For more information, contact S3, Paul Crossley, 408 588 8664, pcross@S3.com, www.s3.com, or RAVISENT, Idalia Rodriguez, 610 407 7280, irodriguez@ravisent.com, www.ravisent.com.
S3Æ And RAVISENT Form Strategic Partnership To Launch Internet Set-Top Box
S3Æ Incorporated (NASDAQ: SIII) and RAVISENT Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: RVST) announced the formation of a strategic partnership to bring an Internet set-top box to market in the second half of 2000. Enabling full Internet functionality (Web surfing, email, etc.) using a television, the set-top box will combine S3's hardware design and distribution strengths with RAVISENT's unique Internet software technology to deliver a complete, consumer-ready Internet solution. ""This low-cost, easy-to-use set-top box has the power to bring a new segment of consumers online, allowing consumers to access the Internet and surf the Web without a computer,"" said Frank Wilde, Chief Executive Officer of Ravisent. ""Within a short period of time, we expect to have this device on retail shelves and be able to offer a unique alternative to PC-based Internet solutions."" ""Working with technology leaders such as RAVISENT to design and develop Internet appliances for different market segments, we are on track to bring a broad range of Diamond Multimedia-branded Internet Appliances to market in 2000,"" said Ken Potashner, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of S3 Incorporated. About RAVISENT Technologies, Inc. RAVISENT is driving the digital entertainment revolution with an integrated suite of digital video and audio products for PC and CE manufacturers. RAVISENT enables the convergence of personal computer and consumer electronics devices through software and hardware products designed around a unique, modular software architecture that provides a consistent look and feel across technology platforms. Combining outstanding on-screen quality with high overall system performance and integration, RAVISENT provides flexible and cost-effective solutions to a spectrum of partners in the PC-OEM, CE-OEM and semiconductor markets, including Compaq, Dell Computer, Gateway, Fujitsu, Hewlett-Packard, Packard Bell/NEC, Yamaha, Sanyo, Intel and ST Microelectronics. Founded in 1994, RAVISENT completed an initial public offering in July 1999. The company is headquartered in Pennsylvania and has offices in the Silicon Valley; Seattle, Washington; Germany and Japan. About S3 Incorporated Building on the technology, distribution and brand strengths of its Communications, Multimedia and Professional Graphics divisions, S3 is committed to delivering targeted products for the Personal Computer and Consumer/Internet Appliance markets.