadband National
Broadband National is the leading comparative shopping website for
broadband related services and products. Residential and business customers
can use Broadband National's IBIS (Integrated Broadband Information System)
technology to compare services from more than 50 local, regional and national
service providers. Companies such as Comcast, AT&T, Sprint, Qwest, Dlink, Time
Warner, and Verizon are offered at http://www.broadbandnational.com .
Broadband National utilizes their online marketing capabilities to attract
customers and ultimately complete sales for their marketing customers.
The private company was formed in 2003 as a solution to a fragmented and
confusing broadband market place. Millions have used the website to compare
services, with more than 300,000 consumers and businesses having purchased
broadband, VoIP, and similar broadband related products and services.
The robust IBIS system is also utilized by several companies including
selected "Big Box" stores such as Office Depot and more than 1,000 others
companies that lease the technology to offer broadband products and services
on their websites and in retail stores.
For Broadband National press or investor relations inquiries, please
contact Mark Ballard at 772-539-0618 or visit
http://www.broadbandnational.com .
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Broadband National Names Mickey Smith As VP Of Operations
Seasoned Telecom Executive Joins Fast Growing Customer Acquisition Company
Vero Beach, FL—Broadband National today announced the appointment of Mickey Smith as Vice President Of Operations. Smith will be responsible for Broadband National’s call centers, customer service, and all product distribution.
Mr. Smith comes to Broadband National with 20 plus years of successful management experience in competitive, customer-driven environments. Smith’s successes include ownership of two start-up customer service companies, Advance Reservations and Victoria Vacations, which became the largest of their type in the country. He has been the COO of the successful start up Indian Call Center, Inox Global Solutions, and the CEO of two Prepaid Calling Card companies. Mr. Smith’s expertise in developing systems and controls that deliver the highest levels of customer service will benefit Broadband National’s goal of becoming the premier online marketing company for Broadband services and products
“Mickey’s vast experience in call center development and management in customer driven environments makes him the perfect candidate to oversee this important part of our business,” states Vinny Olmstead, President of Broadband National. “He also has the ability to develop systems and controls to deliver a high level of customer satisfaction that also optimizes employee talents and productivity.”
Broadband National with offices in Vero Beach and Orlando Florida is the leading comparative shopping service for broadband and VoIP services to consumers and businesses nationwide. Broadband National’s proprietary software - the Integrated Broadband Information System
(“IBIS 3.0”) - allows customers objective carrier comparisons including service offers, product offers, and guaranteed lowest pricing. A partnership with more than 50 companies such as AT&T, Qwest, Time Warner, Comcast, Covad, and Verizon ensures a comprehensive customer solution. Broadband National also licenses the IBIS 3.0 system to more than 1,500 companies such as retailers, VoIP suppliers, online marketers, and integrators allowing the same robust experience, while monetizing their customer base.
Broadband National’s IBIS platform is the leading consumer and commercial broadband aggregation platform. For more information on platform use, business development and strategic partnerships, please visit www.broadbandnational.com. For Broadband National press or investor relation’s inquiries, please contact Mark Ballard at 772-539-0618 or email markb@broadbandnational.com
Vero Beach, FL—Broadband National today announced the appointment of Mickey Smith as Vice President Of Operations. Smith will be responsible for Broadband National’s call centers, customer service, and all product distribution.
Mr. Smith comes to Broadband National with 20 plus years of successful management experience in competitive, customer-driven environments. Smith’s successes include ownership of two start-up customer service companies, Advance Reservations and Victoria Vacations, which became the largest of their type in the country. He has been the COO of the successful start up Indian Call Center, Inox Global Solutions, and the CEO of two Prepaid Calling Card companies. Mr. Smith’s expertise in developing systems and controls that deliver the highest levels of customer service will benefit Broadband National’s goal of becoming the premier online marketing company for Broadband services and products
“Mickey’s vast experience in call center development and management in customer driven environments makes him the perfect candidate to oversee this important part of our business,” states Vinny Olmstead, President of Broadband National. “He also has the ability to develop systems and controls to deliver a high level of customer satisfaction that also optimizes employee talents and productivity.”
Broadband National with offices in Vero Beach and Orlando Florida is the leading comparative shopping service for broadband and VoIP services to consumers and businesses nationwide. Broadband National’s proprietary software - the Integrated Broadband Information System
(“IBIS 3.0”) - allows customers objective carrier comparisons including service offers, product offers, and guaranteed lowest pricing. A partnership with more than 50 companies such as AT&T, Qwest, Time Warner, Comcast, Covad, and Verizon ensures a comprehensive customer solution. Broadband National also licenses the IBIS 3.0 system to more than 1,500 companies such as retailers, VoIP suppliers, online marketers, and integrators allowing the same robust experience, while monetizing their customer base.
Broadband National’s IBIS platform is the leading consumer and commercial broadband aggregation platform. For more information on platform use, business development and strategic partnerships, please visit www.broadbandnational.com. For Broadband National press or investor relation’s inquiries, please contact Mark Ballard at 772-539-0618 or email markb@broadbandnational.com
Thursday, January 26, 2006
Ex America Online Executive Joins Broadband National
Dan Zicari Joins Broadband National As Vice President Of Finance
Vero Beach, FL—Broadband National today announced the appointment of Dan Zicari as Vice President Of Finance. Zicari is responsible for all of Broadband Nationals financial, and managerial accounting functions. This includes development and implementation of accounting controls and procedures, operational and capital budgeting, and departmental accountability. In addition, he is responsible for all human resource policy and banking relationships.
Prior to joining Broadband National, Zicari served as Director of Accounting for America Online’s Member Services, the companies largest division. It was here that he developed accounting policy that spanned call centers throughout the country and worked closely with Human Resources to develop career migration plans for thousands of employees. Prior to AOL Zicari was Controller at Redgate Communications Corporation, AOL’s first acquisition. Zicari earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting from Stetson University in 1984. He attained his CPA certification in Florida in 1988.
“Broadband National is a dynamic and fast growing company and coming from AOL Dan understands the types of challenges that we’ll encounter moving forward. His experience in both finance and human resources makes him an ideal addition to our management team,” states Vinny Olmstead, President of Broadband National.
Broadband National with offices in Vero Beach and Orlando Florida is the leading comparative shopping service for broadband and VoIP services to consumers and businesses nationwide. Broadband National’s proprietary software - the Integrated Broadband Information System (“IBIS 3.0”) - allows customers objective carrier comparisons including service offers, product offers, and guaranteed lowest pricing. A partnership with more than 50 companies such as AT&T, Qwest, Time Warner, Comcast, Covad, and Verizon ensures a comprehensive customer solution. Broadband National also licenses the IBIS 3.0 system to more than 1,500 companies such as retailers, VoIP suppliers, online marketers, and integrators allowing the same robust experience, while monetizing their customer base.
Broadband National’s IBIS platform is the leading consumer and commercial broadband aggregation platform. For more information on platform use, business development and strategic partnerships, please visit www.broadbandnational.com. For Broadband National press or investor relation’s inquiries, please contact Mark Ballard at 772-539-0618 or email markb@broadbandnational.com
Vero Beach, FL—Broadband National today announced the appointment of Dan Zicari as Vice President Of Finance. Zicari is responsible for all of Broadband Nationals financial, and managerial accounting functions. This includes development and implementation of accounting controls and procedures, operational and capital budgeting, and departmental accountability. In addition, he is responsible for all human resource policy and banking relationships.
Prior to joining Broadband National, Zicari served as Director of Accounting for America Online’s Member Services, the companies largest division. It was here that he developed accounting policy that spanned call centers throughout the country and worked closely with Human Resources to develop career migration plans for thousands of employees. Prior to AOL Zicari was Controller at Redgate Communications Corporation, AOL’s first acquisition. Zicari earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting from Stetson University in 1984. He attained his CPA certification in Florida in 1988.
“Broadband National is a dynamic and fast growing company and coming from AOL Dan understands the types of challenges that we’ll encounter moving forward. His experience in both finance and human resources makes him an ideal addition to our management team,” states Vinny Olmstead, President of Broadband National.
Broadband National with offices in Vero Beach and Orlando Florida is the leading comparative shopping service for broadband and VoIP services to consumers and businesses nationwide. Broadband National’s proprietary software - the Integrated Broadband Information System (“IBIS 3.0”) - allows customers objective carrier comparisons including service offers, product offers, and guaranteed lowest pricing. A partnership with more than 50 companies such as AT&T, Qwest, Time Warner, Comcast, Covad, and Verizon ensures a comprehensive customer solution. Broadband National also licenses the IBIS 3.0 system to more than 1,500 companies such as retailers, VoIP suppliers, online marketers, and integrators allowing the same robust experience, while monetizing their customer base.
Broadband National’s IBIS platform is the leading consumer and commercial broadband aggregation platform. For more information on platform use, business development and strategic partnerships, please visit www.broadbandnational.com. For Broadband National press or investor relation’s inquiries, please contact Mark Ballard at 772-539-0618 or email markb@broadbandnational.com
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
Covad settles Verizon disputes, inks deal with MCI
NEW YORK,(Reuters) - Broadband service provider Covad and Verizon Communications have settled their litigation and other disputes, the companies said on Wednesday.
The settlement dismisses Covad's pending antitrust case against Verizon and a separate lawsuit Verizon had filed against Covad and it resolves the companies' billing disputes.
In a separate agreement MCI Inc., which Verizon is buying, will recommend Covad's broadband Internet services to its business customers, the companies said.
The settlement dismisses Covad's pending antitrust case against Verizon and a separate lawsuit Verizon had filed against Covad and it resolves the companies' billing disputes.
In a separate agreement MCI Inc., which Verizon is buying, will recommend Covad's broadband Internet services to its business customers, the companies said.
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
Want Gwen Stefani videos on your broadband cell? Think WiMAX backhaul
That's a depiction of Verizon V CAST, Verizon Wireless' new broadband video content for cell phones. Watching Gwen Stefani on your cell is cool, but that's not what we are going to talk about here. We are going to talk about the upgrades mobile providers need to make to get this content to your cell so that it looks good.
The growth of such broadband video content delivered over cellular networks and to cell phones isn't only exciting for content creators and consumers. It also creates substantial upgrade requirements for cellular base station backhaul.
In telecommunications, backhaul refers to the transmission of voice and data traffic from a cell site to a switch. This is usually done from a remote site to a central site.
"One of the hottest market segments now and for the next 5 years is cellular base station backhaul," the study authors write. "The number of mobile subscribers continues to grow in all regions, and cellular operators are launching data and video-based services."
"Most base stations require only a single T1/E1 to handle voice traffic. Adding data/video turns up the need to 3 or 4 T1/E1s at a minimum, with video potentially driving even higher requirements in the future," the authors note. "Since the data is IP and the video is likely going to be IPTV, data traffic volumes will quickly outstrip voice, just as happened a couple of years ago when the Internet/data traffic swamped voice.
The growth of such broadband video content delivered over cellular networks and to cell phones isn't only exciting for content creators and consumers. It also creates substantial upgrade requirements for cellular base station backhaul.
In telecommunications, backhaul refers to the transmission of voice and data traffic from a cell site to a switch. This is usually done from a remote site to a central site.
"One of the hottest market segments now and for the next 5 years is cellular base station backhaul," the study authors write. "The number of mobile subscribers continues to grow in all regions, and cellular operators are launching data and video-based services."
"Most base stations require only a single T1/E1 to handle voice traffic. Adding data/video turns up the need to 3 or 4 T1/E1s at a minimum, with video potentially driving even higher requirements in the future," the authors note. "Since the data is IP and the video is likely going to be IPTV, data traffic volumes will quickly outstrip voice, just as happened a couple of years ago when the Internet/data traffic swamped voice.
Monday, December 19, 2005
New York ramping up for broadband
Ramping city up for broadband
December 19, 2005
A political push to broaden the use of broadband - by making high-speed Internet lines cheaper and more accessible - should gain a bit of ground this week.
In one of its last acts under Speaker Gifford Miller, the City Council on Wednesday is expected to approve a bill creating a new 15-member "broadband advisory committee."
Sponsor Gale A. Brewer (D-Manhattan), who chairs the Council's technology committee, considers it a populist calling for government to prod or provide more equal Internet access. She's held a dozen hearings in the past two years and sees the new body as the next step. "The gap between those who can afford broadband and those who cannot persists," Brewer says in a report she co-authored with her top aide Bruce Lai, "despite growth in the availability of broadband connections."
Census data show that more than half the U.S. households with annual incomes above $100,000 have broadband while more than two thirds of those who earn less than $100,000 do not.
Philadelphia, Atlanta and San Francisco are carrying out plans for wireless broadband networks, note Brewer and Lai. Smaller cities such as Spokane, Wash. and Corpus Christi, Texas already created them.
For more information click here.
December 19, 2005
A political push to broaden the use of broadband - by making high-speed Internet lines cheaper and more accessible - should gain a bit of ground this week.
In one of its last acts under Speaker Gifford Miller, the City Council on Wednesday is expected to approve a bill creating a new 15-member "broadband advisory committee."
Sponsor Gale A. Brewer (D-Manhattan), who chairs the Council's technology committee, considers it a populist calling for government to prod or provide more equal Internet access. She's held a dozen hearings in the past two years and sees the new body as the next step. "The gap between those who can afford broadband and those who cannot persists," Brewer says in a report she co-authored with her top aide Bruce Lai, "despite growth in the availability of broadband connections."
Census data show that more than half the U.S. households with annual incomes above $100,000 have broadband while more than two thirds of those who earn less than $100,000 do not.
Philadelphia, Atlanta and San Francisco are carrying out plans for wireless broadband networks, note Brewer and Lai. Smaller cities such as Spokane, Wash. and Corpus Christi, Texas already created them.
For more information click here.
Thursday, December 15, 2005
Microsoft: jumping into the VoIP fray
Microsoft has announced plans to release its first beta version of Live Messenger with VoIP
Microsoft has staked a claim in the US VoIP market by announcing its software users can soon make Internet calls to standard phones thanks to a new partnership with MCI. Although rival products from the likes of Yahoo and Skype offer extra features, given Microsoft's broad market reach elsewhere and its alliance with MCI, this should not affect the company's foray into VoIP in the longer term.
The MCI Web Calling for Windows Live service will be available in the first half of 2006. Essentially, it combines MCI's existing VoIP offerings with Microsoft software.
The service will be available via Windows Live Messenger, the upcoming successor to Microsoft's existing instant messaging (IM) service. At 2.3 cents per minute, it will undercut rates from MCI, which is being acquired by Verizon Communications.
Microsoft has staked a claim in the US VoIP market by announcing its software users can soon make Internet calls to standard phones thanks to a new partnership with MCI. Although rival products from the likes of Yahoo and Skype offer extra features, given Microsoft's broad market reach elsewhere and its alliance with MCI, this should not affect the company's foray into VoIP in the longer term.
The MCI Web Calling for Windows Live service will be available in the first half of 2006. Essentially, it combines MCI's existing VoIP offerings with Microsoft software.
The service will be available via Windows Live Messenger, the upcoming successor to Microsoft's existing instant messaging (IM) service. At 2.3 cents per minute, it will undercut rates from MCI, which is being acquired by Verizon Communications.
Thursday, December 08, 2005
Yahoo! targets! Skype! with! improved! VoIP! offer!
Fab! tastic!
By Tim Richardson
Yahoo! is adding more features to its existing VoIP service in a bid to gain a bigger of the rapidly growing broadband telephony market.
A new version of Yahoo!'s Messenger service is due to be released soon that will enable users to make broadband calls that are reportedly cheaper than those on offer by VoIP giant Skype.
Click here for the complete story.
By Tim Richardson
Yahoo! is adding more features to its existing VoIP service in a bid to gain a bigger of the rapidly growing broadband telephony market.
A new version of Yahoo!'s Messenger service is due to be released soon that will enable users to make broadband calls that are reportedly cheaper than those on offer by VoIP giant Skype.
Click here for the complete story.
Monday, December 05, 2005
Verizon fighting for piece of cable market
By MARY ANN D'URSO
BRIDGEWATER -- Already a giant in the telephone, wireless and DSL markets, Verizon wants to deliver cable television service to customers, too -- which puts it at odds with New Jersey's cable TV giants, including Cablevision and Comcast.
Consumers in a growing number of New Jersey towns can already sign up for Verizon's FiOS service, which uses a new fiber optic network instead of a regular telephone line. It features high-speed Internet access that is faster than its own DSL connection.
But before the company can "switch on" cable and other interactive video services, it wants to change New Jersey's cable franchise rules, which require cable operators to negotiate agreements with individual towns. Such a process could take years, said Dennis Bone, Verizon New Jersey president, delaying competition in what is now a cable industry monopoly.
Verizon is lobbying for a new law that would make a single cable agreement good for the entire state.
BRIDGEWATER -- Already a giant in the telephone, wireless and DSL markets, Verizon wants to deliver cable television service to customers, too -- which puts it at odds with New Jersey's cable TV giants, including Cablevision and Comcast.
Consumers in a growing number of New Jersey towns can already sign up for Verizon's FiOS service, which uses a new fiber optic network instead of a regular telephone line. It features high-speed Internet access that is faster than its own DSL connection.
But before the company can "switch on" cable and other interactive video services, it wants to change New Jersey's cable franchise rules, which require cable operators to negotiate agreements with individual towns. Such a process could take years, said Dennis Bone, Verizon New Jersey president, delaying competition in what is now a cable industry monopoly.
Verizon is lobbying for a new law that would make a single cable agreement good for the entire state.
Wednesday, November 30, 2005
Trolltech Launches First Linux-based VoIP Framework for Handheld Devices
Trolltech, provider of leading technologies that make advanced software faster to build and easier to use, today released Qtopia Phone Edition 2.2, the first Linux-based Voice over IP (VoIP) software solution for mobile and wireless phones and converged media devices. Qtopia Phone 2.2, the latest version of Trolltech's application platform for Linux devices, also features performance improvements and enhanced user interface, multimedia and internationalization functionality.
Click here for the complete story.
Click here for the complete story.
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Apple releases Broadband Tuner 1.0
By Peter Cohen pcohen@maccentral.com
Apple has released Broadband Tuner v1.0, a utility that tweaks the system parameters of Macs with very high speed Internet connections — 5 Mbps or faster.
Broadband Tuner changes the default values for the size of the TCP send and receive buffers used by Mac OS X, according to Apple. “With larger buffers more data can be in transit at once,” said Apple. “A startup configuration file is also updated so that these changes will persist across restarts.”
An optional uninstaller can be used to restore the system settings that were in effect before the parameters were changed. System requirements call for Mac OS X v10.4 or later.
Apple has released Broadband Tuner v1.0, a utility that tweaks the system parameters of Macs with very high speed Internet connections — 5 Mbps or faster.
Broadband Tuner changes the default values for the size of the TCP send and receive buffers used by Mac OS X, according to Apple. “With larger buffers more data can be in transit at once,” said Apple. “A startup configuration file is also updated so that these changes will persist across restarts.”
An optional uninstaller can be used to restore the system settings that were in effect before the parameters were changed. System requirements call for Mac OS X v10.4 or later.
Monday, November 28, 2005
Case study: Broadband — a therapy for retail
There are some businesspeople who question what broadband can possibly do for them, but Mark Gould is not one of them. The managing director of Hughes & Hughes has witnessed the dramatic impact it has had on his retail operation in the past two years.
The bookseller — which has 180 employees and 15 branches across the country — has always prided itself on its customer service. In the past, if a customer couldn’t find the book they wanted, staff would search a CD-Rom-based book database, a fresh version of which was supplied by Hughes & Hughes’ book distributor on a monthly basis. When the internet came along, staff were able to dial up and connect over the web direct to the distributor’s online catalogue. The change was very welcome from a customer service viewpoint, but it had its drawbacks.
Click here for the full story.
The bookseller — which has 180 employees and 15 branches across the country — has always prided itself on its customer service. In the past, if a customer couldn’t find the book they wanted, staff would search a CD-Rom-based book database, a fresh version of which was supplied by Hughes & Hughes’ book distributor on a monthly basis. When the internet came along, staff were able to dial up and connect over the web direct to the distributor’s online catalogue. The change was very welcome from a customer service viewpoint, but it had its drawbacks.
Click here for the full story.
Wednesday, November 23, 2005
America Online, IAC, Hearst Corp., and Allen & Company Lead $16 Million Investment in Brightcove
CAMBRIDGE, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)---- AOL and Brightcove Sign Video Content Distribution Agreement; Barry Diller Joins Brightcove Board of Directors
Brightcove, an Internet TV pioneer, today announced the completion of a major strategic financing round, a groundbreaking video content distribution partnership with AOL, and the appointment of Barry Diller, Chairman and CEO of IAC/InterActiveCorp and Chairman of Expedia, Inc., to the Brightcove Board of Directors.
AOL (NYSE:TWX), IAC/InterActiveCorp (Nasdaq:IACI), Hearst Corporation, and Allen & Company LLC have joined with existing Brightcove investors Accel Partners and General Catalyst Partners to invest $16.2 million in Brightcove. The investments complete a Series B financing round that will fuel the company's growth and the launch of its products and services.
In a separate industry milestone, Brightcove signed a significant and innovative content distribution agreement with AOL.
"We are thrilled to get both the backing of such a strong group of strategic investors and a major distribution agreement with AOL," said Jeremy Allaire, Brightcove Chairman and CEO. "The opportunities these investors bring to Brightcove, combined with the relationships we are already developing, put us in an incredible position to deliver our open Internet TV service and realize our mission to transform the media landscape by enabling video publishers to build broadband businesses that reach consumers directly through the Internet."
Brightcove, an Internet TV pioneer, today announced the completion of a major strategic financing round, a groundbreaking video content distribution partnership with AOL, and the appointment of Barry Diller, Chairman and CEO of IAC/InterActiveCorp and Chairman of Expedia, Inc., to the Brightcove Board of Directors.
AOL (NYSE:TWX), IAC/InterActiveCorp (Nasdaq:IACI), Hearst Corporation, and Allen & Company LLC have joined with existing Brightcove investors Accel Partners and General Catalyst Partners to invest $16.2 million in Brightcove. The investments complete a Series B financing round that will fuel the company's growth and the launch of its products and services.
In a separate industry milestone, Brightcove signed a significant and innovative content distribution agreement with AOL.
"We are thrilled to get both the backing of such a strong group of strategic investors and a major distribution agreement with AOL," said Jeremy Allaire, Brightcove Chairman and CEO. "The opportunities these investors bring to Brightcove, combined with the relationships we are already developing, put us in an incredible position to deliver our open Internet TV service and realize our mission to transform the media landscape by enabling video publishers to build broadband businesses that reach consumers directly through the Internet."
Thursday, November 17, 2005
Internet pioneer sounds alarm on threats to broadband
By Mark Cooper
As Vinton Cerf, ``the father of the Internet,'' accepted the Presidential Medal of Freedom at the White House last week, at the other end of Pennsylvania Avenue, the House Energy and Commerce Committee held hearings on a bill -- an update of the 1996 Telecommunications Act -- that stands to dramatically transform the information superhighway.
Click here for the complete story.
As Vinton Cerf, ``the father of the Internet,'' accepted the Presidential Medal of Freedom at the White House last week, at the other end of Pennsylvania Avenue, the House Energy and Commerce Committee held hearings on a bill -- an update of the 1996 Telecommunications Act -- that stands to dramatically transform the information superhighway.
Click here for the complete story.
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
Warner units to offer TV shows online
By David B. Wilkerson & Alan Doyle, MarketWatch
SAN FRANCISCO (MarketWatch) -- Two Time Warner Inc. units plan to counter TV networks' video on demand by offering vintage television programs such as "Welcome Back, Kotter" free over the Internet, the company said.
Beginning in January, In2TV plans to offer 300 episodes per month and about 100 shows in the first year on six channels ranging from comedy to drama, and Warner Bros. has cleared 300 series, or about 14,000 individual episodes, for use on the service, including a diverse range of programs including "The FBI," Eight Is Enough," "Growing Pains," "Chico and the Man," "V" and "Head of the Class."
The 30-minute shows will include up to two minutes' worth of 15-second commercials that viewers can't circumvent, America Online said.
In the latest reflection of industry-wide concerns about digital piracy, the service won't allow viewers to record shows.
The move is part of its effort to transition AOL from a dialup service to the portal-based model, taking advantage of both the increased penetration of high-speed Internet connections and rising online-advertising revenues.
SAN FRANCISCO (MarketWatch) -- Two Time Warner Inc. units plan to counter TV networks' video on demand by offering vintage television programs such as "Welcome Back, Kotter" free over the Internet, the company said.
Beginning in January, In2TV plans to offer 300 episodes per month and about 100 shows in the first year on six channels ranging from comedy to drama, and Warner Bros. has cleared 300 series, or about 14,000 individual episodes, for use on the service, including a diverse range of programs including "The FBI," Eight Is Enough," "Growing Pains," "Chico and the Man," "V" and "Head of the Class."
The 30-minute shows will include up to two minutes' worth of 15-second commercials that viewers can't circumvent, America Online said.
In the latest reflection of industry-wide concerns about digital piracy, the service won't allow viewers to record shows.
The move is part of its effort to transition AOL from a dialup service to the portal-based model, taking advantage of both the increased penetration of high-speed Internet connections and rising online-advertising revenues.
Friday, November 11, 2005
XO Communications Announces Agreement to Create National Fixed Broadband Wireless Company
11/11/05 - XO Communications, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: XOCM.OB) announced an agreement that will create a leading provider of fixed broadband wireless services to businesses and service providers. In order to create and finance the fixed wireless business, XO will sell its national wireline telecommunications business for $700 million in cash. Following the sale, the Company will retain its fixed broadband wireless spectrum assets and be uniquely positioned to be a leading provider of fixed broadband wireless services nationally as one of the largest holders of fixed wireless licenses in the 28 GHz-31 GHz spectrum range covering more than 70 U.S. major metropolitan markets.
Click here for the entire story.
Click here for the entire story.
Tuesday, November 08, 2005
Less VoIP May Be More When It Comes to Click-To-Call Ads
By Robert Poe
It's no secret that the big Web portals consider voice over IP a key ingredient in the mix of e-mail, instant messaging and other services they're offering visitors to their sites. The mystery is how exactly they expect to make money from it. One clue to their thinking is scheduled to surface soon, with the expected announcement of a big-name customer for eStara's click-to-call VoIP software. The software and other eStara products make it possible for advertisers to know exactly how many customers contacted them by phone in response to a specific Web ad.
Click here for the entire story.
It's no secret that the big Web portals consider voice over IP a key ingredient in the mix of e-mail, instant messaging and other services they're offering visitors to their sites. The mystery is how exactly they expect to make money from it. One clue to their thinking is scheduled to surface soon, with the expected announcement of a big-name customer for eStara's click-to-call VoIP software. The software and other eStara products make it possible for advertisers to know exactly how many customers contacted them by phone in response to a specific Web ad.
Click here for the entire story.
Tuesday, November 01, 2005
The Changing Face Of The Internet
You may have missed it this week. In the dead middle of a Business Week interview with SBC chief Edward Whitacre is a comment that foretells the future of broadband. At least, the future incumbent broadband providers are planning for. But it’s not a pretty picture for the rest of us.
When asked whether he was concerned about Google, MSN, Vonage, and other companies' plans to get into broadband services, the CEO of the telco giant let slip his plans to create a "walled garden" where your freedom to surf is sacrificed at the altar of SBC profits:
How do you think they’re going to get to customers? Through a broadband pipe. Cable companies have them. We have them. Now what they would like to do is use my pipes free, but I ain’t going to let them do that because we have spent this capital and we have to have a return on it. So there’s going to have to be some mechanism for these people who use these pipes to pay for the portion they’re using. Why should they be allowed to use my pipes?
The internet can’t be free in that sense, because we and the cable companies have made an investment and for a Google or Yahoo! or Vonage or anybody to expect to use these pipes [for] free is nuts!
Americans take for granted the diversity of information and services they find at the click of a mouse.
When asked whether he was concerned about Google, MSN, Vonage, and other companies' plans to get into broadband services, the CEO of the telco giant let slip his plans to create a "walled garden" where your freedom to surf is sacrificed at the altar of SBC profits:
How do you think they’re going to get to customers? Through a broadband pipe. Cable companies have them. We have them. Now what they would like to do is use my pipes free, but I ain’t going to let them do that because we have spent this capital and we have to have a return on it. So there’s going to have to be some mechanism for these people who use these pipes to pay for the portion they’re using. Why should they be allowed to use my pipes?
The internet can’t be free in that sense, because we and the cable companies have made an investment and for a Google or Yahoo! or Vonage or anybody to expect to use these pipes [for] free is nuts!
Americans take for granted the diversity of information and services they find at the click of a mouse.
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