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World CallNET and ZiLOG Announce the First Affordable TV-Based Communications System
CAMPBELL, Calif. and LONDON, Dec. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- World CallNET, Inc.,
a leading developer of consumer Internet software, and ZiLOG, Inc., a leading
supplier of embedded micrologic devices for the home entertainment,
communications, and embedded control markets, today announced the launch of
the first email-enabled TVs which will be available priced on a par with
standard television sets.
As a result of the strategic partnership between the two companies, World
CallNET's Ultra Thin Client Protocol (UTCP) architecture and software
technology has been integrated with ZiLOG's TV controller and embedded
modern technologies to enable the rapid development of MailTV(TM), a
revolutionary TV system that allows consumers to conduct personal
communications through their TVs without the cost of typical set-top boxes.
The communications system enables Internet-compatible e-mail as well as
the InterText service which allows TV consumers access to thousands of pages
of information across the Internet, thereby offering the thrill of the
information super highway without the cost of purchasing complex computer
technology. All MailTV(TM) systems have the ability to send and receive
e-mail with the TV remote control or an optional wireless keyboard. Users can
also benefit from other Internet features such as home shopping, banking and
voting from the comfort of their own living room.
World CallNET, Inc. will be providing the backbone communications
infrastructure and ISP services for users of MailTV(TM), starting in Europe
and the U.S. The service is designed to be absolutely free of any additional
monthly charges or minimum fees to the consumer, other than local phone
connect minutes meaning that MailTV(TM) users will be charged solely on a pay-
as-you-go basis. "The MailTV(TM) technology was designed specifically to
allow every consumer to get connected easily, and at no cost, to the rest of
the world without needing to buy a single additional device," commented Paul
Goodman-Simpson, CEO of World CallNET, Inc. "The proprietary server-based
software architecture (patent pending) developed by World CallNET, Inc. makes
it possible to offer this capability directly inside the TV at no significant
premium in terms of the overall cost of the TV set."
The MailTV(TM) product module is designed to be completely self-contained
& pre-certified and will be located completely inside the TV box. Set-up by
the consumer will be as easy as connecting the MailTV(TM) set to a phone
socket. MailTV(TM) will be able to support up to 5 email addresses per set
and requires no configuration by the user.
"The MailTV(TM) product is unique in the simplicity of its use, the cost-
effectiveness of implementation and its broad, universal appeal as a
communication medium for the masses," said Aydin Koc, Senior Vice President
and General Manager of the Home Entertainment Business at ZiLOG. "Integrating
several ZiLOG technologies into the MailTV(TM) module has allowed us to offer
a uniquely differentiating capability to TV producers."
Cable & Wireless Communications Regional Sales Director, Paul Coates,
said: "Cable & Wireless Communications is pleased to provide bandwidth and
infrastructure for this venture. This announcement brings PC technology one
step closer to the home via the TV."
World CallNET, Inc. and ZiLOG have already secured an agreement to
implement MailTV(TM) technology in products from one of the world's major TV
manufacturers. Details of this deal will be announced on January 4, 1999
ahead of the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) to be held in Las Vegas, Nevada
January 7-9, 1999.
World CallNET executives and ZiLOG will be present at CES throughout the
show and you can learn more about MailTV(TM) by visiting the ZiLOG suite at
Las Vegas' Holiday Inn Crowne Plaza during the exhibition.
About World CallNET:
World CallNET, Inc. is the new name for General American Royalty, Inc.
(OTC Bulletin Board: TROY) and operates as a telecommunications, electronics
design and licensing company. The company's mission is to generate profits
from lean, uncomplicated and low-cost Internet integration into television
sets and other consumer electronic devices.
World CallNET, Inc. operates as a pay-as-you-go Internet Service Provider,
providing Internet access to its own technology and other more traditional
devices such as personal computers. Income is generated from revenue-sharing
agreements with local telecommunications companies and carriers. For more
information on MailTV(TM) visit the company's website at
mailtv.com.
About ZiLOG:
ZiLOG creates embedded and integrated technologies that improve the
performance of everyday applications. Our engineers immerse themselves into
all aspects of specific markets so we can deliver appropriate, feature-rich
solutions at breakneck speeds. Passion, ideas and service fuel our drive to
always be focused on one goal -- helping our customers succeed.
ZiLOG has its headquarters in Campbell, California and had 1997 revenues
of $261.1 million. It employs approximately 1,550 people, has 27 direct sales
offices, and more than 120 distributor and rep locations worldwide. For more
information, please visit the company's website at zilog.com.
Tim
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