Automotive Mobile Audio Video

Immersion Corp. (Nasdaq:IMMR), a leading developer and licensor of touch feedback technology, today introduced its innovative VibeTonz(TM) System -- a full-featured composition tool and mobile phone player -- that will enable handset manufacturers and content developers to bring the power and realism of touch sensations to mobile phones.

With over 10 years of proven success in force feedback technology for the PC and console video game market, Immersion has now set its sights on the mobility market. The company is working closely with leading handset manufacturers, operators, and content developers worldwide. Samsung, Immersion's first handset licensee, plans to launch its first VibeTonz-enabled phone for consumers this fall.

"As we embark on the next stage of the digital convergence revolution, VibeTonz technology adds compelling benefits to our mobile phone platform. We will be the first handset manufacturer to introduce a phone with this level of advanced touch sensations, creating the ultimate digital and sensory experience for consumers. The ability to use all of our spatial senses -- sight, hearing, and touch -- makes today's feature-rich phones easier and more enjoyable to use," said an executive of the Mobile Communications Division of Samsung Electronics.

Immersion's VibeTonz System enables the phenomenon of sensory harmony, in which the combined effect of individual senses is greater than the sum of their parts. Adding touch sensations to sight and sound cues allows greater realism and intuition in the way people navigate and use their mobile phone. Haptics(a) technology embedded in mobile phones helps solve the product differentiation problem for handset manufacturers and operators, provides more practical and interactive content options for developers, and redefines the quality of the communication experience for end users.

"Embedded touch sensations offer the world its first opportunity to experience sensory harmony in a mobile phone. The synergy of the three primary senses -- sight, sound and touch -- has an exponential effect on a user's experience, offering an unprecedented degree of realism," said John Grundy, vice president and general manager of Immersion's mobility business. "Using the powerful sense of touch to more fully engage consumers can drive more revenue, create differentiation and brand value, and increase customer loyalty."