Offenburg, 14 November 2011 – As Spellbound Entertainment AG announced today, the classic Jump’N’Run game “Giana Sisters” is now available on Android platforms. Finally, all owners of Android smartphones will have the chance to experience the adventures of iconic Giana. In this game the player is immersed in Giana’s fantastic dreamworld and helps her collect glittering diamonds in over 80 exciting levels. In addition to the 80 new levels, the Android version also includes 32 remastered retro levels – a must have for all Giana fans! 

For this Android launch, Spellbound is also offering 10 exciting expansion levels, which may be purchased separately. Further expansion levels will be released over the next months. 

The Android version of “Giana Sisters” is characterized by a completely new set of graphics and intuitive controls. The player can control Giana with his fingers on the screen in an easy and obvious fashion. 

“Giana Sisters” for Android supports five languages ??(English, German, Spanish, French and Italian). The soundtrack is inspired by Chris Huelsbeck and legendary as always. 

Sony Ericson Xperia smartphone owners will be happy as the game as the game is

optimized for Xperia PLAY.

About Spellbound Entertainment AG:

The Spellbound Entertainment AG is one of the leading German development studios for video and computer games. Since 1994 Spellbound, located in Kehl, produces internationally successful and popular games such as Airline Tycoon, Desperados, Giana Sisters and Gothic 4 – Arcania. Spellbound is a licensed developer for all relevant hardware platforms such as Sony Playstation 3, Microsoft Xbox 360, Nintendo Wii, Nintendo DS etc. Further information is available via the official web page: www.spellbound.de

Norton Data Finds “Twilight” Web Searches May Result In a “Kiss of Death” 

WHAT/WHY:       The next film in the popular “Twilight” series is bound for box office success, and “Twihards” everywhere are on the prowl for any details they can find online about “Twilight: Breaking Dawn – Part 1.” Savvy cybercriminals know curiosity may overcome caution when it comes to the supernatural series.

Norton has already found that many common searches related to the movie are returning malicious results. When clicked, these “poisoned” links can automatically put viruses, keylogging programs (where criminals can monitor everything you type), and other nasty infected software on your smartphone, computer or tablet that can cause endless days of trouble. Not to mention leaving your bank account as drained as a vampire’s victim. 

Common searches that are turning up poisoned results tend to be for photos, trailers, clips, casting information and plot details on the series.  

Top search terms that we’ve already seen returning poisoned results include:

• “Nude pictures of Taylor Lautner”
• “Robert and Kristin kissing”
• “Twilight true love”

Norton has seen a spike in these poisoned search results with the impending release of the movie, and expects even more “Twilight”-related poison search results, scams and spam as the curiosity continues to peak. 

EXPERTS:  Norton experts are available to share tips on how users can protect themselves from “Twilight”-related threats online, including: 

• Stay away from sensational strangers – Cybercriminals use sensational wording to get you to click on their poisoned links. Don’t assume the best of a stranger – better to delete emails and ignore search results from people and sites you’ve never heard of.
• Don’t leave your neck exposed – Reputable online security software will identify malicious links and protect against other unseen threats. Use Norton 360 to surf online without interruption and to make sure sites don’t contain any malicious elements before you click on them.
• Watchout for (were)wolves in sheep’s clothing  – When it comes to search term results, it can be hard to tell friend from foe. Use a tool such as Norton Safe Web Lite to make sure sites aren’t poisoned before clicking on them.

Intel Refreshes Ultimate Enthusiast Processor Lineup with Six-Core Offerings

Second-Generation Intel® Core™ i7 Processor Family ‘Goes Extreme’ on the Eve of the 40th Anniversary of the Intel 4004 CPU

NEWS HIGHLIGHTS

• Intel announces two new six-core, 12-thread desktop processors targeted at PC power users and enthusiasts: the Intel® Core™ i7-3960X and the Intel Core i7-3930K.
• These best-in-class enthusiast products are the first six-core client processors in the second-generation Intel Core processor family, and the first-ever Intel client processors supporting quad-channel memory.
• More software titles are being optimized for multiple cores and more people are working with advanced applications, especially in content creation, 3-D rendering and gaming.

      
SANTA CLARA, Calif., Nov. 14, 2011 – Intel Corporation today advanced its highest-end six-core processor family with the introduction of two new processors: the Intel® Core™ i7-3960X processor Extreme Edition and the Intel Core i7-3930K processor. These are the first six-core client processors in the second-generation “Sandy Bridge” Intel Core processor family. With over 2 billion transistors, Intel’s latest client processors offer the processing power equivalent of approximately 365,000 Intel 4004 processors**. The 40th anniversary of the Intel microprocessor is being celebrated this month.

Users and developers of the most advanced applications — especially in content creation, 3-D rendering and gaming — will see benefits from the additional cores, large CPU caches and new quad-channel memory support. With more people posting rich media online and playing immersive games, software developers are welcoming the performance and features offered by these new processors. 

Game developers such as id Software* are hungry for more CPU cores.

“To render our uniquely textured worlds, RAGE uses a very compute-intensive real-time process to transcode texture data from highly compressed form on disk to a compression format the GPU can use directly for rendering,” said John Carmack, technical director, id Software. “With two more available cores, a six-core system can transcode over 50 percent more texture data per second during gameplay than a four-core system, bringing new surfaces to full resolution quicker.”

These processors also support the new Intel® Advanced Vector Extension (AVX) instructions which benefit 3-D rendering and physics.

“MAXON Cinema 4D and Cinebench are designed to take advantage of all available processor threads” said Harald Schneider, CTO, MAXON* Computer. “Our new, optimized render engine intelligently divides render tasks across the threads for a more evenly distributed workload, giving us maximum throughput and performance. In addition, our upcoming service update will include Bullet-based dynamics optimized with the new Intel AVX instructions for faster physics simulations. This means faster previews and final rendering, and the ability to create even more complex scenes with more objects, more effects and higher resolutions.”

The Intel Core i7-3960X and the Intel Core i7-3930K are fully unlocked so overclockers and enthusiasts who want to modify performance settings can do so with simple utilities***. Based on Intel’s industry-leading 32nm manufacturing process, the new CPUs run at base speeds of 3.3 and 3.2 GHz with 15MB and 12MB of L3 cache respectively. The Intel® X79 Express chipset that supports this new LGA 2011 socket platform delivers the must-have capabilities and performance for enthusiasts such as 6Gb/s Serial ATA (SATA*) ports and additional PCIe* 2.0 lanes, leading to new levels of performance and expandability for high-end desktop platforms.

“We are excited to deliver the ultimate desktop platform to enthusiast PC users,” said Zane Ball, general manager for Intel’s Desktop Client Platforms Group. “With uncompromised performance, quad channel memory, amazing Turbo headroom and more robust PCI Express capabilities, this platform is sure to create a lot of excitement for our customers and the industry.”

In addition to the new processors, Intel is launching a liquid-cooled CPU thermal solution. Co-developed with Asetek*, this solution will provide robust system cooling while requiring zero maintenance. This solution has been optimized to work not only on the LGA2011 socket, but also the LGA1366 and 115x sockets.

Intel is also releasing two new enthusaist motherboards — the Intel® DX79SI and Intel DX79TO — with robust features for this high-end platform. Information on these boards can be found at www.intel.com/extremeboards.

The Intel Core i7-3960X and the Intel Core i7-3930K are available now at 1KU prices of $990 and $555, respectively. More information is available at www.intel.com/corei7EE.

More information on the 40th anniversary of the Intel microprocessor is available at http://newsroom.intel.com/docs/DOC-2383.

About Intel

Intel (NASDAQ: INTC) is a world leader in computing innovation. The company designs and builds the essential technologies that serve as the foundation for the world’s computing devices. Additional information about Intel is available at newsroom.intel.com and blogs.intel.com.

MCAFEE RELEASES TOP FIVE TIPS TO AVOID BAD APPS
Maliciously Modified Apps Becoming Popular Vector for Infecting Devices

SANTA CLARA, Calif., November 14, 2011 – In response to the increasing interest in mobile applications, McAfee is sharing its top five tips to avoid downloading bad apps.

While reported mobile malware incidents are still relatively low in number, McAfee Labs is seeing significant growth in the mobile malware threat landscape. Due to the fact that smartphones and tablets have eclipsed unit sales of desktop and laptop PCs, cybercriminals have set their sights on mobile and maliciously modified apps are becoming a more popular vector for infecting devices.

Fortunately, there are some common sense practices that anyone can take to help protect their smartphones and tablets from the growing threat of malware and the persistent threat of unsecured devices.

Here are five easy steps device users can take to secure their own devices:

• For the moment, the amount of detected smartphone malware is relatively low compared to malware that targets desktop or laptop PCs; but being aware that it exists is the first step toward protecting yourself and your data.
• Research apps and their publishers thoroughly and check the ratings – better to install apps that are broadly used in the market or are recommended by your circle of friends and colleagues
• It is wise to purchase from a well-known reputable app store market, such as the Android Market. One way for Android users to avoid installation of non-market applications is to de-select the “Unknown sources” option in the Applications Settings menu on their device.  If the option is not listed, it means your mobile service provider has already done this for the user.
• When you install an app, you’ll see a list of permissions for services that are granted access to the hardware and software components on your device, like contacts, camera and location. If something in the permissions screen doesn’t look right, don’t install that app! For example, a game or alarm clock app probably shouldn’t need to access your contacts or have the ability to transmit that data from your device.
• Install anti-virus software on your phone.  It is a good idea to install an anti-virus program when you get a new mobile device before you add any other apps.

According to a Gartner report on mobile application stores, 17.7 billion mobile apps are estimated to be downloaded in 2011 (a 115 per cent increase from 2010) [Source: “Forecast: Mobile Application Stores, Worldwide, 2008-2015,” May 18, 2011 (G00212661)].  By 2012, mobile apps are projected to generate more than US$15 billion in app store revenues from end-users alone.

“As the application market continues to boom, users should be more cautious that they know what they’re installing,” said Lawrence Pingree, Gartner analyst. “For example, they should only install applications from trusted sources and ensure that permissions match up with the respective application’s core features. Anti-malware protection will also go a long way in helping to ensure the user’s mobile device has the latest protection.”

“Maliciously modified apps have started to become more prevalent,” said Vincent Weafer, senior vice president, McAfee Labs. “Based on McAfee detections, we’ve seen approximately 200 malicious apps versus tens of thousands of good apps. However, with mobile devices becoming a targeted platform for malware, it’s becoming more common for cybercriminals to attempt to corrupt a legitimate app. The best advice for users is to be careful, protect the mobile device and the mobile apps that reside on the device.”

McAfee Mobile Security combines powerful anti-malware, anti-theft and web safety features and is available for Android smartphones and tablets as well as BlackBerry and Symbian smartphones. McAfee has also recently released McAfee® App Alert™ software, an app that secures and preserves the user’s privacy by providing intelligence about the apps on their Android device. The software individually analyses and grades each app, to show the device owner how they access, store and transmit their personal data. McAfee App Alert (beta) is currently available at no cost on the Android Market.

About McAfee
McAfee, a wholly owned subsidiary of Intel Corporation (NASDAQ:INTC), is the world’s largest dedicated security technology company. McAfee delivers proactive and proven solutions and services that help secure systems, networks, and mobile devices around the world, allowing users to safely connect to the Internet, browse and shop the Web more securely. Backed by its unrivalled Global Threat Intelligence, McAfee creates innovative products that empower home users, businesses, the public sector and service providers by enabling them to prove compliance with regulations, protect data, prevent disruptions, identify vulnerabilities, and continuously monitor and improve their security. McAfee is relentlessly focused on constantly finding new ways to keep our customers safe. http://www.mcafee.com

15 November 2011, Australia and New Zealand

For the first time, Pokémon will be available in 3D on Nintendo 3DS! Super Pokémon Rumble arrives in stores 8 December 2011 allowing new and existing fans to experience the world-renowned franchise in a whole new dimension.

The first Pokémon game created for the Nintendo 3DS allows players to battle and collect more than 600 Toy Pokémon in 3D, without the need for special glasses. Plus, fans can play together with a friend in a new cooperative multiplayer mode and discover interactive StreetPass content.

Super Pokémon Rumble takes place in a world called Toyland, where players must take on the role of Toy Pokémon as they navigate a series of imaginative levels. The game features more than 600 Toy Pokémon to collect. New Team Battle and Charge Battle modes provide fast-paced challenges that will thrill players of any experience level, while giant Boss Toy Pokémon will test the skills of even the most seasoned fans.

Players have two ways to connect with each other in Super Pokémon Rumble. Using a local wireless connection, they can play cooperatively in game areas that both players have already completed, also making it easier to collect more Toy Pokémon than usual. By using the Nintendo 3DS system’s built-in StreetPass feature, they can also challenge Toy Pokémon from the collections of other nearby players and view customised Mii characters within the game.

Toy Pokémon that can be collected in Super Pokémon Rumble include Pokémon from the Pokémon Black Version and Pokémon White Version games. Since launching in Japan in 1996, nearly 225 million Pokémon video games have sold worldwide. 

For more information, visit: www.nintendo.com.au

ARCHAIA ENTERTAINMENT PARTNERS WITH PANELFLY TO CREATE IMMERSIVE DIGITAL FAN EXPERIENCE FOR ‘IMMORTALS’

Panelfly’s SuperMedia Experience To Bring Archaia’s Storied Franchise To Life

LOS ANGELES and NEW YORK – November 9, 2011 – Archaia Entertainment, LLC, a multi-award-winning graphic novel publisher, and Panelfly, Inc., a leader in creating SuperMedia fan experiences, announces the launch of a new cross-platform, multi-media fan experience built around Archaia’s acclaimed prequel anthology, and alongside the theatrical release of Relativity Media’s feature film, IMMORTALS on November 11, 2011. Immortals: Gods and Heroes HD, a new application available initially on Apple’s iPad and iPhone unlocks access to a variety of exclusive Immortals content.

“We are very excited to launch the Immortals: Gods and Heroes iPad app with Panelfly,” said PJ Bickett, CEO of Archaia Entertainment. “In creating the graphic anthology, we wanted to build something unique to compliment the theatrical release, something that would stand head-and-shoulders above traditional graphic novel tie-ins. Working with Panelfly, we have created something extraordinary and immersive that complements the reading experience while supplementing the film itself. We are excited to expand the reach of our content beyond books and film, to delight fans with this new and immersive entry into the Immortals universe.”

The Immortals: Gods and Heroes Fan Experience Includes:

– Access to the complete Graphic Novel

– Ten Prequel Stories setting the stage for the film

– Exclusive Art from an A-list of celebrated comic creators, includng Ben Templesmith, Scott Hampton, Trevor Hairsine, Jock, Dennis Calero, Kevin Colden, Patrick Scherberger, Phil Hester, Steve Ellis, and Rafael Kayanan, one of the principal conceptual designers on the film itself

– Peel Back Functionality that reveals each stage of art in the creative process

– Contextual Multimedia and video Integration

– Social Integration and News Feeds for live social commentary

– Ongoing feature updates and new content releases

“Together with Archaia Entertainment, we’re creating a diverse hub of content to deliver a dynamic, fun and truly interactive experience that includes an unprecedented level of engagement for fans” said Ed Lang, CEO of Panelfly. “This experience will continue to live long after the film and act as a fan’s digital playground for all things IMMORTALS far into the future. Our team has worked closely with Archaia to develop something truly special. Our passion for delivering immersive fan experiences at home, or on the go continues to grow with this launch, and we look forward to building success together.”

The Immortals: Gods and Heroes app can be downloaded for free from the iTunes Store on 11/11/11. Archaia and Panelfly will be kicking off the release with a special social media campaign and fan engagement contest today. Fans can go to http://www.facebook.com/ImmortalsGraphicNovel for more details.

To watch a teaser of the app, go to http://youtu.be/o7M0N3bMLqY?a.

About Archaia Entertainment

Archaia is a multi-award-winning graphic novel publisher with more than 50 renowned publishing brands, including such domestic and international hits as Mouse Guard, Rust, Return of the Dapper Men, Mr. Murder is Dead, Feeding Ground, Gunnerkrigg Court, Awakening, The Killer, Days Missing, Tumor, Syndrome, Artesia, The Engineer, and an entire line of The Jim Henson Company graphic novels including the newest release, Tale of Sand, the last unpublished original work by Jim Henson. Archaia has built an unparalleled reputation for producing meaningful content that perpetually transforms minds, building one of the industry’s most visually stunning and eclectic slates of graphic novels. Archaia was named Graphic Novel Publisher of the Year according to Ain’t it Cool News, Graphic Policy, and Comic Related, and was honored with nine 2011 Eisner Awards nominations. Archaia has also successfully emerged as a prolific storyteller in all facets of the entertainment industry, extending their popular brands into film, television, gaming, and branded digital media. http://www.archaia.com.

About Panelfly

Panelfly, Inc., is a leader in creating the ultimate digital fan experience. Dubbed “SuperMedia”, our unique transmedia storytelling approach, coupled with deep content discovery, social interactivity, and storefronts re-imagined, Panelfly takes traditional on-screen experiences to a whole new level. Beyond the Internet, Panelfly is driven to deliver the world’s most immersive, interactive digital fanfest, whether at home or on the go. Panelfly – Engage. Explore. Enjoy. For more information, visit www.panelfly.com.

Madman, in partnership with The Weather Channel, proudly presents the DVD release of FORECAST FOR DISASTER: THE WEATHER BEHIND BLACK SATURDAY / LA NIÑA STRIKES – available 16 November 2011 (RRP $24.95). 

FORECAST FOR DISASTER presents two documentary programs, exploring the weather phenomena that resulted in the Black Saturday bushfires and the La Niña climatic cycle respectively. 

THE WEATHER BEHIND BLACK SATURDAY

On February 7, 2009, the ‘Black Saturday’ bushfire disaster raged across the state of Victoria – tragically claiming over 170 lives. These fires were unprecedented in their force and the loss of human life and livelihood that followed, further impacting thousands of others and becoming one of the most devastating extreme weather events in Australian history. 

THE WEATHER BEHIND BLACK SATURDAY takes an insightful look behind the human tragedy of the bushfires and explains how a random clash of extreme weather conditions inevitably culminated in the events of Black Saturday. 

LA NIÑA STRIKES

In this landmark two-part special, The Weather Channel reveals the convergence of global weather patterns and how they set the stage for an unprecedented run of bad weather that left Australia battered and beaten. Combining expert analysis with incredible images and eyewitness accounts, this program presents a clear explanation of the relentless weather patterns that tested the spirit of Australia… and could easily do so again. 

Both programs are intricately researched and contain insightful expert commentary, clearly explaining the complex hold weather has over our destiny whilst preparing us for the next onslaught of Australia’s weather curse. THE WEATHER BEHIND BLACK SATURDAY also the recipient of the prestigious 2010 Astra Award for Most Outstanding Documentary. 

FORECAST FOR DISASTER: THE WEATHER BEHIND BLACK SATURDAY / LA NIÑA STRIKES is in stores from 16 November 2011 (RRP $24.95) and is available for reviews and promotional giveaways. To secure your copy, please contact Madman Publicity via reply, or on the details in the attached media release.