BlackBerry Launches New Cross-platform EMM Cloud for 1O1O Enterprise Customers in Hong Kong

Source: BlackBerry - Press Releases - September 30, 2015

Hong Kong – September 30, 2015 – BlackBerry Limited (NASDAQ: BBRY; TSX: BB), a global leader in secure mobile communications, today announced that 1O1O is now offering its enterprise customers BES12™ Cloud, a cloud-based enterprise mobility management solution that provides easy management of iOS, Android™, Windows Phone®, BlackBerry® 10 smartphones and tablets, as well as a wide range of Samsung KNOX and Android for Work smartphones and tablets. 1O1O is the premium mobile brand of HKT, Hong Kong’s leading telecom services provider and mobile operator.  This announcement builds on news earlier this year that 1O1O is offering Enhanced SIM-Based Licensing (ESBL) by BlackBerry, meaning its enterprise customers can get BES12 integrated with their wireless monthly subscriber billing.

BES12™ as a cross-platform EMM solution, extends beyond EMM to communications, collaboration, and identity and access management within a secure enterprise mobility ecosystem to provide a highly productive end-user experience. Now accessible in cloud, BES12 provides enterprise customers with more flexibility and variety in managing their mobile solution while supporting a broad range of device mobility policies, all through a simple browser interface and without complicated or expensive server installs.

According to a Hong Kong survey1, more than 50% of SMEs in Hong Kong recognize the importance of data security and see cloud services as one of the solutions in resolving data security issues. To accommodate the prevailing mobile deployment models BYOD, COPE and COBO, BES12 Cloud leverages BlackBerry’s trusted global infrastructure to offer secured and expanded cross-platform EMM capabilities. Its simple setup and configuration make it easy for SMEs to adopt cross platform MDM, enabling them to enjoy the benefits of cloud-based productivity and collaboration solutions like BlackBerry Blend and BBM Meetings.

Tom Chan, Managing Director, Commercial Group of HKT, said, “The increasing variety of enterprise mobile deployment models has made the enterprise mobility management environment ever more complicated. At 1O1O, we are committed to offering leading and powerful mobile solutions to meet the needs of our customers. We are happy to deepen our partnership with BlackBerry to provide more value-added components, enabling our customers to work flexibly with our strong mobile network.”

Gallant Leon, Managing Director, North Asia, BlackBerry said, “Ensuring we meet our customers’ needs is our utmost priority. We are delighted to be offering the new BlackBerry BES12 Cloud to 1O1O customers through subscription. BES12 streamlines the operating environment for IT professionals and offers convenience and flexibility to users. Not only does it enhance the productivity in an organization, it also aligns with BlackBerry’s core values of security and reliability.”

Key benefits of BlackBerry BES12 Cloud include:

·         Easy to get started and manage: BES12 Cloud provides a single end-to-end solution to manage your mobility across platforms. The subscription reduces internal server and infrastructure costs, while offering a scalable EMM solution that can evolve to meet your business needs.

·         Flexible deployment options: BES12 Cloud supports different device ownership models and deployment scenarios, including support for KNOX™ Workspace and Android for Work, and Apple Device Enrolment Program (DEP).

·         Reliable and secure infrastructure: Built on proven security trusted around the world, BES12 Cloud lets you control permissions and policies by individuals/ groups across endpoints and apps, while protecting privacy for employees.

·         Global (24/7) technical support: All BES12 Cloud subscriptions will receive industry-leading support to cope with the growing complexity and challenging requirements of mobility and evolving EMM strategies

·         Protect all mobile content: Maintain complete control of business assets on employees' mobile devices with management controls appropriate for your business and users. Security is extended through encryption, certificates and containerization capabilities.

·         Robust Enterprise Mobility Ecosystem: BES12 Cloud offers you the foundation to extend your EMM capabilities beyond the management of devices and applications.

For more information on the BlackBerry BES12 Cloud, please visit http://www.blackberry.com/cloud

[1] The Internet Society Hong Kong and the Cloud Security Alliance (Hong Kong and Macau Chapter): “Hong Kong Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) Cloud Adoption, Security & Privacy Readiness Survey”, May 2015

Apple Brings Apple Music, iTunes Movies & iBooks to Customers in China Starting Today

Source: Apple - Press Releases - September 30, 2015

BEIJING ― September 30, 2015 ― Apple® today announced that Apple Music™, iTunes® Movies and iBooks® are now available to customers in China. Apple Music combines an extensive and diverse music library with the knowledge of world-class music experts who have programmed playlists and radio stations just for you. Launching with millions of songs in its catalog, Apple Music in China features music from artists including Eason Chan, Li Ronghao, JJ Lin and G.E.M., as well as a wide range of international artists including Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran and many more. Fans can also rent or purchase movies from a great selection of Chinese studios as well as Hollywood blockbusters on the iTunes Store®, in addition to enjoying paid and free books from the iBooks Store℠. For the first time, customers in China will have access to Apple’s entertainment ecosystem with music, movies and books right at their fingertips.

“Customers in China love the App Store and have made it our largest market in the world for app downloads,” said Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of Internet Software and Services. “One of the top requests has been more great content and we’re thrilled to bring music, movies and books to China, curated by a local team of experts.” 

Apple Music
Apple Music is a single, intuitive app that combines the best ways to enjoy music — all in one place. You can stream any Apple Music song, playlist or album, and download it for future offline listening. Our world class music experts have programmed an abundance of playlists for any genre or activity, in addition to creating hand-crafted radio stations powered by Apple Music’s extensive music catalog. Apple Music also offers an invaluable way for artists to connect with fans. Through Connect, artists can share lyrics, backstage photos, videos or even release their latest song directly to fans from their iPhone®. Apple Music in China features an incredible selection of local and international music from all the major and many independent labels, with more music being added regularly.  Customers can enjoy Apple Music on their iPhone, iPad®, iPod touch®, Mac®, PC and Android phones.* 

iTunes Movies
Through the iTunes Store, customers can rent or purchase movies, with most titles available in stunning HD, and enjoy the ultimate movie experience from any device, wherever and whenever they want. Check out recent blockbusters such as “Jurassic World,” “Furious 7,” and “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” as well as movies from local studios including Bona, Huayi Brothers and 1905. With iTunes Extras®, customers can also experience special features such as behind-the-scenes footage. As a token of appreciation, the recent Chinese hit, “The Taking of Tiger Mountain,” will be offered for free to all customers in China for a limited time.

iBooks 
The iBooks Store offers customers a wide selection of both paid and free Chinese language books from top local publishers, including “Big Head Son & Little Head Dad” by Zheng Chunhua, “The Family Belongings of Chinese People” by Ma Hongjie, and for the first time in China, Stephenie Meyer’s “Twilight” series will be available in a digital format. Purchased books are available anytime on customers’ Apple devices.

With iCloud®, all of your iTunes purchases can be accessed from your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac or PC regardless of which device you used to make the purchase. iCloud also remembers where you are in your favorite movies or books no matter which device you’re viewing them on.

Pricing & Availability
Starting on September 30, music fans in China are invited to a three-month trial membership of Apple Music, after which a 10 RMB/month subscription fee will apply. There will also be a family plan providing service for up to six family members available for just 15 RMB/month. Apple Music requires initial sign up. At the end of the trial period, the membership will automatically renew and payment method will be charged on a monthly basis until auto-renewal is turned off in account settings. Family plan requires iCloud Family Sharing. Visit http://www.apple.com/cn/icloud/family-sharing/ for more information.

Movies on iTunes will be available starting at 5 RMB for rental in HD and 18 RMB to buy new releases in HD. Paid iBooks start at 0.5 RMB.

*Apple Music will be coming to Android phones this fall. 

Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984. Today, Apple leads the world in innovation with iPhone, iPad, the Mac and Apple Watch. Apple’s three software platforms — iOS, OS X and watchOS — provide seamless experiences across all Apple devices and empower people with breakthrough services including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay and iCloud. Apple’s 100,000 employees are dedicated to making the best products on earth, and to leaving the world better than we found it.

OS X El Capitan Available as a Free Update Tomorrow

Source: Apple - Press Releases - September 29, 2015

Refined Experience and Improved Performance Make Your Mac Better than Ever

CUPERTINO, California — Apple® today announced that OS X® El Capitan, the latest major release of the world’s most advanced desktop operating system, will be available on Wednesday, September 30 as a free update for Mac® users. El Capitan builds on the groundbreaking features and beautiful design of OS X Yosemite, refining the Mac experience with updates to window management, built-in apps and Spotlight® search, and performance improvements to make everyday activities — like launching and switching apps, opening PDFs and accessing email — faster and more responsive.

“People love using their Macs, and one of the biggest reasons is the power and ease-of-use of OS X,” said Craig Federighi, Apple’s senior vice president of Software Engineering. “El Capitan refines the Mac experience and improves performance in a lot of little ways that make a very big difference. Feedback from our OS X beta program has been incredibly positive and we think customers are going to love their Macs even more with El Capitan.”

Refinements to the Mac Experience
El Capitan gives you simpler and smarter ways to do the things you do most with your Mac. A streamlined Mission Control® makes it easier to see and organize everything you have open on your Mac. With a single swipe, Mission Control arranges all your windows in a single layer so you can find the window you need even faster. When your desktop gets crowded, simply drag a window to the top of your screen to create a new Space and spread out your work. And the new Split View feature automatically positions two app windows side-by-side in full screen so you can work with both apps without distraction. 

Spotlight gets even smarter in El Capitan. You can now use Spotlight to check stock prices, weather conditions and forecasts, sports scores, schedules and standings, and even athlete information. You can also search with Spotlight to find a file using natural language. Simply type “email from Harrison in April” or “presentation I worked on yesterday” and Spotlight will help you find exactly what you are looking for. You can resize the Spotlight window to display more results or move it anywhere on your desktop.

OS X built-in apps are even better in El Capitan. Safari® now features Pinned Sites to keep your favorite websites open and active and a new mute button to quickly silence browser audio from any tab. Mail introduces Smart Suggestions, which recognizes names or events in a Mail message and prompts you to add them to your contacts or calendar with a single click. You can also swipe to delete messages, just like in iOS, and juggle multiple emails while Mail is in full screen. In Photos, you can now edit locations, batch change descriptions, sort albums by date or title, and take editing to the next level with third-party editing extensions from your favorite developers.

El Capitan features an all-new Notes app that lets you drag and drop photos, PDFs, videos and other files into a note, and add content directly from other apps, such as Safari web links or Maps locations, using the Share menu. Easy-to-create checklists help you keep track of important to-do items, and the new Attachments Browser organizes your attachments in one simple view, making it easy to find what you’re looking for. With iCloud®, your notes stay in sync so you can create notes on one device and edit them or check off items on your other devices.

Improvements to System Performance
OS X El Capitan improves system performance across your Mac, making many of the things you do everyday faster and more responsive. Metal™, Apple’s groundbreaking graphics technology, accelerates Core Animation and Core Graphics to boost system-level rendering by up to 50 percent, and efficiency by up to 40 percent, resulting in faster graphics performance for everyday apps.* Metal also takes full advantage of your CPU and GPU, delivering up to 10 times faster draw call performance for a richer, more fluid experience in games and pro apps.*

El Capitan also features enhanced international language support, including a new Chinese system font for both Traditional and Simplified, with 50,000 beautifully designed characters for crisp on-screen readability. Chinese keyboard input methods now offer regularly updated vocabulary lists and a smarter candidate window. El Capitan makes entering Japanese text faster by automatically transforming Hiragana into written Japanese and reducing the need to individually select and confirm word conversions. You can now also select the perfect font for your documents using four new Japanese typefaces. 

Pricing & Availability
OS X El Capitan is available as a free update starting Wednesday, September 30 from the Mac App Store℠. El Capitan supports all Macs introduced in 2009 and later, and some models introduced in 2007 and 2008.

*Testing conducted by Apple in August 2015 using 2.7GHz Intel Core i5–based 13-inch MacBook Pro systems with 128GB of flash storage and 8GB of RAM. Tested with prerelease OS X v10.11. Not all features are available on all devices. Performance will vary based on system configuration, application workload, and other factors.

Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984. Today, Apple leads the world in innovation with iPhone, iPad, the Mac and Apple Watch. Apple’s three software platforms — iOS, OS X and watchOS — provide seamless experiences across all Apple devices and empower people with breakthrough services including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay and iCloud. Apple’s 100,000 employees are dedicated to making the best products on earth, and to leaving the world better than we found it.

Apple Announces Record iPhone 6s & iPhone 6s Plus Sales

Source: Apple - Press Releases - September 28, 2015

iPhone Available in 40 Additional Countries Beginning Friday, October 9

CUPERTINO, California — Apple® today announced it has sold more than 13 million new iPhone® 6s and iPhone 6s Plus models, a new record, just three days after launch. iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus will be available in more than 40 additional countries beginning October 9 including Italy, Mexico, Russia, Spain and Taiwan. The new iPhones will be available in over 130 countries by the end of the year.

“Sales for iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus have been phenomenal, blowing past any previous first weekend sales results in Apple’s history,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO. “Customers’ feedback is incredible and they are loving 3D Touch and Live Photos, and we can’t wait to bring iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus to customers in even more countries on October 9.”

iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus bring a powerful new dimension to iPhone’s revolutionary Multi-Touch™ interface with 3D Touch, which senses how deeply you press the display, letting you do essential things more quickly and simply. The new iPhones introduce Live Photos, which bring still images to life, transforming instants frozen in time into unforgettable living memories. Live Photos, 3D Touch, 12-megapixel iSight® camera, 5-megapixel FaceTime® HD camera with Retina® Flash and more are powered by the Apple-designed A9 chip, the most advanced chip ever in a smartphone, delivering faster performance and great battery life. iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus are designed with the strongest glass on any smartphone and 7000 series aluminum, the same alloy used in the aerospace industry, in gorgeous metallic finishes that now include rose gold.

iOS 9, the world’s most advanced mobile operating system, brings more intelligence to iPhone with proactive assistance, powerful search and improved Siri features, all while protecting users’ privacy. Built-in apps become more powerful with a redesigned Notes app, detailed transit information in Maps*, and an all-new News app for the best news reading experience on any mobile device. The foundation of iOS is even stronger with software updates that require less space to install and advanced security features to further protect your devices.

Customers are encouraged to check the Apple Store® app or Apple.com to receive updates on availability and estimated delivery dates. Every customer who buys an iPhone 6s or iPhone 6s Plus at an Apple Retail Store will be offered free Personal Setup service, helping them customize their iPhone by setting up email, showing them new apps from the App Store℠ and more, so they’ll be up and running with their new iPhone before they leave the store. Customers can also learn more about iOS 9 and their new device through free workshops at all Apple retail stores worldwide. In the US, the new iPhones are also available through AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, Verizon Wireless and additional carriers, and select Apple Authorized Resellers including Best Buy, Target and Walmart.

iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus will roll out worldwide to more than 40 additional countries and territories beginning October 9 including Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Greenland, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Isle of Man, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Maldives, Mexico, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and Taiwan. On October 10, countries include Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates. iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus will be available in India, Malaysia and Turkey on Friday, October 16 and in over 130 countries by the end of the year.

Sales completed by Saturday, September 26 will be included in Apple’s 2015 fourth fiscal quarter results, and sales completed on Sunday, September 27 will be included in Apple’s 2016 first fiscal quarter results.

Pricing & Availability
iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus are available in gold, silver, space gray and the new rose gold metallic finishes for $0 down with 24 monthly payments starting at $27 (US) and $31 (US), respectively, from Apple’s retail stores in the US, Apple.com, select carriers and Apple Authorized Resellers.**
Apple-designed accessories including leather and silicone cases in a range of colors and Lightning Docks in color-matched metallic finishes are also available.
Exclusively at Apple’s retail stores in the US, customers can choose their carrier and get an unlocked iPhone 6s or iPhone 6s Plus with the opportunity to get a new iPhone annually and AppleCare+ on the new iPhone Upgrade Program. Monthly payments start at $32 (US) and $37 (US), respectively. For more information on the iPhone Upgrade Program visit www.apple.com/shop/iphone/iphone-upgrade-program or a US Apple Retail Store.***
Customers can visit Apple.com to reserve their iPhone for pick-up at their local Apple Store, based on availability. Most Apple stores also have iPhone available for walk-in customers each day.
*Transit information in Maps will be available in select major cities including Baltimore, Berlin, Chicago, London, Mexico City, New York City, Philadelphia, the San Francisco Bay Area, Toronto and Washington D.C., as well as over 300 cities in China, including Beijing, Chengdu and Shanghai. News app availability varies by country.
**Prices are rounded to nearest dollar and are based on 24 monthly installment payments. Taxes and activation fees may be due at sale. Carrier terms and eligibility may apply.
***The iPhone Upgrade Program is available to qualified customers only with a valid US personal credit card. Requires a 24-month installment loan with Citizens Bank, N.A. and iPhone activation with a national carrier — AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile or Verizon. Full terms apply.

Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984. Today, Apple leads the world in innovation with iPhone, iPad, the Mac and Apple Watch. Apple’s three software platforms — iOS, OS X and watchOS — provide seamless experiences across all Apple devices and empower people with breakthrough services including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay and iCloud. Apple’s 100,000 employees are dedicated to making the best products on earth, and to leaving the world better than we found it.

Samsung and Oculus Introduce the First Consumer Version of Gear VR

Source: Samsung Mobile Press - Press Releases - September 25, 2015

Samsung and Oculus deliver a new and refined Gear VR, with hundreds of new content options, to the most enjoyable and comfortable mobile VR experience

Samsung and Oculus deliver a new and refined Gear VR, with hundreds of new content options, to the most enjoyable and comfortable mobile VR experience

[Seoul, South Korea, September 25, 2015] – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announced its first Gear VR device aimed to consumers, extending its leadership in the wearables category. The latest edition of the Gear VR is compatible with even more smartphones, including the Galaxy Note 5, Galaxy S6 edge+, S6 and S6 edge, leveraging each device’s super AMOLED display to provide the color, clarity and performance needed for an amazing virtual reality experience.

“Samsung has been at the forefront of delivering mobile experiences and ‘Gear VR Innovator Edition’ launched last year was no exception,” said JK Shin, CEO and President of IT & Mobile Division, Samsung Electronics. “We see virtual reality as the next computing platform, and we are thrilled to partner with Oculus on Gear VR to set the standard for mobile VR and bring this revolutionary product to consumers.”

The Samsung Gear VR is 19 percent lighter than previous Gear VR Innovator Edition, and includes new foam cushioning to make the device more comfortable to wear. In addition, the Gear VR’s touchpad has been improved, providing greater control while enjoying the robust selection of film, gaming, 360 degree video and experiential content available for Gear VR.

“Together with Samsung, we've redefined virtual reality and created the best mobile VR experience available today,” said Brendan Iribe, CEO, Oculus. “On Gear VR, people are playing immersive VR games with friends, sharing 360 video experiences, and teleporting around the world with photos and videos – and it’s only the beginning for what’s possible with mobile VR.”

The Samsung Gear VR will be available in Frost White for USD 99 starting this fall.

For full details of product information and images, please visit www.samsungmobilepress.com.

Samsung Gear VR Product Specifications

Dimension / Weight: 201.9 x 116.4 x 92.6 mm / 318g

Sensor: Accelerator, Gyrometer, Proximity(Mount/Unmount Detection)

FOV  *Field of View: 96 degrees

IPD Coverage: 54 ~ 70 mm (Fixed Lenses)

Color: Frost White

Compatibility: microUSB connection to the Galaxy Note 5, S6 edge+, S6, S6 edge

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies, redefining the worlds of TVs, smartphones, wearable devices, tablets, cameras, digital appliances, printers, medical equipment, network systems, and semiconductor and LED solutions. We are also leading in the Internet of Things space through, among others, our Smart Home and Digital Health initiatives. We employ 319,000 people across 84 countries with annual sales of US $196 billion. To discover more, please visit our official website at www.samsung.com and our official blog at global.samsungtomorrow.com.

Samsung Announces a Successful Payment Launch in South Korea with $30 Million in Accumulated Transaction Volume in First Month

Source: Samsung Mobile Press - Press Releases - September 23, 2015

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA – Today, Samsung announced that Samsung Pay is off to a successful start in South Korea with more than $30 million (₩35.1 billion) in accumulated transaction volume through Sept. 20, one month since it first launched. Samsung Pay is proving its biggest advantage is its wide acceptance among merchants in South Korea with more than 1.5 million total transactions to date and approximately 60 percent of the transaction taking place on the Galaxy Note5 device. Usage of the mobile payment service has surged, recording approximately 36 percent active users in its first month with about 10 percent using Samsung Pay daily.

“Although the details on Samsung Pay usage are constantly being updated, the response we’ve received so far has been beyond our expectations,” said Injong Rhee, executive vice president of Samsung Electronics and global head of Samsung Pay. “We knew Samsung Pay would be a game-changer in the mobile payments industry and now with the user data, we are seeing the greater impact it is having on consumer behavior and on the lifestyle of our customers.”

Samsung Pay in South Korea also introduced several value-added services including:

• Payments that support select integrated circuit (IC) readers;
• Online payments using a Samsung Card (credit and debit); and
• Advanced ATM cash withdrawal transactions using a Woori bank account, with
• Transportation services and loyalty card memberships coming soon.

Samsung Pay is scheduled to launch in the United States on Sept. 28, with plans to bring the service to the U.K., Spain and China soon. Samsung Pay is currently available on the Galaxy S6, S6 edge, S6 edge+ and Note5 devices, and it is the first payment solution that is simple, secure and accepted almost anywhere you can swipe or tap a card. Samsung Pay will also support NFC technology on Samsung Gear S2 in select countries after the device launches on Oct. 2.

About Samsung Pay
Samsung Pay is a simple, safe and available virtually anywhere you can swipe your card mobile payment service from Samsung Electronics. Combining NFC with Samsung’s proprietary MST technologies, Samsung Pay provides consumers a way to pay nearly anywhere you can swipe a card at millions of merchant locations worldwide. Samsung continues to strategically expand its partnership ecosystem for Samsung Pay to provide greater flexibility, access, and choice for customers while enabling an easy and safe payment experience.

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies, redefining the worlds of TVs, smartphones, wearable devices, tablets, cameras, digital appliances, printers, medical equipment, network systems, and semiconductor and LED solutions. We are also leading in the Internet of Things space through, among others, our Smart Home and Digital Health initiatives. We employ 319,000 people across 84 countries with annual sales of US $196 billion. To discover more, please visit our official website at www.samsung.com and our official blog at global.samsungtomorrow.com.

BlackBerry Completes AtHoc Acquisition

Source: BlackBerry - Press Releases - September 23, 2015

Networked crisis communications leader broadens BlackBerry’s portfolio of secure solutions for the connected world

Waterloo, Ontario – September 23, 2015 – BlackBerry Limited (NASDAQ: BBRY; TSX: BB), a global leader in secure mobile communications, today announced that it has completed the acquisition of AtHoc, a leading provider of secure, networked crisis communications. AtHoc will operate as a division of BlackBerry. AtHoc’s Chief Executive Officer, Guy Miasnik, will lead the division as part of BlackBerry’s senior leadership team reporting to John Chen, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. 

The AtHoc software platform enables people, devices and organizations to exchange critical information in real time during business continuity and life safety operations. The platform securely connects with a diverse set of endpoints, including mobile devices running iOS and Android, PC and Mac desktops, digital displays, radios, IP phones, sirens, fire panels and speakers to facilitate collaboration and enhance situational awareness. AtHoc is recognized as a “Leader” by industry analyst firm Gartner, and at the highest position for ability to execute on the firm’s Magic Quadrant for U.S. Emergency/Mass Notification Services1.

AtHoc has customers around the world in both the public and private sectors, and is the leading crisis communications provider to the U.S. Departments of Defense (DoD) and Homeland Security (DHS). AtHoc helps safeguard millions of people and thousands of organizations, including leading international corporations in high technology, heavy industry, and other mission critical industries including healthcare institutions and the vast majority of U.S. federal agencies – including the U.S. Department of the Treasury, U.S. Department of Energy, the Centers for Disease Control and the Food and Drug Administration.

The company most recently announced that it has been selected by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA), a component agency of the DHS, to provide crisis communications for all TSA staff across more than 200 major airports. More organizations are becoming aware of the need for mass communication and collaboration with new legislation such as the DHSInteroperable Communications Act. AtHoc is well positioned to support compliance with this law, which requires homeland security agencies to maintain interoperable communications for daily operations, planned events and emergencies.

AtHoc technology enhances BlackBerry’s mission to provide secure communication solutions for the connected world. It will integrate with BlackBerry’s enterprise portfolio of cross-platform solutions and trusted global network to enable new capabilities for safety, security and mission-critical business communications. For example, new applications may include integrating AtHoc solutions with WatchDox for secure distribution of confidential documents during emergency situations. As part of BlackBerry’s value added solutions, AtHoc’s current portfolio will continue to be made available, including solutions such as AtHoc Connect™, which enable organizations to create their own secure, permission-based communities of individuals and groups that share critical messages and rich media during a crisis to rapidly resolve emergencies in real time assuring business continuity and support for life safety operations.

For more information about BlackBerry and AtHoc, please visitwww.blackberry.com/athoc.

[1] Gartner Magic Quadrant for U.S. Emergency/Mass Notification Services, 31 March 2014, Gartner

About BlackBerry

BlackBerry is securing a connected world, delivering innovative solutions across the entire mobile ecosystem and beyond. We secure the world’s most sensitive data across all end points – from cars to smartphones – making the mobile-first enterprise vision a reality. Founded in 1984 and based in Waterloo, Ontario, BlackBerry operates offices in North America, Europe, Middle East and Africa, 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.

About AtHoc

AtHoc, a division of BlackBerry Limited, is the pioneer and recognized leader in networked crisis communication, protecting millions of people and thousands of organizations around the world. AtHoc provides a seamless and reliable exchange of critical information among organizations, their people and devices. A trusted partner to the world’s most demanding customers, AtHoc is the leading provider to the U.S. Departments of Defense and Homeland Security, and safeguards numerous other government agencies and leading commercial enterprises. Headquartered in Silicon Valley, the company operates around the globe. For more information about AtHoc, please visit www.athoc.com.

Samsung Introduces the Next Generation of S Health, Expands Compatibility to Other Android Devices

Source: Samsung Mobile Press - Press Releases - September 22, 2015

Samsung has launched the next generation of the S Health app, which provides users with more interactive and easy-to-use health functions. The updated app will also include compatibility with non-Samsung Android devices.

S Health version 4.5 is an all-in-one companion for your healthy lifestyle. With the new S Health, users can track their everyday activities, get coaching to reach daily goals, and improve their fitness with curated programs.

With S Health, users can set goals, such as “Be more active,” “Eat healthier,” or “Feel more rested,” and receive tips and rewards for a more interactive experience. Specific programs can also be selected to help accomplish fitness milestones, from a beginner’s first 5K to an avid runner’s 10K time goal including voice guidance to keep runners at their target pace.

Built-in sensors in the Samsung Galaxy and Gear devices will help track heart rate, steps, walking, running, cycling, hiking, sports, sleep, food, water, caffeine, weight, blood pressure, blood glucose and Sp02 so that users can easily get a comprehensive overview of their health and fitness status.

S Health supports seamless connection with Samsung’s wearables and smartphones starting from the Samsung Galaxy S3 and now supports non-Samsung Android devices as well.

What’s new in S Health version 4.5:

• Dashboard provides a quick summary of daily goals and activities. Dashboard is customizable, so users can easily set own goals, check progress, and see latest tracked values quickly and easily at a glance.

• Added health tips* based on personalizable user interest categories

• Specialized tracker features for select sports such as pace-setter, route selector, exercise summary and power saving mode

• Easier, simpler and more intuitive ways to share workouts though social networks

° Add various social badges and routes on the share screen

• Added support for more devices**

° Non-Samsung Android devices

° All Samsung smartphones since Galaxy S3

*Health tips now available in UK, US and Korea

**Tablets and some mobile devices may not be supported. Some functions may not be available depending on regions/service providers/devices. S Health version 4.5 requires Android OS 4.4 or above.

Full details and images are available at:http://www.samsungmobilepress.com/unpacked2015ep2/

For more details about S Health v4.5, please visit http://shealth.samsung.com/

Download URL: http://bit.ly/1ITKH30

iPhone 6s & iPhone 6s Plus Arrive on Friday, September 25

Source: Apple - Press Releases - September 21, 2015

Fastest iOS Adoption Ever with iOS 9

CUPERTINO, California — September 21, 2015 — Apple® today announced iPhone® 6s and iPhone 6s Plus, the most advanced iPhones ever, will be available at 8:00 a.m. local time on Friday, September 25 at Apple’s retail stores. Stores will have the new iPhones available for walk-in customers who are encouraged to arrive early.1 Both models will also be available on Friday from AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, Verizon Wireless, additional carriers and select Apple Authorized Resellers. Apple also announced the fastest iOS adoption ever, with more than 50 percent of devices already using iOS 9.2

“Customer response to the iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus has been incredibly positive, we can't wait to get our most advanced iPhones ever into customers’ hands starting this Friday,” said Philip Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing. “iOS 9 is also off to an amazing start, on pace to be downloaded by more users than any other software release in Apple’s history.”

iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus bring a powerful new dimension to iPhone’s revolutionary Multi-Touch™ interface with 3D Touch, which senses how deeply you press the display, letting you do essential things more quickly and simply. The new iPhones introduce Live Photos, which bring still images to life, transforming instants frozen in time into unforgettable living memories. Live Photos, 3D Touch, 12-megapixel iSight® camera, 5-megapixel FaceTime® HD camera with Retina® Flash and more are powered by the Apple-designed A9 chip, the most advanced chip ever in a smartphone, delivering faster performance and great battery life. iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus are designed with the strongest glass on any smartphone and 7000 series aluminum, the same alloy used in the aerospace industry, in gorgeous metallic finishes that now include rose gold.

iOS 9, the world’s most advanced mobile operating system, brings more intelligence to iPhone with proactive assistance, powerful search and improved Siri® features, all while protecting users’ privacy. Built-in apps become more powerful with a redesigned Notes app, detailed transit information in Maps, and an all-new News app for the best news reading experience on any mobile device.3 The foundation of iOS is even stronger with software updates that require less space to install and advanced security features to further protect your devices.

Pricing & Availability

• iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus will be available in gold, silver, space gray and the new rose gold metallic finishes for $0 down with 24 monthly payments starting at $27 (US) and $31 (US), respectively, from Apple’s retail stores in the US, Apple.com, select carriers and Apple Authorized Resellers.4
• Exclusively at Apple’s retail stores in the US, customers can choose their carrier and get an unlocked iPhone 6s or iPhone 6s Plus with the opportunity to get a new iPhone annually and AppleCare+ on the new iPhone Upgrade Program. Monthly payments start at $32 (US) and $37 (US), respectively.5 For more information on the iPhone Upgrade Program visit www.apple.com/shop/iphone/iphone-upgrade-program or a US Apple Retail Store. 
• Both models will be available in Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand, Puerto Rico, Singapore, the UK and the US.
• Beginning September 26, customers will be able to visit Apple.com to reserve their iPhone for pick-up at their local Apple Store®, based on availability. Most Apple stores will also have iPhone available for walk-in customers each day.
• Apple-designed accessories including leather and silicone cases in a range of colors and Lightning Docks in color-matched metallic finishes will also be available.
• Every customer who buys an iPhone 6s or iPhone 6s Plus at an Apple Retail Store will be offered free Personal Setup to help them customize their iPhone by setting up email, showing them new apps from the App Store℠ and more, so they’ll be up and running with their new iPhone before they leave the store.
• Anyone who wants to learn more about the new iPhones or iOS 9 can register for the free workshops offered at every Apple store. 

1 iPhone is available by reservation only in China, Hong Kong, Japan and US stores in tax-free states. 

2 As measured by the App Store on September 19, 2015.

3 Transit information in Maps will be available in select major cities including Baltimore, Berlin, Chicago, London, Mexico City, New York City, Philadelphia, the San Francisco Bay Area, Toronto and Washington D.C., as well as over 300 cities in China, including Beijing, Chengdu and Shanghai. News app availability varies by country.

4 Prices are rounded to the nearest dollar and are based on 24 monthly installment payments. Taxes and activation fees may be due at sale. Carrier terms and eligibility may apply.

5 Prices are rounded to the nearest dollar. The iPhone Upgrade Program is available to qualified customers only with a valid US personal credit card. Requires a 24-month installment loan with a 0% Annual Percentage Rate from Citizens Bank, N.A. (subject to any interest, fees, or other costs payable to the issuer of the credit card), purchase of AppleCare+ and iPhone activation with a national carrier — AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile or Verizon. Full terms apply.

Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984. Today, Apple leads the world in innovation with iPhone, iPad, the Mac and Apple Watch. Apple’s three software platforms — iOS, OS X and watchOS — provide seamless experiences across all Apple devices and empower people with breakthrough services including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay and iCloud. Apple’s 100,000 employees are dedicated to making the best products on earth, and to leaving the world better than we found it.

Introducing New Galaxy Gifts Package for Samsung Galaxy S6 edge+ and Note5 Users

Source: Samsung Mobile Press - Press Releases - September 16, 2015

Samsung collaborates with leading mobile content and service providers to offer heightened mobile productivity and dynamic content on newest large screen devices

Following the anticipated launch of Samsung’s Galaxy S6 edge+ and Note5, users will be able to enjoy, pre-paid or discounted subscriptions and offerings through Samsung’s updated Galaxy Gifts package. Users can download the application through their Galaxy S6 edge+ or Note5 and receive special in-app benefits for powerful productivity capabilities and stunning visual content.

The Galaxy S6 edge+ and Note5 represent Samsung’s steadfast commitment to the big screen smartphone market, which was boldly pioneered in 2011 with the original Galaxy Note. To complement each device’s curved 5.7-inch Quad HD Super AMOLED screen, Samsung has newly formulated its Galaxy Gifts to enable users to customize and choose specific apps that fit their lifestyle and enhance their overall mobile experience. Both smartphones offer the most powerful capacity and processing power on the market, enabling users to enjoy seamless multi-tasking and engage in graphic-heavy games without suffering lag time.

More about our partners:

• ArtRage: ArtRage gives you a packed toolbox of natural painting tools like oils and watercolors that let Note5 users release their inner artist, free of charge. They can smear thick oils under a stylus, blend watercolors, and sketch with pencils that show the texture of the canvas beneath.

• Driver Speedboat Paradise: For all users of Galaxy Apps on the Samsung Galaxy Note5 and S6 edge+, a speedboat is offered to drive in Ubisoft’s game: Driver Speedboat Paradise.

• Empire: Four Kingdoms: Build, trade and conquer in a world with millions of players. In this mobile app, your strategy determines whether you become a legendary king or remain a simple peasant. All Samsung Galaxy users will receive an exclusive in-game gift after downloading the game.

• Hearthstone®: Heroes of Warcraft™: Users will be rewarded with three free Classic card packs and a shiny Galaxy Gifts card back designed for Galaxy owners. Deceptively simple and insanely fun, Hearthstone®: Heroes of Warcraft™ is Blizzard Entertainment’s acclaimed free-to-play strategy card game for everyone.

• Kindle for Samsung: Kindle for Samsung is an app designed exclusively for Samsung customers. It gives you a free book every month through Samsung Book Deals, and the ultimate e-reading experience optimized for Samsung devices.

• Komoot: Komoot allows Samsung owners to enjoy free turn-by-turn voice navigation and offline topographic maps, even in the woods. Hike, cycle, mountain bike, and engage in other sporty outdoor adventures while this award-winning app guides users to their destination with ease.

• Lifesum: Lifesum is a personalized guide that makes achieving lifestyle goals easier and faster. Users take small, manageable steps, find motivation, become more intentional with eating and exercise habits, develop discipline, and discover how seemingly insignificant choices made daily lead to big changes long-term. Users will achieve their goals with six months free Gold subscription which includes personalized guides to dieting, exercise, and more.

• NY Times – Latest News: The New York Times app features award-winning journalism on the Galaxy Note5 and S6 edge+ high-resolution screen. Note5 and S6 edge+ users can enjoy the first six months free with subscription (three months for U.S. and Canada).

• OneDrive: Galaxy Note5 and S6 edge+ customers receive an exclusive offer from Microsoft OneDrive. They will receive an additional 100GB of storage for two years for free. With OneDrive, these customers can automatically upload photos they take with their Note5 and S6 edge+. They’ll have enough space for 38,000 images and can easily view and share them from any of their devices.

• Scribd: Scribd offers unlimited and instant access to over one million books, audiobooks and comics, and the ultimate editorially curated and personalized discovery experience. Users will receive three months of unlimited access (valued at $27) to a library of one million ebooks and audiobooks.

• SketchBook for Galaxy: The special edition of Autodesk SketchBook exclusively customized for Galaxy Gifts provides Samsung Galaxy Note5 customers with professional-grade painting and drawing software and fully unlocked Pro features for free.

• The Economist: The Economist is your weekly essential global briefing on business, finance, economics, science, technology and the arts offering independent commentary and analysis. Galaxy Note5 and GS6 edge+ users can enjoy six months, full digital access, free trial.

• The Guardian: Users receive six months free access to the ad-free, premium Guardian app ($3.99 per month). Samsung users will have access to premium content, crosswords and ad free experience.

• TripAdvisor: For Samsung device owners only, the TripAdvisor App provides 15 percent discount coupon and exclusive features, helping users plan and book the perfect trip.

Galaxy Gifts Offer Details

ArtRage

Free download (Note5 only)

Driver Speedboat Paradise

Free in-game speedboat

Empire: Four Kingdoms

Exclusive in-game gift after downloading

Hearthstone®: Heroes of Warcraft™

Three free Classic card packs and a Galaxy Gifts card back

Kindle for Samsung

One free eBook every month

Komoot

Free offline maps and navigation

Lifesum

Free six-month Gold subscription (including personalized guides to dieting, exercise, and more)

NY Times – Latest News

Free six-month subscription (three months for U.S. and Canada)

OneDrive

An extra 100GB of OneDrive storage for two years

Scribd

Free three months of unlimited access

SketchBook for Galaxy

Available for free download (Note5 only)

The Economist

Free six-month trial for digital subscription

The Guardian

Ad-free subscription for six months

TripAdvisor

15 percent off your total (up to $100) on next tour booking

The services listed above may not be available in all regions and features may vary by region and channels.

Also, service provider may change the name and/or value of its application without notice. Restrictions may also apply.

Full details and product images are available at:

(http://www.samsungmobilepress.com/unpacked2015ep2/)

For more detail about the Galaxy Gift package offer, please visit

(http://www.samsung.com/global/galaxy/galaxy-note5/galaxy-gifts/

http://www.samsung.com/global/galaxy/galaxy-s6-edge+/galaxy-gifts/)