Adobe (Nasdaq:ADBE) today announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Magento Commerce, a market-leading commerce platform, for $1.68 billion, subject to customary purchase price adjustments. The addition of the Magento Commerce Cloud will enable commerce to be seamlessly integrated into the Adobe Experience Cloud, delivering a single platform that serves both B2B and B2C customers globally. The Magento Platform brings together digital commerce, order management and predictive intelligence into a unified commerce platform enabling shopping experiences across a wide array of industries.

Adobe is the leader in designing and delivering digital experiences through content and data. At the core of every great experience are content and data, which enable the consistent, personal, intuitive experiences consumers have come to expect. Commerce is also integral to the customer experience. Consumers and businesses now expect every interaction to be shoppable – whether on the web, mobile, social, in-product or in-store.

Magento brings Adobe Experience Cloud digital commerce enablement and order orchestration for both physical and digital goods across a range of industries, including consumer packaged goods, retail, wholesale, manufacturing and the public sector. The Magento Platform is built on proven, scalable technology supported by a vibrant community of more than 300,000 developers. The Magento partner ecosystem provides thousands of pre-built extensions, including payment, shipping, tax and logistics. This level of flexibility gives businesses the ability to quickly ramp and iterate their commerce capabilities for their unique business needs.

Current Magento customers include brands like Canon, Helly Hansen, Paul Smith and Rosetta Stone. Adobe and Magento share joint customers including Coca-Cola, Warner Music Group, Nestlé and Cathay Pacific.

“Adobe is the only company with leadership in content creation, marketing, advertising, analytics and now commerce – enabling real-time experiences across the entire customer journey,” said Brad Rencher, executive vice president and general manager, Digital Experience, Adobe. “Embedding commerce into the Adobe Experience Cloud with Magento enables Adobe to make every moment personal and every experience shoppable.”

“Adobe and Magento share a vision for the future of digital experiences that brings together Adobe’s strength in content and data with Magento’s open commerce innovation,” said Mark Lavelle, CEO, Magento. “We’re excited to join Adobe and believe this will be a great opportunity for our customers, partners and developer community.”

Upon close, Magento CEO Mark Lavelle will continue to lead the Magento team as part of Adobe’s Digital Experience business, reporting to executive vice president and general manager Brad Rencher.

The transaction, which is expected to close during the third quarter of Adobe’s 2018 fiscal year, is subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions. Until the transaction closes, each company will continue to operate independently.

Monster is rising bigger.

Sony Corp (6758.T) said on Tuesday it would pay about $2.3 billion to gain control of EMI, becoming the world’s biggest music publisher in an industry that has found new life in streaming services.

The acquisition, which gives Sony a catalogue of more than 2 million songs from artists such as Kanye West, Sam Smith and Sia, is the biggest so far by new CEO Kenichiro Yoshida.

The deal seeks to take advantage of the rapid growth in streaming music services like Spotify (SPOT.N) and Apple Music (AAPL.O) which has driven a recovery in the music industry.

EMI currently commands 15 percent of the music publishing industry which with the current Sony ATV business would make the Japanese entertainment and electronics giant the industry leader with market share of 26 percent, a company spokesman said.

Under the deal, Sony, which already runs EMI Music Publishing, will lift its ownership to roughly 90 percent from 30 percent currently by buying Mubadala Investment Company’s holding.

https://www.reuters.com/article/us-sony-outlook-emi/sony-to-become-worlds-no1-music-publisher-with-23-billion-emi-deal-idUSKCN1IN01F

Use code COMEBACK for free Exhibits Pass.

https://www.nabshow.com/

• First Place - Sony a9
• Second place: Nikon D850
• 3rd place: Panasonic LUMIX G9 PRO
• 4th place: Fuji Film X-H1
• 5th place: Sony a7 III

Lenses

• 1st - M. ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 17 mm F1.2 PRO
• 2nd and 3rd - Canon "EF 85mm F1.4L IS USM and Sony "FE 16-35 mm F 2.8 GM (the same score for 2 products)
• 4th place: Tamron "18-400 mm F / 3.5 - 6.3 DiII VC HLD" (Model B 028)
• 5th place: Olympus "M. ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 45 mm F1.2 PRO"

Web readers voting awards

• 1st place - Nikon D850
• 2nd place: Sony "α7 III"
• 3rd place: Sony "α7R III"
• 4th place: Sony "α9"
• 5th place: FUJIFILM "X-H1"

• Exhibition days - 1-4 march
• Tickets - free if pre-register
• Exhibition site - http://www.cpplus.jp/en/
• Coverage - PV Japan team
• Our Telegram channel - https://t.me/personal_view

Possible new cameras and lenses

• Sony A7III
• A5800 camera with 4K 30fps video
• Canon EOS M50
• PowerShot premium compacts
• EOS 3000D and EOS 4000D DSLRs
• Sony 135mm FE
• Sigma FF lenses - 70-200mm f/2.8 ART lens, and a 70-200mm f/4 CONTEMPORARY lens
• Laowa 9mm f/2.8 APS-C E-mount lens
• Zeiss 25mm f/2.4 FE

Sony and Samsung currently lead the global market for CMOS image sensors, with the Japanese rival holding a slight edge.

In 2016, Sony and Samsung took up 25.6 percent and 22.6 percent of the market, respectively, industry data showed.

The two companies held 28.3 percent and 25.4 percent, respectively, last year. SK hynix Inc., Samsung's smaller South Korean rival, accounted for roughly 8 percent to 9 percent over the cited period.

Industry watchers, however, claim Sony takes up 50 percent of the market in terms of sales, hovering far above Samsung's 20 percent.

So, due already control almost 54% of all unit sales or >70% of sensors value. Very similar to NAND market.

And here we also have cartel where one member to reach it even killed their own NX cameras division.

18 May 2018: Gathering some of the biggest brands and high profile names in the photographic and video industries under one roof, Wex Photo Video has revealed an exciting new event taking place from Friday 29 to Saturday 30 June 2018 at its flagship store and showroom in London E1: the Wex Photo Video Show.

Following the success of its annual London Lens Show, Wex has introduced a fresh new format spanning two complete days packed with practical workshops, hands-on demonstrations, inspiring expert talks and special guest appearances from some of the most prominent names in the business. Entrance is free, but attendees should register and confirm their place at the seminars and talks in advance to avoid disappointment.

Visitors will be able to view and try an extensive range of photographic and filmmaking equipment, while benefitting from numerous exclusive offers, photo opportunities and the chance to win a prize bundle worth over £3,500.

With more than 40 exhibitors showcasing their latest hardware and software solutions including Canon, Nikon, Fujifilm, Sony, Panasonic, Olympus, Hasselblad, DJI, Epson and Zeiss, plus a host of accessory specialists such as Profoto, Lee Filters, Billingham, Lowepro, Manfrotto and Wacom, the show is expected to attract approximately 3,000 visitors over the two-day period.

Providing a fascinating insight into their daily work, the contents of their kitbag and the inspiration behind their impressive careers, expert guest speakers will include renowned music photographer Peter Neill, event videographer Jeff Wood, content-production specialist Tom Martin, and fashion photographer Andy Hoang. Further speakers will be announced over the next few weeks.

In addition to experiencing in-depth product sessions and educational seminars, visitors to the show will have the opportunity to browse the 2018 AOP Student Awards Exhibition, which is being hosted at the Wex Photo Video showroom from 6 June to 31 July. The work of 60 finalists is on display at this outstanding exhibit -- a celebration of the best in photography from emerging talent across the UK. The categories in this year's competition are People, Places and Things.

Experts from Wex Photo Video's team, as well as specialists from each of the exhibiting companies, will be on hand throughout the event to provide camera, lens and accessories advice, technical tips, plus guidance on shooting and recording techniques for photographers and videographers of all levels of experience.

As an additional bonus, the first 50 visitors each day can collect a special goody bag on arrival, containing a complimentary Wex sensor-clean voucher.

Matt Devine, head of content at Wex Photo Video, said, "Over the last twelve months, we have witnessed a rapid transformation in the industry, so we have adapted our event to meet the growing professional demands and interests of our customers. Our extended show reflects the explosion of interest in filmmaking technology, videography, audio and blogging equipment, aerial and drone photography, as well as advanced photographic techniques, lighting and editing solutions. We look forward to welcoming visitors from London and further afield, and plan to expand and refresh the show in the future as our customer requirements continue to evolve."

Seminar programme:

Friday 29 June 2018

12.00-14.00 Film Structure and Stories A seminar by Jeff Wood -- sponsored by Sony.

14.00-16.00 More than an Image: Lens Choices when Creating Branded Content A seminar by Tom Martin -- sponsored by Canon.

Saturday 30 June 2018

12.00-14.00 Photography in the Music Industry A seminar by Peter Neill -- sponsored by Sony.

14.00-16.00 Fashion and Beauty Photography with Fujifilm XF Lenses A seminar by Andy Hoang.

To register for the seminars, and to find a complete exhibitor list and the latest programme of events, please visit: www.wex.co.uk/wexshow. Entrance is free of charge.

Venue and opening times:

The Wex Photo Video Show will be open on Friday 29 and Saturday 30 June from 09.30-17.00 each day at:

Wex Photo Video 37-39 Commercial Road London E1 1LF Tel: 020 7380 1144.  (Nearest tube: Aldgate East)

Valhalla, N.Y., May 15, 2018 -- FUJIFILM North America Corporation today announced the launch of its new website and mobile app for FUJIFILM digital camera users in the United States. The newly designed website brings together the latest FUJIFILM X Series and GFX system news, information about upcoming photography events, and inspiring features to help FUJIFILM photographers stay up to date and creatively energized.

Recent articles include a photographic trip to Antarctica with Dan Westergren and his FUJIFILM GFX 50S, a gallery of images shot by professional photographers using the new FUJIFILM X-H1 camera, and detailed rundowns of the exciting new featuresbeing added to FUJIFILM cameras via firmware updates.

Created by FUJIFILM North America Corporation, FUJIFILMXGFX.com brings together the finest photography, latest news, and essential techniques. It also helps visitors to find information on their nearest Authorized GFX system and X Series Dealers, including X Series Premier Dealers, making it the ultimate website experience for Fujifilm photographers.

As well as hearing about promotions and events, photographers who register on the website will be the first to learn about the regular competitions, sweepstakes and promotional offers that are featured in the Promotions & Giveaways section. These include photography gear giveaways, limited-time deals, Education Program information, and other great benefits that are not to be missed.

"We are excited to launch a platform that displays the image quality and creative possibilities of the GFX system and X Series line of digital cameras," said Yuji Igarashi, General Manager of the Electronic Imaging Division & Optical Devices Division at FUJIFILM North America Corporation. "It's basically a go-to website and app offering a range of resources, for all FUJIFILM photographers."

The mobile app, FUJIFILM X/GFX USA, encompasses all features of the FUJIFILM X/GFX USA website and formats them especially for smart devices. It is available for download on iTunes for Apple users and Google Play for Android users.

App users are able to activate notifications, so they'll never miss out on the latest news and promotions. Like the FUJIFILM X/GFX USA website, the app also includes FUJIFILM Focus, a special space dedicated to the latest information about Fujifilm-supported events, product announcements, FUJIFILM X-Photographer profiles, promotions, giveaways and much more.

And the next time you visit an Authorized X Series Dealer, keep your eyes open for your free copy of the FUJIFILM X/GFX USA Bulletin. This is a regularly printed newspaper featuring a selection of the best content from the FUJIFILM X/GFX USA website, including news, interviews and beautiful images to inspire you. Pick up your free copy of the FUJIFILM X/GFX USA Bulletin while stock lasts.

https://arxiv.org/pdf/1805.01934v1.pdf

Casio Computer has decided to withdraw from unprofitable compact digital camera market. The digital camera business unit posted a loss of 500 million yen in the fiscal year ended March 2017.

Casio is also reviewing the business structure of the musical instruments.

https://www.nikkei.com/article/DGXMZO29783480U8A420C1TJ3000/

Panasonic Develops Industry’s-First 8K High-Resolution, High-Performance Global Shutter Technology using Organic-Photoconductive-Film CMOS Image Sensor

Osaka Japan, - Panasonic Corporation today announced that it has developed a new technology which realizes 8K high-resolution (36M pixels), 60fps framerate, 450k high-saturation electrons and global shutter [1] imaging with sensitivity modulation function simultaneously, using a CMOS image sensor with an organic photoconductive film (OPF). In this OPF CMOS image sensor, the photoelectric-conversion part and the circuit part are independent. By utilizing this OPF CMOS image sensor's unique structure, we have been able to newly develop and incorporate high-speed noise cancellation technology and high saturation technology in the circuit part. And, by using this OPF CMOS image sensor's unique sensitivity control function to vary the voltage applied to the OPF, we realize global shutter function. The technology that simultaneously achieves these performances is the industry's first*1.

With the technology, it is possible to capture images at 8K resolution, even in high contrast scenes, such as a field under strong sunlight and shaded spectator seats under a stadium roof. Moreover, by utilizing the global shutter function that enables simultaneous image capture by all pixels, it is expected to be able to capture moving objects instantaneously without distortion, be utilized for multi viewpoint cameras (performing multi-view synchronized imaging using plural cameras) and used in fields requiring high-speed and high-resolution, such as machine vision and ITS monitoring. In addition, conventionally, even in scenes where it was necessary to utilize different ND filters [2] according to capturing conditions, the technology realizes a new electronically-controlled variable ND filter function which enables stepless adjustment of the OPF sensitivity [3] merely by controlling the voltage applied to the OPF.

The new technology has the following advantages.

1. 8K resolution, 60fps framerate, 450k saturation electrons and global shutter function are realized simultaneously.
2. Switching between high sensitivity mode and high saturation mode is possible using gain switching function.
3. The ND filter function can be realized steplessly by controlling the voltage applied to the OPF.

This Development is based on the following technologies

1. "OPF CMOS image sensor design technology", in that, the photoelectric-conversion part and the circuit part can be designed independently.
2. "In-pixel capacitive coupled noise cancellation technique" which can suppress pixel reset noise at high speed even at high resolution
3. "In-pixel gain switching technology" that can achieve high saturation characteristics
4. "Voltage controlled sensitivity modulation technology" that can adjust the sensitivity by changing the voltage applied to the OPF.

Panasonic holds 135 Japanese patents and 83 overseas patents (including pending) related to this technology.

Panasonic will present some of these technologies at the international academic conference: ISSCC (International Solid-State Circuit Conference) 2018 which will be held in San Francisco on February 11 - 15, 2018.

More on the Technology

"OPF CMOS image sensor design technology", in that, the photoelectric-conversion part and the circuit part can be designed independently.

The OPF CMOS image sensor has a unique structure, in which, the OPF performs a photoelectric conversion and the circuit area performs charge storage and signal readout functions completely independently. Using this OPF CMOS image sensor structure, we developed high-speed noise cancellation technology and high saturation technology in the circuit area which has a large available space. As a result, it is possible to realize simultaneously 8K resolution, 60fps framerate readout, wide dynamic range [4] (by achieving a high saturation level) and global shutter function, which are normally traded off.

"In-pixel capacitive coupled noise cancellation technique" which can suppress pixel reset noise at high speed even at high resolution

Because the OPF CMOS image sensor has a structure in which the OPF and the charge storage part are connected by metal plugs, accumulated charges cannot be completely read out. Therefore, there is a problem that it is affected by reset noise at the time of resetting the pixel (signal charge storage node). And, in a high-resolution sensor, such as an 8K sensor, it is necessary to drive large loads exceeding 4000 pixels aligned in the vertical direction at the same time as the time of noise cancellation, and therefore, the long time it takes to suppress noise is a problem. So, we developed a new structure that cancels pixel reset noise at high speed, even when high resolution pixels have to be driven, by using Panasonic's original semiconductor device technology and the newly developed "in-pixel capacitive coupled noise canceller". In this structure, the reset noise is suppressed at high speed by using the negative feedback loop provided for each pixel.

"In-pixel gain switching technology" that can achieve high saturation characteristics

In the OPF CMOS image sensor, by incorporating a large capacitor in the circuit part with a large available area, it is possible to realize both high sensitivity mode and high saturation mode with the same pixel structure merely by switching modes from the camera system. In the high sensitivity mode, it is possible to capture data up to a light intensity of 4.5k electrons with high sensitivity. Furthermore, by switching to the high saturation mode, it is possible to capture data up to a light intensity of 450k electrons. In this way, since the high saturation mode can capture up to 10 times the high sensitivity mode, it is possible to clearly display the fine winding structure of the lamp filaments, in which bright part gradation cannot be expressed, because it becomes overexposure in high sensitivity mode, as shown in Fig. 3 (a). Even in a scene with high contrast, such as shown in Fig. 5, from the facial expression of the person in the shadow of the stadium roof to the blue sky and clouds during a mid-summer day, and such as shown in Fig. 6, from the dimly lit room to the sunny garden, it will be possible to capture brilliant images without overexposure or underexposure.

"Voltage controlled sensitivity modulation technology" that can adjust the sensitivity by changing the voltage applied to the OPF.

The OPF CMOS image sensor can change the sensitivity of the OPF simply by controlling the voltage applied to the OPF. By utilizing this function, we can realize the following functions which could not be realized with conventional silicon image sensors.

Sensitivity Modulation Example 1: Global shutter function which can capture all pixels simultaneously at 8K resolution

By controlling ON / OFF of the voltage applied to the OPF and controlling the sensitivity of the OPF, we realize the "global shutter function" capable of imaging all pixels at the same time, even driving a large number of pixels like the 8K sensor. By capturing with the global shutter function, as shown in Fig. 3 (b), the letters on the rotating body are read sharply without distortion. In addition, as shown in Fig. 7, even at the time of high speed moving object capturing, such as when driving on a highway or at industrial inspection, capturing without distortion becomes possible.

In the conventional global shutter type silicon image sensor, it is necessary to add new elements such as transfer circuits and charge storage capacitors in order to accumulate charges simultaneously in all pixels. As a result, the area of the photodiode and that of the additional circuits must compete for space, there is a problem that the pixel size cannot be reduced and the amount of saturation electrons cannot be increased. On the other hand, in the OPF CMOS image sensor, since there is no need for additional elements, it is possible to realize small cell, high resolution sensors, and by incorporating large capacitors in the circuit part with a large available area, accurate imaging with no distortion from dark scenes to extremely bright scenes is possible. For example, as shown in Fig. 9, with the OPF CMOS image sensor, when buildings are photographed while panning [5] at high speed, even in scenes with high contrast like a bright sky and dark windows, it is possible to acquire image data maintaining all gradations of the whole area without distortion.

Sensitivity Modulation Example 2: "Electrical ND Filter Technology" which can change sensitivity continuously and steplessly

Conventionally it has been necessary to provide a plurality of ND filters according to photographing conditions and change them many times. On the other hand, in the OPF CMOS image sensor, merely by controlling the voltage applied to the OPF (VITO in Fig. 8) and changing the sensitivity of the OPF to the desired value, it is possible to electrically implement the ND filter function. By using this function, it becomes possible to simplify the photographic equipment and continuously, steplessly control the sensitivity which could not be realized with a conventional silicon sensor. Therefore, the possibility of capturing according to the scene is expanded.

In the future, we will utilize this OPF CMOS image sensor technology in various applications such as broadcasting cameras, surveillance cameras, industrial inspection cameras, automotive cameras, etc., and will contribute to realize high resolution, high speed and high precision imaging and sensing functions.

SAN JOSE, Calif. --- May 2, 2018  Adobe announced today that, beginning May 15, 2018, Adobe Creative Cloud will be available to K-12 schools for $4.99 per license, per year, with a minimum purchase quantity of 500 user licenses for a single school, or 2,500 licenses for a school district. This offer includes unprecedented access for educators and students to all Creative Cloud applications at school, at home and on any device. Adobe is committed to delivering the best tools and resources for nurturing creativity and creative problem-solving skills into the hands of educators and students. This new pricing and licensing, as well as new professional development offerings and lesson plans focused on Adobe Spark and Creative Cloud (details below), and recent release of Spark for Education with premium features free of charge for K-12 students are prime examples of that commitment.

"Strengthening the 'A' in STEAM, and making art and creativity core to the student learning experience is Adobe's responsibility. Digital storytelling is a critical skill for all students, and enabling them to start creating videos, editing photos and publishing websites by grade 6 and earlier is key," said Mala Sharma, VP & GM of Creative Cloud Product, Marketing and Community, Adobe. "Making Creative Cloud available at $4.99 per year, per license---with access in schools and at home---is going to be a game changer, providing students and teachers access to apps that will unlock their inherent creativity in new and exciting ways. Making Creative Cloud affordable is just one of many actions we're taking to reduce the barriers to teaching these skills in today's classrooms."

Creative Cloud for K-12 Lowers Access and Cost Barriers Associated with Teaching Creativity and Creative Problem Solving to Students

A recent study conducted by Adobe, and several other third-party studies, show that jobs of the future will demand both creativity and creative problem-solving skills -- two different capabilities that nearly all educators recognize as being essential for students to learn in school. However, research also shows that the biggest barriers educators currently face to nurturing these skills are the lack of access to necessary tools and technologies, and the costs associated with new technologies.

As part of Adobe's commitment to providing educators with access to the tools and support they need to address these barriers, affordable access to Creative Cloud will encourage educators to develop new projects and lesson plans that bring out the creative skills in their students. Students will have access to all Creative Cloud applications, many Creative Cloud services and 2GB of storage. Adobe has also introduced named user licensing, which allows students to log into their accounts and work on Creative Cloud projects from any location on any device, be it their homes, the library or on the go. These licenses can be deployed by K-12 schools in a way that is consistent with data privacy laws under COPPA---the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act.

New K-12 Professional Development Offerings Make Adobe Spark a Great Project Tool in Every Class

Adobe is partnering with educators who use Adobe Spark in their classrooms, and will be sponsoring over 100 Edcamps taking place across the United States over the summer until back-to-school 2018. Edcamp leads educator-driven professional development grouped sessions, where educators drive and determine the topics of conversation. In addition, Adobe will be sending Spark experts to a select number of Edcamps over the summer. For more details on Adobe Spark sponsored Edcamps, please visit https://www.edcamp.org/edcamp-locations .

Educators can find new free professional development courses, lesson plans and a complete guide to using Creative Cloud in the classroom on the Education Exchange, Adobe's free platform where educators can access courses taught by their peers and share teaching materials and curriculum.

Availability and Pricing

This offering is available for purchase starting on May 15, 2018 and will initially be available in the US, Europe, Japan, New Zealand, and India. In the US, school sites are eligible for the offer starting at $2,495 per year, which includes 500 user licenses for students and teachers ($4.99 per user license), and school districts are eligible for the offer starting at $12,475 per year, which includes 2,500 user licenses. Also in the US, additional purchases can be made in increments of 50 user licenses starting at $250. Pricing and minimums vary by region.

For more information and to purchase Creative Cloud for their K-12 classrooms, K-12 schools and districts can contact their Authorized Adobe Resellers, and for general information, please visit www.adobe.com/education/k12.html.

T-Mobile US (NASDAQ: TMUS) and Sprint Corporation (NYSE: S) today announced they have entered into a definitive agreement to merge in an all-stock transaction at a fixed exchange ratio of 0.10256 T-Mobile shares for each Sprint share or the equivalent of 9.75 Sprint shares for each T-Mobile US share. Based on closing share prices on April 27, this represents a total implied enterprise value of approximately $59 billion for Sprint and approximately $146 billion for the combined company. The new company will have a strong closing balance sheet and a fully funded business plan with a strong foundation of secured investment grade debt at close.

The combined company will be named T-Mobile, and it will be a force for positive change in the U.S. wireless, video, and broadband industries. The combination of spectrum holdings, resulting network scale, and expected run rate cost synergies of $6+ billion, representing a net present value (NPV) of $43+ billion will supercharge T-Mobile’s Un-carrier strategy to disrupt the marketplace and lay the foundation for U.S. companies and innovators to lead in the 5G era.

The New T-Mobile will have the network capacity to rapidly create a nationwide 5G network with the breadth and depth needed to enable U.S. firms and entrepreneurs to continue to lead the world in the coming 5G era, as U.S. companies did in 4G. The new company will be able to light up a broad and deep 5G network faster than either company could separately. T-Mobile deployed nationwide LTE twice as fast as Verizon and three times faster than AT&T, and the combined company is positioned to do the same in 5G with deep spectrum assets and network capacity.

The combined company will have lower costs, greater economies of scale, and the resources to provide U.S. consumers and businesses with lower prices, better quality, unmatched value, and greater competition. The New T-Mobile will employ more people than both companies separately and create thousands of new American jobs.

The new company expects to create substantial value for T-Mobile and Sprint shareholders through an expected $6+ billion in run rate cost synergies, representing a net present value (NPV) of $43+ billion, net of expected costs to achieve such cost synergies. This transaction will also enhance the financial position of the combined company. Highlights include:

The Boards of Directors of T-Mobile and Sprint have approved the transaction. Deutsche Telekom and SoftBank Group are expected to hold approximately 42% and 27% of diluted economic ownership of the combined company, respectively, with the remaining approximately 31% held by the public. The Board will consist of 14 directors, 9 nominated by Deutsche Telekom and 4 nominated by SoftBank Group, including Masayoshi Son, Chairman and CEO of SoftBank Group, and Marcelo Claure, CEO of Sprint. John Legere, CEO of the New T-Mobile, will also serve as a director. Upon consummation of the transaction, the combined company is expected to trade under the (TMUS) symbol on the NASDAQ.

More monopolies. Soon it'll be only two of them Shit-Mobile and At-Volcano.

Announcing the ARRI Approved Certified Pre-Owned Program

• Selected ARRI ALEXA cameras available
• Comprehensive check and overhaul of all components
• All cameras subjected to final function test
• Certified cameras come with one-year warranty

April 28, 2018; Munich, Germany -- ARRI announces the introduction of the Certified Pre-Owned Program. The motion picture equipment manufacturer is now offering selected pre-owned and refurbished camera systems of the ALEXA series for sale. "We are excited to offer the ARRI Approved Certified Pre-Owned Program," says Stephan Schenk, Managing Director of ARRI Cine Technik and General Manager of the Business Unit Camera Systems. "It's a global initiative which adds a new tier to our products, allowing more filmmakers access to our technology. It also gives educational institutions a cost-effective way of providing high-quality equipment for their students."

ARRI's attention to detail and intimate knowledge of conditions on set for over one hundred years have resulted in generations of cameras that are robust, reliable, and simple to operate. Under the ARRI Approved Certified Pre-Owned Program selected ALEXA Plus and ALEXA Classic EVs undergo thorough assessments, are given thorough overhauls, and are recalibrated.

All components---starting with the sensor---are checked to confirm they are fully functioning, and that all systems work as they should. Any parts that require replacement are exchanged.

Christian Richter, Manager Certified Pre-Owned Camera Systems at ARRI, says the program delivers reliability, affordability, and dependability. "It will give more filmmakers access to tools that will enable them to capture stunning images," he says. "They can be sure that they are not sacrificing performance for price, because the selected ALEXA cameras come directly from the manufacturer and are backed by ARRI's warranty."

Before the ARRI Certificate of Approval is issued, the equipment goes through the same final function test as new cameras, ensuring it meets the high standards expected of it. The ARRI approved and certified cameras are also covered by a one-year warranty.

Pages - https://www.arri.com/sales/certified_pre_owned/about_program/

• Sensor size: 35mm film size (36.48mm x 20.52mm)
• Number of effective pixels: 2000h x 1128v, Approx. 2.2MP
• Filter types:
  • 35MMFHDXSC: RGB
  • 35MMFHDXSM: Monochrome
• Pixel size: 19μm x 19μm
• Progressive scan
• Rolling shutter
• Sensitivity:
  • 35MMFHDXSC (Green): 1,100,000e/lx/sec @gain x1
  • 35MMFHDXSM: 2,100,000e/lx/sec @gain x1

Today Vimeo is introducing a new system called Copyright Match that will help us ensure that the videos on our platform follow our Community Guidelines when it comes to respecting the copyrights of other artists and creators.

When you upload a video to Vimeo, Copyright Match “fingerprints” a sample of its audio to see if it matches that of certain third-party copyrighted material, such as songs, movies, and TV shows.

If we find a match, we’ll present you with a few simple options. If you believe your video follows our guidelines, you can quickly and easily appeal the match by providing Vimeo’s moderators with more information. You can tell us that you’re using the material with permission, that your use of the material is protected by “fair use".

http://vimeo.com/blog/post:626

I strongly oppose such systems, as it rarely made any improvements other than introducing more horrible DIY music in good videos.

Closer to the year end, rumors tell, it'll be another rise.

Announcement was made at the same event the new record sales and profits had been declared. Amazon reported sales of $51 billion in the past few months, which is an increase of 43 percent from this time last year. $32 billion was from product sales, while $19 billion was from the sale of services. Operating income increased 92% to $1.9 billion in the first quarter, compared with operating income of $1.0 billion in first quarter 2017. Net income was $1.6 billion in the first quarter, or $3.27 per diluted share, compared with net income of $724 million, or $1.48 per diluted share, in first quarter 2017.

Copyright Match Tool The Copyright Match Tool finds full reuploads of your original videos on other YouTube channels. Once a match has been identified, you can review it in YouTube Studio and choose which action you’d like to take. At this time, we’re rolling this tool out as a small pilot.

Here’s how it works: when you upload your original video to YouTube, we’ll begin scanning all the videos that are uploaded after yours to see if any of them match. It’s important that you are the first to upload the content to YouTube as a public video since we use the video upload time to decide who should see matches. Be sure to check back regularly to keep an eye on any new matches we’ve found.

Please be sure to use the Copyright Match Tool responsibly. Misuse, including intentional or repeated abuse of the copyright removal process or attempted probing or reverse engineering of the match system, may result in loss of feature access or termination of your YouTube partnership. Just because we’ve found an upload that matches your video doesn’t guarantee it is copyright infringement. It is your responsibility to review each video and consider whether fair use, fair dealing, or a similar exception to copyright applies before you submit a takedown request.

https://support.google.com/youtube/answer/7648743

One of the tools that merits rethinking is minimum wages. The main objective of a legislated minimum wage is to ensure a fair remuneration to workers that protects them against “abuse” from employers who may have market power. In part due to weaknesses in the social protection system, the minimum wage has also become an instrument to ensure a living wage. But the minimum wage can affect, depending on the level, (formal) job creation as a largely uniform minimum wage is applied to firms of varying productivity. It is important, thus, to rethink the minimum wage both because it adds to the cost of labor (particularly of low-productivity workers). The role of the minimum wage to ensure a livable wage is further weakened if universal social assistance and insurance is implemented. Yet, some countries set minimum wages at high levels: in low-income countries, minimum wages are, on average, 85 percent of the value added per worker; in middleincome and high-income countries, they are around 53 and 30 percent of the value added per worker, respectively

Restrictions on firms’ hiring and dismissal decisions can also create structural rigidities that carry higher social costs in the face of disruption. Bolivia, Oman and Venezuela, for example, do not allow contract termination for economic reasons, limiting grounds for dismissal to disciplinary and personal reasons. In 32 countries, the employer needs approval of a third party even in case of individual redundancies. In Indonesia, an approval from the Industrial Relations Dispute Settlement Board is required. It is important to give firms more flexibility in managing their human resources when the law already mandates proper advance notice.

Severance pay is another area ripe for reform. Severance is the most prevalent form of protection in case of redundancies in most low and middle-income economies that have not implemented unemployment benefit schemes. Some countries have extremely generous severance pay.

http://pubdocs.worldbank.org/en/816281518818814423/2019-WDR-Draft-Report.pdf

As soon as you stop fighting hard, capitalists return to that they always liked.

MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA – (April 20, 2018) – SmugMug, the largest, most comprehensive, independent photo management platform in the world, today announced it has agreed to purchase Flickr, the online photo management and sharing application. Together, SmugMug and Flickr represent the world’s most influential community of photographers, marrying SmugMug’s deep industry expertise and strong digital tools with Flickr’s global tribe of tens of millions of photographers. Following the close of the transaction, the brands will continue to operate as separate entities with the shared goal of providing photographers with both a place to fit in and a place to stand out. SmugMug and Flickr believe that all photographers—from the hobbyist to the prosumer to the professional—belong together.

“Since day one our passion has been empowering photographers to tell the stories they want to tell, the way they want to tell them, and our investment in Flickr reaffirms this commitment,” said Don MacAskill, CEO of SmugMug. “Uniting the SmugMug and Flickr brands will make the whole photography community stronger and better connected. The enduring quality of photography is so much more than clicks and likes—photography has the power to change the world. Together, we can preserve photography as the global language of storytelling.”

Established in 2002 as one of the first photo storage and sharing services, SmugMug is home to millions of passionate photographers and billions of secure photographs. The SmugMug platform provides photographers with website designs that offer a safe, easy and convenient way to share, showcase and sell their stories. SmugMug gives photographers complete control over who accesses their photos, and provides robust e-commerce features that make it easy to turn passion into profit.

At its heart, SmugMug encourages and empowers its community of photographers to learn, share, and inspire one another. SmugMug provides 24/7 support, from real people, along with tips, tutorials, and training events, and also hosts webinars and forums with leading photographers.

Founded in 2004, Flickr is an active, global community of photographers that encourages users to find their inspiration. Home to tens of billions of photos and two million groups, photography lovers come to Flickr to share their passion, discover spectacular images, hone their craft, and engage with friends old and new.

“We share SmugMug’s mission to cater to people—professionals, amateurs, and everybody in between— who invest time, energy and love into their photos,” said Andrew Stadlen of Flickr. “We look forward to becoming part of the SmugMug family and continue to grow, innovate and delight our global community of photographers.”

Good article.

https://people.xiph.org/~xiphmont/demo/av1/demo1.shtml

http://www.tipa.com/en-en/awards/tipa-world-awards-2018.html

According to a statement issued by the NAD Thursday, the division “has recommended that LG Electronics USA, Inc. modify or discontinue certain claims made in website, print and point-of-purchase advertising for LG’s Super UHD and OLED television, including claims that competitor Samsung Electronics America, Inc., created the product name "Samsung QLED" to "confuse consumers."

The NAD said LG has indicated it plans to appeal the adverse findings to the National Advertising Review Board (NARB).

The NAD acknowledged that subjects of its findings “were challenged by Samsung,” and included false disparagement and false or implied claims including:

• “QLED’s name `was created to confuse consumers.’ ”
• “Facts matter, and there are none that support it [QLED] being the next innovation in television.”
• “[T]he Q in Q-L-E-D is just marketing”
• “LG’s OLED TVs offer the ultimate in picture quality.”
• “Infinite Contrast. Perfect black is only attainable on an LG OLED TV.”
• “Perfect Viewing Angle. Watch From Any Angle Making Any Seat the Best Seat in the House.”
• LG’s OLED televisions have “more natural color” than Samsung’s QLED television.
• LG presents a misleading side-to-side comparison which implies that all other competitive televisions, including QLED, deliver poor contrast.
• LG’s LED Super UHD televisions have remote and channel features that are superior to QLED.
• LG’s Super UHD televisions have a “wider spectrum of colors” than QLED.

Actually this is that Samsung do with their prime series, constant attempts to confuse customers. Like shitty QLED abbreviation.

• Very handy way to track all interviews and reviews made by PV team on smartphone
• During exhibitions you can usually see realtime photo coverage
• From time to time we post some hot deals
• Extremely smartphone friendly
• Join https://t.me/personal_view !

SIGMA to launch interchangeable lenses for Sony E-mount cameras with full-frame sensors

Sigma Imaging (UK) Ltd is pleased to announce that pricing and delivery for the seven new Sony E-mount Art prime lenses will be as follows:

• SIGMA 14mm F1.8 DG HSM | Art; Available from July 2018. SRP: £1,679.99
• SIGMA 20mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art; Available from June 2018. SRP: £859.99
• SIGMA 24mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art; Available from June 2018. SRP: £799.99
• SIGMA 35mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art; Available from May 2018. SRP: £799.99
• SIGMA 50mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art; Available from May 2018. SRP: £749.99
• SIGMA 85mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art; Available from May 2018. SRP: £1,199.99
• SIGMA 135mm F1.8 DG HSM | Art; Available from July 2018. SRP: £1,399.99

All prices include VAT at 20%

While offering the same high-performance optical design as other lenses in the Art line, the new Sony E-mount models will feature a newly developed control algorithm that optimises the autofocus drive and maximises the data transmission speed. In addition, these lenses will be compatible with Sony’s Continuous AF (AF-C) and high-speed autofocus, which are not addressed by MOUNT CONVERTER MC-11. Like the converter, the lenses will be compatible with in-camera image stabilisation and in-camera aberration correction, which includes corrections for peripheral illumination, chromatic aberrations, and distortion.