BERKELEY, Calif., July 8, 2003 (PRIMEZONE) -- SightSpeed, Inc., a developer of truly real-time desktop videoconferencing software, released the first commercially available version of its next-generation visual communications solution today. SightSpeed's new videoconferencing software is the first product of its kind that enables users to talk either on the telephone or through the Web and simultaneously see one another on their computers, in perfect synchronization.
"With our new release, we're delivering on the promise of true videoconferencing with an easy-to-use solution that doesn't compromise quality," said Brad Treat, president and CEO of SightSpeed. "Since releasing our beta version a few months ago, we've already had nearly 7,500 beta testers download our product -- primarily through word-of-mouth referrals -- many of whom have told us they're anxiously awaiting the availability of our commercial release. That day has finally arrived, and we're excited to make high-quality, real-time videoconferencing a reality for more people around the globe."
High-quality Videoconferencing as Fast as a Phone Call
SightSpeed's new Internet videoconferencing software allows users to have more personal and productive interaction than a phone call with important constituents such as customers, investors, co-workers and partners -- right from the desktop, with a simple click of the mouse. SightSpeed is designed so that users can install and deploy the software instantaneously with minimal assistance from IT staff. Additionally, SightSpeed's desktop videoconferencing software offers quality that is comparable to expensive, dedicated room-based systems without requiring the special hardware or data lines necessary for these higher-priced products. Furthermore, the responsive nature of SightSpeed's videoconferencing solution enables users to experience natural communication without the lag or "jumpiness" present in current software-based solutions.
New features available in SightSpeed's commercial release include:
- Expanded firewall support and transversal
- Enhanced visual quality on networks that operate with inconsistent throughput
- Support for USB 2.0 cameras
- Improved user interface
- Simplified sign-up process
- Automated troubleshooting
Breakthrough Technology Developed at Cornell University
SightSpeed was born out of seven years of research at Cornell University. Professor Toby Berger, winner of the 2002 Claude E. Shannon Award and one of the most highly decorated information theorists in the world, developed the company's patented technology that achieves high quality by analyzing the video stream in the same manner as the human eye. SightSpeed's software compresses and transmits only the visual information the human eye requires -- significantly reducing the data transmitted and communication delay. As a SightSpeed team member, Dr. Berger is actively involved in the development of additional breakthrough technologies.
Software Availability
A free trial version of SightSpeed's software can be downloaded immediately at www.sightspeed.com. For pricing information, please contact SightSpeed at sales@sightspeed.com, or 510.665.2949.
SightSpeed currently supports Windows, and by the end of the year, the software will also support the Apple Macintosh platform. The product is available to individual users, and in the months ahead, SightSpeed will focus on providing this service to global enterprises to enhance the quality and productivity of all of their communications.
About SightSpeed
Based in Berkeley, California, SightSpeed offers high-quality, truly real-time desktop videoconferencing software. SightSpeed's software is easy to install and use with standard computers, cameras and a broadband Internet connection. The service enables natural visual communications in synchronization with a normal telephone conversation. Its revolutionary human perception-based technology is patented and based on over seven years of research from Cornell University. SightSpeed's service is accessible on Internet-connected computers, and can also be licensed for embedded commercial applications. For more information, visit www.sightspeed.com.
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