BlackBerry 10 Smartphones Now Available On ShopBlackBerry.com in Canada

Source: BlackBerry Press - Press Releases - March 31, 2014 

BlackBerry 10 Smartphones Now Available On ShopBlackBerry.com in Canada

Waterloo, ON – BlackBerry Limited (NASDAQ: BBRY; TSX: BB), a world leader in mobile communications, today announced that beginning later today, customers in Canada will be able to purchase SIM-unlocked GSM models of the BlackBerry® Z30, BlackBerry® Z10, BlackBerry® Q10 and BlackBerry® Q5 smartphones directly from BlackBerry on the ShopBlackBerry.com site for Canada at http://ca.ShopBlackBerry.com.  

All the BlackBerry® 10 smartphones available on the site will be compatible with GSM-based 4G LTE and 4G networks in Canada, as well as other countries around the world with carriers who operate supported GSM networks.

ShopBlackBerry.com also has an assortment of accessories for BlackBerry 10 smartphones and BlackBerry OS models. Customers will find a variety of carrying solutions, chargers and audio peripherals available for purchase.

The BlackBerry 10 smartphones are also available from leading wireless carriers and retailers in Canada.

About BlackBerry

A global leader in mobile communications, BlackBerry® revolutionized the mobile industry when it was introduced in 1999. Today, BlackBerry aims to inspire the success of our millions of customers around the world by continuously pushing the boundaries of mobile experiences. Founded in 1984 and based in Waterloo, Ontario, BlackBerry operates offices in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and Latin America. The Company trades under the ticker symbols "BB" on the Toronto Stock Exchange and "BBRY" on the NASDAQ. For more information, visit www.blackberry.com.

LG Breaks with Conventional Concepts of Lighting at Light+Building 2014

Source: LG Press - Press Releases - March 31, 2014 

LG Breaks with Conventional Concepts of Lighting at Light+Building 2014 

Smart Lighting Lead the Way as LG Expands Global Lighting Business

FRANKFURT, Mar. 31, 2014 — LG Electronics (LG) will mark the expansion of its global lighting business by introducing its newest lighting products at the Light+Building 2014 trade show from March 30 to April 4 at the Frankfurt Fair and Exhibition Centre in Germany. Under the theme of Simply Smart in Lighting, LG will showcase advanced lighting technologies in the areas of Energy Savings & Payback, Connect & Control and Comfort & Well-being.

Making its global debut following its introduction in Korea will be LG’s Smart Lamp, which can be connected directly to a smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth and controlled with a free downloadable Android or iOS app. The Smart Lamp offers nine modes of operation that can be personalized for each individual. In Sleep Mode, for example, the Smart Lamp can be set to gradually dim as the user falls asleep and brighten in the morning when the alarm clock sounds.

Another innovative lighting product being unveiled at Light+Building 2014 is LG’s OLED Table Lamp, the world’s first product of its kind to utilize a curved OLED panel as a light source. Produced exclusively by LG Chem, the OLED panels utilized in the OLED Table Lamp are incredibly thin and flexible and are considered by many to be the next generation in lighting technology. LG OLED Table Lamp can also be controlled remotely with a compatible smartphone or tablet running the LG lighting control app.

Also being showcased for the first time at the Light+Building show is LG’sColor Tunable Flat Light which can alter its color and color temperature via the smartphone and tablet app to create a unique mood for any room. Light has always been known to have an amazing effect on people, both emotionally and biologically. Used effectively, LG’s Color Tunable Flat Light can play a key role in promoting the well-being of individuals and creating a pleasant ambience.

To highlight their advanced capabilities, all three products will be demonstrated in LG’s Smart Home Zone at Light+Building using LG’s HomeChat™ service, first introduced at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January. With HomeChat, customers will be able to communicate with the lights using the popular messaging app LINE, utilizing normal everyday language. Type “I am going out” and HomeChat will ask “Do you want me to turn on security mode?” If the user responds affirmatively, the lights will be randomly cycled on and off to give the appearance of the home being occupied.

Other LG lighting products on display at Light+Building 2014 are:

LG LED Flat Light incorporates the company’s advanced optical technology from its incredibly thin LED TVs, making LG’s LED Flat Light approximately 70 percent slimmer than competing LED lighting. The slim profile and soft light generated by LG LED Flat Light makes this appropriate for most living and work spaces.

Benefitting from the company’s proprietary technology in heat dissipation, LG LED-T111 lighting offers the brightness of a 70 watt metal-halide lamp (3,400 lumens) from its small and light form factor. This product is a perfect match for high-end retail stores and other commercial spaces where premium feel and energy efficiency are high priorities.

LG’s LED Streetlights and Downlights are designed to be modular to meet the needs of various environments and customers. The modular design makes LG lights more future-proof since older parts and components can be replaced with more efficient ones. Modular design also has the potential to save customers money because only certain parts need to be changed — as opposed to the entire luminaire housing—and future upgrades would likely result in higher energy efficiency. And to ensure that LG LED Streetlights properly blend in with their surroundings, LG set a high priority on minimalistic design with high functionality.

LED Essentials from LG Lighting, a new lineup of commercial LED products from LG, will also be unveiled at Light+Building 2014. Focusing on the core features and benefits of LED lighting, the five products in LED Essentials from LG Lighting — halogen replacement downlight, CFL replacement downlight, LED recessed flat, LED high-bay and LED batten — are designed to better meet the needs of the global commercial lighting market.

“At Light+Building, LG is presenting a new paradigm of lighting solutions that breaks with conventional concepts and traditions,” said Si-kwan Ryu, executive vice president of LG Electronics’ Lighting Business. “Our newest smart and energy efficient lighting products are expected to set new standards of innovation and deliver even higher value to our customers.”

As the world’s largest trade fair for lighting and building-services technology solutions, the biennial Light+Building trade show is host to 2,300 exhibitors and nearly 200,000 visitors from the fields of architecture, design, engineering and other related disciplines. Visitors to the Light+Building show are encouraged to see LG’s newest lighting products for themselves at the company’s booth in Halle 6 Ebene 2 Stand A60 from March 30 to April 4, 2014.

BlackBerry First to Receive Coveted “Full Operational Capability” on U.S. Department of Defense Networks

Source: BlackBerry Press - Press Releases - March 12, 2014 

BlackBerry First to Receive Coveted “Full Operational Capability” on U.S. Department of Defense Networks 

Validation completes DISA’s certification process for BlackBerry 10 mobility management platform

Waterloo, Ontario – BlackBerry Limited (NASDAQ: BBRY; TSX: BB), a world leader in mobile communications, today announced that BlackBerry® 10 has become the first mobility solution to receive Full Operational Capability (FOC) to run on U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) networks from the U.S. Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA). The designation follows the Company’s Authority to Operate (ATO) certification and enables government users with a BlackBerry 10 smartphone connected with BlackBerry® Enterprise Service 10 (BES10) to securely access email, data, apps and other DoD network resources.

BlackBerry was the first Mobile Device Management (MDM) provider to earn ATO and becomes the only vendor with FOC. The granting of FOC completes BlackBerry’s security certification process with the DoD.

“As the first mobile solutions provider to achieve FOC, BlackBerry continues to prove why we are the most trusted enterprise mobility platform,” said John Sims, President of Global Enterprise Services at BlackBerry. “BlackBerry worked side-by-side with DISA to help certify the BlackBerry 10 solution offering the U.S. government an end-to-end mobile infrastructure that does not compromise on security and provides the most productive and collaborative mobile experience.”

FOC allows government employees to realize the full security, productivity, communication and collaboration benefits of the BlackBerry 10 solution. One of the key features now available to DoD customers with a BlackBerry 10 smartphone is BlackBerry® Balance™ technology, which allows users to instantly toggle between work and personal profiles. BlackBerry Balance separates and secures work data from personal content, allowing the user to gain secure access to DoD network resources, along with the full benefits of a consumer experience. BlackBerry 10 smartphones are the only DoD-approved smartphones with this capability.

About BlackBerry

A global leader in mobile communications, BlackBerry® revolutionized the mobile industry when it was introduced in 1999. Today, BlackBerry aims to inspire the success of our millions of customers around the world by continuously pushing the boundaries of mobile experiences. Founded in 1984 and based in Waterloo, Ontario, BlackBerry operates offices in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and Latin America. The Company trades under the ticker symbols "BB" on the Toronto Stock Exchange and "BBRY" on the NASDAQ. For more information, visit www.blackberry.com.

Global Launch of LG G2 Mini Brings Premium Experience to Mid-Tier Markets

Source: LG Press - Press Releases - March 27, 2014 

Global Launch of LG G2 Mini Brings Premium Experience to Mid-Tier Markets 

UX Features Found in Premium G Series Now Available in Smaller Form Factor

SEOUL, Mar. 27, 2014 — LG Electronics (LG) is bringing its first “compact” G Series smartphone to the global market, First unveiled in February at Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, the G2 mini offers the design excellence and premium UX features of the award-winning LG G2 in a smaller form factor.

As the smallest LG G Series phone yet, the G2 mini retains the innovative design heritage of the Rear Key and minimalist style first introduced in the LG G2. The 4.7-inch IPS display and 2,440mAh removable battery complement the Quad-Core CPU and Android 4.4 KitKat OS for a seamless multimedia experience. Offered in both LTE and 3G versions, the G2 mini is the perfect device for customers moving up from a feature phone or upgrading their current smartphones.

G2 mini comes preloaded with Knock Code™, which enables users to power on and unlock their LG smartphones in one easy step by tapping a personalized “knock” pattern on the phone’s display. It offers greater security as the pattern can be made up of a sequence of two to eight taps, allowing for more than 80,000 possible combinations. Knock Code™ can be entered on any area of the display, making one-handed entry effortless and convenient.

“The compact G2 mini offers a combination of design, hardware and UX features previously unavailable in its class, making it a very attractive option for mid-tier markets,” said Dr. Jong-seok Park, president and CEO of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. “With the G2 mini, our objective is to allow a much larger consumer base to be able to experience the key benefits of the G2 UX in a smaller form factor. And to that end, we’re confident we’ve succeeded with the G2 mini.”

In order to meet the diverse needs of customers worldwide, the G2 mini will be available in several variations t 3G/4G LTE, Single/Dual SIM and four vibrant color options including Titan Black, Lunar White, Red and Gold depending on the region. Roll-out will being in April in CIS countries followed closely by markets in Europe, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East and Africa. Details of availability in these and other countries will be announced locally in the weeks ahead.

Key Specifications:

-    Chipset: 1.2 GHz Qualcomm Quad-Core MSM8926 (LTE) / MSM8226 (3G)

                         1.7GHz Nvidia Quad Core Tegra 4i (LATAM LTE version)

-    Display: 4.7-inch qHD IPS (960 x 540)

-    Memory: 8GB eMMC / 1GB RAM / SD Card Slot

-    Camera: Rear 8.0MP / 13.0MP (LATAMLTE version) / Front 1.3MP

-    Battery: 2,440mAh (removable)

-    Operating System: Android 4.4 KitKat

-    Size: 129.6 x 66.0 x 9.8mm

-    Weight: 121g

-    Network: Cat. 4 / Cat. 3 (LATAM), HSPA+ 21Mbps (3G)

-    Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.0, WiFi (802.11 b/g/n), A-GPS, NFC (4G LTE version only)

-    Colors: Titan Black, Lunar White, Red, Gold (depending on region)

-    Other: Knock CodeTM, Plug & Pop, Guest Mode, Clip Tray, Quick Window, etc.

BlackBerry Advances Security of its Multi-Platform Mobility Portfolio with New Cryptography Certificationbl

Source: BlackBerry Press - Press Releases - March 26, 2014 

BlackBerry Advances Security of its Multi-Platform Mobility Portfolio with New Cryptography Certification 

FIPS 140-2 validation granted for Secure Work Space for iOS and Android

Waterloo, ON – BlackBerry Limited (NASDAQ:BBRY; TSX: BB), a world leader in mobile communications, today announced that Secure Work Space for iOS® and Android™, a multi-platform containerization solution managed through BlackBerry® Enterprise Service 10 (BES10), is now Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS) 140-2 certified.

Considered a critical benchmark for security in government, FIPS validation assures users that a given encryption technology has passed rigorous testing in order to be used to encrypt and secure sensitive information. The certification will allow security-conscious organizations, including U.S. and Canadian government agencies, to confidently deploy Secure Work Space to securely separate sensitive corporate data from personal content.

“Organizations, in both the public and private sectors, must take the necessary steps to protect sensitive data and ensure that their mobile solutions offer the highest level of security,” said Ben Hoffman, mobility analyst at IDC. “FIPS 140-2 certification indicates that BlackBerry is meeting the strict security requirements that many enterprise customers require.” 

The FIPS certification demonstrates BlackBerry’s security capabilities for the transfer of sensitive data on third party devices. With Secure Work Space, BES10 protocols for data-at-rest and data-in-transit are extended to iOS and Android devices, including smartphones and tablets. This means data is protected while traversing networks as well as within the walls of the enterprise. Administrators can configure, secure, wipe and interact within the Secure Work Space on a device, while employees can enjoy the device for personal use. The features make Secure Work Space an ideal solution for organizations that desire the flexibility of a BYOD program with the control they require for mobile communications.

“BlackBerry is considered the most trusted and secure mobile platform and we continue to provide customers with choice and flexibility without compromising security,” said Scott Totzke, Senior Vice President, Security Group at BlackBerry. “The FIPS 140-2 validation for Secure Work Space for iOS and Android demonstrates the multi-platform security capabilities that BlackBerry delivers for customers, helping governments and enterprises alike to deploy third-party devices with more confidence and less risk.”

FIPS 140-2 is issued by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to coordinate the requirements and standards for certifying cryptographic modules. The standard was developed through the Cryptographic Module Validation Program (CMVP), which certifies products for use by U.S. government agencies and regulated industries that collect, store, transfer, share and disseminate sensitive information. Product certifications under the CMVP are performed in accordance with the requirements of FIPS 140-2. In addition to U.S. government recognition, the certification is accepted and supported by the Communications Security Establishment Canada (CSEC) for government use.

BlackBerry products and solutions are protected by best-in-class AES 256-bit encryption, a highly secure, internationally recognized data protection standard. In addition to FIPS certification, BlackBerry products have continuously passed rigorous security assessments from a variety of independent organizations around the world. For example, BlackBerry 10 smartphones approved by NATO for use in classified communications up to the level of “Restricted.” Additionally, BlackBerry was the first MDM vendor to achieve “Authority to Operate” on the U.S. Department of Defense’s secure networks.

For more information about security and the BlackBerry platform visit www.blackberry.com/security.

About BlackBerry

A global leader in mobile communications, BlackBerry® revolutionized the mobile industry when it was introduced in 1999. Today, BlackBerry aims to inspire the success of our millions of customers around the world by continuously pushing the boundaries of mobile experiences. Founded in 1984 and based in Waterloo, Ontario, BlackBerry operates offices in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and Latin America. The Company trades under the ticker symbols "BB" on the Toronto Stock Exchange and "BBRY" on the NASDAQ. For more information, visit www.blackberry.com.

Key LG Smartphones to Get Knock Code Upgrade

Source: LG Press - Press Releases - March 25, 2014 

Key LG Smartphones to Get Knock Code Upgrade 

LG’s Newest UX Feature to be Available for G2 and G Flex

SEOUL, Mar. 25, 2014— As announced at Mobile World Congress last month, Knock Code™ will be a key feature in LG smartphone models this year, including G Pro 2, G2 mini, F Series and L SeriesIII. Now LG Electronics (LG) will make its innovative Knock Code™ feature available on earlier LG smartphone models via a firmware update starting in April. Owners of LG G2 and G Flex in specific countries will be the first to receive the Knock Code™ update which will give users instant access to their smartphones via a customized “knock” pattern.

With recent consumer research showing that most users check and unlock their devices between 100 and 150 times a day, LG was inspired to further enhance its KnockON feature with a higher layer of security and convenience. KnockOn, which LG patented in 2008, was the perfect foundation to further develop Knock Code™, which is unique in its ability to both wake and unlock the phone in one step, a clear time-saver for users. It’s no surprise that more than 50 percent of participants in a recent survey selected Knock Code™ as the most anticipated feature of G Pro 2, demonstrating the real need for an alternate solution to smartphone security.1

The consumer benefits of LG’s Knock Code™ technology are obvious in its ability to wake and unlock the phone simultaneously, providing more convenience and greater security over conventional password and pattern-based security options. With Knock Code™, the smartphone display is divided into four invisible quadrants. The user taps or “knocks” anywhere from two to eight times in the quadrants in a specific sequence. With more than 80,000 possible combinations and no fingerprint streaks, Knock Code™ offers a level of security far greater than other devices, even those with fingerprint recognition systems. And because Knock Code™ can be implemented anywhere on the screen in any size without having to view the screen, there’s no chance of password theft. In addition to being safer and more convenient, Knock Code™ is also more responsive compared to bio-recognition systems, which are much more susceptible to variations in the environment.

“LG engineers placed a great amount of emphasis on providing users with exceptional security and convenience when developing Knock Code,” said Dr. Jong-seok Park, president and CEO of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. “Making Knock Code accessible to a wider audience is consistent with our direction to differentiate LG mobile devices on the basis of user experience.”

Details of availability of the Knock Code™ upgrade will be announced locally in the weeks ahead.

Nokia Corporation updated financial calendar for 2014

Source: Nokia Press - Press Releases - March 24, 2014 

Nokia Corporation updated financial calendar for 2014 

Nokia receives an exemption to the publication time of its financial statements and Board’s annual review

Espoo, Finland - Nokia has received an exemption from the Finnish Financial Supervisory Authority, in accordance with Chapter 7, Section 18 of the Finnish Securities Markets Act, for the publication time stipulated in Chapter 7, Section 5 of the Act. Nokia has been allowed to postpone the publication of its financial statements and Board's annual review for the year 2013 until the end of April 2014. Nokia plans to publish the financial statements and Board's review in April 2014, during week 18, at the same time as it plans to file its annual report on Form 20-F for 2013 with the US Securities and Exchange Commission. Accordingly, Nokia provides below an updated financial calendar for the rest of the year 2014.

As announced earlier, Nokia's Board of Directors is conducting a strategy evaluation for Nokia Group between signing and closing of the transaction announced on September 3, 2013 whereby Nokia will sell substantially all of its Devices & Services business and license its patents to Microsoft. The transaction is expected to close in April 2014, subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions.

Nokia applied for the exemption mainly to enhance the possibility of being able to reflect the closing of the transaction and the outcome of the strategy evaluation in the financial statements and Board's annual review for the year 2013.

Planned publication dates for interim reports- report for Q1 2014: April 29, 2014
- report for Q2 2014 and January-June 2014: July 24, 2014
- report for Q3 2014 and January-September 2014: October 23, 2014

Publication of "Nokia in 2013" and Nokia Form 20-F 2013Nokia plans to publish its "Nokia in 2013" annual report, which includes the audited financial statements and the Board's annual review by the end of April 2014 during week 18.

Nokia plans to file its annual report on Form 20-F for 2013 with the US Securities and Exchange Commission by the end of April 2014 during week 18.

Nokia's Annual General MeetingNokia's Annual General Meeting 2014 is scheduled to be held on June 17, 2014. The Nokia Board of Directors will convene the meeting and publish the notice and related proposals at a later date.

Nokia expects the sale of substantially all of its Devices & Services business to Microsoft to close in April 2014

Source: Nokia Press - Press Releases - March 24, 2014 

Nokia expects the sale of substantially all of its Devices & Services business to Microsoft to close in April 2014

Espoo, Finland - Nokia today announced that it now expects the transaction whereby the company will sell substantially all of its Devices & Services business and license its patents to Microsoft to close in April 2014. This compares with Nokia's previous expectation on the transaction closing in the first quarter of 2014, which Nokia communicated when the company first announced the transaction on September 3, 2013. Nokia and Microsoft remain committed to the transaction.

As previously communicated, the closing of the transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. Nokia and Microsoft have already received most of the required regulatory approvals, including approvals from the European Commission and the U.S. Department of Justice. Furthermore, Nokia and Microsoft continue to make good progress related to the closing conditions and integration planning. However, the transaction is pending approvals from certain antitrust authorities in Asia which are still conducting their reviews.

Nokia and Microsoft continue to be confident that the transaction will close, resulting in the sale of substantially all of Nokia's Devices & Services business to Microsoft, and both companies are working diligently to close the transaction as expeditiously as possible.

Nokia reiterates that ongoing tax proceedings in India have no bearing on the timing of the closing or the material deal terms of the anticipated transaction between Nokia and Microsoft.

LG Shines in Design at Red Dot Awards 2014

Source: LG Press - Press Releases - March 24, 2014 

LG Shines in Design at Red Dot Awards 2014 

Takes Home 33 Awards, LG G Flex and Smart 3D Blu-ray Home Cinema System Named “Best of the Best”

SEOUL, March24, 2014 — LG Electronics’ (LG) reputation for excellence in the field of design has been recognized with 33 Red Dot Awards, including two prestigious “Best of the Best” awards for its innovative G Flex and Smart 3D Blu-ray Home Cinema system. With more than 4,800 entries this year, the internationally respected Red Dot Awards are one of the three most important design awards in the industry, along with the iF Design Award and IDEA (International Design Excellence Award).

“This year’s Red Dot results confirm our commitment to design across all product categories,” said Dr. Scott Ahn, LG’s Chief Technology Officer. “We’re especially proud of our performance this year, surpassing last year’s performance of 27 awards which including a ‘Best of the Best’ for our Curved OLED TV.”

The LG G Flex, which had previously earned praise as a Gold Winner in the 2014 iF Design Awards, underlines LG’s industry-leading innovation credentials. As the ergonomic, vertically curved smartphone to match the contour of the human face, the revolutionary device offers an immersive viewing experience with its 6-inch display and design that fits more comfortably in the hand and pocket.

LG’s Smart 3D Blu-ray Home Cinema system (Model BH9540TW) offers 3D surround processing, 1460 watt 9.1 channel audio and impressive video capabilities. The beautiful black and silver unit complements all of today’s flat panel TVs and was designed to look impressive in most living rooms.

Other LG products recognized at the 2014 Red Dot Awards include an Honorable Mention for the LG Microwave Oven (Model LMHM2237ST), LG G2 smartphone, LG G Pad 8.3 tablet, 77-inch ULTRA HD CURVED OLED TV (Model 77EC9800), LG  Door-in-Door™ refrigerators in a ‘black stainless steel’ design (Model V9500), washers, gas cook tops and Lifeband Touch fitness band.

Samsung offers a Global Preview of Galaxy S5 and Gear devices prior to Launch

Source: Samsung Mobile Press - Press Releases - March 21, 2014 

Samsung offers a Global Preview of Galaxy S5 and Gear devices prior to Launch 

Galaxy S5, Gear 2 and Gear Fit available for pre-order and hands-on demos in more than 61 markets to celebrate Samsung’s global flagship launch

Seoul, Korea – March 21, 2014 – Samsung Galaxy S5, Gear 2 and Gear Fit are on display and available for pre-order at more than 1,400 shops around the world beginning on March 21, 2014. The preview offers an advanced experience of Galaxy S5, Gear 2, and Gear Fit, with the help of dedicated Galaxy Specialists who will be showcasing the unique new features including rich tone HDR camera, finger print recognition, and Heart Rate Monitor. 

“The new Galaxy S5 and Gear devices are designed for what matters most to our consumers,” said Younghee Lee, Executive Vice President of Global Marketing, IT& Mobile Division at Samsung Electronics. “We listened closely to our consumers when designing these products, and we want to give as many customers as possible the enough chance to experience of Galaxy S5, Gear 2, and Gear Fit before they purchase.”

The global preview takes place at Samsung Experience Stores, mobile carrier stores, and key retailer stores across 61 countries. Beginning with the United States and Switzerland on March 21, the special first look experience will be expanded to the remaining 59 markets including Brazil, China, Germany,and United Kingdom. 

The Galaxy S5, Samsung’s newest flagship smartphone, combines an advanced camera, the fastest network connectivity, dedicated fitness tools and enhanced device protection features to deliver the ultimate mobile experience to the market today. The device was announced at Samsung UNPACKED 2014 on February 24, and will be available globally on April 11, 2014. 

Samsung also announced three new additions to the Gear series at Samsung UNPACKED : The Gear 2, Gear 2 Neo, and Gear Fit. The Samsung Gear 2 and Gear 2 Neo offer consumers enhanced connectivity and a completely integrated approach for the most personal wearable experience. The Samsung Gear Fit, featuring the industry’s first curved Super AMOLED display, offers the unmatched convenience of Samsung Gear technology with the most comprehensive fitness tools available today, empowering consumers stay physically active without sacrificing personal style or mobile connectivity. The Gear devices will also be available globally on April 11, 2014. 

Nokia files writ to protest Tamil Nadu tax department claim

Source: Nokia Press - Press Releases - March 21, 2014 

Nokia files writ to protest Tamil Nadu tax department claim

Espoo, Finland - Nokia has today filed a writ to the Madras High Court to contest a claim from the Tamil Nadu tax department, which has moved to assess sales tax on the export of devices from the company's Chennai facility.

Nokia considers the claim to be completely without merit and counter to domestic tax laws. In India, exports are by law exempt from tax, and Nokia has proved consistently that devices produced at Chennai are exported abroad. Indeed, the company has been regularly assessed and audited by the tax authorities since 2006 without incident, and it has also won numerous export awards from governmental organisations.

It is absurd that the Tamil Nadu tax authority is now claiming that devices made in Chennai were not exported and were instead sold domestically in India. We contend that this allegation has no basis in reality whatsoever; it could easily be rebuffed by a check of documentation provided to various governmental departments including Customs.

Nokia will defend itself vigorously in this matter.

BlackBerry Announces Update on Sale of Canadian Real Estate Holdings

Source: BlackBerry Press - Press Releases - March 21, 2014 

BlackBerry Announces Update on Sale of Canadian Real Estate Holdings 

Enters Sale Agreement as Part of Global Business Efficiency Program

Waterloo, ON – BlackBerry® Limited (NASDAQ: BBRY; TSX: BB), a world leader in mobile communications, today announced that it has entered into an agreement pursuant to which it will sell the majority of its real estate holdings in Canada. The announced transaction is part of BlackBerry’s ongoing program to improve operational efficiencies, optimize resource usage and shift resources to support operations as the business continues to evolve.

Under the terms of the agreement, BlackBerry will sell more than 3 million square feet of space as well as vacant lands. BlackBerry will also lease back a portion of the space. CBRE Limited served as an advisor to BlackBerry for this transaction. BlackBerry expects closing to occur in the first quarter of fiscal 2015. The transaction is subject to certain conditions, and the transaction may not be completed on the negotiated terms, or at all. Additional terms of the transaction will be announced once the principal conditions are satisfied or waived by the parties.

“The successful sale of property in Canada will help us move toward our goal of continued operational efficiency,” said BlackBerry CEO and Executive Chair, John Chen. “As previously stated, BlackBerry remains committed to having a strong presence in Canada and we continue to consider Waterloo home to our global headquarters.”

About BlackBerry

A global leader in mobile communications, BlackBerry® revolutionized the mobile industry when it was introduced in 1999. Today, BlackBerry aims to inspire the success of our millions of customers around the world by continuously pushing the boundaries of mobile experiences. Founded in 1984 and based in Waterloo, Ontario, BlackBerry operates offices in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and Latin America. The company trades under the ticker symbols "BB" on the Toronto Stock Exchange and "BBRY" on the NASDAQ. For more information, visit www.blackberry.com.

Carry the Style, Capture the Best. With the new Samsung NX mini SMART Camera

Source: Samsung Mobile Press - Press Releases - March 19, 2014 

'Carry the Style, Capture the Best' with the new Samsung NX mini SMART Camera

Leading a new 'Wefie' trend, shoot outstanding images in style with the world's slimmest interchangeable-lens camera

SEOUL, Korea - March 19, 2014 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd announced today the launch of the NX mini, the world's slimmest and lightest interchangeable-lens camera. The portable and stylish design of the SMART Camera NX mini, along with its stunning image quality makes it the “go-to” device for great photography, allowing users to capture special moments in stunning detail. With NFC and Wi-Fi capabilities, it allows users to take impressive shots that can then be shared quickly and easily, for friends to enjoy in real time. 

"The NX mini has both style and substance, perfect for trendsetters looking for a fun way to capture their life in outstanding photo quality,” said Myoung Sup Han, Executive Vice President and Head of the Imaging Business Team at Samsung Electronics. “Samsung introduced the first flip up touch display camera in 2011 as a leader of the selfie trend, and has designed the device in response to evolving consumer demands. This approach is exemplified by the NX mini, with features such as a 3.0-inch Flip up Display and wide angle lens exclusively designed to address the global passion for selfies. Its lightweight design also means that it can slip in a pocket, for photography anywhere and everywhere.”

As the slimmest and lightest interchangeable-lens camera on the market, the NX mini is the ultimate way to capture life on the go without any hassle. Weighing only 158g (body only) and sporting an ultra slim (22.5mm) design, the NX mini can easily slip into almost any pocket or bag, yet still delivers the powerful results passionate photographers demand. The camera features a solid premium metal body with a luxurious leatherette finish, making the camera the natural choice for style-conscious shooters looking to make a statement. Available in five different colors (white, pink, mint green, brown and black) users can choose the color that best suits their style.

The 'sefie' has found a permanent place in vocabularies across the world in recent years and its popularity shows no sign of stopping. The word ‘wefie’ has entered the urban dictionary as a photo taken in the same fashion as a selfie, but with 2 or more people and Samsung is poised lead this trend of wefie with the NX mini. Reflecting this recent consumer trend, the NX mini has a range of exclusive features which allow photographers to effortlessly indulge in the global trend of self-shooting. With a 75.2mm (3.0-inch) Flip up and Touch Display that flips 180-degrees, users can frame images of themselves perfectly. The NX mini’s powerful optical performance provides crisp and clear, high quality images ensuring that the subjects in the photos are always looking their best. With the ultra-slim 9mm wide angle lens, the NX mini can capture group shots from an arm’s length away, so users can easily frame themselves and be part of group memories. 

Maintaining a flattering pose while also attempting to press the shutter release button when self-shooting can be tricky, but the NX mini's new Wink shotfeature makes it the perfect hands-free way to capture the real you. Users simply need to set up their shot and wink at the camera to capture an image. Once a wink is detected, the NX mini takes a shot automatically after two seconds, without having to press any buttons. 

Despite its slim appearance, the NX mini packs a big performance in to its small body. Its large 1-inch type 20.5MP BSI CMOS Sensor enables users to capture high quality images, ensuring no details are missed. With the highest resolution in its class, pictures captured with the NX mini burst with vivid color. 

The NX mini's impressively fast 6fps Continuous Shot mode allows photographers to take continuous shots, so every detail can be captured and no moments are missed. The fast 1/16000 sec Shutter Speed freezes fast moving scenes, allowing for the dramatic capture of motion in crisp detail, without blurring. 

BlackBerry Z30 Smartphone Now Available On ShopBlackBerry.com in the U.S.

Source: BlackBerry Press - Press Releases - March 19, 2014 

BlackBerry Z30 Smartphone Now Available On ShopBlackBerry.com in the U.S.

Waterloo, ON – BlackBerry Limited (NASDAQ: BBRY; TSX: BB), a world leader in mobile communications, today announced that customers in the U.S. can now purchase SIM-unlocked GSM models of the BlackBerry® Z30 smartphone directly from BlackBerry on ShopBlackBerry.com for $499.  

The all-touch BlackBerry Z30 smartphone is BlackBerry’s biggest, fastest and most advanced smartphone, and features a beautiful 5” display and the largest battery ever on a BlackBerry smartphone. The BlackBerry Z30 smartphone from ShopBlackBerry.com is compatible with GSM-based 4G LTE and 4G networks in the U.S. (AT&T, T-Mobile) and other countries around the world with carriers who operate supported GSM networks.

In addition, ShopBlackBerry.com has an assortment of accessories for the BlackBerry Z30 smartphone. Customers will find a variety of carrying solutions, chargers and audio peripherals available for purchase.

The BlackBerry Z30 smartphone is also available from Verizon Wireless in the U.S.

About BlackBerry

A global leader in mobile communications, BlackBerry® revolutionized the mobile industry when it was introduced in 1999. Today, BlackBerry aims to inspire the success of our millions of customers around the world by continuously pushing the boundaries of mobile experiences. Founded in 1984 and based in Waterloo, Ontario, BlackBerry operates offices in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and Latin America. The Company trades under the ticker symbols "BB" on the Toronto Stock Exchange and "BBRY" on the NASDAQ. For more information, visitwww.blackberry.com.

Saudi Telecom and BlackBerry announce integrated carrier billing for BlackBerry smartphone customers in Saudi Arabia

Source: BlackBerry Press - Press Releases - March 19, 2014 

Saudi Telecom and BlackBerry announce integrated carrier billing for BlackBerry smartphone customers in Saudi Arabia

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – Saudi Telecom (STC) and BlackBerry Limited (NASDAQ: BBRY; TSX: BB) today announced integrated carrier billing for BlackBerry® smartphone customers in KSA, allowing customers to quickly, conveniently and securely purchase apps for their phone on the BlackBerry® World™ storefront, and have the charges directly applied to their standard Saudi Telecom (STC) bill.

To make secure purchases and payments on BlackBerry World, customers will be required to enter their BlackBerry ID username and password. BlackBerry ID provides customers with a secure and device-independent user identification. Customers can also make in-app purchases, such as additional content or new levels for a gaming app, without having to leave the app or interrupt the app experience. 

Abdullah Alkanhal, Marketing GM at STC said, “The launch of integrated carrier billing on BlackBerry World makes it easier for our customers to enjoy the host of quality apps on BlackBerry World, and maximize their BlackBerry smartphone experience. It marks a significant step for STC to make mobile payments for app purchases simple and secure.”

Nick Horton, Managing Director for the Middle East at BlackBerry said, “BlackBerry smartphone customers in Saudi Arabia want a convenient and safe payment solution for the purchase of mobile content. Integrated carrier billing on BlackBerry smartphones will open up a rich avenue for Saudi Telecom customers to easily and securely purchase apps and games on BlackBerry World.”

For more information about BlackBerry smartphones, please visit http://www.blackberry.com/

About BlackBerry
A global leader in mobile communications, BlackBerry® revolutionized the mobile industry when it was introduced in 1999. Today, BlackBerry aims to inspire the success of our millions of customers around the world by continuously pushing the boundaries of mobile experiences. Founded in 1984 and based in Waterloo, Ontario, BlackBerry operates offices in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and Latin America. The Company trades under the ticker symbols “BB” on the Toronto Stock Exchange and “BBRY” on the NASDAQ. For more information, visit www.blackberry.com.

LG Targets European Market with Consumer-Centered Products at Innofest 2014

Source: LG Press - Press Releases - March 19, 2014 

LG Targets European Market with Consumer-Centered Products at Innofest 2014 

howcasing LG’s Superb Picture Quality TVs, High Efficiency Appliance in Italy

VENICE, Mar. 19, 2014 — Under its new brand theme, It’s All Possible, LG Electronics (LG) showcased its most comprehensive product lineup for European consumers at the 2014 LG Innovative Festival (InnoFest) roadshow, held in Venice, Italy this week. With a variety of differentiated solutions featuring premium technologies and innovative designs, LG is strengthening its position in the region and expanding its relationships with local partners and businesses.

Following the inaugural LG InnoFest 2014 show in Istanbul last month, LG’s European roadshow was attended by approximately 300 of LG’s business partners and other stakeholders from all across the region. The third and final leg of the InnoFest roadshow will take place in Asia in April.

“InnoFest is our chance to showcase our diverse consumer electronics and appliance offerings for European consumers against the backdrop of an economy that’s showing signs of turning the corner,” said Brian Na, vice president and Europe region head at LG Electronics. “Success in Europe is a prerequisite for being a global company in today’s business world. We want to thank all the people who attended LG InnoFest 2014 and made it the success that it was.”

LG demonstrated its commitment to delivering superior picture quality to European customers, announcing its intention to expand its range of ULTRA HD and OLED TVs across Europe. As the first manufacturer to produce an 84-inch 4K ULTRA HD TV in 2012 and the largest 4K ULTRA HD CURVED OLED TV in 2014, LG outlined its plan to roll out seven series of ULTRA HD TVs in sizes ranging from 49 to 105 inches for the European market this year, its largest and most diverse TV lineup to date. To no one’s surprise, LG’s stunning 77- and 55-inch curved OLED TVs were the stars of the show. To strengthen its position in the European TV market, LG plans to expand its regional R&D capability and to secure manufacturing capability of ULTRA HD and OLED sets in Poland.

Reinventing the smart TV experience to be simpler and more intuitive than ever before, LG introduced its webOS platform in Europe for the first time at InnoFest. Its ease-of-use makes content searching and viewing, connecting with other devices and even the initial setup process incredibly smooth. Expected to be a game changer in the smart TV market, webOS will make its debut in more than 40 TV models including LG’s ULTRA HD, OLED and CINEMA 3D Smart TVs this year. Guests at LG InnoFest had the chance to experience LG Smart TVs for themselves to see just how innovative and easy-to-use a smart TV could be.

In addition to its advanced range of home entertainment products, LG also exhibited its latest energy conserving appliances designed for European consumers. Highlighting the collection was LG’s new front-loading washing machines, launching in Europe in the first half of the year, that are 40 percent more energy efficient than A+++ models. With TurboWash™ and TrueSteam™ technology, the washing machine cuts wash time to only 59 minutes (1) and reduces energy consumption by up to 15 percent (2) and water consumption by up to 40 percent (3) without sacrificing cleanliness and without chemical-based fabric softeners.

LG also showcased its newest energy efficient refrigerators, including its bottom-freezer models with Total No Frost that are 10 percent more efficient than A+++ energy rating. And thanks to LG’s proprietary Inverter Linear Compressor, customers will benefit in energy savings, quieter operation and longer life.

Other products featured in LG InnoFest 2014 included LG’s ARTCOOL Stylist Inverter V with subtle LED lighting and new 3-way Soft Airflow feature to distribute air evenly for a comfortable environment and the ARTCOOL Slim Inverter V offering a combination of energy efficiency, durability and health-centric features. Among LG’s superb collection of home cleaning solutions included the HOM-BOT SQUARE and the Cordless 2-in-1 Vacuum Cleaner. What’s more, LG’s revolutionary curved smartphone, G Flex, and wearable fitness device, Lifeband Touch, also attracted much attention at LG InnoFest.

[1] Based on tests carried out by Intertek, LG Model F94933WHS (washing load 5kg on cottoncycle) comparing to LG washing machine (wash load 5kg on cotton cycle) without TurboWashTM

[2] Results from tests carried out by Intertek, comparison between 5kg cotton-only wash (724wh) and TurboWash™ (617wh)

[3] Results from tests carried out by Intertek, comparison between cotton-only wash (78L) and TurboWash™ (47L)

LG G Watch Powered by Android Wear Being Developed in Close Collaboration with Google

Source: LG Press - Press Releases - March 19, 2014 

LG G Watch Powered by Android Wear Being Developed in Close Collaboration with Google 

Google’s New Android Wearables Platform to Debut on LG Device

SEOUL, Mar. 19, 2014 — LG Electronics (LG) is working together with Google on LG G Watch powered by Android Wear™, which extends the Android platform to wearables. LG G Watch will be compatible with a wide range of Android™ smartphones and will present relevant information to users just when they need it or whenever they say “OK Google” to ask questions or get stuff done. As one of Google’s lead partners in this effort, LG is planning to introduce its first watch powered by Android Wear in the second quarter of 2014.

The LG G Watch powered by Android Wear will present a low barrier to entry for developers and offer the best Google experience for users. LG engineers worked closely with Google from the initial stages of development to ensure that the LG G Watch worked perfectly with Android Wear. This is LG’s fourth device developed in close collaboration with Google following the Nexus 4, Nexus 5 and the LG G Pad 8.3 Google Play Edition.

“The opportunity to work with Google on LG G Watch was the perfect chance for LG to really pull out all stops in both design and engineering,” said Dr. Jong-seok Park, president and CEO of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. “With the LG G Watch, LG is continuing the milestones we’ve set in wearables following in the footsteps of the world’s first 3G Touch Watch Phone in 2009 and the Prada Link in 2008. We’re confident that a well-designed device has the potential to take the smart wearable market by storm.”

Additional details of the LG G Watch powered by Android Wear, including hardware specifications, will be announced in the coming months.

Apple Updates Most Affordable 9.7-inch iPad with Retina display

Source: Apple Press - Press Releases - March 18, 2014 

Apple Updates Most Affordable 9.7-inch iPad with Retina display, Improved Cameras & Enhanced Performance—Now Available Starting at $399

CUPERTINO, California—March 18, 2014—Apple® today announced iPad® with Retina® display replaces iPad 2 as the most affordable 9.7-inch iPad at $399 for the 16GB Wi-Fi model and $529 for the Wi-Fi + Cellular model. The fourth generation iPad features the amazing 9.7-inch Retina display, the Apple-designed A6X chip, ultrafast Wi-Fi, a 5MP iSight® camera which also captures 1080p HD video, a FaceTime® HD camera, and support for LTE carriers worldwide,¹ all while delivering up to 10 hours of battery life.²  iPad with Retina display comes with iOS 7, featuring hundreds of great new features, including Control Center, Notification Center, improved Multitasking, AirDrop®, enhanced Photos, Safari®, Siri® and iTunes Radio℠.³

“Now for $399 customers can get iPad with a stunning 9.7-inch Retina display, fast A6X chip, and 5MP iSight camera, offering a dramatic upgrade in power, performance and value compared to the iPad 2 it replaces,” said Philip Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing. “The iPad line sets the gold-standard in mobile computing and all iPads have access to the largest and best ecosystem of more than 500,000 iPad optimized apps from the App Store.”

iPad customers have access to the revolutionary App Store℠, which offers more than one million apps to iPhone®, iPad and iPod touch® users in 155 countries around the world, and more than 500,000 apps are designed specifically for iPad. More than 65 billion apps have been downloaded from the App Store, which offers customers an incredible range of apps in 24 categories, including newspapers and magazines in Newsstand, games and entertainment, kids, education, business, news, sports, health and fitness and travel. The iLife® suite of creative apps, including iPhoto®, iMovie® and GarageBand®, and the iWork® suite of productivity apps, including Pages®, Numbers® and Keynote® are essential to the Apple experience and are now free, so more iPad users have access to these great apps that are optimized to support 64-bit technology and include hundreds of new features.

Pricing & Availability
iPad with Retina display models in black or white are available for a suggested retail price of $399 (US) for the 16GB Wi-Fi model and $529 (US) for the 16GB Wi-Fi + Cellular model for either AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile or Verizon. Smart Cover® and Smart Case for iPad with Retina display are available in dark gray for $39 (US) and $49 (US) respectively through the Apple Online Store(www.apple.com), Apple’s retail stores and select Authorized Apple Resellers. iPad Air™ with Wi-Fi models are available in silver or space gray for a suggested retail price of $499 (US) for the 16GB model, $599 (US) for the 32GB model, $699 (US) for the 64GB model and $799 (US) for the 128GB model. iPad Air with Wi-Fi + Cellular are available for a suggested retail price of $629 (US) for the 16GB model, $729 (US) for the 32GB model, $829 (US) for the 64GB model and $929 (US) for the 128GB model. 

iPad mini™ with Retina display Wi-Fi models are available in silver or space gray for a suggested retail price of $399 (US) for the 16GB model, $499 (US) for the 32GB model, $599 (US) for the 64GB model and $699 (US) for the 128GB model. iPad mini with Retina display Wi-Fi + Cellular models will be available for a suggested retail price of $529 (US) for the 16GB model, $629 (US) for the 32GB model, $729 (US) for the 64GB model and $829 (US) for the 128GB model. Additionally, the original iPad mini is offered at $299 (US) for the 16GB Wi-Fi model and $429 (US) for the 16GB Wi-Fi + Cellular model for either AT&T, Sprint, T-mobile or Verizon.

¹LTE is available through select carriers. Network speeds are dependent on carrier networks. Check with your carrier for details.
²Battery life depends on device settings, usage and other factors. Actual results vary.
³iTunes Radio is available with iOS 7 in the US and Australia.