News Round-Up (III): Cisco, ExtendMedia, Concurrent, Hillcrest Labs, LG Electronics, Sony

Due to the large volume of interactive TV-related news generated over the past few days, we are covering stories in this issue in round-up/summary format. Our regular news coverage will return shortly.

• Cisco Systems appears to be ramping up its presence in the emerging "TV Everywhere" space with the announcement that it will acquire multiscreen video-management software solutions provider, ExtendMedia (whose customers include AT&T, Bell Canada and Cablevision), in order to enable it to "help service providers deliver multiscreen offerings as the market transitions to IP." Financial terms of the acquisition deal have not been disclosed, though it has been reported to value ExtendMedia at anywhere between $65 million and $80 million. "ExtendMedia brings to Cisco a strong software team that understands the complexities of delivering multiscreen video over IP networks," Cisco states in its press materials. "ExtendMedia's CMS software, which will integrate with Cisco's current IP video offerings, will be a core component of Cisco's next-generation video architecture. Together, Cisco and ExtendMedia will enable service providers to deploy a next-generation, end-to-end video architecture that delivers the best consumer experience with access to any content, over any network, on any device."
• Concurrent, a company that specializes in VOD, media data and advanced advertising solutions, has appointed Andy Huang as VP of engineering, and Jim Denenny as VP and general manager of Web and mobile video Solutions, in what it describes as a bid to further its "multiscreen video delivery and monetization strategy." Huang was previously director of engineering for IP video at Cisco Systems; Denenny was previously VP and general manager/North America for ANT Software.
• Hillcrest Labs has announced that: 1) it has signed a worldwide IP licensing agreement that will provide Sony Computer Entertainment with access to Hillcrest's patent portfolio for its flagship in-air pointing and motion-control technology, Freespace (note: the companies say that they are not disclosing any additional details about the agreement); and 2) LG Electronics is using Freespace to power a new "Magic Wand" point-and-click remote for its first 3D-ready, Internet-connected HDTV's, following the signing of a worldwide patent license agreement, covering both current and future products. "The 'Magic Wand' remote, powered by Hillcrest Labs' Freespace technology, will be included in certain models within LG's new Infinia line of LED LCD HDTV's," Hillcrest and LG state in their press materials. "The Infinia sets combine a slim design, a thin bezel, and an enhanced Internet connectivity package with a variety of entertainment options, including LG's NetCast Entertainment Access. In addition to the wired Ethernet jack in the Infinia sets, these NetCast-enabled TVs can integrate into a wireless home network by using a USB wireless broadband adaptor (sold separately). The Infinia models are the first to use LG's unique 'Magic Wand' remote control system. LG's 'Magic' user interface brings together Internet-based applications, television menus, embedded games, and more using simple hand motions to control an on-screen cursor on the television. Consumers using the 'Magic Wand' remote with Netcast will be able to access and navigate Internet-based applications specifically designed for the TV, without the need of a computer."