3SOF

Hi notbeln,
hope this helps....

LG success:

http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/14/lg-voyager-coming-to-sprint-atandt-this-year/

Good one from Investor village


http://investorvillage.com/smbd.asp?mb=238&mn=38668&pt=msg&mid=4554462

<   Recs: 1 Long Read But Worth It
This Year's Biggest Tech Trend Belongs
to a Micro-Cap
By Greg Guenthner
April 14, 2008


Finding ideas with the potential to turn into powerful trends can lead to impressive profits. But this strategy has its inherent risks. After all, a trend could turn out to be just that — a blip on the radar screen.

Trends can get an investor into trouble. Oftentimes, an investor will put too much stake in how he believes a particular trend will shape up, yet neglect his most important decision: The company whose shares he chooses to buy! Oil can be on the rise...but if you're invested in a failing oil company, you won't reap the rewards of your prediction, accurate or not...

Then there are bogus trends. Take Crocs Inc., for instance. The company makes squishy sandals that were all the rage last summer. The stock rose on high hopes that these sandals would grab a permanent place in the fashion world. Expectations became overblown and then crashed — along with the stock — when reality set in...

Shares of Crocs Inc. — maker of the popular soft, lightweight sandals — have fallen more than 70% since November 2007. By the time the footwear hit its popularity peak, the stock was already underperforming...

The point is this:You need more than a trend to make a profit. You need a strong business to back up your big-picture predictions. Great investors look for industry leaders . And even in our dealings with micro-caps, we're searching for the best in their respective businesses.

That's why we've had our eye on an industry leader in one of the next big technological breakthroughs in the mobile phone market...

This one small company owns and licenses key patents that it has vigorously — and, so far, quite successfully — defended in court. We'll get to more on this groundbreaking corporation in just a minute. First, let's take a look at what could very well be the biggest trend in mobile communications for the next several years...

The iPhone's Achilles' Heel

Back in July, we wrote an online column titled "Why Apple's iPhone Can't Change Anything." As you can probably guess, we weren't too impressed with the glossy little gadgets we saw paraded around town.

One of the reasons was that AT&T — the iPhone's exclusive carrier — announced disappointing activation data right after release. Customers activated only 146,000 iPhones during the first weekend of its release. Most of the very serious Wall Street-type analysts were expecting this number to come in around 500,000.

Apple stock initially took a beating, but quickly rebounded. But we still aren't buying it — at least not yet. Sure, the screen looks great and the Web browser sets up pages much nicer than other smart phones. However, there are some features that need to be added or corrected. Apple is working on some of them. Soon, third parties will be allowed to develop software for the phones — allowing almost limitless possibilities for new useful applications. That's a step in the right direction.

But there's something else missing. These first generation iPhones lack a crucial piece of technology that could very well take the ultimate mobile fashion accessory to the next level...

************One Day Left ************

How the Microwave Oven (and a Tire Fire) Led to One of the Biggest Energy Breakthroughs in Decades

You might already be familiar with how microwave technology was discovered in the first place. But let me refresh your memory.

One day, shortly after World War II, a scientist at Raytheon working on radar technology noticed a candy bar starting to melt in his pocket. He quickly realized the radar was giving off microwaves at a frequency that heated up the chocolate. That was the jumping-off point for the development of the microwave oven that's a fixture of every modern kitchen.

And it's also what makes the "Oil Vacuum" work. Check it out now. You only have until tomorrow at midnight to do so. Read this now...

**********************************

Feedback You Can Feel

Touch screen technology is used in a variety of applications nowadays. Servers at restaurants punch orders into a touch screen monitor. Cash registers at many stores are now operated with touch screen technology. Even some factories employ touch screen controls for complex machinery.

But miniaturizing touch screens for mobile phones creates a few new obstacles. For example, how do you create an easy-to-use touch screen keyboard for a small hand-held device?

The answer lies in a science you've probably experienced, but have never heard of: Haptics.

Haptic technology is essentially "feel feedback." It gives you more control and precision by emitting vibrations or motions that give technology such as touch screens the feel of a keyboard.

Haptics has the unique ability to make sleek, stylish gadgets just as easy to use as your old flip phone. When you press the buttons on a traditional phone or keyboard, you receive a tactile response. You are able to run your fingers over the keys to get your bearings, making it easier to type and recognize errors.

This simply isn't possible on a touch screen without haptic feedback. You can't type with your eyes closed, and you can't feel it when you're in between buttons or pressing the wrong key altogether.

We found the leader in the field of touch feedback technology. Phone manufacturers have used its licensed haptic solutions in more than 10 million mobile phones, with more new models introduced almost every month.

Heavy hitters like LG, Nokia and Samsung all license this technology for their products. You might even recognize some of the phones that incorporate it — like the LG Voyager, offered by Verizon in the U.S., as well as the pricey Prada phone (also by LG).

Unfortunately, this company is far too small for a newsletter this size. So, I had to hold off on it. I will however, release it to my Penny Stock Fortunes readers. In fact, I just put the finishing touches on it, and PSF readers should receive it in their inboxes within 24 hours from now. If you would like to get into this exclusive group, check this out. But hurry; you don't want to miss this amazing penny stock play...

Best,
Greg Guenthner

>

I am buying some IMMR tommorrow,  like the pattern that has developed over the last few days.

Quote from: tokyopua on April 15, 2008, 03:25:07 AM
I am buying some IMMR tommorrow,  like the pattern that has developed over the last few days.

Indeed, nice correction to the big white marubozu's midpoint. I guess at least another run towards the 50 days SMA is in the short term cards. Good luck

AUTH (thread in the Watch List, la-onda is a fan) is a similar play to IMMR, also very interesting.

But I took such a beating in IMMR that I just don't have the courage to buy AUTH at the present moment.

I'll just keep holding IMMR for the long term.

Fyi:

Immersion Schedules Release Date and Earnings Conference Call for First Quarter 2008 Financial Results


Business Editors/Technology Editors
     
SAN JOSE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 15, 2008--Immersion Corporation
(Nasdaq:IMMR), a leading developer and licensor of touch feedback technology,
will announce its first quarter 2008 results on Thursday, May 1, 2008.     
A press release will be transmitted to the news media immediately following the
close of regular trading on May 1st. The company will also hold a conference
call to present the results from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. Pacific time.
     
Those wishing to participate should call +1 800.374.2366 approximately five
minutes prior to the start of the call and reference confirmation number
29315507. A replay of the call will be available until 8:59 p.m. Pacific time
on May 8, 2008 by dialing +1 800.642.1687 and entering confirmation number
29315507.     
A webcast of the conference call will be available at www.immersion.com. Please
visit Immersion`s Web site at least 15 minutes prior to register, download, and
install any necessary audio software. A replay of the webcast will also be made
available for one year following the call within the investor relations section
of Immersion`s corporate Web site.

Immersion Medical Files Patent Infringement Lawsuit Against Mentice AB, Mentice SA, Simbionix USA Corp., and Simbionix Ltd.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008 18:59ET

SAN JOSE, Calif., Apr 16, 2008 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Immersion Corporation (NASDAQ:IMMR), a leading developer and licensor of touch feedback technology, announced today that its wholly owned subsidiary, Immersion Medical, Inc, filed a lawsuit for patent infringement in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas against Mentice AB, Mentice SA, Simbionix USA Corp., and Simbionix Ltd. The complaint alleges that each of the defendants infringe claims of U.S. Patent Nos. 6,106,301; 5,821,920; 6,323,837; and 5,844,392, which are owned by Immersion Medical, Inc. The complaint seeks damages and injunctive relief.

chart:

BO @ 8.4 -8.45 ?

Immersion Corporation (IMMR) Corporate Event Announcement Notice
Wednesday, April 16, 2008 21:05ET

Apr 16, 2008 (Wall Street Horizon via COMTEX) --

Immersion Corporation (IMMR)

Expected next earnings release:
Announcement date: 5/1/2008 - After Market
Earnings Quarter: Q1
Announcement Status: Verified

Expected next investor conference call information:
Conference Call Date: 5/1/2008
Conference Call Time: 5:00 PM
Conference Call URL: http://www.immersion.com

QuoteBO @ 8.4 -8.45 ?

Yeah, I guess so la-onda, after a minor correction to the midpoint of that powerful white marubozu, IMMR seems to be coming back for a bullish breakout. Well, at least it already closed above the 50 days SMA, which didn't happen for 5 1/2 months:



Let me see if there was any analysts activity ... yes, a 15 pages report from CapStone Investments:


The firm's estimates:



Significant Developments

Mobile: New market offering significant high margin growth
Haptic based technology has just begun to emerge within mobile handsets. IMMR's haptic based technology more than likely equaled less than 1% in CY07, but by CY11 could reach as high as 15% of all handset/smartphones. Per our estimates, this would equal about 5.5m units in CY07 growing to about 275m units in CY11. IMMR captures revenue from both handset OEMs and wireless carriers/content developers. In our opinion, IMMR could capture around 0.25% of the estimated $8B wireless gaming market in CY10 (market forecasts provided by Jupiter/Gartner). To date, the Company has relationships with handset OEMs such as Samsung, LG, and NOK. Within mobile downloads customers include I-play, QCOM, Symbian, SK Telecom, GeoTel, Indiagames, and many others.

Touchscreen: Opportunities within gaming and automotive
The Touchscreen business covers several end markets from gaming (slot-machines), automotive (BMW i-Drive, Mercedes-Benz) and potential new opportunities such as point of sale, kiosks and medical/industrial. Currently, the majority of this business is derived from automotive markets. Within automotive, the Company has relationships with BMW, Volkswagen, Alps Electric, SMK, Mercedes-Benz, and Methode. A substantial portion of automotive to date is derived from the BMW i-Drive system. This system provides the user with a rotary dial interface allowing control of in-vehicle systems. IMMR has highlighted seven various opportunities within automotive for its technology; 1) thumb pad 2) thumb wheel 3) rotary controller 4) display controls 5) haptic stick 6) rotary dial (i-Drive) 7) touch screen. It is our belief that recent models of Mercedes-Benz have also begun to incorporate IMMR technology. Recently, Volkswagen stated publicly that in future years all Volkswagen vehicles will ship with touchscreens as a standard offering. We see strong growth opportunities within automotive. IMMR management commented on the recent quarterly earnings call that investments in key industry personnel have significantly benefited the automotive business and new design wins. IMMR typically receives around $3-5 per implementation of its technology. We believe in future years this contribution could decline, but would be offset due to increased content within the vehicle.

Opportunities within gaming, such as slot-machines, are emerging entering CY08. IMMR has forged a relationship with 3M. It is estimated that 3M currently ships 200k touchscreen gaming units each year within North America. 3M maintains a significant share of this market with around 85% market share. This opportunity could become significant during CY08 as 3M will be demonstrating its first IMMR based offering at an upcoming gaming tradeshow. IMMR provides actuators to 3M receiving an ASP which could exceed $40 per unit depending on the number of actuators provided. We believe that by CY10 the 3M relationship could equal revenues of $5m from nil at present. Similar to other business divisions, this market offers strong gross margins, ranging from 60-70%. We believe the 3M business could expand into additional opportunities within gaming, however we have kept our estimates conservative until further market expansion is more visible.

Pure-play investment opportunity within touch secular growth market
We believe IMMR offers investors a pure-play opportunity on Haptic technology expansion. IMMR maintains a strong IP portfolio, which has been tested against innovative companies such as MSFT and SNE. It is our belief that the mobile end market sees rapid adoption during CY09 and beyond. Today IMMR has license agreements with LG, Samsung and Nokia. Large end market opportunities such as medical, touchscreen, and gaming provide additional growth drivers. IMMR presents investors exposure to hyper-growth within Haptics technology. While we believe growth will accelerate through CY08, we see opportunity at current price levels.

Catalysts

• IMMR maintains a significant IP portfolio with over 700 patents issued or pending. Companies such as MSFT and SNE have litigated and lost, thus settling with the Company in relation to its IP. A recent study done by 1790 Analytics for IEEE ranked IMMR patent portfolio in the top five percent of 1300 various companies. In the same study, IMMR was ranked #1 for patent pipeline among 181 other various companies. The Company has formed an IP strategy team to help with development, and future strategies, related to its IP portfolio.

• IMMR announced that it had expanded personnel in Europe and Asia within its medical business. The medical simulation markets within both Europe and Asia are equivalent to the U.S. We view expansion into additional large-end markets as positive for IMMR. Expansion in new markets typically takes a period of introduction, ramp and then growth. We believe that IMMR is only in the introduction phase but see strong growth prospects in future years.

• IMMR is currently trading at levels prior to the announced settlement with Sony, relating to joystick feedback technology, and new agreements with LG/Samsung within mobile. We believe IMMR is still early in its growth. However, we believe that significant value has been created since prior to these announcements.

• Sony PS3 joysticks incorporating IMMR haptic technology have begun shipping in Asia. We believe that bundled PS3 will incorporate haptic technology in 2H08. While incrementally not beneficial to IMMR, we believe Sony's willingness to adopt IMMR technology into PS3 could signal a willingness to license additional 3rd party vendors.

• IMMR has selected its broker and instituted as 10-5b1c plan with relation to its $50m share buyback. At current price levels, this buyback could add around an estimated $0.20-0.25 to our current CY08 pro-forma estimates. We believe the company has purchased, or will remain active, in share buybacks. Per management cash balances may be used for potential future
acquisitions in addition to share buybacks.

• Q108 estimates are favorably impacted by revenue mix compared to prior year. Contribution from mobile, gaming and automotive are ramping during the quarter. In addition, Medical is expanding into new markets and offering new technology, which should compare favorably to the sequential decline in revenues in Q107.

• Recent discussions with industry participants have provided real endorsement of the company's technology. Industry management we spoke with see it as a critical value add in expanding touch functionality.

Business Strategy

IMMR – Immersion Corporation
IMMR is a publicly traded company with shares listed on NASDAQ. The Company generated revenues of $35m in CY07 and has 152 employees as of December 31, 2007, and boasts a large IP portfolio with over 700 patents issued or pending. The Company first went public 10 years ago. At that time, Immersion's primary offering was based on haptic technology found in video game controllers. Since this time, the Company has expanded its end markets now serving mobile, medical, automotive, touchscreen, 3D controls, video games, and royalty agreements.

What is Haptics?
"Haptics" is a Greek word meaning "the science of touch." Haptics is the science of physiology of the sense of touch and provides sensations similar to texture, vibration, and bumps. Haptics help give direction and guides our movements. Haptic vibration type feedback or simulation can offer life-like interaction triggering senses to react naturally. As more devices become intuitive and offer touch based technology, Haptics provides interaction with recognizable responses and a touch-and-feel similar to non-digital interaction. IMMR is the only company currently offering Haptic based technology.

Mobile
The handset opportunity is a royalty based relationship. The Company has previously received around $0.07-$0.09 per handset. After its announced relationship with NOK, management has guided this ASP closer to $0.05 per phone. In our opinion, CY07 has been the first full year with handsets offering Haptic based technology. To date Samsung and LG have about 20 phones shipping with IMMR technology. Management believes these two vendors have 30-40 additional phones entering the market within 12-18 months. Investors should expect the first NOK based phone in 2H08. We believe NOK will begin to ramp adoption through CY09 as its license with IMMR offers volume discounts. Management has publicly stated that the license would be very expensive if NOK were to adopt limited Haptic based handsets. The NOK contract specifies a minimum payment per annum. Typically, any announced relationship with a handset OEM offers upfront NRE revenues then transfers to a royalty based license upon shipments. Typical Haptic based features within handsets can be "push back" or vibration. Based on our analysis, each incremental 1% penetration of our CY08/CY09 total handset/smartphone estimates would add an incremental $0.01 to our earnings estimates. We believe that the gross margin profile of the mobile market is equivalent to 90%. However our assumptions assume that the handset based royalty equals gross margins above this blended average.



Mobile download offers an additional revenue opportunity within the large handset end market. IMMR typically captures around $0.05-0.10 per download. This royalty can be derived from ringtones, mobile games, and make alerts more discernable. During CY06 we believe this market equaled around $3B. It is our expectations that this end market could grow to $20B by CY11. We estimate that exiting CY07 IMMR captured only 0.02% of this market. As mobile game adoption becomes prevalent throughout the world we believe that IMMR will be able to grow its share to around 0.25% by CY11. This market offers significant upside potential based on incremental gain of share.

Medical
IMMR's medical business currently represents the majority of the Company's revenues (CY07: 44%). This division focuses on selling large simulators to healthcare centers, hospitals, education institutions, and medical device companies. The value proposition offers institutions the ability to have surgeons train with "hands-on" life-like training prior to their first operation. In addition, skilled surgeons are able to practice common surgeries improving technique. It is common place for first-time surgeons to have had no real-world experience before embarking on their first operation. IMMR based medical products offer benefit to medical device companies as they are able to demonstrate their products to potential clients showing improved surgical procedure. Current estimates forecast 15k medical training institutions worldwide. Only a few of these institutions have been adopted IMMR's medical simulation products. Customers include Medtronic, John Hopkins University, Mayo Clinic – Rochester, Duke University Medical Center,
Yale University and others.
IMMR is working with customers and other medical device companies to drive new legislation regarding training hours needed prior to first-time surgeons performing an actual procedure, or continuing education for veteran surgeons. Such legislation could accelerate the adoption of virtual-reality based medical simulators. IMMR offers two types of simulators. Its intravenous based products typically cover procedures such as vascular access and phlebotomy. These products sell for around $15-20k and require software modules which offer annuity based opportunities. The non-intravenous products sell for around $100-120k and also present an annuity based opportunity due to the need for software modules and future software updates. We believe the medical division will continue to offer strong top-line growth, but acceleration in unit sales will be needed to see strong bottom-line contribution.

Touchscreen
Other opportunities within kiosks, point of sale, and medical/industrial will be predicated on a transition from a resistive based technology to a capacitive approach with feedback offering onscreen buttons feeling less mechanical and recognizable confirmations. Market estimates state 3 million new touchscreens are sold worldwide. We believe any incremental penetration within this market would not currently be reflected in our estimates. While we believe that some related applications would benefit from the use of haptic based technology, we would like to see more developments within these end market opportunities.

SNE-MSFT: Royalties from licensing
Many investors will recognize IMMR based technology as the "shaking" within your Playstation 2 joystick during play of various video games. Due to this unique technology SNE and IMMR became embroiled in a long-standing patent lawsuit which eventually was settled by SNE. SNE paid IMMR the following;
1) $97.2m – jury award 2) $32.3m previously paid for compulsory license fees 3) $22.5m for new rights with respect to all Playstation versions. In addition, IMMR crafted an agreement to allow MSFT to use its haptic based technology with additional incentives of $15m if IMMR were to settle with SNE. After the announced settlement with SNE, IMMR recognized this additional $15m. Currently IMMR recognizes $750k per quarter relating to SNE based royalties. SNE has also been provided an option to license future SNE products within gaming. We view these two settlements as critical in determining the strength of IMMR's IP portfolio. Both MSFT and SNE are large innovative companies with significant patent portfolios and access to high-powered patent attorneys. IMMR licensing both companies shows potentially significant barriers to entry within the haptic based market. IMMR has stated publicly that the Company feels in order to offer true haptics based technology any other company would need a license to its patents. We view IMMR's patent portfolio as a significant competitive advantage and presents additional
high-margin licensing within several end markets.

Video Games
IMMR offers game console manufacturers and 3rd party peripheral companies access to haptic feedback technology used primarily in joysticks. This business has been offering haptic based technology to the market for over 10 years. Both MSFT and SNE have licensed IMMR technology for use within their console offerings. This market also serves the PC gaming market place. IMMR typically licenses its technology to OS Support (APPL, MSFT), PC Peripherals, Console platform (MSFT, SNE) and Console peripherals (MadCatz, LOGI). These licensees then work with software developers to integrate haptic feedback within game play. IMMR typically receives 5-10% of peripheral hardware selling price. We believe additional upside opportunity exists. IMMR has not yet negotiated a license with Nintendo for its very popular Wii platform. In addition we believe the penetration of haptics within games could increase allowing for additional license revenue. We view the video game market as a mature opportunity with potential upside from new relationships and licensing expansion.

3D Products
This business offers glove and measuring type devices incorporating haptic based technology. Management classifies this business as a "cash cow" but understands growth prospects are limited. Currently this business contributes about $1m per quarter in revenues. We believe this number will decline over time as focus is shifted to other high-growth markets such as mobile and touchscreen.

Competition
IMMR currently has no direct competitors. Its Haptic technology is protected by court-tested patents. End users of Haptic based technology could implement less functional, or non-compliant Haptic functionality, as a way to offset costs to IMMR. An example of this implementation would be MOT's new ROKR E8. This implementation did not utilize IMMR technology, but also was not a fully functional haptic offering. We see competitive risks as potential customers not utilizing fully functional haptic technology.

Valuation

We value shares of IMMR based on our CY09 pro-forma EPS estimates. In our opinion IMMR is at the base of a significant ramp in revenues due to expansion into new markets and gaining momentum in other businesses. We believe that the significant growth profile, offered by IMMR deserves a higher forward multiple than industry peers. IMMR could potentially grow pro-forma EPS over 100% year-over-year during CY08/CY09. We believe a 20x multiple appropriately recognizes the significant growth opportunity, while still providing some discount to potential risks related to revenue acceleration and/or push-out of opportunities. Applying a 20x multiple to our CY09 pro-forma EPS estimates of $.49, we arrive at a target price of $10. Our target is around 35% above IMMR's prior closing price.



Important Disclosures

Concluding Opinion
We are initiating coverage on Immersion Corporation with a Strong Buy rating and $10.00 price target. Our price target is based primarily on accelerated adoption of Haptic based technology within several new markets. We use 20x our CY09 pro-forma EPS estimates to derive our target price.

Risks
• Adoption of Haptic based technology is slower than our estimates. We believe that Haptic based technology will see an acceleration in adoption during CY08. Our estimates assume a gradual growth during CY08, with strong acceleration in CY09. If our estimates are "pushed-out" or prove too aggressive our forecasted target price could be mis-valued.

• New competition offers similar offering while not incorporating patents. We believe a key investment thesis in shares of IMMR relates to the Company's strong, tested, IP portfolio. If new competition were to enter the market offering similar quality products without infringing on IMMR technology our investment thesis could prove incorrect. In addition, APPL has recently
filed a patent application with Haptic-like functionality. If IMMR were unable to defend its IP against new competition our investment thesis regarding IP would be incorrect.

• Relationships with NOK and other handset OEMs see limited adoption. If relationships within mobile handsets with NOK, LG and Samsung were to see limited or slower adoption than our estimate future revenue assumptions could potentially be misstated.

• Additional patent litigation. If IMMR were to forced into additional litigation it could substantially increase the Company's operating expenses and reduce future profits. Currently only a contract negotiation dispute is pending with MSFT, however if other large innovative companies challenge IMMR it could cause us to review our valuation. In addition, APPL has recently filed a patent application with Haptic-like functionality. If IMMR were unable to defend its IP our investment thesis regarding IP would be incorrect.

• Microsoft - Breach of contract claims. MSFT and IMMR settled claims related to MSFT's use of IMMR's haptic technology in '03. Within the settlement, MSFT required IMMR to pay $15m if it were to achieve a victory in its litigation versus Sony. After the conclusion of the Sony litigation IMMR recognized the $15m, as it believed its contract only mandated the return of the $15m if IMMR was victorious "in court" and Sony and IMMR settled patent claims via settlement. This case is pending in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington. If IMMR were to lose its claims, the company more than likely would be required to pay $15m to MSFT and potentially legal fess/damages.

Personal comment: I feel like I had a big punch in the stomach after reading this analysis. So, instead of 1% of the mobile phone Average Selling Price (ASP), IMMR is getting just 0.05%-0.10%. I busted myself out looking for this information and never found it, because it was never disclosed in any news, SEC filings or conference calls. Several investors also questioned management on this issue in the latest conference call ("we don't know, how much are we being paid for our technology?" an investor (Benjamin), asked - he was cut off from the call seconds later).

But, it appears management disclosed the information to analysts.

I was just getting to this conclusion, but now it looks obvious: fundamental analysis is just too complex to be made without the help of professional analysts, which cover just a limited and small number of companies. I didn't have the appropriate and necessary tools before.

For now I'll just say that I'll continue holding IMMR for the long term.

I took another, yet expensive, step on this never ending learning road.

<The Company has previously received around $0.07-$0.09 per handset. After its announced relationship with NOK, management has guided this ASP closer to $0.05 per phone.>



David

Do you think that IMMR still attractive?
We talked about $1 per phone, didn't we?

Vova

This can be a real developement... people are getting "more older" (actually they live more)  and these are the kind of diseases that appears with age and need that specific observation. Even in young people, the more and more it happens with sports... and you need these kind of skills in different type of specialities (Rheumatologists, Orthophedists, Family Phisicians, Neurosurgeons, Sports Medicine, Gerontology...)By the way I feel now that there are fewer posts in the threads and no more the answers and replys as it was some time ago... as you teach me some years ago in other location/treads, David,  can this be a contrarian sign.... Hope so

Immersion Medical and GMV Sign Agreement for New Virtual Reality Arthroscopy Simulation SystemBusiness Editors/High-Tech WritersSAN JOSE, Calif. & MADRID, Spain--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 21, 2008--ImmersionCorporation (NASDAQ:IMMR), a leading developer and licensor of touch feedbacktechnology (http://www.immersion.com), and GMV, a multinational engineeringfirm operating in various high technology markets and recognized as aninnovative and competitive solutions provider, today announce that ImmersionMedical, a wholly owned subsidiary of Immersion, and GMV have signed anagreement whereby Immersion Medical will market and sell GMVs insightArthroVR®virtual reality arthroscopy surgical simulator in most countries around theworld. Immersion Medical begins accepting orders today and will exhibit the newVR arthroscopy system at the 2008 annual meeting of the Arthroscopy Associationof North America in Washington, D.C., April 24-27.GMV and Immersion Medical are focused on providing high-fidelity virtualreality simulators that can help physicians acquire the skills needed forminimally invasive surgery, said Jorge Potti, director of Advanced HealthcareTechnologies, GMV. Because arthroscopy is such a fast-growing field, it isvital that the insightArthroVR simulator be made available to arthroscopicpractitioners worldwide, and Immersion Medical is the organization that can dothat.It is widely held that the total number of arthroscopic procedures has rapidlyincreased over the last decade(1), with knee arthroscopy now one of the mostcommonly performed surgical procedures(2). However, a survey in 2002 found thatthe most frequent source of arthroscopy training for rheumatologists wasinformal training under the supervision of a trained colleague(1). The newinsightArthroVR surgical simulator has been endorsed by the Spanish ArthroscopyAssociation Education Board as a tool of interest for the education ofarthroscopic techniques. Further, it has been validated as having a high degreeof realism to help surgeons master the techniques needed for arthroscopy, suchas triangulation, visualization, and tool handling.(3)The new insightArthroVR arthroscopy virtual reality simulator incorporates acomputer, touchscreen, proxy arthroscopic camera, tools, interchangeableinterface model (shoulder or knee), and training software. Training modulesinclude Basic Training, which helps users acquire the skills needed for cameraand tool handling, Shoulder Arthroscopy, and Knee Arthroscopy. The systemsimulates the look and feel of minimally invasive shoulder and knee surgeries,such as subacromial decompression, where the inflamed bursa is removed to allowinspection of the rotator cuff, and ACL reconstruction.Several cases encompassing a wide variety of anatomies and pathologies areprovided to help users smoothly advance in their proficiency. Automated skillindicators provide an objective evaluation of user progress.The advantages of minimally invasive arthroscopy include decreased soft tissuedisruption, less pain, and less chance for infection, but the procedurerequires highly proficient psychomotor skills, explains Richard Vogel, seniorvice president and general manager, Immersion Medical. The medical professionneeds an effective, convenient, high-fidelity VR simulator to help ensure thisproficiency, and were very pleased that Immersion Medical can now offer thisexciting new product, thereby broadening our product line even further. Inaddition to arthroscopy, we offer VR simulation in endovascular, endoscopy,laparoscopy, IV insertion, and epidural procedures.(1) Kane, D., D.J. Veale, O. FitzGerald, and R. Reece. 2002. Survey ofarthroscopy performed by rheumatologists. Rheumatology 41: 210-215.(2) Knee Arthroscopy Gets Patients Back On Their Feet Fast. 2008. Medical NewsToday. January 15.(3) Bayonet, S., M. Garcia, C. Mendoza, and J.M. Fernindez. 2006. ShoulderArthroscopy Training System with Force Feedback. Medical InformationVisualisation  BioMedical Visualisation, 2006. MediVis 2006: 71-76.About GMV (www.gmv.com)GMV is a privately owned Spanish technology group founded in 1984 and tradingon a worldwide scale in the following sectors: Aerospace, Defense and Security,Transport, Telecommunications, Healthcare and IT for public administration andlarge corporations. In 2006 it achieved revenue of 77 million euros workingwith a 913-strong staff. The companys growth strategy is based on continualinnovation; 10% of its turnover is plowed back into R&D. GMV hence ranks fifthamong all Spanish firms in terms of returns on the European Communitys SixthFramework Program for Research and Technological Development and holds severalinternational patents. GMV is the leader in arthroscopy simulation for training(www.gmv.com/insight), and is currently one of the worlds two foremostsuppliers of satellite control centers; as a firm it boasts Europes thirdbiggest participation by volume in Galileo; it is the main supplier of C3Icommand and control systems to the Spanish army and the nations top supplierof telematic systems for public transport.About Immersion Medical, Inc. (www.immersionmedical.com)Immersion Medical, Inc. designs, manufactures, and markets computer-basedsurgical simulation training systems(http://www.immersion.com/medical/surgical_sim.php) worldwide. The medical andsurgical simulators integrate proprietary computer software and tactilefeedback robotics to create highly realistic medical simulations that helptrain clinicians. The company's key product lines are the Virtual IV system,Endoscopy AccuTouch® simulator, CathLabVR" surgical simulator, andLaparoscopyVR" surgical simulation system.

Quote from: notbeln on April 21, 2008, 12:22:44 PM
<The Company has previously received around $0.07-$0.09 per handset. After its announced relationship with NOK, management has guided this ASP closer to $0.05 per phone.>



David

Do you think that IMMR still attractive?
We talked about $1 per phone, didn't we?

Vova

I thought that because IMMR received 1.67% of revenue in the Sony lawsuit settlement that they were selling licenses in the mobile business for a similar percentage, that's why I was considering $1 per each phone.

But no, they sold the licenses for a lot less. Even though they never disclosed the details as public information, it looks clear now they spoke to professional analysts following the company.

This explains what was previously inexplainable, the stock's fall from $20 or so (right after Nokia's licensing deal) to below $7. What looked great at the time wasn't all that great for people in the know of the relevant information.

If one goes through the press releases, SEC filings, conference calls or even message boards of that time, nobody knew what was going on. Only the people paying $1,300/month for access to professional analysis (like institutional investors) knew the very important details of the business.

This also explains why management didn't talk all that much about the mobility business ... not more than the other business segments of the company.

The chart told the story for anyone willing to listen. But I thought the selling pressure came from people concerned with the high valuation.

What this story teaches me is that in this very competitive World one needs all the available tools to beat the market.  If that isn't possible, at least adapt the strategy to the tools you have, meaning, if you're not able to pay for the help of thousands of professional analysts doing fundamental analysis, it's better for you to just stick to the charts.

Unfortunately I didn't know better and the Main is losing 40% (after doubling its exposure) on this stock.

I still like the stock, but the investment story is much weaker than I previously thought.

So, given this, what shall I do now?

Well, since recognizing a mistake and not doing anything about it is the same as not recognizing it at all, I'll sell half of IMMR's stake at today's opening price.

QuoteWhat this story teaches me is that in this very competitive World one needs all the available tools to beat the market.  If that isn't possible, at least adapt the strategy to the tools you have, meaning, if you're not able to pay for the help of thousands of professional analysts doing fundamental analysis, it's better for you to just stick to the charts.

There, David, you said it! Now, having said this, wouldn't it change your perspective on a stock like UTVG? Not really knowing what's going on in the far Orient, would you believe the chart and take an action or still hope your story would come true? I am not trying to nag at you here, only rationalizing a decision. A 4 fold drop had to be caused by something. And if we don't know what, we'd have to protect our capital.

Some more news... and maybe some kind of hope!?!

Immersion Appoints Clent Richardson President and CEO

Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

SAN JOSE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 24, 2008--Immersion Corporation
(NASDAQ:IMMR), a leading developer and licensor of touch feedback technology
(http://www.immersion.com/corporate/), announced today the appointment of Clent
Richardson to president and CEO, effective April 28, 2008. The Company also
expects that Richardson will be appointed to the Company's Board of Directors
at its next board meeting.

"Clent brings strong industry knowledge, proven global business development,
sales, and marketing accomplishments, as well as team-building and executive
management skills," said Victor Viegas, Immersion chairman of the board and
current president and CEO. "He also brings proven experience in establishing
business relationships with leading OEMs, developers, and service providers to
create industry-wide support for products and technologies that will help
Immersion accelerate the capture of its significant upside potential. I look
forward to working with Clent in the transition to his new leadership role and
to supporting Immersion`s growth as chairman of the board."

Most recently, Richardson, 46, was chief marketing officer of TiVo, and
earlier, of Nortel Networks. Prior to these positions, he was chief sales and
marketing officer and a member of the board of directors of T-Mobile U.K.,
where, leading a 1,300-person team, he architected the companys rebranding and
go-to-market strategy resulting in increased operational efficiency and
double-digit revenue growth. In addition, he was concurrently chairman of
T-Mobile Retail, Ltd. where he provided guidance for 130 retail locations and
over 400 team members across the U.K. Previously, at Apple, he reported to the
co-founder and CEO as vice president of worldwide developer relations and
worldwide solutions marketing and built and led a global team that established
and strengthened developer and customer relationships around the world. During
his more than five years with Apple, Richardson was also senior manager of
evangelism, responsible for building and leading a worldwide team that managed
global strategic relationships with Adobe, AOL, IBM, Microsoft, Motorola, Sun,
and other industry leaders for all Apple divisions. Earlier in his career,
Richardson worked at GTE (now part of Verizon), where he advanced through a
number of sales and management positions that included P&L responsibility for
all wireless major account management and sales in California. He holds a
Bachelor of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Antioch University.

"Immersion`s global leadership in innovation, development, and deployment of
haptics technology is nearing a tipping point," said Immersion president and
CEO elect Clent Richardson. "Now is the time to build upon and take advantage
of the company`s strong financial footing, growing intellectual property
portfolio, and global opportunities in the medical, mobility, touch-interface,
and gaming markets. With the successful adoption of Immersion`s technology by
leading brands in markets around the world, our focus will be to execute growth
plans and accelerate customer adoption of our haptics technology worldwide. I
look forward to leading Immersion to the next level and beyond and to working
with Vic and the board of directors to grow value for our shareholders,
customers, and employees."

"The Board and I thank Vic for his many years of service, which have prepared
Immersion with a sound strategy and the financial means for its next phase of
growth. We now look forward to his guidance and active involvement as chairman
of the board," said Jack Saltich, lead independent director of Immersion`s
Board of Directors. "We are confident that Clent`s management experience on
top-tier global executive teams and his solid record of accomplishments in
telecommunications, consumer electronics, software, hardware, and technology
markets around the world will provide the knowledge and leadership Immersion
needs to aggressively pursue its numerous and sizeable opportunities."

LEAKED: Apple to licence haptic technology for iPhone

April 25, 2008

     

Man stares at huge iPhone displayApple Inc is in talks with Immersion Corporation to licence Haptic Technology for its iPhone. Immersion Corporation on Thursday announced that they have appointed former Apple executive Clent Richardson to the position of President and CEO.

A source (Apple Inc employee), who chose to remain anonymous, told us that senior executives of the two companies have already met once on Tuesday and the next meeting has been scheduled for Friday morning. The source confirmed that the executives will continue discussions over licencing and implementation issues of iPhone haptics.

Apple's competitor Nokia - whose upcoming phone is likely to be called Tube 5800 -  has also licenced haptic technology from Immersion Corporation that will enable it to incorporate a wide range of tactile feedback in it cellphones.

Haptic technology refers to technology which interfaces the user via the sense of touch by applying forces, vibrations and/or motions to the user, but it should not to be confused with touch or tactile sensors that measure the pressure or force exerted by the user to the interface.

As we reported earlier, Apple's on-screen keyboard has a major drawback as it lacks "haptic response." In other words, users cannot feel the keys as there is no pressure back on the finger when a virtual key is released.

Haptic technology allows users to use a touchscreen and receive feedback like they are pressing on real buttons through vibration technology.

Immersion Corporation develops haptic technologies that engage the sense of touch in the digital world for communicating, driving, designing, training, or just for fun.

Written by Editorial Team · Filed Under Apple News, Apple Rumors, Mac Media, One Channel, iPhone
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