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| Microsoft to Launch New ZenZui Company Microsoft has announced the launch of ZenZui, an independent company with the mission of transforming the way people engage, consume and interact with Web content through a revolutionary mobile user experience and information ecosystem. ZenZui's Zooming User Interface, a technology patented by Microsoft, was initially developed by the Microsoft Research lab in Redmond, Wash. Microsoft's IP Ventures helps startups and growing companies speed their time to market through access to Microsoft innovations. ZenZui worked with IP Ventures to acquire the technology and assistance in securing venture capital funding to help launch its company. ZenZui's core technology brings advanced information visualization techniques out of the research lab and onto mobile phones and into the hands of mobile device operators, marketers and consumers. ZenZui's high-frame rate Zooming User Interface employs up to 36 individual "tiles" that are selected and customized by users to reflect their interests and lifestyle with relevant content, interactive communications and fresh data. From the connected communities of social networks and the immediacy of pop culture to the have-to-know sports and weather info, this modular tile interface lets users sync, surf, and share digital content quickly, easily and in a distinctly new way. Companies onboard for the initial trial include Kayak.com, OTOlabs, Avenue A | Razorfish and Traffic.com. Microsoft launched the dynamic IP Ventures program in May 2005 to expedite the commercialization of new innovations developed through the company's significant R&D investment. The program is available globally and is frequently updated with new technology offerings. Companies taking advantage of the IP Ventures opportunities include Wallop, Inrix, SoftEdge Systems, Vimio PLC, Skinkers, Enterprise Ireland, EON Reality, Comtech Group and Hunan Talkweb Information System (Talkweb). ZenZui has closed a Series-A financing round of $12 million from Oak Investment Partners and Hunt Ventures. Wireless entrepreneur Tom Huseby of SeaPoint Ventures acts as chairman of the board. Leading ZenZui as CEO is Eric Hertz, who brings 22 years of international wireless experience to the venture. ZenZui is reshaping the way people interact with and use their mobile devices by marrying the power of the Internet with the personalization of the mobile phone. ZenZui tiles transform the handset and give users the power to acquire information, conduct transactions and share experiences quickly and easily. write your comments about the article :: © 2007 Computing News :: home page |