Samsung to Pre-Load CNN Mobile Application on Handsets

ATLANTA, April 11: CNN
International and Samsung Electronics have inked a deal to offer CNN’s new
mobile application as pre-loaded software on the electronics manufacturer’s
handsets, beginning in June.

The deal grants Samsung a
six-month window of exclusivity, during which it will be the only device
manufacturer to host the new Java-based service. The rollout will begin with
the Samsung G810 5-megapixel cameraphone (available in Europe from May), and
subsequently roll out to other handset models. The partnership will be executed
across Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific and Latin America.

CNN’s mobile software was
first unveiled February at the GSMA Mobile World Congress. Purchasers of
select Samsung handsets will have one-click access to CNN’s
newsgathering output including thousands of reports and images from CNN’s
global correspondents in the field. Users can prioritize their favorite
categories, get quick access to top stories via the animated news flipper and
watch the hourly on-demand CNN World News Now video headlines. A
360-degree globe and interactive maps allow users to search more than one
thousand cities around the world for detailed weather forecasts. CNN’s global
audience can also submit iReports to CNN’s citizen journalism website by
sending still images or video from their mobile handsets via a built-in
bookmark. The platform will also display ads to viewers.

“This move provides our audiences with easier access to CNN
International’s first class multi-media news service,” said Casey Harwood, the
senior VP of Turner Europe. “The collaboration with Samsung underscores CNN’s
commitment to aligning with the best telecommunications partners in the
business to provide consumers with a dynamic user experience and immediate
access to our global news product, delivered through sophisticated technology.”

“By embedding CNN International’s content into our extensive range of
mobile phones, Samsung is providing innovative new ways for consumers to
experience and enjoy diverse multimedia entertainment through their mobile,”
noted Jongkyun Shin, the executive VP and head of the mobile R&D team for
Samsung Electronics. “With CNN International’s solution, Samsung will be able
to deliver its end users with the rich multimedia experience.”

—By Ned Berke