Tom,
I've been lurking here for a while - with so much being said it's hard to get a word in edgewise, but here's my 2 cents worth. After reading the below news release from the 13th, it's hard for me to imagine that earnings won't be great. These days mgt. is paranoid of misleading shareholders, lest they make overly optimistic statements that could trigger a suit if earnings disappoint. The below statement says to me - "hey guys, we're doing great, and we thought we'd let you in on it prior to earnings release." With regards to MMX, there are a lot of people like me with sizzling hot computers that would just as soon add a nice 3-D card to meet the growing number of 3-D applications rather than upgrade the entire system. MMX might actually be good for SIII, as it may act as an impetus for people to upgrade their system. Here's the news release (I know, it's prob. already been posted).
S3 INCORPORATED ENTERS 1997 WITH CLEAR 3D LEADERSHIP POSITION
Over 5 million ViRGE units shipped
SANTA CLARA, Calif., Jan. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- S3(R) Incorporated
(Nasdaq: SIII) the world's largest supplier of graphics, video and
multimedia accelerators*, today confirmed that it shipped more than
five million ViRGE(R) 3D graphics and video accelerators during 1996.
Exiting 1996, S3's ViRGE 3D technology provided the ultimate experience
for PC consumers worldwide. Among its impressive customer base are
nine of the top ten PC OEM's (original equipment manufacturers) and
award winning add-in card manufacturers and motherboard providers.
Currently there are over 40 software titles optimized to take advantage
of S3's technology.
"As we, closed 1996, we are pleased that we continue to be in the
number one market share position in providing 2D and 3D multimedia
technology to our customer. Ultimately, the true compelling computing
experience is enjoyed by the consumer," said Gary Johnson, S3s CEO and
president. "As we enter 1997 we plan to bring to market, graphic,
video and audio products that will enhance the MMX platform bringing
the optimum computing experience to end users."
"The product leadership established with ViRGE places S3 in a position
to drive the 3D market," said Tim Bajarin, president, Creative
Strategies. "The announcement of more than five million ViRGE
accelerators shipped validates 3D technology as critical to the end
user."
During 1996, S3 gained rapid market acceptance by being first to market
with a true 2D, 3D graphics accelerator. S3's ViRGE 3D family has been
adopted by industry leaders such as AST, Compaq Computer, Dell
Computer, Hewlett-Packard, Packard Bell, Toshiba, and Micron. Add-in
card manufacturers include Diamond Multimedia, Number Nine, STB
Systems, Hercules, Orchid, Leadtek, Canopus, Data Expert, miro and ELSA.
AboutS3
S3 Incorporated, with headquarters in Santa Clara, California, is
the world's largest supplier of graphics, video and multimedia
accelerators for leading personal computer platforms and operating
systems. S3 is committed to applying its expertise in audio, video and
graphics acceleration hardware and software to create innovative and
affordable products for the home, desktop and mobile markets.
Except for historical information contained herein, the matters
set forth in this press release, such as statements relating to the
company's planned product offerings are forward looking statements that
are subject to risks and uncertainties, including the impact of
competitive products and pricing, the timely and successful development
and market acceptance of new products and upgrades to existing
products, and other risks, detailed from time to time in S3's SEC
reports.
S3 is a registered trademark of S3 Incorporated.
* Mercury Research (Scottsdale, AZ)
SOURCE S3 Incorporated
-0- 01/13/97 /CONTACT: Press Inquiries:
Paul Crossley, 408-588-8000, ext. 8664 or pcross@S3.com, or Investor
Relations: Sandy O'Halloran, 408-588-8000, ext. 994 or SandyOH@S3.com,
both of S3 Incorporated; S3 Website Location: s3.com
/S3 press releases are available through Company News On-Call by fax,
800-758-5804, extension 111409, or at prnewswire.com
(SIII)
CO: S3 Incorporated ST: California IN: MLM SU:
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