Gemstar-TV Guide Strengthens Position of Guidance Technology in Japan
Gemstar-TV Guide International, Inc. (NASDAQ: GMST), a leading media, entertainment and technology company, announced today a new, multi-year licensing agreement with Mitsubishi Electric Corporation for Japan. Mitsubishi Electric has extended its current license to incorporate the Gemstar-TV Guide G-GUIDE Interactive Program Guide (IPG) technology into Mitsubishi Electric’s digital televisions and digital video recording devices in Japan. Specifically, the new agreement extends Mitsubishi Electric’s existing license to include the recently launched digital G-GUIDE IPG. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
“Mitsubishi Electric’s decision to extend its licensing agreements with Gemstar-TV Guide underscores the strength of our technology and intellectual property on digital platforms,” said Akitaka Nishimura, president of Gemstar Multimedia, “This latest digital IPG commitment underscores our position in leading the migration to digital in Japan and continues our momentum in this growing market.”
He continued, “The agreement also builds on a successful, pre-established relationship with Mitsubishi Electric and will provide TV consumers in Japan with an enhanced IPG that will increase usability and improve navigation through an ever expanding universe of content.”
Gemstar-TV Guide’s G-GUIDE IPG is adapted specifically for the Japanese market. It is built directly into consumer electronics products, offering Japanese consumers the industry’s most advanced interactive television program guide, with no additional subscription fee or phone connection required. Gemstar TV-Guide’s digital G-GUIDE IPG is already integrated into digital televisions and digital video recording devices in Japan under a previously announced licensing agreement with Panasonic.
About Gemstar-TV Guide
Gemstar-TV Guide International, Inc. (the “Company”) (NASDAQ: GMST) is a leading global media, entertainment, and technology company that develops, licenses, markets and distributes products and services that maximize the video guidance and entertainment experience for consumers. The Company’s businesses include: television, publishing, and new media properties; interactive program guide services and products; and intellectual property licensing. Additional information about the Company can be found at http://www.gemstartvguide.com.
