SAN JOSE, March 24, 2009 – Sony Electronics today announced the appointment of MxN Media Group as an authorized FeliCa technology deployment channel partner, continuing the expansion of the FeliCa System Integrator Application Developer program launched last year.

Headquartered in Toronto, with U.S. operations based in Alpharetta, Ga., MxN Media Group offers innovative technology-based solutions that improve merchandising and consumer action at the point of purchase.  The company specializes in digital merchandising products and solutions including menu systems, merchandisers, theater box office presentation systems, digital movie posters and more. New products in its roadmap include interactive and transaction-focused systems such as electronic couponing, ticketing, payment and loyalty using FeliCa contactless technology.

“MxN’s focus in the theatre, quick serve restaurant and theme park markets significantly extends FeliCa adoption in the North American market,” said Tim Lindner, director of strategic business development at Sony Electronics.  “Beyond application development, MxN’s ability to create, package and distribute content to customers as part of a holistic service has exciting implications for FeliCa-based programs.  And since MxN serves customers in both the U.S. and Canada, the company can provide synergistic application development to companies operating across borders that require a common functionality to their customers regardless of location.”

             “It will be very beneficial to work with Sony to bring FeliCa contactless technology to our markets.  Sony’s global stature as a quality technology provider enhances our ability to provide value to the major global brands we consider our customers,” said Bill Clapes, president, MxN Media U.S.  “FeliCa technology allows us to offer innovative technology-based solutions that improve merchandising and consumer action at the point of purchase.”

             The FeliCa System Integrator Application Developer (SIAD) program offers integrators and application developers the resources, training and support necessary to deploy FeliCa technology-based solutions in a wide range of markets in North America, such as retail, hospitality, healthcare and cinema.

Program resources include the FeliCa technology software development kit, as well as such FeliCa products as cards, readers/writers and other internal enabling components to deploy contactless applications.

             The Sony-developed FeliCa microchip provides a fast, convenient and secure all in-one solution platform for multiple applications, including electronic pre-paid transactions, access, interactive signage, and membership or loyalty rewards systems.

The chip combines processing, storage and communication functions, and can be implemented in a variety of form factors like cards, key chains and mobile phones.

Deployed in Asia for more than ten years, FeliCa technology has formed the basis for transportation access and merchant communities where customers can easily and rapidly purchase goods and services.