Disney Uses Maven Video Software for Theatrical-Quality Content Delivery

Disney began offering full-screen, theatrical-quality video content using a broadband video software platform from Maven Networks. Disney is initially providing broadband consumers with trailers, clips, behind-the-scenes segments, interviews, and other film content of "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe." The Maven software allows users to receive trailers and clips that are automatically downloaded and synchronized directly to their video-enabled iPods.With this initiative, Disney becomes the first film studio to publish...

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FCC Expected to Consider USF this Friday

The FCC is expected to consider on-going support mechanisms for the Universal Service Fund (USF) at is Open Meeting scheduled for Friday, December 9, 2005. http://www.fcc.govIn June 2005, The FCC launched a formal inquiry into the management, administration and oversight of the Universal Service Fund, which helps provide affordable phone service in rural areas, fund Internet access and telecommunications equipment in the schools and libraries, bring telemedicine services to rural areas, and assist low-income families with their phone bills. Since...

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Eagle Broadband Supplies HD IP Set-Top Boxes for Luxury Hotels

Eagle Broadband has received orders for its high definition MediaPro IP5000HD set-top boxes from KoolConnect Technologies, a leading provider of digital interactive entertainment solutions for the hospitality industry. The MediaPro IP set-top boxes are being deployed with KoolConnect's Intrigue high definition Video On-Demand system at three hotel properties, including the Landmark Hong Kong, the Mandarin Oriental Tokyo as well as one of the hottest casino resorts in Las Vegas.KoolConnect's Intrigue system and Eagle's set-top box enable high definition...

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AOL Launches New Security Suite

AOL launched a new Safety and Security Center to protect its users against viruses, spyware, phishing attacks, identity theft, and other online threats. Among the safety and security features found in the AOL Safety and Security Center:Virus protection powered by McAfee that is automatically-updated.AOL Spyware Protection 2.0 with four different levels of protection against more than 28,000 known spyware, adware, and sneakware programs. ASP 2.0, powered by CA, is automatically updated to help protect users against new and emerging threats.Phishing...

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CWA Members Vote Strike Authorization at AT&T

On Friday, embers of the Communications Workers of America at AT&T voted overwhelmingly to give CWA leaders authorization to call a strike if a fair contract cannot be reached.Negotiations currently are underway for a new contract covering nearly 12,000 CWA-represented workers at AT&T whose collective bargaining agreement expires on Dec. 10. For a strike to take place, the next step would be for CWA's executive board to authorize President Larry Cohen to set a strike date.In a statement, the CWA said its members were very concerned over...

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Fluke to Acquire Visual Networks

Fluke Electronics agreed to acquire Visual Networks in a deal valued at approximately $75 million ($1.83 per share).Visual Networks, which is based in Rockville, Maryland, supplies a range of enterprise network and application performance management solutions. Its flagship product, Visual UpTime Select, provides in-depth, real-time and historical information that enables organizations to intelligently manage application and network performance and availability across the entire enterprise. Over the past year, the product has evolved from a WAN-based...

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Alcatel, AT&T & Telmex Invest in 2Wire for Triple Play

Alcatel agreed to acquire a 25% percent stake in 2Wire, a developer of home broadband network equipment. In addition, AT&T and Telmex have also agreed to acquire minority interests in 2Wire from 2Wire's existing shareholders.Alcatel said the strategic partnership broadens and extends its end-to-end, fully integrated triple play solution.2Wire's standards-based residential home gateways allow operators to manage the interoperability of a wide range of devices, electronics and equipment that are increasingly being deployed within the consumer...

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British and German Unions Seek EC Support in Ericsson/Marconi Deal

British unions Amicus, TGWU and GMB and the German unions Verdi and IG Metall are seeking the support of the European Commission in the issue of Ericsson's proposed takeover of Marconi. Marconi employs around 3800 employees in the UK, of which 1700 will transfer to Ericsson once the sale is completed. Ericsson employs around 700 in the UK and a further 1700 employees in Ireland.Although the unions support the sale to Ericsson, they are seeking assurances on the merger. The unions also want guarantees from the two companies on their members pay...

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