Coventive Delivers an All-in-One Multimedia Solution for Japanese Consumers
SAN JOSE, Calif.--Jan. 29, 2001--Coventive Technologies and AXIS Corporation today announced plans to preview a new Linux(R)-based home TV-and-Web appliance at this week's LinuxWorld Expo/New York City. The new appliance, dubbed "canD," is part of the first wave of commercial consumer technology products based on the open source Linux software operating system. Retail consumers in Japan will be able to buy canD in stores next month.
Designed for Internet beginners and non-computer users, canD is a compact dictionary-sized set top box that is suitable for typical Japanese living rooms. Unlike other Internet terminals and set-top boxes, canD does not require users to work with a PC-like keyboard. Instead, canD users navigate TV programming and Internet resources with a familiar, wireless remote control that enables easy access to email, the Web and a full range of video and audio entertainment programming.
AXIS, a leading Japanese designer of computers and peripherals, and Coventive, an international software company focused on providing total embedded Linux solutions for information appliances, plan to collaborate on a family of Linux-based canD products in the coming months.
"Linux is the most suitable operating system for set top boxes because of its robustness and superior development environment on the open source," said Toshihiko Kumashiro, president and CEO of AXIS. "Coventive is very well-experienced with Linux, with fine technology to optimize the software, embed kernels, and integrate network protocols."
Forthcoming Linux-based canD products include a mobile wireless Internet appliance, an intercom-integrated information terminal, and a kitchen-specific Internet appliance. The companies also plan to customize and localize the product family to serve markets beyond Japan.
"The local requirements for information appliances are different in each unique market. Coventive offers appliances designers and manufacturers deep embedded Linux technical strength combined with extensive customization and localization experience," said Randy Tan, CEO of Coventive Technologies. "We offer total customized open source solutions to help companies like AXIS design and develop new products with well-defined Internet browsing systems that showcase the power of Linux."
canD Product Specifications
canD's software systems were developed using Coventive's XTinux(TM) embedded Linux operating system software and the Access Netfront browser interface. Hardware specifications are based on the NS Media GX platform with 8MB DOM and 16MB SDRAM. The units include 2 USB ports for connecting to other peripherals, such as a printer or digital camera.
ALISS-NET, Japan's leading Internet service provider, will support canD's bandwidth and content delivery requirements including subscription Internet access services and a specialized canD Web portal.
canD previews will be hosted at Coventive's booth (No. 1647) in the main exhibit hall of LinuxWorld Expo/New York City 2001.
About AXIS Corporation
Founded in 1992, AXIS is a leading design organization to service the advanced system technologies for development of innovative computer and peripherals. On OEMs' demand of computer and peripheral products, AXIS provides total solution; business planning, market survey research, product planning and complete design, production support, after-sales service as well as sales channel partners.
The headquarters is in Yokohama Japan and has an overseas branch, AXIS Technology Taiwan (founded in 1996 in San-Chung City) to provide ODM production service, international parts purchase and parts resale service. In 1999, AXIS founded an R&D company, Vertex AXIS Corporation, in Tokyo for developing embedded systems and IA products.
For additional information, visit AXIS' web site at http://www.axs.co.jp
About Coventive Technologies
Coventive Technologies is an international software company that delivers complete embedded Linux-based solutions for the information appliance and server appliance markets. The company is one of the largest Linux software development and distribution companies in Asia, with offices in Taipei, Kaohsiung, Taichung, Beijing, Xi'An, Seoul, and Kuala Lumpur. In 2000, the company established a presence in the United States.
Coventive numbers among its customers and partners some of the leading names in the computer industry, including IBM, Acer, Intel, Legend and Gigabyte. Additionally, Coventive has formidable channel partners throughout Asia, including CSA, Malaysia's largest systems integrator; 8848.net, one of China's largest on-line IT distributors and LinuxOne, Korea's largest enterprise computing systems company.
To learn more about Coventive, please visit our Web site at http://www.coventive.com.
Editors Note: LINUX is a registered trademark owned by Linus Torvalds. Coventive and XTinux are trademarks of Coventive Technologies, Inc. All other names and trademarks are property of their respective owners.