Product Launch

PressPass launches platform that helps people find the right journalists

valencio — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 10:02:29 -0800

Every now and then, people need help in getting their message out to the public. Be it a non-profit that’s raising awareness for their cause, a local business launching a new product or service or a citizen with a newsworthy photo.

Aimed at making it easier for small businesses, non-profits, start-ups and citizen reporters to get their news-worthy stories out to targeted reporters, PressPass launches beta version of its live open directory of journalists and media professionals from across the globe.

Organized by the outlets they work for, the beats they cover, and regions they’re from, PressPass aids these people in quickly finding the journalists who are relevant to their story. The platform is starting with over 7600 journalists from 240 media organizations.

PressPass tracks what the journalists are sharing online, what they're reading, where they rank in comparison to their peers, the topics they care about and who’s getting their attention. This information enables the user to get a more in-depth understanding of the reporter, ensuring that they’re sending their content to the right people.

The website also helps users to get in touch directly with the journalist, by letting them reach out via Twitter. Since journalists are often on tight deadlines, this helps skip long emails and start the immediate conversation.

At the time of launch, PressPass is tracking an average of 75,000 tweets a day, with each tweet continuing to build and refresh each journalist’s profiles.

PressPass’ founder David Haddad says “Our goal is to help strengthen the process of people submitting information to trusted sources in mainstream and local media, and contribute to news organizations in receiving original content from the public.”

“Journalism is penetrating into areas it’s never been before, and has started to invite others to participate in the story-telling process. Through PressPass, I’m hoping that everyone who has a newsworthy story will be able to not only find the right reporters to get their word out, but build trustworthy relationships with them.” said PressPass’ co-founder, Valencio Cardoso

PressPass is a self-funded start-up based in Dubai, founded by David Haddad (a product manager and software engineer) and co-founded by Valencio Cardoso (interactive designer) - both of whom are enthusiasts of participatory communication via technology.

Twitter prepares launch of Arabic language support

editor — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 06:01:01 -0800

Within weeks, Twitter users will be able to tweet from right to left, as the micro-blogging site has announced the launch of language support for several languages including Arabic, Farsi, Hebrew and Urdu. “More than 425,000 volunteers contribute to the translation center,” the company said. “We’ll make Arabic, Farsi, Hebrew and Urdu available for everyone on Twitter.com later this spring.”

Abu Dhabi Media and Entertainment Network India join forces to launch Radio Mirchi

editor — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 03:48:13 -0800

Abu Dhabi Media and Entertainment Network (India) Limited, a subsidiary of The Times of India Group, have spiced up the airwaves in the Emirates with the launch of India's largest FM brand, Radio Mirchi.

Bollywood superstar, Rani Mukherjee, known for her award-winning acting performances, was in Abu Dhabi for the launch celebration and joined the Abu Dhabi Media and Radio Mirchi teams to push the launch button, making the station go live across the UAE.

Radio Mirchi is the first radio station of its kind in the Emirates to offer nationwide coverage, with three exclusive frequencies- 97.3FM Abu Dhabi, 88.8FM Dubai & northern emirates, and 95.6FM Al Ain- catering to the country's extensive south Asian expat population.

The business partnership also represents Abu Dhabi Media's first extension into the lucrative south Asian broadcasting sector and the first ever international association for Entertainment Network (India) Ltd. and the Radio Mirchi brand.

Malcolm Wall, CEO of Abu Dhabi Media, commented: "The addition of Radio Mirchi to the Abu Dhabi Media portfolio is a significant step for the company. Through this partnership, we have introduced a new target demographic for Abu Dhabi Media that will complement our existing Arabic and English language radio brands. The south Asian community is an important audience here in the Emirates, and Radio Mirchi provides a powerful platform for brands to reach this large and rapidly growing consumer group."

"Mirchi" is Hindi for chilli, and Radio Mirchi is renowned for being the hottest radio station in India. The brand brings the authentic taste of Desi radio to the UAE, and offers the same award winning mix of content and talent that has kept Indian listeners tuning in for years, packaged specifically to suit the diverse needs of the Emirates' south Asian audience.

Prashant Panday, CEO of Entertainment Network (India) Limited, also commented: "In India, we are proud to have over 40 million listeners who swear by our brand. Radio Mirchi is known as the gateway to Bollywood and our UAE launch brings the best of the brand and our unique programming innovations to the people of the Emirates. From the biggest heroes, heroines and directors, to the most popular music composers, lyricists and singers- the station has it all.

"Our first foray overseas is a significant step in the evolution of the Radio Mirchi brand and a landmark event for the company, and we are happy to partner with such a well known and reputed company like Abu Dhabi Media," added Panday.

With a fun and dynamic lineup of shows throughout the day, there is plenty to keep listeners entertained and engaged. With international and community news, the hottest music and unrivalled access to Bollywood- all broadcast in a mixture of Hindi and English with a unique flavor from home- Radio Mirchi is sure to inject sunshine and energy into its listeners' days.

"Abu Dhabi Radio Network is continuously striving to serve the needs of all our communities in the UAE, and the launch of Radio Mirchi will cater to a new audience for the company," commented Abdul Rahman Awadh Al Harthi, Director of the Abu Dhabi Radio Network. "We are thrilled to bring such a premium brand to the UAE for the first time - the addition will be a real asset to our suite of radio brands and will once again extend Abu Dhabi Radio Network's reach across the all of the Emirates with its nationwide frequency."

Radio Mirchi has been the pioneer of private FM radio in India since its launch in 2001, and with a presence across 14 states with 32 stations, it is the largest FM channel in the country.

Radio Mirchi Key Programmes:

Mirchi Mornings- Every morning from 6 am to 11am: Wake up to Mirchi Mornings with RJ Aashi and RJ Prateek as they prep you for the day ahead with a fun take on news from around the world, peppered with Bollywood updates and the hottest songs from across the decade.

Mid-day Mohabbat- Mid Mornings 11am to 2 pm: Single girl around town, RJ Yachna is the one friend every homemaker needs. From quick fixes around the house, colors for the day, to figuring out your online-banking, coupled with great music and trivia from the 90s, RJ Yachna is the super-girl you want to be best friends with!

Total Filmy- Afternoons 2 pm to 5 pm: Get your daily dose of films with Total Filmy. The hottest Bollywood stars, the latest interviews and reviews on movies from a M.B.E graduate (Masters in Bollywood Entertainment!), RJ Anoop. Tune in to know everything there is to know- from gossip, to new releases, to trivia contests - it all happens first on Bollywood's very own radio station!

Bumper to Bumper- Evenings 5pm to 9 pm: Driving back home, Bumper to Bumper, is where RJ Shardul and RJ Sukriti keep your traffic woes at bay! Giving you a look at the day gone by, they make sure you get to unwind with the latest hit songs, Bollywood specials and news from around the world.

Classic Retro- Late evenings 9 pm to 12 am: Settle in for three hours of classic retro with a treasure trove of trivia and stories that transport you to the golden era of the Hindi film industry with RJ Fahad. From Dilip Kumar, to Dharmendra. Raj Kapoor, to Rishi Kapoor. Legendary writers, actors, light men - all brought to life beautifully with couplets and poetry to set the mood.

Mirchi Weekends: With your weekends programmed differently and tie-ups with the best DJs and clubs in UAE - you just have to tune in to make sure your weekends are truly Mirchi!

mediaME to publish "Who's Who in Digital Media Middle East 2012"

editor — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 03:23:44 -0800

mediaME.com, the Middle East’s first and largest user-generated online community for advertising and media professionals, will publish a directory of the digital marketing communications companies in the region, entitled “Who’s Who in Digital Media Middle East 2012”.

mediaME’s parent company MediaScope has been a leading publisher of such directories in Jordan for over a decade, with Who’s Who in Jordan’s Advertising & Media and Who’s Who in Jordan’s ICT. Now, through the leadership that mediaME has established in its segment across the Middle East, it will utilize MediaScope’s experience to produce a comprehensive directory to serve the region’s digital industry.

“Who’s Who in Digital Media Middle East 2012” will feature profiles of the region’s digital media (owners, representatives, networks … etc), digital marketing agencies, interactive design companies, monitoring & research services, content providers & aggregators and other related service companies.

The guide offers a unique company profile format including corporate profile text, company logo, key staff photos, major clients and contacts; and therefore provides a comprehensive and accessible information package on the leading companies operating in the field.

The online edition has already been launched as a section on mediaME (whoswho.mediame.com), which will benefit from being part of the largest online community of marketing communications professionals in the Middle East (over 13,500 registered members and over 50,000 unique monthly visitors). It will also be available as a section on the mediaME Mobile App.

mediaME is presenting companies with an opportunity to obtain a free profile in the Online Edition, if uploaded before 21 February, 2012, therefore this publication is still open to more participants.

The print edition will be published in March, whereby 10,000 copies will be distributed free of charge to a database of major advertising clients and agencies across the Middle East covering GCC, Levant and Egypt; in addition to distribution at media and marketing exhibitions, digital media conferences and events and more.

Response from across the region has been very positive so far, reflecting the need for this publication, with over 50 companies already participating and many more set to join, to ensure that “Who’s Who in Digital Media Middle East 2012” will deliver comprehensive information and will facilitate further growth and success of the region’s vibrant digital marketing communications industry. For more information, kindly visit whoswho.mediame.com.

The world’s first interactive e-book about the history of football to be released on iPad and Android

editor — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 01:17:35 -0800

There will be an exciting new player on the e-book team in mid- December. The history of the beautiful game is about to be brought to life in a way never seen before on the tablet computer format. Leading Brands Publishing, the Dubai-based custom publishing house, today announced the imminent release of Kick-Off, the world’s first interactive e-book charting the history of football.

Kick-Off tackles the history of football right from its roots in 2 B.C. China through its organisation into the game we recognise today during the 19th century right up until the swinging 60s with its classic world cups and legendary players. The e-book is packed with rare, vintage videos including some of the oldest recorded clips of football dating back to the 1870s and offers a unique insight to the development of the game throughout its history. A particular highlight is a video clip of a young Pele announcing his precocious talent during the final of the 1958 world cup.

This unique e-book will be available to download using the MAGapp e-reader. MAGapp is an application designed by Leading Brands Publishing to create interactive publications that have built-in video, audio, social media and web links, and is currently available on the iPad and 10.1” Android-based tablets.

Mars Mlodzinski, company partner at Leading Brands, spoke of the advantages of releasing Kick-Off through the MAGapp e-reader: “Publications released through MAGapp are not simply glorified PDFs like the majority of publications released on tablets. Magazines and e-books sold through MAGapp come to life with videos and live features that make reading them a fully interactive and entertaining experience. Now the history of football in Kick-Off leaps off the screen through fantastic vintage videos and web features. The goal for Kick-Off was to make it as exciting as the game it chronicles; we know football fans around the globe will have a fantastic experience reading and watching Kick-Off.”

There will also be a competition offering readers the chance to win an autographed print of Gordon Banks making football’s most iconic save against Pele’s header at the 1970 Mexico World Cup.

The global appeal of football is undoubted and Kick-Off covers the game globally not just focussing on European teams and players. Kick-Off is offering sponsorship and advertising opportunities; with the capabilities of MAGapp, advertisements can be fully interactive with video and audio content and direct web links that are accessed at the touch of a screen. Don’t miss this open goal and take your opportunity to sponsor Kick-Off now.

Networking site launched for GCC-based professionals

editor — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 03:40:47 -0800

A social networking website called Arabianomics.com has been launched for the GCC region’s professional workforce. The website was launched to provide a medium for networking and discussion, as well as to enhance the communications capabilities of business professionals in the GCC countries.

“Despite the steady rise in business opportunities across the Gulf in nearly every sector, there was no way to discover and pursue these opportunities online, until now,” said Arabianomics.com publisher Lucien Zeigler.

The website allows professionals from any industry to find and post jobs. The website also offers a variety of features that allow GCC- based professionals to engage, including a discussion forum that allows people to seek business opportunities.

Lexmark’s new App supports mobile printing

Smitha — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 02:20:17 -0800

Lexmark International, Inc. announced availability for its Lexmark Mobile Printing App for both Android and Apple iOS.

The Lexmark Mobile Printing App, which is designed for Android and Apple iOS smartphones and tablets, allows you to print from virtually anywhere, with the device and the printer in the same WiFi-network. The new App works with the Lexmark Pro715 or Pro915 all-in-one (AIO) inkjets and most Lexmark laser printers introduced since 2005.

The App makes it easy to “locate” a print device, add it to your list of preferred printers, and send pdf, tiff, or jpeg file formats for quick, on-demand printing.

Apps for Android and Apple are available for free and easy download from the Android App Store or the iTunes Store.

Tablets, smartphones and cloud-based technology are changing the way small businesses and enterprises manage their day-to-day activities. For those on the go, moving between locations requires a greater need to access and produce documents anytime, anywhere with ease.

In today’s unwired world, mobile technology to quickly complete tasks is a new prerequisite to doing business. The new Lexmark Mobile Printing App, which works on both Lexmark inkjet and laser compatible products, has simplified wireless printing to meet the needs of any size business.

This new mobile print capability for Lexmark’s latest AIO inkjet technology, along with the Lexmark cloud-based Print Release solution announced in October, are among many Lexmark solutions designed to help small and medium businesses and enterprises be more efficient, saving them time and money.

Compatible with Android 2.1 and higher and Apple iOS 4.2 and higher. The device must be on the same Wi-Fi network as the printer. Performance is dependent upon network connection quality and speeds.

Samsung to launch Google TV

editor — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 03:58:31 -0800

According to the head of Samsung's TV division, Samsung Electronics is in last-stage talks with Google to launch a television with Google TV software . Yoon Boo-keun said the company plans to unveil its Google TV by next year. He added that Samsung's Google TV would differ from its competitors' versions. Google TV currently comes built-in on certain Sony Corp. television models and on Logitech International set-top boxes. Google TV allows consumers to access online videos, websites, specialised apps, and video games on their televisions.

Samsung introduces new GALAXY smartphone naming strategy, expands GALAXY smartphone range

editor — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:08 -0800

Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., a leading mobile phone provider, today announced a new naming strategy for its GALAXY range of smartphones. The creation of the new naming system is marked by the release of four new GALAXY smartphone, the GALAXY W, GALAXY M Pro, GALAXY Y and GALAXY Y Pro, all of which run on the powerful Android 2.3 Gingerbread operating systems.

Samsung has created a new and simplified system of naming its smartphones, focused on its ever-expanding portfolio of industry-leading Android devices. The naming structure will organize and group all devices into five classes, identified by a single alphabetical letter. Devices will then be further designated by an additional indicator which will identify specific functionality.

“As Samsung continues to innovate, our goal is to provide consumers with an experience uniquely tailored to their needs. We have introduced steps to ensure users can simply identify the device designed to deliver the perfect experience for them,” Mr. Shaher Dasouki, head of Mobile Phones Department at Samsung Levant.

“In addition to this new naming strategy at IFA this year we unveilling the GALAXY W, GALAXY M Pro, GALAXY Y and GALAXY Y Pro – designed with the professional and social consumer in mind. These products further build on the phenomenal success we have enjoyed with the GALAXY range.”

New ways to identify your GALAXY Smartphones

According to the new naming structure, new class designators refer to the specific category that the smartphone product fits into, for example a premium device, or an entry-level device. All classes will be used within the higher branding of the ‘GALAXY’ smartphones.

“S” (Super Smart) – Devices at the very pinnacle of Samsung’s mobile portfolio. This class will only be used on flagship devices such as the Samsung Galaxy S, the award-winning smartphone that has already sold 10 million units throughout the world.
“R” (Royal / Refined) – Premium category models, a combination of power, performance and productivity for the individual who wants to be defined by the technology they carry.
“W” (Wonder) – High quality, strategic models, perfect for those seeking a balance between style and performance.
“M” (Magical) –High-performance models at an economic price-point.
“Y” (Young) – These are entry models or strategic models for emerging markets or a younger audience more sensitive to price.

Class indicators allow a more specific description of the key selling points of a device:

“Pro” – This indicates that the device includes a QWERTY keyboard for speedier email typing and increased productivity for professionals.
“Plus” – This indicates that the device is an upgrade from an existing model.
“LTE” – This indicates that the device is designed to utilize LTE (Long-Term Evolution) connectivity standards, a 4G standard to provide increased mobile network capacity and speed.

Introducing the Samsung GALAXY W

Equipped with high-spec technology including a 1.4GHz Processor, HSDPA 14.4 Mbps connectivity and a large 3.7” touch screen, the GALAXY W is the ideal solution for those who need to Live Fast and Live Smart. This powerful performance is enhanced with the inclusion of Samsung’s Game, Social and Music Hubs, providing one-stop solutions for a consumer’s gaming, socializing and listening needs. Kies Air enables additional control, allowing users who have misplaced their phone to track it, meaning complete peace of mind.

GALAXY M Pro

Providing a strong performance for high value, the GALAXY M Pro is the ideal solution for young and sociable professionals. A QWERTY keyboard provides swift, accurate typing on the go - enhancing productivity when drafting memos, documents and messages. The keyboard also simplifies communication with Social Hub allowing users to talk to whoever they want, however they want, all from their contact list. Communication history, instant messaging and updates from social networking sites are all readily available.

An optical track pad and touch screen ensures the interface is easy and simple to use. This productivity and functionality is packed into a sleek 9.97m body. Designed with professionals in mind, the GALAXY M Pro offers extensive productivity through a variety of enterprise solutions, including Exchange Active Sync, Sybase Afaria, CISCO Mobile and CISCO WebEx.

GALAXY Y

Compact but with a full range of features and allowing the ability to stay social on-the-go, the GALAXY Y is an ideal device for younger consumers. Seamless multitasking is enabled thanks to the device’s powerful 832MHz processor. The GALAXY Y includes Samsung’s Social Hub, allowing users to stay connected with their online social circles. Equipped with Samsung’s TouchWiz User Interface, the GALAXY Y delivers a simple and intuitive experience. Additionally, the inclusion of SWYPE facilitates speedy typing. The GALAXY Y is available in a variety of colors ensuring it can fit with anyone’s style.

GALAXY Y Pro

Equipped with a QWERTY keyboard as well as enhanced social and professional features, the GALAXY Y Pro Smartphone is optimized for young professionals looking to manage both their work and home lives with ease. Users can stay constantly connected with Social Hub Premium, which supports email, social network integration and instant messaging.

An optimized, intuitive touch screen interface allows an accessible and intelligent experience, while users are able to work on the go thanks to ThinkFree mobile office, enabling a variety of Office documents (Word, PPT, Excel and PDF) to be edited from the handset. Productivity is enhanced thanks to the combined power of touch screen and QWERTY keyboard inputs, enabling smooth navigation with efficient and professional input. WiFi Direct also allows faster transfer rates, allowing content to be shared quickly.

RIM introduces new Blackberry smartphones

editor — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 06:39:12 -0800

Research In Motion has unveiled two new Blackberry smartphones, the Bold 9790 and the Curve 9380. The new OS 7 phones have several new features. The Curve 9380 is the first of its kind to feature a touchscreen. The Bold 9790 is also a step up from the 9780, with a 2.44 inch touchscreen, a 1GHz processor and 8GB of storage.

"BlackBerry smartphones offer a uniquely refined mobile communications experience that people love, and we think many customers will be thrilled by the faster performance, beautiful touch displays and compact designs available with these new BlackBerry 7-based models," said Carlo Chiarello, RIM's vice president of handheld product management.