Netpliance’s 4X Price Hike - Will It Spell Boom or Doom?
R. Krause - July 24, 2000

Event Summary

June 29, 2000 [Source: Netpliance press release]Netpliance, Inc. has announced i-opener 2001, the next generation service for Internet appliances. As part of the new service package, i-openerÖ customers will be able to alert one another and chat live for the first time with iChimeÖ Direct Messaging using an i-opener Internet appliance.Adding to its features such as always-on automatic updates and the simple email-waiting light, the new iChime feature will allow i-opener members anywhere to find and alert each other, then begin communicating instantly.Other new applications and features include: The i-opener CommunityCenter, where members meet each other in a safe environment to discuss issues of interest.The i-opener FamilyRoom, where members can interact, share news and organize events with family and friends in a simple forum.The i-opener Stock Tracker.Up to four (4) e-mail accounts per membership. 'The problem with current instant messaging approaches is that there is no way to 'ring' the person you want to converse with. Netpliance's patent-pending iChime Direct Messaging allows a member to ring another member at the press of a button,' said Netpliance Chairman and CEO John McHale. 'Beyond the cornerstone of simplicity, the new iChime service gives members the best way to communicate instantly with other members, taking the guesswork and frustration out of instant messaging.'..