Companies news

Misys Facilitates Masraf Al Rayan's Expansion of Islamic Banking Operations

LONDON, May 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Misys plc (FTSE: MSY.L), the global application software and services company, today announces that its core banking and trade services solutions have been selected by Masraf Al Rayan to build a true Islamic solution for its consumer and commercial customers.

Misys was chosen as the best partner for Masraf Al Rayan over other solutions from five vendors because of its proven expertise in Islamic finance and credibility in the region.

"Misys and its core banking solution, Equation, has an excellent track record in our market for delivering solutions that fully support Islamic banking and finance," comments Said Mohamed, Chief Operating Office at Masraf Al Rayan. We have plans to build our business quickly and expand our branch network rapidly in Qatar and in throughout the region; we therefore needed a reliable and proven solution that minimized the risk in the project and was able to scale at the rate at which we are planning to grow."

Masraf Al Rayan, which recently won the "Best New Islamic Bank" award, is focused on providing commercial and investment banking solutions with an entirely Sharia'a compliant portfolio of products. It also provides its customers a range of consumer services such as vehicle, home finance and goods finance.

The bank is already building a reputation for innovative products and a high standard of customer service. "We are dedicated to delivering superior customer satisfaction consistently," continues Said Mohamed. "Misys will enable us to maintain this excellence."

The trade finance sector in Qatar is growing very strongly, mirroring the vibrant economy in the country, underpinned by the success of the petrochemical industry. Exports have surged in recent years, as oil prices have increased and energy export volumes have grown, coupled with a steady influx of imports.

As part of the solution from Misys, the bank needed an integrated system to cope with this growth and to manage the entire trade finance operations from the front office to the transaction processing in the back office. Misys Trade Innovation and the front-end solution, Misys Trade Portal, were selected as part of the agreement with the bank to handle the expanding volumes and value of trade transactions, both through letters of credit and open account.

Roy Froud, Head of Middle East and Africa, Misys Banking, states, "Masraf Al Rayan has very clear expansion plans both organically and through potential acquisitions. We are delighted that it has chosen our highly flexible and scaleable solution and our in-depth knowledge of and excellent track record in Islamic finance. The advanced functionality and stability of our integrated core banking and trade finance solution will fully support the bank's Islamic finance products and services. We welcome Masraf Al Rayan to our network of more than 120 financial institutions in the region, seven of which are in Qatar. We very much look forward to supporting the team as it continues to grow the business and add value to its customers."

About Misys plc

Misys plc (FTSE: MSY.L), provides integrated, comprehensive solutions that deliver significant results to organisations in the financial services and healthcare industries. We maximise value for our customers by combining our deep knowledge of their business with our commitment to their success.

In banking and treasury & capital markets, Misys is a market leader, with over 1,200 customers, including all of the world's top 50 banks. In healthcare, Misys is a market leader, serving more than 110,000 physicians in 18,000 practice locations and 600 home care providers. Misys employs around 4,500 people who serve customers in more than 120 countries.

We aspire to be the world's best application software and services company, delivering results for the most important industries in the world.

Misys: experience, solutions, results Contact us today, visit: http://www.misys.com/ For further information please contact: Edward Taylor Global Head of Public Relations Misys Banking +44(0)208-486-1661 edward.taylor@misys.com Sebastian Mathews Financial Dynamics +44(0)207-269-7158 sebastian.mathews@fd.com

Misys plc

CONTACT: For further information please contact: Edward Taylor, Global
Head of Public Relations, Misys Banking, +44(0)208-486-1661,
edward.taylor@misys.com; Sebastian Mathews, Financial Dynamics,
+44(0)207-269-7158, sebastian.mathews@fd.com

Misys Facilitates Masraf Al Rayan's Expansion of Islamic Banking Operations

LONDON, May 6 /PRNewswire/ -- Misys plc (FTSE: MSY.L), the global application software and services company, today announces that its core banking and trade services solutions have been selected by Masraf Al Rayan to build a true Islamic solution for its consumer and commercial customers.

Misys was chosen as the best partner for Masraf Al Rayan over other solutions from five vendors because of its proven expertise in Islamic finance and credibility in the region.

About Misys plc

We aspire to be the world's best application software and services company, delivering results for the most important industries in the world.

Misys: experience, solutions, results

For further information please contact: Edward Taylor Global Head of Public Relations Misys Banking +44(0)208-486-1661 edward.taylor@misys.com Sebastian Mathews Financial Dynamics +44(0)207-269-7158 sebastian.mathews@fd.com

Misys plc

For further information please contact: Edward Taylor, Global Head of Public Relations, Misys Banking, +44(0)208-486-1661, edward.taylor@misys.com; Sebastian Mathews, Financial Dynamics, +44(0)207-269-7158, sebastian.mathews@fd.com

Autonomy etalk Receives 2008 CRM Excellence AwardIntelligent Contact Center Recognized for Helping Organizations to Improve and Enhance the Value of Their Customer Relationships

CAMBRIDGE, England and DALLAS, Texas, May 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Autonomy Corporation plc , a global leader in infrastructure software for the enterprise, today announced that Technology Marketing Corporation (TMC)'s Customer Interaction Solutions(R) magazine (http://www.cismag.com/) has named Autonomy etalk's Intelligent Contact Center solution as a recipient of the 2008 CRM Excellence Award.

"The CRM Excellence Award is a testament to the innovation that we provide to our customers, enabling them to achieve the highest quality in their daily customer interactions. We are proud to be acknowledged by Customer Interaction Solutions magazine for the seventh year. The Autonomy etalk Intelligent Contact Center combines proven CRM processes with intelligent speech and analysis capabilities to deliver significant business value across the organization," said Scott Shute, CEO of Autonomy etalk.

The Intelligent Contact Center provides the ability to capture, share, and analyze the critical data that flows through the contact center. Autonomy etalk provides a platform for multi-channel interaction analysis, real-time agent support, and contact center performance management solutions, including compliance recording, quality monitoring, agent coaching and evaluations, and customer surveys. With automated processes, intuitive enterprise search, and advanced analysis, Autonomy etalk delivers relevant and accessible intelligence that enables businesses to understand the meaning of customer interactions and enhance customer-driven business strategies across the enterprise.

"Autonomy etalk has demonstrated to the editors of Customer Interaction Solutions that its products and services have substantially improved the processes of its clients' businesses by streamlining and facilitating the flow of information needed for companies to retain their most precious asset...their customers," said Nadji Tehrani, founder and chairman of TMC, publishers of Customer Interaction Solutions.

The Ninth Annual CRM Excellence Award winners have been chosen on the basis of their product or service's ability to help extend and expand customer relationships to become all encompassing, covering the entire enterprise and the lifetime of the customer. The CRM Excellence Award is based on hard data: facts and numbers demonstrating the improvements that the winner's product has made in a client's business.

The CRM Excellence Award winners for 2008 can be found in the May and June issues of Customer Interaction Solutions magazine.

About Autonomy

Autonomy Corporation plc is a global leader in infrastructure software for the enterprise and is spearheading the meaning-based computing movement. Autonomy's technology forms a conceptual and contextual understanding of any piece of electronic data including unstructured information, be it text, email, voice or video. Autonomy's software powers the full spectrum of mission-critical enterprise applications including information access technology, BI, CRM, KM, call center solutions, rich media management, information risk management solutions and security applications, and is recognized by industry analysts as the clear leader in enterprise search.

Autonomy's customer base comprises of more than 17,000 global companies and organizations including: 3, ABN AMRO, AOL, BAE Systems, BBC, Bloomberg, Boeing, Citigroup, Coca Cola, Daimler Chrysler, Deutsche Bank, Ericsson, Ford, GlaxoSmithKline, Lloyd TSB, NASA, Nestle, the New York Stock Exchange, Reuters, Shell, T-Mobile, the U.S. Department of Energy, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Autonomy also has over 300 OEM partners and more than 400 VARs and Integrators, numbering among them leading companies such as BEA, Business Objects, Citrix, EDS, IBM Global Services, Novell, Satyam, Sybase, Symantec, TIBCO, Vignette and Wipro. The company has offices worldwide.

The Autonomy Group includes: ZANTAZ, the leader in the archiving, e-Discovery and Proactive Information Risk Management (IRM) markets; Cardiff, a leading provider of Intelligent Document solutions; etalk, award-winning provider of enterprise-class contact center products, Virage, a visionary in rich media management and security and surveillance technology and Meridio, a leading provider of records management software.

Autonomy and the Autonomy logo are registered trademarks or trademarks of Autonomy Corporation plc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Autonomy etalk Editorial Contacts: Kathy Kuehne Autonomy (US) +1-214-981-3221 kathy.kuehne@autonomy.com Sayo Ogundiran Cohn & Wolfe (US) +1-415-365-8552 cwna-autonomy@cohnwolfe.com Edward Bridges Financial Dynamics (UK) +44-207-831-3113 edward.bridges@fd.com Bite Communications (UK) +44(0)20-8834-3518 autonomy@bitepr.com

Autonomy Corporation plc

CONTACT: Autonomy etalk Editorial Contacts: Kathy Kuehne, Autonomy
(US): +1-214-981-3221, kathy.kuehne@autonomy.com; Sayo Ogundiran, Cohn &
Wolfe (US), +1-415-365-8552, cwna-autonomy@cohnwolfe.com; Edward Bridges,
Financial Dynamics (UK), +44-207-831-3113, edward.bridges@fd.com; Bite
Communications (UK), +44(0)20-8834-3518, autonomy@bitepr.com

Global Crossing Expands Data Center Offer with New London and Miami LocationsCompany Establishes New Executive Position to Support Hosting Strategy

FLORHAM PARK, N.J., May 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Global Crossing , a leading IP solutions provider, today revealed plans to open a hosting data center in London to serve customers in Europe, and has relocated its data center operations in the Miami area to accommodate the housing and hosting needs of United States customers interested in connectivity to Latin America. To illustrate its commitment to enhancing its hosting and data center business solutions, the company also has created a new executive position to oversee its hosting strategic initiative.

Gabriel del Campo, who currently manages the company's incumbent data center business in Latin America, will serve as Global Crossing's new vice president of data center services EMEA and global data center product management.

"When we completed our acquisition of Impsat roughly a year ago, we emphasized the close alignment of our two businesses, and in particular, the opportunity to introduce existing Impsat services to a wider, global customer base," said John Legere, Global Crossing's chief executive officer. "Our existing hosting infrastructure is world class. This expansion aims to capitalize on the rising demand for data center services, where supply has become increasingly scarce across Europe, and to accommodate the needs of U.S. businesses seeking connectivity to the Latin American region. It's imperative to Global Crossing's customers that we enhance and expand this valuable capability."

"Delivering this capability to enterprise customers in Europe beginning with our London facility is a cornerstone of our strategy to support their critical business needs," echoed Anthony Christie, managing director, EMEA. "As we hone our focus on this crucial market segment, we'll continue to refine this strategic growth area and to firmly plant Global Crossing in the minds of existing and prospective customers."

According to Gartner, the world's leading information technology research and advisory company, if significant new data center space is not brought on-stream in high-demand areas like London, there will be no free space left by the end of the decade.*

"The general improvement in business conditions is causing organizations to come back to the data center market with greater overall demand than has been seen in recent years," said Scott Morrison, research director at Gartner. "The increase in demand for data center services is being driven primarily by internal enterprise requirements, including the growth in content-rich applications, data storage needs and virtualization. These are more robust indicators for positive mid-term growth in the industry than the supply-led expansion of Web-facing solutions in the dot-com era."

Consolidating our data center services with our Miami operations offers expanded physical facilities and enhances services provided to customers previously served out of a former Impsat facility in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. The 650-square meter upgraded data center boasts a world-class infrastructure and quality standards, including state-of-the-art secure client support, such as a redundant power system for generators, rectifiers, UPS and air conditioning.

Under del Campo's leadership, the Latin American team built Impsat's existing successful data center business from the ground up. In addition to his other responsibilities, he will guide the development of common standards, best practices and processes to support the evolution of what has been a regional business into a global one.

"Global Crossing's hosting business is focused on addressing enterprises' increasing demand for integrated Information Communications Technology (ICT) solutions," explained del Campo. "Our emphasis is on solutions. We recognize the enterprise market's need for converged services that go beyond data, video and voice integration, to integrate and combine IT services with telecommunications, Internet, security and VoIP."

Global Crossing's growing data center footprint currently offers world-class facilities in 60 major cities worldwide to provide businesses access to critical customers and business partners. Global Crossing housing facilities allow customers to seamlessly link sites to virtually any location around the world within the reach and capacity of the world's most extensive global IP network. The benefits of Global Crossing colocation facilities also include receiving consistent and similar services throughout the world and the ease of one-stop shopping for ICT, On-Demand and Continuity solutions.

Global Crossing offers solutions that allow customers to focus on their businesses while Global Crossing manages and administers the entire IT infrastructure and network for them. Global Crossing's hosting solutions provide customers housing, equipment, storage, backup and monitoring, as well as managed services that free them to run their application or Web site.

On-Demand Solutions let customers use what they need when they need it, including network capacity, storage, processing power and managed services. They enable customers to respond rapidly and adequately to the demands of their clients or other business opportunities.

Global Crossing Continuity Solutions provide preventive tools and redundancy capabilities that keep businesses running or help minimize any potential economic losses caused by an unexpected incident. Interruptions in service could be caused by natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, or floods, or by social problems, fires or technology problems.

Several of Global Crossing's data centers in Latin America have received a Statement on Auditing Standards (SAS) 70 review, which is a widely recognized auditing standard that evaluates the design and operating effectiveness of controls that have specific objectives, such as the security of financial information. This review is especially important to large businesses and is being increasingly accepted by government organizations and private companies that seek an independent opinion to confirm the effectiveness of a provider's processes and internal controls structure. It also simplifies their auditing processes and potentially can save them time and reduce their costs.

ABOUT GLOBAL CROSSING

Global Crossing provides telecommunications solutions over the world's first integrated global IP-based network. Its core network connects approximately 390 cities in more than 30 countries worldwide, and delivers services to approximately 690 cities in more than 60 countries and 6 continents around the globe. The company's global sales and support model matches the network footprint and, like the network, delivers a consistent customer experience worldwide.

Global Crossing IP services are global in scale, linking the world's enterprises, governments and carriers with customers, employees and partners worldwide in a secure environment that is ideally suited for IP-based business applications, allowing e-commerce to thrive. The company offers a full range of data, voice and security products to approximately 40 percent of the Fortune 500, as well as 700 carriers, mobile operators and ISPs. Its Professional Services and Managed Solutions provide VoIP, security and network consulting and management services to support its Global Crossing IP VPN service and Global Crossing VoIP services. Global Crossing was the first global communications provider with IPv6 natively deployed in both its private and public backbone networks. Please visit http://www.globalcrossing.com/ or blogs.globalcrossing.com/ for more information about Global Crossing.

* Gartner "European Data Center Colocation Pricing," by Scott Morrison, November 19, 2007.

Statements in this press release about expected future events and financial results are forward-looking and subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results to differ materially, including risks referenced from time to time in the company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Global Crossing undertakes no duty to update information contained in this press release or in other public disclosures at any time.

CONTACT GLOBAL CROSSING: Press Contacts Kate Rankin + 1 973 937 0417 PR@globalcrossing.com Fernanda Marques Latin America + 55 11 3957 2042 LatAmPR@globalcrossing.com Analysts/Investors Contact Suzanne Lipton + 1 800 836 0342 glbc@globalcrossing.com GEN/PR1

Global Crossing

CONTACT: Press, Kate Rankin, +1-973-937-0417, PR@globalcrossing.com, or
Fernanda Marques, Latin America, +55-11-3957-2042, LatAmPR@globalcrossing.com,
or Analysts,Investors, Suzanne Lipton, +1-800-836-0342,
glbc@globalcrossing.com, all of Global Crossing

Web site: http://www.globalcrossing.com/

Curb Records Signs Exclusive Contract With Play MPE(TM)Agreement Includes Digital Delivery of Releases to Radio and other Industry VIPs

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Destiny Media Technologies (BULLETIN BOARD: DSNY) is pleased to announce the signing of an exclusive agreement with Curb Records to use the Play MPE(TM) system to deliver music to trusted recipients. This deal constitutes the continued dominance of Play MPE(TM) as the digital delivery system of choice for the music industry. Both Curb Records and imprint label Curb/Asylum Records, will utilize the Play MPE(TM) System for digital delivery of their pre-release content to radio broadcasters and other music VIPs.

"The Play MPE(TM) service is an incredible tool for us to instantly digital delivery our music to the people that need it now," said Carson James, Senior Vice President Promotion at Curb Records and Curb/Asylum Records. "Their security and the ability to customize our delivery, allows us to maximize our artists' exposure in a way that is easy to use for our clients. Play MPE(TM) is the system of choice for us here at Curb Records."

"Play MPE(TM) is honored to have this exclusive contract with Curb Records," said Dean Ernst, VP of MPE Operations. "Curb is one of the nation's largest major independent labels and one of the most respected. Their artist roster boasts some of the most recognized names in the music business today including Tim McGraw, LeAnn Rimes, Hank Williams Jr., Rodney Atkins, Jo Dee Messina, Clay Walker, Kimberley Locke, Natalie Grant and Plumb, just to name a few. Play MPE(TM) looks forward to working with the great team at Curb Records."

About Curb Records

Curb Records (http://www.curb.com/) was started by Mike Curb in 1973, which includes the labels Curb Records and Curb/Asylum Records. Curb's roster includes Rodney Atkins, Bellamy Brothers, Bomshel, Lee Brice, Junior Brown, Jeff Carson, Cowboy Crush, Amy Dalley, Star De Azlan, Michael English, Natalie Grant, Ashley Gearing, Allan Hall, Steve Holy, Frankie Jordan, Cledus T. Judd, The Judds, Kaci, Brian Kennedy, Hal Ketchum, Kimberley Locke, Ronnie McDowell, Tim McGraw, Mercy Me, Jo Dee Messina, Marie Miller, Nemesis Rising, Heidi Newfield, Fernando Ortega, Jonathan Pierce, Plumb, LeAnn Rimes, Rio Grand, Nate Sallie, Sawyer Brown, Selah, Jamie Slocum, Todd Smith, Nicol Sponberg, Ray Stevens, B.J. Thomas, Mark Tinney, Trick Pony, Trini Triggs, Clay Walker, Hanks Williams Jr. and Wynonna. Curb Records also supports charitable programs through the Mike Curb Family Foundation (http://www.mikecurbfamilyfoundation.com/).

About Play MPE(TM)

With almost 21,000 users and 80,000 songs from more than 1,000 record labels, including Universal Music Group, EMI Music Group, Sony BMG and Warner Music Group, Destiny's Play MPE(TM) system is the most widely used digital distribution system available to the recording and radio industries. Play MPE(TM) is a secure distribution system that features state-of-the-art encryption to protect content while delivering high definition audio to users in radio, marketing and media. A powerful promotional tool, Play MPE(TM) also allows record companies to distribute video, text and graphics including music videos, CD covers, credits, lyrics, promotions, and other content. More information on Play MPE(TM) can be found at http://www.plaympe.com/

About Destiny Media Technologies

Destiny (http://www.dsny.com/) is a software development company which provides tools that some of the world's largest media companies use to distribute their content on the Internet.

The MPE(TM) product line is based on two patent pending technologies which give the content owner the choice of locking content or embedding a digital trace that identifies the person that made copies. The Play MPE(TM) (http://www.plaympe.com/ and http://www.myplaympe.com/) music preview service securely moves pre-release music for over thousand record labels to trusted third parties, such as radio stations and media outlets. PODDS(TM) (http://www.podds.ca/) is an MPE(R) powered white-label software solution for securely selling music online. Destiny operates their own online store selling digital music to DJ's and online jukeboxes in Canada.

Clipstream(R) is a standards based streaming video solution which reaches more viewers than other technologies at a fraction of the bandwidth cost. Other products require the purchase and maintenance of complicated and expensive streaming servers. With Clipstream(R), content owners simply encode and upload to their existing web server. Visitors to the site don't need to download or install video software. Clipstream(R) products include on demand audio (http://www.clipstreamaudio.com/) and video (http://www.clipstream.com/), internet radio (http://www.radiodestiny.com/), IPTV (http://live.clipstream.com/), telephone audio (http://www.audio-mail.com/) and solutions for adverting (http://www.clipstreamad.com/) and market research (http://surveyclip.com/) customers.

Safe Harbor Statement

"Safe Harbor" statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: This release contains forward looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, the impact of competitive products and pricing, product demand and market acceptance, new product development, reliance on key strategic alliances, availability of raw materials, the regulatory environment, fluctuations in operating results and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Company Contact: Steve Vestergaard, CEO Destiny Media Technologies, Inc. (604) 609-7736 (ext. 222) Email: steve@dsny.com

Destiny Media Technologies

CONTACT: Steve Vestergaard, CEO of Destiny Media Technologies,
+1-604-609-7736, ext. 222, steve@dsny.com

Web site: http://www.dsny.com/
http://www.curb.com/
http://www.mikecurbfamilyfoundation.com/
http://www.plaympe.com/
http://www.myplaympe.com/
http://www.podds.ca/
http://www.clipstreamaudio.com/
http://www.clipstream.com/
http://www.radiodestiny.com/
http://live.clipstream.com/
http://www.audio-mail.com/
http://www.clipstreamad.com/
http://surveyclip.com/

Expedia Unveils Annual Insiders' Select Ranking of the World's Best HotelsHonored hotels selected based on value, service and Expedia customer ratings

BELLEVUE, Wash., May 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Expedia(R), the world's leading online travel company, today unveiled its annual Expedia Insiders' Select(TM) list of the world's best hotels (http://www.expedia.com/insidersselect). Marking the second annual ranking, the list is comprised of the top hotels from among a selection of nearly 80,000 properties worldwide available on Expedia.

"The Expedia Insiders' Select list makes it easier for travelers to sort through thousands of hotel options to choose the best hotel for their trip," said Paul Brown, president, Expedia North America. "Expedia has captured the experiences of millions of hotel guests, and combined them with a value rating and local destination expertise to help travelers identify the best hotels in the world for the best value."

The list represents the variety of hotel types and destinations offered on Expedia. One characteristic all Insiders' Select hotels have in common is that they have been recognized by Expedia travelers for consistently delivering excellent service, a great overall experience and a notable value. The list is comprised of hotels ranging from boutique to chain properties in a variety of small, mid-sized and large destinations. The list also represents Expedia's global selection of hotel properties, from favorites in the U.S. like The Sanderling Resort & Spa on North Carolina's Outer Banks and Chateau on the Lake in Branson, Mo., to international favorites like The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The Expedia Insiders' Select list was compiled using a weighted mathematical formula that includes several factors including:

-- Expedia's collection of hundreds of thousands of Traveler Opinions(R) -- hotel reviews created by Expedia travelers who recently stayed at the property; -- A value rating determined by comparing hotels within the same star-rating and geographical region to identify hotels that deliver a notable value for the experience they offer; and -- Local expertise and insight from hundreds of Expedia employees in destinations throughout the world.

The full list is available at http://www.expedia.com/insiderselect. Highlights include:

-- Number 1 overall: Sofitel Chicago Water Tower -- Chicago, Ill. -- Number 1 in Asia: Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel -- Tokyo, Japan -- Number 1 in Europe: The Knight Residence -- Edinburgh, Scotland -- Top Resort Worldwide: JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa -- Cancun, Mexico

"We work hard to deliver an exceptional experience to our guests during their stay, and we are thrilled to be recognized as the top rated hotel globally by Expedia and its travelers," said Patrick Filatre, general manager, Sofitel Chicago Water Tower. "We know travelers value the opinions of other travelers and this ranking allows people to choose the right hotel with even greater confidence."

About Expedia(R)

Expedia is the world's leading online travel provider, helping millions of travelers per month easily plan and book travel. Expedia (http://www.expedia.com/) aims to provide personalized service, the latest technology and the widest selection of vacation packages, flights, hotels, rental cars, cruises and in-destination activities, attractions, and services. With the Expedia(R) Best Price Guarantee, Expedia promises to offer to its customers the best rates available online for all types of travel, making it the most comprehensive customer guarantee in online travel. Expedia is an operating company of Expedia, Inc. .

Expedia, the Airplane logo, Insiders' Select and Traveler Opinions are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Expedia, Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. Other logos or product and company names mentioned herein may be the property of their respective owners.

Expedia, Inc.

CONTACT: Katie Deines of Expedia, Inc., +1-425-679-4317,
press@expedia.com

Web site: http://www.expedia.com/

SERKO(R) & TRX Launch Global Strategic Alliance For Corporate Online Booking

ATLANTA and AUCKLAND, New Zealand, May 6 /PRNewswire/ --

- Advanced corporate online booking tools align to provide Corporations and Travel Management Companies a unified global service experience to customers with international travel programs

TRX, Inc. (Nasdaq: TRXI), a global technology company that develops and hosts software applications to process data records and automate manual processes and SERKO, the supplier of SERKO Online, today announced the launch of a global sales and marketing alliance for on-line booking.

SERKO's SERKO Online and TRX's RESX are both industry leaders in technology solutions for corporate travel management companies and their clients. SERKO Online and RESX provide real-time internet distribution of travel products to corporate clients via multiple channels that connect to Travel Management Companies (TMC) allowing them to gain further advantage over their competitors and providing corporations with access to content filtered by their own travel policies.

Joint Advantages for Corporations and TMC's

"The newly formed alliance leverages best-of-breed technology providers with in-region expertise to more effectively meet the needs of local clientele requiring a global travel program," said Shane Hammond, President, RESX Technologies.

"In addition the partnership will mean localized development in each region able to support change requests and feature enhancements quickly and cost effectively with an agile approach," added Michael Thorburn, GM Sales & Marketing at SERKO Ltd.

Other benefits offered are instant support coverage, by region, performed in the region, compared to outsourced, out-of-region call centers which can be an issue with the global deployment of a single online solution.

RESX and SERKO will work together to deliver simultaneous and regionally-focused technology development, and to bring new features to the global market faster.

Solutions Found for Common Issues

Both companies agree this approach will eliminate barriers faced by international travel programs such as the balancing technology suppliers often face in managing investment priorities across regions, which ultimately leads to slower time to market for new features.

Where a traditional single solution provider can lack in-region functionality, knowledge, and expertise, the combined SERKO and RESX offering leverages two best-of-breed technology partners within their respective regions.

"Banking on a "one-sized-fits-all" approach to technology investment no longer works in the fast, ever-evolving online travel distribution business," said Thorburn.

"Given the technology challenges many of our customers face globally, SERKO and RESX felt it was time to take action on the opportunity and work with each other to tailor a solution that delivers an innovative, localized solution to enhance the international business of our corporate end customers and travel industry partners with the first global alliance of online self booking tools being the result," concluded Hammond.

Regionally, SERKO will distribute online travel content to corporations throughout the Asia Pacific and RESX will encompass the Americas and Europe.

About TRX, Inc.

As a global technology company, we develop and host software applications that process complex data records and automate manual processes, enabling our clients to optimize performance and control costs. We are a leading provider to the travel industry and are expanding into financial services and healthcare. We deliver our technology applications in an on-demand environment to travel agencies, corporations, travel suppliers, government agencies, credit card associations, credit card issuing banks, and third-party administrators.

More information on TRX, Inc. can be found at http://www.trx.com Contact: Kira Perdue Trevelino/Keller Communications Group for TRX, Inc. +1-404-214-0722, extension 101 kperdue@trevelinokeller.com

About SERKO(R)

SERKO Limited is a software development company specializing in travel technology tools for corporate travel management companies and online business travel management tools for corporate use. The SERKO(R) Online product, delivers a range of essential online travel management facilities including an integrated booking engine, authorization workflow, expense management and reporting engine. Integration of SERKO(R) Online with a travel management company's system allows high adoption rate by corporate users and a significant reduction in unproductive double handling of information. As one of the leading independent travel technology providers in the Asia Pacific region, SERKO(R) handles more than two billion transactions per day through its travel management systems.

More information on SERKO(R) can be found at http://www.serkoonline.com Contact: Michael Thorburn GM Sales & Marketing SERKO Limited Office: +64-9-302-9206 Mobile: +64-21-668-045 Email: michaelt@serkoonline.com Web site: http://www.trx.com http://www.serkoonline.com

TRX, Inc.

Kira Perdue of Trevelino - Keller Communications Group for TRX, Inc., +1-404-214-0722, extension 101, kperdue@trevelinokeller.com; or Michael Thorburn, GM Sales & Marketing, SERKO Limited, +64-9-302-9206, Mobile: +64-21-668-045, michaelt@serkoonline.com

Northrop Grumman to Support Roll-Out of NATO Maritime Command and Control Information System (MCCIS)

LONDON, May 6 /PRNewswire/ --

Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) announced that it has been selected by the NATO C3 Agency (NC3A) to provide hardware and software support services for the roll-out of the Maritime Command and Control Information System (MCCIS) across NATO countries.

The MCCIS merges information gathered from satellites, wide area networks, computerized tactical data processors and machine-readable messages to create a common operating environment for maritime and other assets. It is integrated by NATO support staff and includes commercial-off-the-shelf products together with NATO-developed applications. The MCCIS is installed in every NATO maritime headquarters, which includes more than 300 workstations.

"This programme will strengthen our footprint and allow us to deliver C2 capability into every NATO country," said Paul Davison, managing director and vice-president of Northrop Grumman Mission Systems Europe. "The decision by NATO demonstrates its continued confidence in our European team."

Under the new MCCIS proliferation contract, Northrop Grumman Mission Systems Europe will survey and manage the procurement, installation and activation of the new equipment baseline for the MCCIS to 47 NATO and other nation sites. The contract, which forms part of the MCCIS stabilisation programme, will provide equipment for development, reference, support and operational use and will include Northrop Grumman's advanced data link simulation capabilities.

Hewlett-Packard as principal subcontractor will provide the information technology equipment required to implement the new services in 21 countries.

"This programme is an essential requirement for future NATO interoperability, and I am sure the good working relationship that has developed over the existing programme will ensure Northrop Grumman's successful delivery of the MCCIS proliferation contract," said Amaury Aubree-Dauchez, NC3A principal project manager.

The MCCIS stabilisation programme is part of the Bi-Strategic Command Automated Information System (Bi-SC AIS) portfolio, one of the largest NATO common-funded programmes resulting from the 1999 Washington summit and re-enforced by the Prague summit in 2002. It includes more than 100 projects funded by a dozen capability packages, implemented by several host nations and helps establish the foundation of the NATO Automated Information System.

Northrop Grumman Mission Systems Europe has provided its Interoperable C4I Services software and other related products to NATO and participating nations as the core components of the MCCIS system since 1997. C4I and Link capability provided under the MCCIS contract is a core capability of Northrop Grumman and is also supplied into other systems in the UK, USA and more than 40 nations worldwide.

In 2006 it expanded its role with NATO to take in-house the NATO developed software and stabilize it to provide the foundation of the MCCIS stabilisation programme. The software delivered under this existing contract will provide the system capabilities for the new equipment baseline.

The NATO C3 Agency helps the alliance focus its common-funded programmes, together with nationally funded initiatives, into a common coalition-based force. As NATO's designated C3 architect, NC3A works closely with national agencies and industry to ensure that the alliance gains maximum synergy from this process. The end goal is to deliver those viable forces that Allied Command Operations needs to execute the missions and tasks given to it by the North Atlantic Council.

In Europe, Northrop Grumman operates from locations in France, Germany, Italy and Norway, providing navigation, air traffic control and postal automation systems. In the UK, Northrop Grumman operates from primary locations in London, Fareham, Chester, Coventry, New Malden, Peterborough, RAF Waddington and Solihull and provides avionics, communications, electronic warfare systems, marine navigation systems, robotics, C4ISR solutions and mission planning, aircraft whole life support, IT systems and software development.

Northrop Grumman Corporation is a global defence and technology company whose 120,000 employees provide innovative systems, products, and solutions in information and services, electronics, aerospace and shipbuilding to government and commercial customers worldwide.

Web site: http://www.northropgrumman.com

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Ken Beedle of Northrop Grumman Corporation, +44-207-747-1910, or +44-7787-174092, Ken.beedle@euro.ngc.com

Microsoft and Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group to Develop Next Generation of In-Car InfotainmentNew partnership will globalize innovative in-car infotainment.

SEOUL, South Korea, May 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Today, Microsoft Corp. and Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group (HKAG) entered into a long-term agreement to co-develop the next generation of in-car infotainment systems. Bill Gates, chairman of Microsoft, and Mongku Chung, chairman of HKAG, were present as Martin Thall, general manager of Microsoft's Automotive Business Unit, and Hyun Soon Lee, president and chief technology officer of HKAG, signed the agreement in Seoul.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000822/MSFTLOGO)

Together, Microsoft and HKAG will deliver new and innovative solutions based on the Microsoft Auto software platform, bringing the future of in-car technology to Hyundai-Kia drivers worldwide.

"These new systems will redefine consumer experiences in the car," Thall said. "Since the spring of 2006, HKAG and Microsoft have been sharing their vision for the future of in-car technology. We're now aligned to develop the next generation of in-car infotainment systems."

"We are pleased to partner with Microsoft to deliver high-performance infotainment solutions to our customers," Lee said. "The advanced capabilities, flexibility and low price point make the Microsoft Auto software platform an attractive solution for us."

The first product, a next-generation infotainment system that provides voice-controlled connectivity between mobile devices, will be introduced in the North American market in 2010. It will further apply to Asian and European markets, and expand into multimedia and navigation devices. These easy-to-use infotainment systems will allow consumers to enjoy music in various digital formats.

The next-generation infotainment systems are comparable to mini-PCs. Even after product launch, new functions can be added or upgraded in the form of software program updates, an innovation to existing in-car multimedia technology.

The Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group's adoption of the Microsoft Auto software platform increases Microsoft's presence in the Asian car market and enhances the global automotive business. The engineering and marketing teams of Microsoft's Automotive Business Unit in Redmond, Wash., will be working directly with counterparts at HKAG in Seoul to support this goal. Microsoft Auto-powered systems are currently available in Fiat Auto Group vehicles in Europe and South America and Ford Motor Co. vehicles in North America.

In a related announcement, Microsoft and Hyundai-Kia, along with the Institute for Information Technology Advancement (IITA), signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to co-establish an automotive IT innovation center with the goal of promoting innovation and opportunities for Korean software and device vendors in the global market.

Microsoft Automotive Business Unit

The Microsoft Automotive Business Unit is a dedicated partner to the auto industry, providing innovative technologies and flexible software platforms to help deliver simple, more reliable and cost-effective in-car infotainment systems. Developed closely with automakers and automotive suppliers, the award-winning Microsoft Auto and Windows Automotive software platforms connect drivers with a wide range of devices, services and technology while on the go, including hands-free communication, mobile device integration, customized navigation and high-fidelity digital entertainment. More information can be found at http://www.microsoft.com/windowsautomotive/default.mspx.

About Microsoft

Founded in 1975, Microsoft is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000822/MSFTLOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com Microsoft Corp.

CONTACT: Velle Kolde of Microsoft, +1-425-706-7023,
vellek@microsoft.com; or Chris Elliott of Weber Shandwick, +1-425-452-5389,
celliott@webershandwick.com, for Microsoft Corp.; or Chris Hosford of Hyundai
Motor America, +1-714-965-3470, chosford@hmausa.com

Web site: http://www.microsoft.com/

Internet Gold's First Quarter Earnings Release and Conference Call Scheduled for May 13, 2008

PETACH TIKVA, Israel, May 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Internet Gold today announced that it will release its first quarter results on Tuesday , May 13, 2008, before the market is opened. On the same day, Management will host an interactive teleconference to discuss the results at 10:00 a.m. EST. To participate, please call one of the following access numbers several minutes before the call begins: 1-866-860-9642 from within the U.S. or 1-888-604-5839 from within Canada, 0-800-051-8913 from within the U.K., or +972 3 918-0692 from other international locations. The call will also be broadcast live through the company's Website, http://www.igld.com/, and will be available there for replay during the next 30 days.

About Internet Gold

Internet Gold is one of Israel's leading communications groups with a major presence across all Internet-related sectors. Its 72.4% owned subsidiary, 012 Smile.Communications Ltd., is one of Israel's major Internet and international telephony service providers, and one of the largest providers of enterprise/IT integration services. Its 100% owned subsidiary, Smile.Media Ltd., manages a growing portfolio of Internet portals and e-Commerce sites.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, general business conditions in the industry, changes in the regulatory and legal compliance environments in the industries it is engaged, the failure to manage growth and other risks detailed from time to time in Internet Gold's filings with the Securities Exchange Commission, including Internet Gold's Annual Report on Form 20-F. These documents contain and identify other important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in our projections or forward-looking statements. Stockholders and other readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they are made. We undertake no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statement.

For further information, please contact: Mor Dagan - Investor Relations mor@km-ir.co.il / Tel:+972-3-516-7620 Ms. Idit Azulay, Internet Gold idita@co.smile.net.il / Tel: +972-72200-3848

Internet Gold

CONTACT: For further information, please contact: Mor Dagan - Investor
Relations, mor@km-ir.co.il / Tel:+972-3-516-7620; Ms. Idit Azulay, Internet
Gold, idita@co.smile.net.il / Tel: +972-72200-3848

012 Smile.Communication's First Quarter Earnings Release and Conference Call Scheduled for May 13, 2008

PETACH TIKVA, Israel, May 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- 012 Smile.Communications today announced that it will release its first quarter results on Tuesday , May 13, 2008, before the market is opened.

On the same day, Management will host an interactive teleconference to discuss the results at 09:00 a.m. EST. To participate, please call one of the following access numbers several minutes before the call begins: 1-888-668-9141 from within the U.S. or 1866-485-2399 from within Canada, 0-800-32-33-67 from within the U.K., or +972-3-918-0691 from other international locations.

The call will also be broadcast live through the company's Website, http://www.012.net/, and will be available there for replay during the next 30 days.

About 012 Smile.Communications

012 Smile.Communications is a growth-oriented communication services provider in Israel with a leading market position, offering a wide range of broadband and traditional voice services. Its broadband services include broadband Internet access with a suite of value-added services, specialized data services and server hosting, as well as new innovative services such as local telephony via voice over broadband and a WiFi network of hotspots across Israel. Traditional voice services include outgoing and incoming international telephony, hubbing, roaming and signaling and calling card services. 012 Smile.Communications services residential and business customers, as well as Israeli cellular operators and international communication services providers through its integrated multipurpose network, which allows it to provide services to almost all of the homes and businesses in Israel.

012 Smile is a 72.4 % owned subsidiary of Internet Gold Golden Lines Ltd. one of Israel's leading communications groups with a major presence across all Internet-related sectors. In addition to 012 Smile, its 100% owned Smile.Media subsidiary manages a growing portfolio of Internet portals and e-Commerce sites. Internet Gold and 012 Smile are part of the Eurocom Communications Group. 012 Smile's shares trade on the NASDAQ Global Market and on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange.

For additional information about 012 Smile.Communications Ltd., please visit the Company's investors' site at http://www.012.net/.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, general business conditions in the industry, changes in the regulatory and legal compliance environments, the failure to manage growth and other risks detailed from time to time in 012 Smile.Communications' filings with the Securities Exchange Commission. These documents contain and identify other important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in our projections or forward-looking statements. Stockholders and other readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they are made. We undertake no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statement.

For further information, please contact: Ms. Idit Azulay 012 Smile.Communications Ltd +972-72-2003848 i.azulay@smile.net.il

012 Smile.Communications Ltd.

CONTACT: For further information, please contact: Ms. Idit Azulay, 012
Smile.Communications Ltd, +972-72-2003848, i.azulay@smile.net.il

Premier Farnell Group Announces Live EDGE 2008, its International $100,000 USD Challenge in Support of Green Design

LONDON and CHICAGO, May 6 /PRNewswire/ --

- Trees Planted World-Wide to Celebrate Launch of This Year's Challenge Which Includes a Second Category for Students

Premier Farnell plc (LSE:pfl), the leading multi-channel, high service distributor and its companies (Newark, Farnell, Premier Electronics, CPC, Farnell-Newark and MCM) today launched its international competition Live Edge - Electronic Design for the Global Environment, now in its second year. The competition is designed to provide a forum where electronic design engineers and students can design products that are environmentally friendly through the use of electronic components.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080506/303579 )

Registration for news, updates and activities begins on 6th of May 2008 via the Live EDGE website http://www.live-edge.com or on the Live EDGE Design Challenge group on Facebook. The Live EDGE website will soon feature social networking tools, and a leading edge community forum in the near future for engineers to share and develop ideas.

Entries can be submitted between 1st October 2008 and 31st January 2009. Judging will start on the 1st of February 2009 and winners will be announced on the 2nd of April 2009. The competition is open to anyone aged 18 or over.

Electronics engineers, students and inventors around the world are invited to submit designs for an innovative product that utilises electronic components and has a positive impact on the environment, for example by increasing energy efficiency or reducing carbon emissions. Full details are available at: http://www.live-edge.com.

The winning entrant for both the full-time student and the general/open category will receive a cash prize of $25,000 USD as well as a design support package valued at an additional $25,000 USD to move their design towards production. The support package will include the services of an electronic design consultancy to help develop the design to prototype stage, assistance with legal matters and IP registration, some marketing and publicity, as well as Premier Farnell's help in securing investment funding. The group will actively market the end product to millions of customers globally through their leading edge website, catalogue and direct marketing.

In addition, up to 3 entrants for the full-time student category and 3 entrants for the general/open category will be eligible for 'honourable mentions', each receiving a cash prize of $5,000 USD.

A prestigious and influential panel of judges from around the world will be announced in June 2008. It will feature a mix of innovators, engineers, entrepreneurs, academics, industry leaders and environmental campaigners; it will be chaired by Sir Peter Gershon, who chaired last year's event, and he will be joined by John Noble, last year's winner from Malaysia who is enjoying Premier Farnell's support currently to take his unique energy saving product to market.

Reflecting the environmentally friendly theme of the competition, Live EDGE will be largely web-based to avoid international travel and transportation. For example, the judges will confer online and it will be possible to view the award ceremony from the competition website.

"The Earth is facing environmental threats on an unprecedented scale and by unleashing the creativity that exists within the electronics industry, we can make a positive difference to these global challenges," said Harriet Green, CEO of Premier Farnell, plc. "Our first ever Live EDGE had over 3,500 registrants from over 102 countries last year, providing electronics design engineers the opportunity to have a true impact on our future and see their vision become a reality. We have listened to the feedback from last year's entrants and believe this year's challenge will be even better as a consequence, particularly by embracing the enormous role that universities and today's students will play in our future. Live EDGE has truly become a unique design challenge for the world as we see our future in the designs of our electronic design engineers."

About Premier Farnell

Premier Farnell plc (LSE:pfl) is a leading high service, multi-channel distributor of electronic, maintenance, repair and operation products and specialist services throughout Europe, the Americas and Asia Pacific.

While global in scope, Premier Farnell recognizes the individual needs of each market and has continued to internationalize its model accordingly, trading locally under different brand names. Its primary electronics businesses trade as Farnell in the UK, Europe, India, Australia and New Zealand, Newark in the US, Canada and Mexico, and Premier Electronics in Greater China. In Singapore, Malaysia, and Brazil the operation is known as Farnell Newark. For more information visit http://www.premierfarnell.com

Jenny Peters Premier Farnell plc, and Asia Tel: +44(0)207-851-4102 Email: jpeters@premierfarnell.com Web: http://www.premierfarnell.com Janice Fleisher Newark The Americas Tel: +1-773-907-5941 Email: jfleisher@newark.com Kate Robson Farnell Europe Tel: +44(0)133-387-5110 Email: krobson@farnell.com Issued by: Jonathan Roberts Pinnacle Marketing Communications Ltd, Tel: +44(0)208-869-9339 Email: jonathan@pinnaclemarcom.com

Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080506/303579
Premier Farnell plc

Jenny Peters, Premier Farnell plc, and Asia, Tel: +44(0)207-851-4102, Email: jpeters@premierfarnell.com; Janice Fleisher, Newark, The Americas, Tel: +1-773-907-5941, Email: jfleisher@newark.com; Kate Robson, Farnell, Europe, Tel: +44(0)133-387-5110, Email: krobson@farnell.com; Issued by: Jonathan Roberts, Pinnacle Marketing Communications Ltd, Tel: +44(0)208-869-9339, Email: jonathan@pinnaclemarcom.com

Zune Expands Beyond Music to Deliver Integrated All-in-One Entertainment ExperienceNew software updates bring popular television shows to online store, enhancements to online music community and subscription service.

REDMOND, Wash., May 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Microsoft Corp. today announced that Zune, the company's all-in-one digital entertainment brand, is adding new software features and content to the Zune online store, music community and Zune Pass monthly subscription service. Zune is expanding its video store to include downloads of popular television shows from COMEDY CENTRAL, FUNimation(R) Entertainment, MTV, NBC Universal, Nickelodeon, Starz Media (including Manga Entertainment), Turner Broadcasting, Ultimate Fighting Championship(R) (UFC) and VH1 that consumers can sync to their device and enjoy on the go. In addition, by further integrating the Zune music community into the core experience, the new software makes it easier for people to find and listen to the music they want, share it with friends, and take it with them wherever they go -- whether they choose a Zune Pass or a la carte MP3 downloads. Zune Pass subscribers can now set up automatic, real-time feeds of the music their friends are listening to and add those songs to their collection or Zune device.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000822/MSFTLOGO)

Starting today, consumers can choose from more than 800 episodes of popular television series to download and watch on their computer or their Zune, including COMEDY CENTRAL's "South Park," FUNimation's "Afro Samurai" and "Witchblade," MTV's "The Hills," NBC's "The Office," "Heroes" and "30 Rock," Nickelodeon's "SpongeBob SquarePants," SCI FI Channel's "Battlestar Galactica" and "Eureka," Starz's "Ghost in the Shell" and "Street Fighter," Turner Broadcasting's "Metalocalypse" and "Robot Chicken," UFC's "The Ultimate Fighter(R)" and "Fight Night(TM)," and VH1's "Rock of Love" with Bret Michaels. Each television show will be priced at 160 Microsoft Points per episode (approximately $1.99) at launch. With more than 3.5 million tracks, two-thirds of which are available in pure MP3 format, 800 television shows, 4,800 music videos and 3,500 audio and video podcasts, the Zune online store is a great place for consumers to find the entertainment content they want. In addition, the bright, full-color screen on every Zune portable media player delivers a high-quality video experience on the go.

"Partnering with Zune will allow us to develop innovative content offerings for their customers, including flexible pricing and packaging options beginning this fall," said JB Perrette, president of NBC Universal Digital Distribution. "NBC Universal is excited to offer our hit television shows to Zune customers."

A Better Way to Experience Music

In a recent study commissioned by Zune, 54 percent of consumers surveyed said they were frustrated when trying to find new music, mostly because they said they didn't have enough time, didn't know where to look, or felt that they ended up wasting money on music they didn't end up liking. At the same time, 89 percent said they would trust a friend or family member's musical recommendation over a music critic's.

The growing Zune online music community enables consumers to explore, discover and share music. Members get a free, customizable Zune Card: a snapshot of their favorite tracks and the music they're playing on their Zune. Previously this personal snapshot resided only on the Web, but with the latest software updates Zune Cards have become much more portable. Now consumers with the Zune Pass subscription have the ability to take what their friends are listening to from the Zune music community on the go via Zune Card personal playlists for easy exploration and access, when and where they want it. The Zune Pass subscription allows consumers to explore millions of tracks with no commitment other than the monthly fee similar to the price of one CD -- $14.99 per month.

"Consumers want more than the traditional transactional model of an online music store plus portable device," said Chris Stephenson, general manager of Global Marketing for Zune at Microsoft. "Zune is putting the strong combination of an online music community together with subscription to deliver a new experience centered on music discovery that's good for consumers, artists and the industry. This approach exposes consumers to music they might not have otherwise tried, keeps them coming back, and gives them purchasing options that suit their preferences."

New updates to the Zune online music community include the following: -- Syncing Zune Cards to a device. Consumers simply drag and drop Zune Cards from friends to a Zune device and get updates on what friends are listening to every time they sync. If the song is available with Zune Pass, subscribers automatically have the full tracks on their Zune while nonsubscribers have full album information and artwork. If consumers hear something they like, they can add it to their collection with one click. Next time the user syncs his or her Zune, he or she will be asked to confirm the purchase. -- Enhanced friends search. Consumers now have the ability to add their name, location and bio to their Zune music community profile, making it easier than ever to find their friends. -- Instant friends. The true power of the Zune online music community is unlocked when friends are added and consumers can follow the music they're listening to. Now, when new Zune owners join the Zune online music community, they'll find the top music editors from the Zune Marketplace team already added to their friends list, giving them a head start in finding new music. -- Artist and album reviews. Inside the Zune music community, members have the ability to write and post their own reviews for artists and albums, providing another community-driven feature to support the exploration and discovery of music. The music community helps to find and recommend the best music. -- Reputation badges. Now members of the Zune community can earn badges that are displayed on their Zune Card showing they're passionate fans or active members. -- Windows Live connections. Windows Live Messenger contacts will now be able to see what users are listening to via the Zune software. Clicking on the tracks displayed in the "Now Playing" feature will connect the Windows Live Messenger friend directly to that artist's page on the Zune Social. A More Integrated Way to Manage and Enjoy Entertainment

Responding directly to customer feedback, Zune has updated and added features and functionality to address better integration between the software, the online music community and the store. In addition, the updates include frequently requested features such as the ability to sync multiple Zune players at once. Specific feature updates include the following:

-- Auto playlists. Users can create an auto playlist that updates itself automatically as new music is added. -- Browsing videos. Consumers can browse their video collection by genre and series, plus they can preview videos before they play them on full screen. -- Editing album and track information. Users are able to edit track or album information (metadata) quickly via multi-select and drag-and-drop. The advanced metadata editing features make it easy to edit multiple tracks or survey albums and artist information. -- Organizing collections. In addition to sorting by artist or album, consumers can now sort by genre. While browsing by genre they can further sort music by artist, album or release year. -- Gapless playback. Consumers will now be able to listen to an album without the brief gap between tracks, both on their Zune and in the Zune software. This is a must-have for live-concert recordings and compilation albums. -- Syncing groups. Zune software now syncs to multiple Zune players simultaneously. Users can prepare which content on their computer to sync even when their Zune isn't connected. Consumers can create custom sync groups for music, pictures and videos. -- Zune reminders. Experience is improved when a Zune player's memory is nearing capacity, via an easy-to-use tool.

More information on Zune and related images are available at http://www.zune.net/press.

About Zune

Zune is Microsoft's music and entertainment brand that provides an integrated digital entertainment experience. The Zune platform includes a line of portable digital media players, the Zune Marketplace online store, and the Zune Social online music community, created to help people discover music. Zune is part of Microsoft's Entertainment and Devices Division and supports the company's software-based services vision to help drive innovation in the digital entertainment space. More information can be found online at http://www.zune.net/en-us/press.

About Microsoft

Founded in 1975, Microsoft is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000822/MSFTLOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com Microsoft Corp.

CONTACT: Kristin Oke, +1-206-268-2265, kristin.oke@edelman.com, or Zune
Press, zunepress@edelman.com, both of Edelman for Microsoft Corp.

Web site: http://www.microsoft.com/

Microsoft Helps Protect Consumers by Tackling Illegal Software SalesActions taken in response to reports of illegal sales of unlicensed software that deceives customers and undermines legitimate businesses.

REDMOND, Wash., May 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- As part of its ongoing commitment to protect customers and partners, Microsoft Corp. today announced legal actions against eight software dealers in the United States, Canada, Egypt and the Netherlands that are alleged to have engaged in the illegal sale of unlicensed Microsoft software and software components. These actions were in response to hundreds of reports to the Microsoft anti-piracy hotline (800) RU-LEGIT (785-3448) from customers who were concerned they had been sold software they were not licensed to use.

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Microsoft's actions also are in response to concerns expressed by legitimate software vendors that they are being compelled to compete with dealers of unlicensed software who undercut their prices. "We appreciate Microsoft's actions today. It is important to address this kind of illegal sale to level the playing field for legitimate distribution partners," said Micheal LoPatriello, chief executive officer of Luna Development, a Microsoft industry partner based in Ontario, Canada.

The alleged illegal sales involved the unlawful importation of unlicensed software into North America from multiple dealers overseas. As alleged in the lawsuits, the dealers deceived customers by selling them software without also providing them with the necessary licenses. This software includes Student Media that is licensed for use only by students under special academic agreements between Microsoft, schools and governments. It also includes Volume License Media that is licensed for use by businesses under licensing agreements with Microsoft. In addition to the unlicensed software, some of the alleged dealers sold customers illegal Certificate of Authenticity (COA) labels that were improperly separated from their original software package.

"We want customers to receive the best possible experience with our products, including the benefits of support and service that come with the purchase of licensed, genuine software," said Bonnie MacNaughton, senior attorney at Microsoft. "The legal actions announced today are part of our ongoing commitment to protect consumers and support our partners by preventing dishonest dealers from selling unlicensed software. The unlawful distribution and sale of this software has tangible, negative consequences for the marketplace. It undermines Microsoft's legitimate partners and deceives customers who think they are receiving the full value of what they paid for, but instead unknowingly receive unlicensed software."

A software product license grants customers the legal right to run or access a software program. Microsoft Volume Licensing programs offer businesses a convenient way to acquire and manage multiple software licenses. In the cases announced today, dishonest dealers were diverting software intended to be provided under a volume license or through a special academic agreement, and instead sold the software as though it were a fully licensed retail product -- generally through an online auction or a Web site. The dealers also provided unauthorized product keys with the diverted software to enable it to be installed and activated. In two of the cases announced today, test purchases identified dishonest dealers who also were trafficking in COA labels. These labels are intended to help customers verify whether they have genuine Microsoft software and should never be sold or purchased separately from their original software package.

Stopping the Problem at the Source

Microsoft also is working to identify and remove the source of illegal, unlicensed software and has taken action in one of its lawsuits against an alleged source for unlicensed software in the Netherlands. Microsoft investigators were alerted to this source by a number of software dealers in the U.S. who settled prior lawsuits for selling unlicensed software. Microsoft has alleged that HW Trading BV and its principal, Samir Abdalla, received more than $3.7 million from just three dealers in the U.S. between March 2006 and May 2007 in payment, in whole or in part, for unlicensed software. These substantial profits were possible only because HW Trading and Abdalla did not purchase and transfer the necessary licenses for the software and, as a result, paid only pennies on the dollar for the software media.

On April 30, 2008, a second source of unlicensed software was raided by Egyptian law enforcement authorities, and computers loaded with unlicensed software, counterfeit software and software components, and various other unlicensed software products were confiscated. This source is alleged to be exploiting the Egyptian government's PC Initiative -- a program that provides low cost software to the Egyptian people in order to provide them with access to technology. Instead of supplying the software to the Egyptian people for whom it was intended, the dealer allegedly supplied them with counterfeit software and exported the real software to the U.S. The software was then paired with unauthorized product keys and allegedly sold to unsuspecting U.S. customers without the necessary licenses.

A Disturbing Trend

Microsoft and the software industry have witnessed an increase in the illegal sale of unlicensed software and software components. As far back as 2003, about 36 percent of the software installed on PCs globally was unlicensed, costing the global economy $28.8 billion. Between 2003 and 2006, that loss has risen by $10.6 billion, while the global software piracy rate has dropped only one point to 35 percent - this according to the May 2007 Business Software Alliance annual Global Software Piracy Study. By addressing this illegal activity, Microsoft is helping to level the playing field for legitimate dealers who are harmed when illegal sales cut into their business, and ensuring that consumers receive the full value of licensed, genuine Microsoft products.

Reporting Suspected Piracy

Today's cases are part of Microsoft's ongoing efforts to protect its customers and partners from all types of piracy. Microsoft customers and partners can play an important role in thwarting piracy by reporting tips to the Microsoft anti-piracy hotline at (800) RU-LEGIT (785-3448). Microsoft encourages anyone who receives software that is suspicious to call the hotline. More information about genuine Microsoft products, licensing and labels is available at http://www.howtotell.com/.

About Microsoft

Founded in 1975, Microsoft is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

Leakage and Fraud Campaign Case Summaries

Filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Ohio

Microsoft Corp. v. 9187-4024 Quebec Inc., d/b/a Buy Zone Direct, Buyzonedirect, Easybuysoft, and Futur-Soft; and John Does 1-5 (Cleveland, Ohio), alleging importation and distribution of infringing Windows XP Professional x64 Edition and Office 2003 Standard, and distribution of standalone Certificate of Authenticity Labels.

Case No. 1:08-cv-1086

Filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida

Microsoft Corp. v. CietDirect.com LLC, d/b/a CietDirect.com; ADM Managing, Inc.; Aaron Markizer; and John Does 1-5 (Davie, Florida), alleging importation and distribution of infringing Windows XP Professional x64 Edition.

Case No. 08-cv-60668-Ungaro-Simonton

Filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California

Microsoft Corp. v. A&S Electronics, Inc., d/b/a TrustPrice.com; Alan Z. Lin; and John Does 1-5 (Milpitas, California), alleging importation and distribution of infringing Windows XP Professional x64 Edition, Windows 98, and unauthorized Product Keys.

Case No. C08 02321 BZ

Filed in the United States District Court for the Central District of California

Microsoft Corp. v. Tinh Nguyen, d/b/a PTKTCOMP and tptcomputer.com; and John Does 1-5 (Anaheim, California), alleging distribution of infringing Windows XP Professional x64 Edition, and Windows Server 2003 Standard x64 Edition software, and the illegal distribution of Product Key labels and counterfeit Volume License Keys.

Case No. SACV08- 499 DOC (RNBx)

Filed in the United States District Court for the Central District of California

Microsoft Corp. v. Hoa Thao Vu Tran, a/k/a Hoat Tran, d/b/a CDX Software, CDXSoftware.com, HTTFISH, and HTTFISH42; and John Does 1-5 (Garden Grove, California), alleging distribution of infringing Windows Small Business Server 2003 Premium, Windows XP Professional x64 Edition, a counterfeit Volume License Key, and standalone Certificate of Authenticity Labels.

Case No. SACV08- 498 DOC (ANx)

Filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia

Microsoft Corp. v. Pronet Cyber Technologies, Inc., d/b/a Pronetcd.com and USSoftware.com; Joseph Teshome; and John Does 1-5 (Alexandria, Virginia), alleging importation and distribution of infringing Windows XP Pro x64 Edition and Windows XP Home, counterfeit Windows Server 2003, unauthorized Product Keys, and counterfeit and illicit Product Key Labels and Certificate of Authenticity Labels.

Case No. 1:08-cv-434-TSE/TCB

Filed in the United States District Court for the Central District of California

Microsoft Corp. v. Samir Abdalla; H.W. Trading, B.V., and John Does 1-5 (Los Angeles, California), alleging importation and distribution of infringing Office 2003 Professional, Office 2003 Standard, and Windows XP Professional.

Case No. CV08- 2929 DSF (JCx)

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000822/MSFTLOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com Microsoft Corp.

CONTACT: Rapid Response Team of Waggener Edstrom Worldwide,
+1-503-443-7070, rrt@waggeneredstrom.com, for Microsoft Corp.

Web site: http://www.microsoft.com/
http://www.howtotell.com/

Maxim Crane Announces Merger Agreement

PITTSBURGH, May 5 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- MAXIM CRANE WORKS HOLDING, INC. ("Maxim Crane Works") today announced that it has entered into a Merger Agreement with affiliates of Platinum Equity Capital Partners II, L.P. ("Platinum Equity") by which Platinum Equity will acquire for cash all of the outstanding common stock of Maxim Crane for $42.50 per share. Holders of Series A and Series B Warrants to acquire Maxim Crane common stock will receive the difference between the exercise price of their Warrants and $42.50 per share. The transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement require the approval of a majority of the outstanding shares of Maxim Crane common stock. Maxim Crane will announce the record date, time and place of the meeting of stockholders to be called to approve the Merger Agreement in a subsequent release. The parties contemplate the closing of the transaction will occur by June 30, 2008, but in any event no later than August 20, 2008.

In addition to Maxim Crane stockholder approval, the transaction is subject to expiration of the waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rondino Act and other customary conditions, including no material adverse change in the Company's business, financial condition, or results of operations. There is no financing condition. The Board of Directors of Maxim Crane is recommending that the stockholders of Maxim Crane approve the transaction.

The Board of Directors was advised by Goldman, Sachs and Co. and Latham & Watkins LLP. Platinum Equity was advised by Wachovia Securities and Bingham McCutchen LLP.

About Maxim Crane Works: Maxim Crane Works, the nation's leading coast- to-coast, full-service crane rental company, currently operates over 35 branch offices in six regions. Maxim specializes in the rental and sale of cranes and other ancillary equipment. With Maxim's expansive resource network, each branch has the capability to provide management, rigging engineering and outsourcing, making Maxim's product and service offerings the most comprehensive in the industry. More information about Maxim can be found on the company's website at http://www.maximcrane.com/.

About Platinum Equity: Platinum Equity (http://www.platinumequity.com/) is a global M&A&O(R) firm specialized in the merger, acquisition and operation of companies that provide services and solutions to customers in a broad range of business markets, including information technology, telecommunications, logistics, manufacturing, metals services and distribution. Since its founding in 1995 by entrepreneur Tom Gores, Platinum Equity has completed more than 80 acquisitions with more than $24 billion in aggregate annual revenue at time of acquisition.

Safe Harbor for Forward-Looking Statement: This press release contains statements that are not historical facts and constitute projections, forecasts or forward-looking statements. In addition, we or others on our behalf may make forward-looking statements from time to time in oral presentations, including telephone conferences and/or web casts open to the public, in press releases or reports, on our Internet web site or otherwise. Statements that are not historical are forward looking and reflect expectations and assumptions. These statements may be identified by the use of forward-looking words or phrases such as "intend," "plan," "may," "will," "project," "estimate," "anticipate," "believe," "expect," "continue," "potential," "opportunity" and similar expressions, whether in the negative or affirmative. We cannot guarantee that we actually will achieve these plans, intentions or expectations. All statements regarding our expected financial position, dividend policy, and business and financing plans are forward-looking statements. A number of factors could cause our actual results, performance, or achievements or industry results to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward- looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include risks related to our business as well as general economic conditions. Holders of shares and share equivalents should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements, which speak only as to the date when made.

Maxim Crane Works Holding, Inc.

CONTACT: Joe Vaccarello, Maxim Crane Works Holding, Inc.,
+1-412-504-0200

Web site: http://www.maximcrane.com/
http://www.platinumequity.com/

Microsoft retire son offre d'achat de Yahoo!

REDMOND, Washington, May 6 /PRNewswire/ --

Microsoft Corp. (Nasdaq : MSFT) a annoncé aujourd'hui le retrait de son offre d'achat de Yahoo! Inc. (Nasdaq : YHOO).

(Logo : http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000822/MSFTLOGO)

<< Nous estimons toujours que notre offre d'achat était un choix logique pour Microsoft, Yahoo! et le marché dans son ensemble. Ã€ travers notre alliance avec Yahoo!, notre objectif était d'offrir plus de choix et d'innovation sur le marché et de créer une réelle valeur pour nos actionnaires et nos employés respectifs >>, a commenté Steve Ballmer, président-directeur général de Microsoft.

<< En dépit de nos meilleurs efforts, y compris le fait d'augmenter notre offre d'environ cinq milliards USD, Yahoo! n'a pas montré sa volonté à accepter notre proposition. Après un examen minutieux, nous estimons que les exigences financières de Yahoo! ne sont pas raisonnables et qu'il est dans le meilleur intérÃªt des actionnaires, des employés et des autres parties prenantes de Microsoft de retirer notre offre >>, a poursuivi M. Ballmer.

<< Nous avons une équipe pleine de talent et une stratégie solide pour développer notre activité à travers de nouveaux services innovants et des accords stratégiques avec d'autres partenaires de l'industrie. MÃªme si Yahoo! aurait accéléré notre stratégie, je reste confiant concernant la poursuite de nos objectifs actuels >>, a conclu M. Ballmer.

<< Nous investissons de manière importante dans de nouveaux outils et expériences Web, nous avons considérablement amélioré nos performances de recherche et la satisfaction des annonceurs, et nous continuerons de nous développer à travers des partenariats et une croissance organique >>, a déclaré Kevin Johnson, directeur de l'activité de plates-formes et services chez Microsoft.

La lettre du PDG de Microsoft Steve Ballmer adressée au PDG de Yahoo! Jerry Yang est reproduite ci-dessous.

Le 3 mai 2008 M. Jerry Yang PDG et chef Yahoo Yahoo! Inc. 701 First Avenue Sunnyvale, CA 94089

Monsieur,

Après plus de trois mois, nous sommes parvenus à la conclusion du processus d'alliance possible entre Microsoft et Yahoo!.

J'aimerais tout d'abord vous remercier personnellement, ainsi que votre équipe de direction et le conseil d'administration de Yahoo!, pour l'examen de notre offre. J'apprécie le temps et l'attention que vous avez tous apportés à ce sujet, et j'apprécie le temps que vous y avez investi personnellement. J'ai le sentiment que nos discussions cette semaine ont été particulièrement utiles, m'offrant pour la première fois la clarté dont j'avais besoin pour déterminer ce qui est possible et ce qui ne l'est pas.

Je suis déçu que Yahoo! n'ait pas accepté notre offre. Je vous ai d'abord présenté notre offre le 31 janvier car j'estimais que l'alliance de nos deux sociétés créerait une valeur réelle pour nos actionnaires respectifs et qu'elle fournirait aux clients, aux éditeurs et aux annonceurs plus d'innovation et de choix sur le marché. Notre décision de vous offrir une prime de 62 % témoigne de la force de ces convictions.

Dans nos conversations cette semaine, nous vous avons transmis notre volonté de porter notre offre à 33 USD par action, reflétant encore une fois notre confiance dans cette opportunité collective. Cette augmentation aurait offert près de 5 milliards USD supplémentaires à vos actionnaires, par rapport à la valeur actuelle de notre offre initiale. Elle aurait également reflété un bonus de plus de 70 % comparé au prix de clôture de vos actions le 31 janvier. Cette offre s'est néanmoins révélée insuffisante, comme votre position finale en témoigne, avec l'exigence que Microsoft débourse 5 milliards USD supplémentaires, c'est-à-dire un ajout d'au moins 4 USD par action de plus par rapport à notre offre de 33 USD.

Après avoir réfléchi plus longuement à nos conversations de cette semaine, il m'apparaît clairement qu'il n'est pas raisonnable pour Microsoft de présenter cette offre directement à vos actionnaires. Cette approche impliquerait nécessairement une course aux procurations de longue durée et éventuellement une offre d'échange. Nos discussions avec vous nous portent à conclure que, dans l'intérim, vous prendriez des mesures qui feraient de Yahoo! une acquisition indésirable pour Microsoft.

Nous sommes particulièrement inquiets face à votre projet apparent de répondre à une offre d'achat << hostile >> en poursuivant un nouvel accord qui impliquerait ou conduirait à l'externalisation chez Google de termes de recherche Internet payants clés offerts par Yahoo! aujourd'hui. Selon nous, un tel accord avec le site de recherche dominant rendrait l'acquisition de Yahoo! indésirable pour une variété de raisons :

-- En premier lieu, cela affaiblirait fondamentalement la propre stratégie de Yahoo! et sa viabilité sur le long terme en encourageant les annonceurs à utiliser Google plutôt que votre système de recherché payant Panama. Cela fragmenterait également vos strategies publicitaires de recherche et d'affichage ainsi que l'écosystème les entourant. Cela nuirait à la confiance accordée à votre activité publicitaire d'affichage pour la croissance future. -- En tenant compte de cela, la capacité de Yahoo! à conserver les ingénieurs de talent travaillant sur les systèmes publicitaires s'en trouverait diminuée, et ces systèmes présentent pour nous une importance clé dans le cadre d'une alliance de nos sociétés. -- En outre, cela soulèverait un ensemble de problèmes réglementaires et légaux dont aucun acquéreur, y compris Microsoft, ne voudrait hériter. Entre autres choses, cela consoliderait les parts de marché avec le fournisseur de recherche payante déjà dominant et réduirait la concurrence et les choix sur le marché. -- Cela permettrait également à Google de définir les prix des termes de recherche clés sur leurs plates-formes et les vôtres et, à travers ce processus, d'augmenter les prix facturés aux annonceurs sur Yahoo!. En plus des problèmes légaux qui en résulteraient, quels qu'ils soient, cela ne paraît pas judicieux d'un point de vue commercial, sauf si l'on souhaite simplement utiliser cela comme un moyen d'abandonner l'activité de recherche payante en faveur de Google. -- Cela pourrait prévenir toute possibilité d'alliance avec un autre fournisseur de recherche qui ne dépend pas encore des services de recherche de Google.

En conséquence, votre plan apparent de poursuivre un tel arrangement dans le cas d'une course aux procurations ou d'une offre d'échange m'amène à la ferme décision de ne pas continuer sur une telle voie. Ã€ la place, je retire formellement l'offre d'achat de Microsoft sur Yahoo!.

Nous irons de l'avant et continuerons d'innover et de développer nos activités avec notre équipe talentueuse en place et, potentiellement, à travers des transactions stratégiques avec d'autres partenaires.

J'estime toujours que notre offre est la seule alternative proposée qui offre aux actionnaires la pleine et juste valeur pour leurs actions. Ã€ travers votre échec à conclure un accord avec nous, vos actionnaires et vous-mÃªme vous avez refusé une valeur considérable.

Mais de toute évidence, un accord n'est pas possible.

Merci encore pour le temps que vous avez accordé à nos discussions.

Je vous prie d'agréer, Monsieur, l'expression de mes sentiments les meilleurs, /s/ Steven A. Ballmer Steven A. Ballmer Président-directeur général Microsoft Corporation

Ã€ propos de Microsoft

Fondée en 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq : MSFT) est le leader mondial des logiciels, des services et des solutions qui aident les particuliers ainsi que les entreprises à réaliser leur plein potentiel.

Ce communiqué ne constitue pas une offre de vente ou une sollicitation d'offre d'achat de titres ou une sollicitation de vote ou d'autorisation. Ce document n'est pas un substitut du prospectus ou de la déclaration de procuration que Microsoft Corporation déposerait auprès de la Securities and Exchange Commission (la << SEC >>) si un accord entre Microsoft Corporation et Yahoo! Inc. était conclu, ni de tout autre document que Microsoft Corporation pourrait déposer auprès de la SEC et transmettre aux actionnaires de Yahoo! en relation avec la transaction proposée. IL EST FORTEMENT CONSEILLÃ‰ AUX INVESTISSEURS ET AUX DÃ‰TENTEURS DE TITRES DE YAHOO! INC. DE LIRE AVEC ATTENTION DE TELS DOCUMENTS DÃ‰POSÃ‰S AUPRÃˆS DE LA SEC, DANS LEUR ENSEMBLE, LORSQU'ILS SERONT DISPONIBLES, CAR ILS CONTIENNENT DES INFORMATIONS IMPORTANTES SUR LA TRANSACTION PROPOSÃ‰E.

Les investisseurs et les détenteurs de titres pourront obtenir des exemplaires gratuits de tous les documents déposés auprès de la SEC par Microsoft Corporation sur le site Web de la SEC www.sec.gov. Des exemplaires gratuits de ces documents peuvent également Ãªtre obtenus en effectuant une demande à l'adresse : département des relations avec les investisseurs (Investor Relations Department), Microsoft Corporation, One Microsoft Way, Redmond, Washington 98052-6399.

Microsoft Corporation, ses dirigeants, ses directeurs exécutifs et d'autres personnes pourraient participer à la sollicitation de procurations concernant la transaction proposée. Des informations sur les dirigeants et les directeurs exécutifs de Microsoft sont disponibles dans le rapport annuel de la société sur le formulaire 10-K de l'exercice clos le 30 juin 2007, déposé auprès de la SEC le 3 aoÃ»t 2007, et dans la déclaration de procuration de son assemblée annuelle d'actionnaires 2007, déposée auprès de la SEC le 21 septembre 2007. D'autres informations sur les participants d'une sollicitation de procurations et la description de leurs intérÃªts directs et indirects, relatifs à leurs titres ou autres, seront disponibles sur toute déclaration de procuration déposée pour la transaction proposée.

Les déclarations du présent communiqué constituent des << énoncés prospectifs >> qui sont basés sur des attentes et hypothèses actuelles assujetties à un certain nombre de risques et incertitudes. Des écarts matériels entre les résultats réels et ces énoncés prospectifs pourraient subvenir en raison de facteurs tels que la capacité de Microsoft Corporation à réaliser les synergies et la création de valeur envisagées dans la transaction proposée, la capacité de Microsoft Corporation à intégrer rapidement et efficacement les activités de Yahoo! Inc. et de Microsoft Corporation, le calendrier de la transaction proposée et de toutes les actions requises pour obtenir les autorisations réglementaires nécessaires, et la dispersion des efforts de la direction sur des problèmes liés à la transaction. Pour plus d'informations sur les risques et incertitudes associés à l'activité de Microsoft Corporation, veuillez consulter les sections intitulées << Discussion et analyse de la direction sur les conditions financières et les résultats d'exploitation >> et << Facteurs de risque >> dans les rapports de Microsoft Corporation déposés auprès de la SEC, y compris, mais sans limitation, son rapport annuel sur le formulaire 10-K et ses rapports trimestriels sur le formulaire 10-Q. Des exemplaires de ces documents sont disponibles en contactant le département des relations avec les investisseurs de Microsoft Corporation au +1-800-285-7772 ou sur le site Web de Microsoft Corporation à http://www.microsoft.com/msft.

Toutes les informations contenues dans ce communiqué sont valides à la date du 3 mai 2008. Microsoft Corporation n'assume aucune responsabilité concernant la mise à jour de ces énoncés prospectifs pour se conformer aux résultats réels ou aux changements des attentes de la société.

Site Web : http://www.microsoft.com

Microsoft Corp.

Ã‰quipe de réponse rapide, Waggener Edstrom Worldwide, +1-503-443-7070, rrt@waggeneredstrom.com ; Joele Frank, Wilkinson Brimmer Katcher, Joele Frank, Eric Brielmann, ou Jamie Moser, +1-212-355-4449 ; Analystes financiers et investisseurs uniquement : Colleen Healy, directrice générale, relations avec les investisseurs, +1-425-706-3703, tous chez Microsoft Corp. ; NOTE AUX RÃ‰DACTEURS : Si vous désirez obtenir des informations supplémentaires sur Microsoft, veuillez consulter la page Web de Microsoft http://www.microsoft.com/presspass sur les pages d'informations d'entreprise de Microsoft. Les liens hypertexte, les numéros de téléphone et les titres étaient corrects au moment de la publication, mais peuvent avoir changés depuis. Pour obtenir de l'aide supplémentaire, les journalistes et les analystes peuvent contacter l'équipe de réponse rapide de Microsoft ou d'autres contacts appropriés figurant au http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/contactpr.mspx ; Photo : NewsCom : http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000822/MSFTLOGO ; Archives AP : http://photoarchive.ap.org ; PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com

Le groupe Premier Farnell annonce la tenue de Live EDGE 2008, sa compétition internationale avec un prix de 100 000 $US au profit de la conception environnementale

LONDRES et CHICAGO, May 6 /PRNewswire/ --

- Des arbres plantés dans le monde entier pour célébrer le lancement de la compétition de cette année qui propose également une deuxième catégorie pour les étudiants

Premier Farnell plc (LSE : pfl), le premier distributeur multicanaux, à haut niveau de service et possédant des filiales (Newark, Farnell, Premier Electronics, CPC, Farnell-Newark et MCM), a lancé aujourd'hui la 2ème édition de sa compétition annuelle internationale Live Edge - Conception électronique au profit de l'environnement mondial. Le but de la compétition est d'offrir un forum oÃ¹ ingénieurs et étudiants en conception électronique peuvent concevoir des produits ayant un impact positif sur l'environnement à partir de composants électroniques.

(Photo : http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080506/303579 )

L'inscription pour des informations, mises à jour et activités débutera le 6 mai 2008 via le site Web de Live EDGE http://www.live-edge.com ou sur le groupe Live EDGE Design Challenge de Facebook. Le site Web de Live EDGE proposera bientôt des outils de réseaux sociaux, et un forum communautaire de pointe permettra très prochainement aux ingénieurs de partager et développer des concepts.

Les projets pourront Ãªtre soumis entre le 1er octobre 2008 et le 31 janvier 2009. Les délibérations commenceront le 1er février 2009 et la liste des gagnants sera communiquée le 2 avril 2009. Le concours s'adresse à toute personne âgée de 18 ans ou plus.

Les ingénieurs, inventeurs et étudiants en électronique du monde entier sont invités à soumettre leur conception d'un produit innovant qui utilise des composants électroniques et a un impact positif sur l'environnement, en augmentant par exemple l'efficacité énergétique ou en réduisant les émissions de carbone. Tous les détails sont disponibles sur http://www.live-edge.com.

Chacun des lauréats des catégories << étudiant à plein temps >> et << générale/ouverte >> recevra un prix en espèces de 25 000 $US ainsi qu'un support de conception d'une valeur estimée à 25 000 $US supplémentaires pour faire passer son idée de la théorie à la production. Ce support comprendra les services d'un conseiller en conception électronique qui aidera à développer le projet jusqu'au stade de prototype, une assistance en matière de questions juridiques, d'enregistrement IP, de marketing et de publicité, ainsi qu'une aide de Premier Farnell pour garantir le financement d'investissement. Le groupe commercialisera activement le produit fini auprès de millions de clients à l'échelle mondiale, par le biais de marketing direct, de son catalogue et de son site Web de pointe.

Par ailleurs, un nombre maximal de 3 participants pour la catégorie << étudiant à plein temps >> et de 3 participants pour la catégorie << générale/ouverte >> pourront recevoir des << mentions honorables >>, soit un prix en espèces de 5 000 $US pour chacun d'entre eux.

La composition d'un jury regroupant des personnalités prestigieuses et influentes du monde entier sera annoncée en juin 2008. Il comprendra un ensemble d'innovateurs, d'ingénieurs, de chefs d'entreprise, d'universitaires , de leaders d'industrie et de militants pour la protection de l'environnement, et sera présidé par Sir Peter Gershon, déjà président du jury lors de l'événement de l'an passé ; ce dernier sera assisté de M. John Noble, originaire de Malaisie et lauréat du concours organisé l'an dernier. M. Noble bénéficie actuellement du soutien de Premier Farnell pour la commercialisation de son produit unique permettant l'économie d'énergie.

En accord avec le thème du concours, à savoir la protection de l'environnement, Live EDGE se tiendra en grande partie sur le Web afin d'éviter des voyages et transports internationaux. Ã€ titre d'exemple, les juges se concerteront en ligne et il sera possible de regarder la cérémonie de remise des prix sur le site Web dédié à la compétition.

<< La Terre est confrontée à des menaces environnementales d'une ampleur sans précédent, et nous pouvons faire grandement progresser les choses dans ce contexte de défis mondiaux en laissant libre cours à la créativité existant dans le secteur électronique >>, a déclaré Harriet Green, PDG de Premier Farnell, plc. << Notre tout premier concours Live EDGE de l'an dernier a attiré plus de 3 500 participants issus de plus de 102 pays, et a ainsi offert à des ingénieurs en conception électronique la possibilité d'avoir un véritable impact sur notre futur et de voir leur vision devenir réalité. Nous avons prÃªté attention aux remarques formulées par les participants de l'an dernier et croyons que la compétition de cette année sera dès lors encore meilleure, en particulier grâce à la prise en compte du rôle considérable que les universités et les étudiants d'aujourd'hui joueront pour notre avenir. Live EDGE est devenu un concours de conception véritablement unique au profit du monde car nous voyons notre avenir à travers les projets de nos ingénieurs en conception électronique. >>

Ã€ propos de Premier Farnell

Premier Farnell plc (LSE : pfl) est un distributeur multicanaux leader et à haut niveau de service de produits électroniques, d'entretien, de réparation et d'exploitation ainsi que de services spécialisés partout en Europe, dans les Amériques et dans la région Asie-Pacifique.

Tout en ayant une présence mondiale, Premier Farnell reconnaît les besoins individuels de chaque marché et continue d'internationaliser son modèle en conséquence, en négociant à l'échelle locale sous différents noms de marque. Ses divisions électroniques principales négocient sous Farnell au Royaume Uni, en Europe, en Inde, en Australie et en Nouvelle Zélande, Newark aux Ã‰tats-Unis, au Canada et au Mexique, et Premier Electronics en Grande Chine. Ã€ Singapour, en Malaisie et au Brésil, la société est connue sous le nom de Farnell Newark. Pour de plus amples informations, veuillez consulter http://www.premierfarnell.com

Jenny Peters Premier Farnell plc, et Asie Tél : +44(0)207-851-4102 Courriel : jpeters@premierfarnell.com Web : http://www.premierfarnell.com Janice Fleisher Newark Les Amériques Tél : +1-773-907-5941 Courriel : jfleisher@newark.com Kate Robson Farnell Europe Tél : +44(0)133-387-5110 Courriel : krobson@farnell.com Ã‰mis par : Jonathan Roberts Pinnacle Marketing Communications Ltd, Tél : +44(0)208-869-9339 Courriel : jonathan@pinnaclemarcom.com

Premier Farnell plc

Jenny Peters, Premier Farnell plc, et Asie, Tél : +44(0)207-851-4102, Courriel : jpeters@premierfarnell.com; Janice Fleisher, Newark, Les Amériques, Tél : +1-773-907-5941, Courriel : jfleisher@newark.com; Kate Robson, Farnell, Europe, Tél : +44(0)133-387-5110, Courriel : krobson@farnell.com; Ã‰mis par : Jonathan Roberts, Pinnacle Marketing Communications Ltd, Tél : +44(0)208-869-9339, Courriel : jonathan@pinnaclemarcom.com

Ruckus Wireless Files Suit Against NETGEAR and Rayspan for Infringement of Wi-Fi Patents

SUNNYVALE, Calif., May 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Ruckus Wireless, Inc. (Ruckus), a pioneer in development of Wi-Fi technology, today announced it has filed suit in the United States Court for the Northern District of California against NETGEAR(R), Inc. and Rayspan Corporation for patent infringement.

In its filing, Ruckus Wireless alleges that in the development of the NETGEAR RangeMax(TM) WPN 824v3 wireless router, NETGEAR and Rayspan infringed two Wi-Fi patents (U.S. Patent Nos. 7,358,912 and 7,193,562) granted to Ruckus Wireless by the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

The patents-in-suit are fundamental to intelligent and adaptable Wi-Fi antenna arrays like those developed by Ruckus Wireless. Ruckus has over 70 patents granted or pending worldwide in the area of intelligent antenna or wireless technology innovation.

In its complaint, Ruckus Wireless alleges that NETGEAR makes, uses, offers to sell, sells and imports in the United States the RangeMax WPN 824v3 wireless router that infringes the patents-in-suit. Ruckus Wireless also alleges that Rayspan has committed acts of contributory infringement by making, using, offering to sell, selling and importing into the United States components incorporated into NETGEAR wireless routers that infringe the patents-in-suit.

"As a company we have single-mindedly focused on making Wi-Fi networks robust in spite of the medium's inherent instability. We have spent years developing what is recognized around the world as breakthrough technology that brings new levels of range, performance and reliability to Wi-Fi," said Selina Lo, president and CEO of Ruckus Wireless.

"Our unique Smart Wi-Fi innovations have received dozens of industry awards and their benefits have been available to over a million users around the world. We have a duty to our stockholders to diligently protect our intellectual property to keep others from benefiting from the results of our years of hard work, research and product development and market education," concluded Lo.

Ruckus Wireless seeks a permanent injunction that bars NETGEAR and Rayspan from making, using, importing, offering to sell or selling the allegedly infringing products. Ruckus is also seeking damages and reasonable royalties realized by the sale of the RangeMax WPN 824v3 product, and possibly other infringing products, as well as statutory damages.

In January 2005, Ruckus Wireless and NETGEAR announced and entered into a technology licensing agreement under which Ruckus would develop the underlying technology within the NETGEAR RangeMax 824v1 and v2 wireless routers, the predecessors to the RangeMax 824v3 at issue. The resulting hardware and software technology developed for NETGEAR was owned and patented by Ruckus Wireless.

According to NETGEAR, the RangeMax 824 has quickly become one of the fastest and best selling products in its history and the industry's "top selling MIMO-G product line" (http://www.netgear.com/About/PressReleases/en-US/2005/20050727.aspx). To date, NETGEAR has shipped around the world more than 1.7 million RangeMax 824 units using Ruckus Wireless technology.

Ruckus Wireless develops, markets and manufactures its own popular brand of award-winning Smart Wi-Fi products and systems. Ruckus was recently recognized by the World Economic Forum as a 2007 Technology Pioneer and, to date, has received over 20 awards for its efforts in Wi-Fi technology innovation.

Consequently, Ruckus Smart Wi-Fi technology has become widely adopted around the world as a superior method for extending the range and increasing the reliability and performance of Wi-Fi. Smart Wi-Fi defines the use of a miniaturized intelligent antenna array and expert control software to form and direct Wi-Fi signals over the best path at any given time -- continuously adapting to changes in the radio frequency (RF) environment.

"Ruckus Wireless is a pioneer in the area of adaptive smart antenna systems and the technology is really hard to get right," said Bill Kish, co-founder and CTO at Ruckus Wireless. "The advances we've made in countering the effect of interference and other RF challenges through the combination of cost-effective antenna arrays and sophisticated antenna control software are truly remarkable and unique. Like any technology innovator, we are obligated to protect the intellectual property that makes companies like ours valuable, and the investments in making difficult innovations worthwhile," concluded Kish.

About Ruckus Wireless, Inc.

Based in Sunnyvale, California, Ruckus Wireless is a next-generation Wi-Fi company credited with pioneering "Smart Wi-Fi" technology. Named a 2007 Technology Pioneer by the World Economic Forum, Ruckus Wireless was formed in 2004 at Sequoia Capital. The company designs, develops and markets industrial-strength Wi-Fi systems that provide reliable distribution of delay-sensitive multimedia content and services over standard 802.11 technology. Its flagship product, ZoneFlex, is the first wireless LAN system to combine the best in centralized wireless LAN principles with state-of-the-art Wi-Fi advances such as smart antenna arrays and wireless meshing. Its MediaFlex line of multimedia wireless routers is used by more than 125 broadband operators around the world to extend digital services such as IPTV throughout the home without wires. The company's patented hardware and software technologies deliver predictable performance, extended range and real-time adaptability to changing Wi-Fi environments. The company has raised approximately $42 million in financing from premier venture capital investors, consumer electronics companies and broadband operators such as Motorola, T-Ventures, Telus, Sutter Hill Ventures, Mitsui, Sequoia and others. Ruckus Wireless is led by President and CEO Selina Lo. For more information, visit the company's Web site at http://www.ruckuswireless.com/.

Media Contacts David Callisch Ruckus Wireless david@ruckuswireless.com +1-408-504-5487 mobile

Ruckus Wireless, Inc.

CONTACT: David Callisch of Ruckus Wireless, mobile, +1-408-504-5487,
david@ruckuswireless.com

Web site: http://www.ruckuswireless.com/

EnteGreat Acquires Technology Solutions Company's SAP Consulting PracticeCompany Targets High-growth Enterprise Solutions Delivery Market

BIRMINGHAM, Ala., May 5 /PRNewswire/ -- EnteGreat, a leader in manufacturing business technology consulting, today announced its acquisition of the SAP Consulting Practice of Technology Solutions Company (TSC) . The move substantially augments EnteGreat's existing SAP business and positions the company for growth in emerging markets. EnteGreat brings a unique blend of manufacturing expertise and technology systems integration to the new unit, while TSC's SAP Consulting Practice brings comprehensive consulting services, products, and unmatched project management expertise. By adding best-of-breed SAP consulting and project management capabilities to EnteGreat's existing SAP services, the newly expanded company will enable customers to align their enterprise business processes to their manufacturing operations more efficiently and cost effectively.

With the acquisition closed, EnteGreat has begun integrating the SAP Consulting Practice into its business. Due to the highly complementary nature of this combination there will be no significant changes to the structure of the company or division. Customers of both companies will continue to receive an uninterrupted flow of services and the transition is expected to be seamless. The SAP Consulting Practice will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of EnteGreat. It will continue to serve high-technology and Industrial Machinery and Components (IM&C) markets, in addition to expanding into new sectors, such as Life Sciences, Food and Beverages, and Mill Products. What will change is that customers now have access to the combined expertise of both companies at once and stand to gain from the resulting comprehensive benefits.

"When we combine the strength of EnteGreat in manufacturing execution with the enterprise solutions strength of TSC's SAP Consulting Practice, we believe we can deliver the industry's most comprehensive technology solution to our manufacturing customers," said Rob Gellings, Chief Executive Officer of EnteGreat. "This acquisition represents a major step forward in our long-term strategy to expand into the enterprise solutions market and other high-growth segments. Now more than ever EnteGreat is poised to directly align enterprise business processes with manufacturing operations, in order to ensure the success of companies across major industry sectors."

Gellings concluded, "The acquisition also complements our existing MES business which we serve through our longstanding relationships with a variety of software partners."

"This acquisition brings together two companies with similar cultures and complementary offerings," added David Wasson, former Senior Vice President and Practice Lead of TSC's SAP Consulting Practice and now President of the new wholly owned subsidiary, EnteGreat Solutions, LLC. "We are extremely excited about the opportunities for growth ahead. We are adding EnteGreat's manufacturing execution expertise to our portfolio of superior end-to-end SAP solutions. By accessing EnteGreat's deep skills, products and capabilities in the manufacturing space we will be able to take advantage of new market opportunities as we continue to serve our existing customers."

An important component of the deal involves the merger of complementary intellectual property (IP) that includes both companies' SAP accelerators, including EDGE(TM), CMF(R) and MPF(TM). The combined IP further differentiates EnteGreat with technology that accelerates customers' time-to-value while reducing the risk associated with deploying SAP solutions.

Both organizations are distinguished by their experienced management and integration consultants. EnteGreat's responsive structure and efficient business model has helped it deliver superior value to its Fortune 500 customers since 2000. With the acquisition, the company now boasts the infrastructure, architecture capabilities, enterprise implementation services and support capabilities of larger consulting firms. Its more experienced and efficient teams of consultants deliver a lower total cost-of-ownership solution with shorter delivery times.

To learn more about EnteGreat's expanded SAP capabilities, please visit the company at SAPPHIRE 2008, Orlando, FL., May 4-7 at Booth # 881.

About EnteGreat

EnteGreat is a manufacturing consulting and systems integration company, serving manufacturing companies across North America. EnteGreat has a singular mission: to help manufacturing companies succeed. EnteGreat's strategy focuses on combining the Management of Technology with Transformative Change to give global manufacturing companies the tools and the knowledge needed to bring about solid, substantial, and sustained business improvements. For more information, please visit EnteGreat's web site, http://www.entegreat.com/.

EnteGreat

CONTACT: Rob Gellings, Chief Executive Officer of EnteGreat Inc.,
+1-205-968-3050, rob_gellings@entegreat.com; or Jane Evans-Ryan of Genuity PR,
+1-408-489-6391, jane@genuitypr.com, for EnteGreat

Web site: http://www.entegreat.com/

Digital Realty Trust, Inc. Declares Second Quarter Common and Preferred Stock Dividends

SAN FRANCISCO, May 5 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Digital Realty Trust, Inc. , a leading owner and manager of corporate datacenters and Internet gateways, today announced that its Board of Directors has declared quarterly common and preferred stock dividends for the second quarter of 2008.

Common Stock Dividend

Digital Realty Trust's Board of Directors declared a quarterly common stock dividend of $0.31 per share to common stockholders of record as of the close of business on June 16, 2008 that will be paid on June 30, 2008.

Series A Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock Dividend

The Company's Board of Directors declared a quarterly preferred stock dividend of $0.53125 per share to holders of record of the Company's 8.50% Series A Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock as of the close of business on June 16, 2008. The series A cumulative redeemable preferred stock dividend will be paid on June 30, 2008.

Series B Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock Dividend

The Company's Board of Directors declared a preferred stock dividend of $0.492188 per share to holders of record of the Company's 7.875% Series B Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock as of the close of business on June 16, 2008. The series B cumulative redeemable preferred stock dividend will be paid on June 30, 2008.

Series C Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock Dividend

The Company's Board of Directors declared a preferred stock dividend of $0.273438 per share to holders of record of the Company's 4.375% Series C Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock as of the close of business on June 16, 2008. The series C cumulative convertible preferred stock dividend will be paid on June 30, 2008.

Series D Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock Dividend

The Company's Board of Directors declared a preferred stock dividend of $0.34375 per share to holders of record of the Company's 5.500% Series D Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock as of the close of business on June 16, 2008. The series D cumulative convertible preferred stock dividend will be paid on June 30, 2008.

About Digital Realty Trust, Inc.

Digital Realty Trust, Inc. owns, acquires, redevelops, develops and manages technology-related real estate. The Company is focused on providing Turn-Key Datacenter(TM) and Powered Base Building(TM) datacenter solutions for domestic and international tenants across a variety of industry verticals ranging from information technology and internet enterprises, to manufacturing and financial services. Digital Realty Trust's 71 properties, excluding one property held as an investment in an unconsolidated joint venture, contain applications and operations critical to the day-to-day operations of technology industry tenants and corporate enterprise datacenter tenants. Comprising approximately 12.6 million square feet as of April 1, 2008, including 2.0 million square feet of space held for redevelopment, Digital Realty Trust's portfolio is located in 26 markets throughout Europe and North America. For additional information, please visit Digital Realty Trust's website at http://www.digitalrealtytrust.com/.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements, including statements related to the amount and timing of expected payment of dividends on our common stock and preferred stock, which are based on current expectations, forecasts and assumptions that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially. These risks and uncertainties include adverse economic or real estate developments in our markets or the technology industry; our failure to obtain necessary outside debt or equity financing; our dependence upon significant tenants; bankruptcy or insolvency of a major tenant; downturn of local, national or global economic conditions in our geographic markets; our inability to comply with the rules and regulations applicable to public companies or to manage our growth effectively; difficulty acquiring or operating properties in foreign jurisdictions; defaults on or non-renewal of leases by tenants; increased interest rates and operating costs; restrictions on our ability to engage in certain business activities; risks related to joint venture investments; decreased rental rates or increased vacancy rates; inability to successfully develop and lease new properties and space held for redevelopment; difficulties in identifying properties to acquire and completing acquisitions; increased competition or available supply of data center space; our failure to successfully operate acquired properties; our inability to acquire off-market property; delays or unexpected costs in development or redevelopment of properties; our failure to maintain our status as a REIT; possible adverse changes to tax laws; environmental uncertainties and risks related to natural disasters; financial market fluctuations; changes in foreign currency exchange rates; changes in foreign laws and regulations, including those related to taxation and real estate ownership and operation; and changes in real estate and zoning laws and increases in real property tax rates. For a further list and description of such risks and uncertainties, see the reports and other filings by the Company with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC, including the Company's annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007, and subsequent reports on Form 10-Q and Form 8-K filed with the SEC. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

For Additional Information: A. William Stein Pamela Matthews Chief Financial Officer and Investor/Analyst Information Chief Investment Officer Digital Realty Trust, Inc. Digital Realty Trust, Inc. +1 (415) 738-6500 +1 (415) 738-6500

Digital Realty Trust, Inc.

CONTACT: A. William Stein, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Investment
Officer, or Pamela Matthews, Investor|Analyst Information, both of Digital
Realty Trust, Inc., +1-415-738-6500

Web site: http://www.digitalrealtytrust.com/

Thomson Reuters Publishes 'World IP Today' Report, Analyzing Global Patent Activity and Technology Innovations in 2007

LONDON, May 5 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Thomson Reuters, the world's leading source of intelligent information for businesses and professionals, today published two issues of World IP Today, analyzing global patent activity and technology innovations for the year 2007. Both reports draw on data mined from Thomson Innovation(SM), the new standard in IP research and analysis, and give a highly detailed view of recent IP developments across the globe.

"Thomson Reuters extensive data covering patenting activity across the world allows us to track new trends and technology developments as they emerge," said Ben Lansbury, Patent Analyst, Thomson Reuters. "As countries become important players on the world stage, we can see spikes and increases in their patenting activities. Our reports reveal the dynamic nature of the IP sector and its vital importance to both global and national economies."

World IP Today: A Thomson Reuters Report On Global Patent Activity in 2007 highlights patent output from the G8 countries (Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States) plus China and South Korea. Findings indicate:

-- Global patent activity has grown by 21% between 2003 and 2006, with 2007 proving to be yet another year of growth for patents. -- Japan is still the world's leading filer of patents, but continues to decline slowly. Its lead over the U.S. and China is eroding as their patenting activity increases. China's output has almost doubled in the last 5 years. -- Academic innovations are at their highest ratio in China and Russia where they represent nearly 25% of total patenting activity. -- South Korea safeguards more inventions worldwide than ever before, while the U.S. has greatly decreased the number of patents it files across the key patent regions.

World IP Today: A Thomson Reuters Report On Global Technology Innovations in 2007 reviews technology innovations developing globally in 2007, highlighting tri-lateral inventions or inventions that have been filed in the U.S., Europe and Japan. Among the key findings:

-- Four areas of technology are truly exemplary in protecting high volumes of inventions: consumer electronics, computing, telecommunications and entertainment and business services technology. -- Protection for computing inventions in the three largest markets, Japan, the U.S. and Europe, has been more prevalent than in other technology sectors. -- Innovation within the computing industry is far more evenly distributed between countries than with other technologies. -- Of the top ten patent assignees based on innovations filed in the United States, Europe and Japan during 2007, most are from Japan. -- There has been a significant drop in innovation within the industrial, audio/visual and data recording sectors between 2001 and 2007, as well as a dramatic fall in the semiconductors field which decreased by 26% during the same period.

For complete copies of the Thomson Reuters World IP Today reports, including the methodology behind the findings, please visit: http://scientific.thomsonreuters.com/press/insight/

The Scientific business of Thomson Reuters provides information and knowledge to accelerate research, discovery and innovation. Our authoritative, accurate and timely information is essential for drug companies to discover new drugs and get them to market faster; researchers to find relevant papers and know what's newly published in their subject; and businesses to optimize their intellectual property and find competitive intelligence. We create the research platforms and services of the future that will power our customers toward business and personal success.

About Thomson Reuters

Thomson Reuters is the world's leading source of intelligent information for businesses and professionals. We combine industry expertise with innovative technology to deliver critical information to leading decision makers in the financial, legal, tax and accounting, scientific, healthcare and media markets, powered by the world's most trusted news organization. With headquarters in New York and major operations in London and Eagan, Minnesota, Thomson Reuters employs more than 50,000 people in 93 countries. Thomson Reuters shares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange ; Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: TRI); London Stock Exchange ; and Nasdaq . For more information, go to http://www.thomsonreuters.com/.

Scientific business of Thomson Reuters

CONTACT: Eoin Bedford, PR Manager, Scientific, +44 207 433 4691,
eoin.bedford@thomsonreuters.com

Web site: http://www.scientific.thomson.com/
http://scientific.thomsonreuters.com/press/insight

Thomson Reuters Publishes 'World IP Today' Report, Analyzing Global Patent Activity and Technology Innovations in 2007

LONDON, May 6 /PRNewswire/ --

Thomson Reuters, the world's leading source of intelligent information for businesses and professionals, today published two issues of World IP Today, analyzing global patent activity and technology innovations for the year 2007. Both reports draw on data mined from Thomson Innovation(SM), the new standard in IP research and analysis, and give a highly detailed view of recent IP developments across the globe.

For complete copies of the Thomson Reuters World IP Today reports, including the methodology behind the findings, please visit: http://scientific.thomsonreuters.com/press/insight/

About Thomson Reuters

Thomson Reuters is the world's leading source of intelligent information for businesses and professionals. We combine industry expertise with innovative technology to deliver critical information to leading decision makers in the financial, legal, tax and accounting, scientific, healthcare and media markets, powered by the world's most trusted news organization. With headquarters in New York and major operations in London and Eagan, Minnesota, Thomson Reuters employs more than 50,000 people in 93 countries. Thomson Reuters shares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: TRI); Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: TRI); London Stock Exchange (LSE: TRIL); and Nasdaq (Nasdaq: TRIN). For more information, go to www.thomsonreuters.com.

Web site: http://www.scientific.thomson.com http://scientific.thomsonreuters.com/press/insight http://www.thomsonreuters.com

Scientific business of Thomson Reuters

Eoin Bedford, PR Manager, Scientific, +44-207-433-4691, eoin.bedford@thomsonreuters.com