Latest Articles from WRAL Tech Wire

IBM layoff update: North American cuts climb; mum is word down under

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 07:19:00 -0400

Alliance at IBM has upped its total for IBM layoffs in North America by another hundred to 2,930. But how many job cuts Big Blue is making in Australia remains unknown, although the media is making estimates.

Red Hat beats analyst's 1Q estimates, subscription drive revenue growth

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 20:47:19 -0400

Red Hat has high hopes for its new cloud software coming in July but don't expect it to be become a big contributor to the company's top or bottom lines soon. Learn why.

Syngenta's Chilton named World Food Prize laureate

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 19:25:48 -0400

Crops endure droughts and pests better because of genetic research. Syngenta scientist Mary-Dell Chilton pioneered much of that biotech work and for that she was honored by the World Food Prize.

NCTA 'Go Global' talk to cover protecting IP in China

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 15:00:33 -0400

The North Carolina Technology Association’s “Go Global” talks series continues on June 24 with a session on protecting intellectual property in China.

Icahn changes tack on Dell, proposes $16B share buyback

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 10:22:18 -0400

Activist investor Carl Icahn on Tuesday proposed a $16 billion share buyback in his latest effort to thwart Dell Inc. founder Michael Dell's effort to take the struggling computer maker private.

But I just work here: Supervisors' personal liability under federal, NC wage and hour law

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 07:10:39 -0400

TechLaw: Federal and North Carolina laws regarding employees' wages and hours of work impose potential liability on a covered "employer." Do such laws impose personal liability on individuals who control the employer as well? If you answered "no," prepare to be surprised.

$1B heart drug deal could mean transfer of 1,000 GSK employees

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 07:10:12 -0400

GlaxoSmithKline is in negotiations to sell two heart medicines to Aspen Pharmacare in a deal estimated to be worth $1 billion. If the deal goes through, a lot of GSK employees would be transferred to a new employer.

HP's Whitman replaces head of struggling PC business

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 07:08:25 -0400

Hewlett-Packard Chief Executive Officer Meg Whitman is reorganizing the company's struggling personal-computer business, replacing longtime head Todd Bradley with one of his deputies amid a global PC slump.

Loss of contract triggers HP layoffs in Raleigh

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 07:07:59 -0400

HP says the loss of a contract is why it made cuts in the ranks of its services group based in North Carolina. Find out how many and where.

Google wants court to lift gag order on government data requests

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 07:04:00 -0400

Yahoo! on Tuesday became the latest technology company to give details of government data collection, following disclosures by Apple Inc., Facebook Inc. and Microsoft Corp., all of whom have revealed thousands of warrants for data from government entities.

Dara licenses diabetes compound to new RTP firm with CNS focus

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 19:56:18 -0400

Dara BioSciences spent years developing DB959 for diabetes. Now it's been licensed to T3D Therapeutics, which plans to study it in Alzheimer's disease. Read why T3D is a good fit for DB959's new focus.

Venture capital association's new CEO comes from telecom group

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 16:56:51 -0400

New National Venture Capital Association CEO Bobby Franklin beat out more than 100 applicants for the post.

Red Hat to report 1Q earnings Wednesday

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 16:14:20 -0400

Analysts estimate Red Hat's fiscal first quarter revenue will be $359.84 million, up from $314.7 million compared to a year ago.

Cisco to open development center in Israel

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 14:23:48 -0400

Cisco Systems (NASDAQ:CSCO) CEO John Chambers announced today that the networking company will open a development center in Israel, according to Ynet News.

MCNC postpones Friday broadband event

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 13:59:06 -0400

MCNC’s is postponing its "Broadband for the Future" event, originally scheduled for Friday, in deference to the funeral services for former Gov. Jim Holshouser.

NCTA opens nominations for annual NCTA 21 tech awards

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 12:26:20 -0400

The North Carolina Technology Association is now taking nominations for the NCTA 21 Awards, which recognize technology companies throughout the state.

Video game sales slide 25% in May; console demand wanes

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 12:05:46 -0400

Declines in video game sales come as Microsoft and Sony are getting ready to launch new consoles later this year.

AT&T beats Verizon in 4G LTE speeds, PC Magazine says

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 11:55:23 -0400

Which mobile carrier has the fastest 4G network? PC Magazine's test found that AT&T edged out competitors. Read more about the test findings.

SAS, Quintiles rank among best places to work in IT

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 10:36:50 -0400

SAS Institute and Quintiles (NYSE:Q), widely recognized as two major contributors to the Research Triangle's economy, are now being recognized as two of the top places to work in IT.

At last! Sprint 4G service formally launches in Triangle

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 07:49:34 -0400

For months, Sprint has been teasing formal launch of high-speed wireless service for the Triangle. And it has been available in spots. As of Monday, Sprint declares 4G LTE in place across the region.

Big Blue's layoff total climbs in RTP; North America total surges past 2,800

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 07:13:00 -0400

"Just when I thought I missed the cuts got the call first thing this morning. Mixed feelings. I love my job and my IBM team members but have to look at this now as an opportunity to leave this toxic environment," says IBMer in RTP. As reports continue to be sent to the union seeking to represent IBM workers, the total layoffs set across North Carolina climbs past 2,800. WRALTechWire Insiders get the latest update.

Crucial debate: Tax reform, jobs and innovation in NC

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 07:09:56 -0400

Opinion: As Governor McCrory and North Carolina legislators consider rewriting the State tax code, we urge them to focus on policy changes that will encourage job creation and economic growth. We believe that one of the most powerful sources of both is innovation.

Meg Whitman's promise of job cuts at HP hits Raleigh

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 14:37:58 -0400

HP recently made a cut in the ranks of its services group based in North Carolina. Find out how many and where.

Spies in your BlackBerry? Company defends its security

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 06:32:27 -0400

BlackBerry defends the security of its smartphones after The Guardian reported a British agency penetrated the devices at Group of 20 meetings in 2009 to monitor phone calls and e-mail traffic.

GE Aviation plans new plant in Asheville, hiring thousands natiownide

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 06:23:02 -0400

The company, which operates a big jet engine plant in Durham, looks to add 240 jobs across North Carolina. However, the deal is contingent on a deal for state tax incentives.

Execs: Cloud-based services, software market increasingly competitive

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 06:10:19 -0400

While the cloud-software market is in its early stages, one advantage for vendors is they shouldn't have to invest as heavily in their sales team because more communication and transactions can take place electronically. Still, startups have to offer unique services "to make end users smarter," one exec tells Bloomberg conference.

Big Blue layoff count nears 2,800 in North America alone

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 07:54:32 -0400

The body count in IBM's latest "resource action" in North America alone continues to creep higher. Internal documents obtained by the union seeking to represent Big Blue workers show that nearly 2,800 workers have been told to find new jobs elsewhere in the company or leave.

SAS makes splash into smart grid software market

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 07:52:44 -0400

While SAS' energy management software comes years later than other smart grid software makers, SAS could be entering the market at just the right time. Read more on why.

Human genes can't be patented, but biotechs have already shifted strategy

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 07:31:48 -0400

Even before the U.S. Supreme Court decision disallowed human gene patents, biotechnology companies shifted their strategies. Learn how biotechs adjusted.

Biofuels Center to award $341,000 in renewable energy grants for Western N.C.

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 07:26:29 -0400

The North Carolina Biofuels Center may soon not have state funding for its next fiscal year, but it is still seeking to foster startups and efforts focused on creating a bigger renewable energy industry in the state.

MCNC nears completion of historic NC-wide broadband project

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 07:25:00 -0400

MCNC continues to drive the new broadband economy in North Carolina, and is hosting a special event this Friday to celebrate completion of the $144 million Golden LEAF Rural Broadband Initiative.

NC Research Campus founder faces lawsuit in $645M offer for Dole Food

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 07:21:03 -0400

Dole's board will be violating its legal duties to get the best possible price for the company unless it rejects the $12-a- share bid by Chief Executive Officer David Murdock for the 60 percent of Dole that he or his family don't already own, a family trust that holds Dole shares claims in a lawsuit.

Work should not be a country club: When perk creep becomes a startup killer

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 07:00:00 -0400

When your company starts replacing store-brand bottled water with Vitamin Water and Coke with Odwalla, you might want to take a look around, be wary. That may be a sign the company has lost control of the culture, and they're using perks to mask that fact.

Another company joins NC data center competition

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 07:37:32 -0400

'The southeast's most active data center cluster' attracts another player in New York-based Dacentec.

USA served thousands of warrants on Apple, Facebook, Microsoft for user data

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 05:56:55 -0400

The role of technology companies has come under scrutiny since Edward Snowden, a computer technician who did work for the National Security Agency, disclosed this month that the NSA is collecting data under a U.S. government program code-named PRISM.

Your ideas, news count: WRALTechWire invites readers to submit news, analysis

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 05:28:00 -0400

WRALTechWire is expanding its content lineup, and we want you to participate. We are looking for news and analysis about all things tech and life science from people who know their business.

Like WRALTechWire? Comment on our changes at Facebook

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 05:27:00 -0400

From its launch 11 years ago, Local Tech Wire as it was known then has offered a daily email blast. Adding a news feed on Twitter brought on more readers. We've recently added a PM email blast, too. With Facebook, readers have a new channel to follow our news.

Week in review: What made headlines in WRALTechWire

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 05:19:00 -0400

A look back at technology, life science and other related news as reported in WRAL Tech Wire for the week of June 10-16.

'Nano volcano' research from N.C. State holds promise for drug delivery applications

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 14:14:31 -0400

Volcano-shaped nanostructures developed at N.C. State University could offer a new way technology for drug delivery. Read more about the research.

NC's high-tech job picture improves in May, but ...

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 12:08:29 -0400

The daily average number of information technology jobs across North Carolina increased for the fourth consecutive month in May. However, openings remain well below those of a year ago. Software jobs are down by more than 50 percent. One category that is up: "Offshore team coordination."

Lab supplier Triangle Biomedical acquired by General Data Co.

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 11:23:16 -0400

Triangle Biomedical Sciences has provided equipment to laboratories for nearly 30 years. Read about how it fits with General Data Co.

US security agencies reportedly swap intel with thousands of firms

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 10:41:03 -0400

Thousands of technology, finance and manufacturing companies are working closely with U.S. national security agencies, providing sensitive information and in return receiving benefits that include access to classified intelligence, sources familiar with the process tell Bloomberg news.

Survey: Most Americans say 'Big Brother' state already here

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 10:39:59 -0400

A growing number of Internet users said they are concerned about the government checking on their online activities, according to the survey. But even more people were worried about businesses doing the same.

Antibiotics developer Cempra looks to raise $55M in stock sale

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 09:37:00 -0400

Coming off of two major wins in the last month, antibiotics developer Cempra prices a stock sale. WRALTechWire Insiders learn more about the plans.

IBM layoff count hits nearly 2,300 across 31 work groups

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 07:41:00 -0400

Internal "resource action" documents obtained by the union seeking to represent IBM workers show that nearly 2,300 workers have been told to find new jobs elsewhere in the company or leave.

NC IDEA: Startup deal flow 'better than it has ever been'

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 07:28:58 -0400

As a venture capitalist, a former entrepreneur and leader of economic development group NC IDEA, Dave Rizzo has a front row seat in the North Carolina startup game. And after making a near-record amount of grants to five startups this week Rizzo says the deal flow is getting better. Why? Rizzo shares his insight with WRALTechWire Insiders.

NeuroTronik, which is developing device for heart failure, raises $13.1M; CEO touts option to drugs

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 06:46:56 -0400

NeuroTronik, spun out of medical technology incubator Synecor, is developing a medical device that could take the place of drugs currently used to heart failure. Read more about the company's technology, strategy and financing.

Antibiotics firm Cempra plans stock sale; proceeds to fund clinical trials

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 06:50:32 -0400

Coming off of two major wins in the last month, antibiotics developer Cempra announces plans for a stock sale. WRALtechWire Learn more about the plans.

Council for Entrepreneurial Development president taking sabbatical

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 06:30:29 -0400

WRALTechWire Insiders can get the details.

Microsoft to open 'stores' in 500 Best Buy outlets across US

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 06:14:48 -0400

Microsoft is teaming up with Best Buy to promote machines with its latest Windows 8 operating system as the software maker and electronics retailer try to combat the worst personal computer slump on record.

GSK: Internal investigation finds no bribery in China operations

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 05:53:00 -0400

GlaxoSmithKline says it has found no evidence of bribery involving its business in China following a four-month investigation. Earlier this week, the drug giant fired a scientist at its China R&D site after an internal investigation found that data in a research paper was misrepresented and should be retracted.

Video games could train brain to make faster decisions, Duke study says

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 14:43:18 -0400

A Duke University study found that hours of gaming could be responsible for training the brain to make faster decisions from processing visual information.

Human genes can't be patented, U.S. Supreme Court rules

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 12:43:55 -0400

In throwing out patents held by Myriad Genetics, the says that laws of nature, natural phenomena and abstract ideas are not patentable.

Lexington NC startup Lolly Wolly Doodle lands $20M, Steve Case as investor

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 12:18:36 -0400

Steve Case, the founder of AOL, and his venture capital firm Revolution Growth are announcing an investment today in Lolly Wolly Doodle, a Lexington, N.C.-based startup that sells apparel online with an emphasis on social media.

Analyst speculates IBM is cutting up to 8,000 jobs; cuts are global

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 11:01:06 -0400

Confirmed layoffs number more than 1,600 so far, based on IBM documents. The company is probably cutting 6,000 to 8,000 jobs globally, based on the $1 billion cost figure, says Laurence Balter, an analyst at Oracle Investment Research. IBM employs more than 434,000 people worldwide.

IBM's job cuts are global, nearing 4,000; most are in U.S.

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 10:51:55 -0400

Big Blue's $1 billion "rebalancing" of its work force is taking a toll on jobs in many countries, especially in Europe. But confirmed reductions so far have taken place in U.S. and Canada, union sources say.

NC IDEA awards $220,000 in grants to five startups

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 08:41:27 -0400

In one of its largest funding rounds since 2006, four Triangle area and one Charlotte-based firms will share in the grants from the Durham-based economic development group.

CEO fears for future of NC Biofuels Center due to budget cuts

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 07:28:28 -0400

Steven Burke says what the N.C. General Assembly is proposing in doing away with Biofuels Center funding is "unprecedented," but talks with politicos in Raleigh have thus far produced "nothing useful."

New Cisco router to offer greater capacity, seen as big revenue boost

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 06:41:25 -0400

The networking equipment company on Wednesday introduced the Carrier Routing System-X, or CRS-X. Cisco said the new system will offer speeds of 400 Gigabits per second that can be expanded to nearly 1 petabit per second in a multi-chassis deployment.

Facebook introduces hashtags #CopyingTwitter #advertising

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 18:13:18 -0400

Facebook Inc.'s more than 1 billion members will be able to use hashtags, a tool popularized on Twitter Inc. that makes it easier for social-network users to discover and share topics that are being discussed.

Emory bridges pharma 'valley of death' by launching new company

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 17:51:21 -0400

Aiming to combine university lab resources with industry leadership, Emory announced it is launching Drug Innovation Ventures at Emory, or DRIVE, a not-for-profit company that is separate from the Emory but still owned by the university.

Red Hat's new OpenStack cloud software to vie for position in data centers

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 06:47:09 -0400

Red Hat, (NYSE:RHT) aiming to establish itself in cloud software while simultaneously targeting Oracle's position in virtualization, unveiled a pair of new offerings that the company believes will help the company do both.

Workers 50+ take biggest hit among 14% reduction in IBM marketing group

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 15:33:14 -0400

Older workers bear the brunt of layoffs IBM is making in one of its marketing groups. In all, 14 percent of the Market Knowledge organization - including two vice presidents - has been told to find another job at Big Blue or leave. WRALTechWire Insiders get the details.

Sentinel's Durham data center connects with tw telecom

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 14:45:03 -0400

Sentinel Data Centers, a data center operator that focuses providing service to large businesses, announced that tw telecom (NASDAQ:TWTC) will extend its network into the Durham Sentinel data center is currently under construction.

Mobile apps developer StepLeader rolls out enhanced app functionality

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 15:15:12 -0400

StepLeader, fresh off of a $4.4 million fundraising round, is bringing new functionality to its mobile apps that bring the user experience closer to browsing webpages.

'Anxiety and disruption:' IBM's form letter for layoffs

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 14:05:18 -0400

IBMers receiving layoff notices today are getting the news in a variety of ways - face-to-face conversations, phone calls, emails. But at the root of each is a form letter that spells out what is happening. WRALTechWire has a copy.

'Hundreds' of IBMers across NC hit with layoff notices

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 14:03:31 -0400

IBM has launched a $1 billion "rebalancing" of its work force as promised by its CFO in April, and hundreds of IBM workers across North Carolina are being affected, according to a source familiar with the job cuts. Workers also confirm receiving layoff notices across various groups within the company.

Quintiles wins $1M grant to research uterine fibroid treatments

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 11:49:55 -0400

Quintiles uterine fibroids treatment research is being funded by the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute, or PCORI, which researches health outcomes and comparative effectiveness of treatments.

Pandora buys FM radio station to secure lower music rates

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 11:46:49 -0400

Buying KXMZ-FM in Rapid City qualifies Pandora for the same rights and prices enjoyed by competitors such as Clear Channel Communications Inc., CBS Corp. and Cumulus Media Inc., Pandora's assistant general counsel says.

DataChambers to build data center at NC Research Campus, picks Extreme Networks technology

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 08:25:48 -0400

A 50,000 square foot data center will be the next addition to the North Carolina Research Campus. Meanwhile, DataChambers also picks Extreme Networks technology for use in its centers. WRALTechWire Insiders get the details.

IBM begins job cuts in RTP, across US, Canada, workers report

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 07:58:33 -0400

Triangle is among first to report "resource action." A $1 billion "rebalancing" of Big Blue's work force that CFO Mark Loughridge promised back in April is underway, according to reports being sent to Alliance at IBM, the union seeking to represent IBM employees.

Showdown: Sony outmaneuvers Microsoft in new console battle

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 06:18:41 -0400

Sony gains the upper hand with fans and early sales against Microsoft, the console leader for the past two years. The Xbox One will sell for a premium-priced $499 and limit users' ability to buy, trade and resell games. Sony, once dominant in the industry, came in $100 cheaper and won't limit transactions, and has been rewarded with a boom in orders.

Time Warner, other cable firms offer content providers incentives in bid to thwart online TV

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 06:01:42 -0400

Cable companies are seeking to keep customers by ensuring access to exclusive content while fending off competition from upstart Web providers. Time Warner Cable has more than 300 contracts, and some of them may bar media outlets from providing content to online pay-TV services, Chief Executive Officer Glenn Britt says.

HP adds data analysis, Google software in bid to boost sales

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 05:50:51 -0400

The analysis product, called Haven, combines capabilities from the acquisitions of Autonomy Corp., Vertica Systems Inc. and ArcSight LLC to help customers mine vast amounts of information, the Palo Alto, California-based PC maker said in a statement today. The company also said its resellers would deliver Hewlett-Packard PCs and printers bundled together with Google's business e-mail, word processing and calendar tools.

Banking software startup nCino raises $9M in venture funding

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 10:36:12 -0400

Banking software startup nCino's software targets small and mid-sized financial institutions with a cloud-based software offering. Square 1 Bank in Durham is among the firm's customers.

Google's Waze acquisition maps out mobile strategy

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 15:32:36 -0400

Google's acquisition of Waze ends several months of speculation as Waze flirted with potential buyers interested in its rapidly growing service. Waze blends elements of a social network into its maps to produce more precise directions and more reliable information about local traffic conditions.

BDSI opioid dependence drug on track for midsummer FDA filing

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 15:02:23 -0400

BioDelivery Sciences International (NASDAQ:BDSI) remains on track to file a new drug application in midsummer for Bunavail, the company’s maintenance treatment for opioid dependence.

GSK fires scientist for fraudulent data in published study; retraction underway

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 07:48:32 -0400

GSK said its internal inquiry was sparked after it it "recently became aware of allegations of misrepresentation of data" in the research paper written by scientists as its China research center.

Intersouth Partners to move to historic Durham fire house

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 07:51:38 -0400

Venture capital firm Intersouth Partners is moving its offices to a renovated historic fire station. Learn more about the move.

Salix constipation drug Relistor to go before FDA advisory panel

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 11:12:57 -0400

Salix Pharmaceuticals' (NASDAQ:SLXP) constipation drug Relistor, which failed to win regulatory approval last year, will be up for review by a FDA advisory committee.

Billionaire David Murdock offers to buy rest of Dole Food

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 08:19:51 -0400

The founder of the North Carolina Research Campus in Kannapolis makes unsolicited offer of $12 per share for the some 60 percent of the food giant he doesn't already own.

Launch day: Red Hat takes its 'cloud' services offering live

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 07:59:01 -0400

The Raleigh-based Linux software developer and services provider plunges into the growing cloud computing services market, but with a twist: OpenShift is a "platform as a service," offer users support - not just hardware and access similar to Amazon and other companies.

Lenovo launches personal cloud service, plans data analytics hub in Singapore

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 07:04:21 -0400

The world's No. 2 PC manufacturer plans "reach" cloud service for consumers. Lenovo also is expanding its presence in Singapore with a team that will focus on analysis of data driven by its global business.

Search for first web page takes a detour to old PC at UNC

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 06:17:32 -0400

After National Public Radio did a story on the search, a professor at University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill came forward with a 1991 version. Paul Jones met Berners-Lee during the British scientist's visit to the U.S. for a conference in 1991, just a year after Berners-Lee invented the Web. Jones said Berners-Lee shared the page with the professor, who has transferred it from server to server through the years. A version remains on the Internet today at an archive Jones runs, ibiblio.

Apple's iTunes Radio service may not be a Pandora killer after all

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 06:03:39 -0400

The music service, which will be supported by advertising and aimed at driving new song purchases through iTunes, was part of a sweeping redesign of Apple's iOS mobile operating system that Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook unveiled at the conference. ITunes Radio will be available later this year when iOS 7 is rolled out to users.

Game on! Sony undercuts Microsoft with new, lower-priced PlayStation

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 05:54:21 -0400

The PS4 will cost $399 in the U.S., 20 percent less than Microsoft's Xbox One, Sony executives said at the Electronic Entertainment Expo in Los Angeles. The machine, with sharp edges and blue highlights, allows unlimited used-game sales and doesn't require an Internet connection, a contrast to two unpopular Microsoft features.

Facebook shares rally on rumors company may join S&P 500

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 05:40:26 -0400

"Inclusion in a major index would significantly broaden Facebook's investor base, providing added liquidity and price support, and the addition would likely cause a near-term pop in the share price," analyst says.

House budget offers Biotech Center glimmer of hope on budget

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 12:45:59 -0400

The N.C. House joins the Senate in calling for a 50 percent cut in funding for the North Carolina Biotechnology Center. Gov. Pat McCrory's 60 percent slash. However, the House does make up for the cut with non-recurring revenue.

AT&T launching push-to-talk app for iPhone

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 09:57:43 -0400

AT&T is adding a walkie-talkie-like application to the iPhone for its corporate customers, replicating a hallmark feature of the Nextel network, which is being shut down this summer.

Study: N.C.'s, nation's STEM economy is bigger than you think

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 08:00:57 -0400

Nearly half of all jobs call for skills in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), according to a new Brookings Institution study. That makes North Carolina's STEM economy even bigger than previously thought.

STEM economy by the numbers for Raleigh-Cary, Charlotte, Greensboro

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 07:55:00 -0400

A Brookings Institute report breaks down the STEM economy in the Raleigh-Cary, Charlotte and Greensboro-High Point metro areas. WRALTechWire Insiders get the details.

ConnectED broadband plan for schools ignites excitement

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 07:54:00 -0400

President Barack Obama announced the ConnectED initiative last week at Mooresville Middle School, sparking conversations about high-speed broadband connectivity all over the country.

It's game consoles vs. mobile devices at E3

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 07:52:52 -0400

Gun-toting fighters take a back seat to Microsoft Corp. and Sony Corp. this week as the console makers battle to show they've got the best plan for selling pricey machines in the age of cheap play on phones and tablets.

Google reportedly buying social maps firm Waze for $1.1B

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 07:44:33 -0400

Google has agreed to acquire map-software provider Waze for about $1.1 billion, seeking to keep competitors such as Facebook Inc. from eroding its lead in mobile-navigation programs.

Rebooting iPhone, iPad software could give Apple a boost

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 07:39:32 -0400

Apple is preparing to unveil sweeping changes to the software powering iPhones and iPads, seeking to reignite desire for its products and blunt the advance of Google's Android mobile operating system.

3 Triangle, 2 Charlotte execs earn Entrepreneur of Year honors

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 07:23:35 -0400

Ernst & Young picks three executives from the Triangle area, two from Charlotte, and several others across Georgia and South Carolina as southeast entrepreneur winners.

At Paradoxos Day 2: Louder than words

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 06:46:00 -0400

Hehy, this is Durham - not Austin! A two-day mix of tech, arts, food, beer, and everything else Durham has to offer makes Paradoxos unique. And even though this event was solid, I think the next one will be better, so much so that I think they should plan it for the winter instead of next summer. After all, this is Durham, and it's our event.

Bioengineered blood vessels from RTP firm start clinical trials at Duke

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 06:22:00 -0400

A blood vessel grown in a lab was implanted in the first U.S. patient this week. Read more about Humacyte, the RTP firm that developed this regenerative medicine technology.

We want you: WRALTechWire invites readers to submit news, analysis

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 05:38:00 -0400

WRALTechWire is expanding its content lineup, and we want you to participate. We are looking for news and analysis about all things tech and life science from people who know their business.

Like us? Comment on our changes at Facebook

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 05:37:00 -0400

Apple to Yahoo deny providing government access to user data

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 05:36:39 -0400

The National Security Agency and the Federal Bureau of Investigation have accessed the central servers of nine U.S. Internet companies, extracting audio and video chats, photographs, e- mails, documents and connection logs, media reports say. The companies deny the report.

News in review: What made headlines in WRALTechWire

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 05:30:00 -0400

A look back at technology, life science and other related news as reported in WRAL Tech Wire for the week of June 3-9.

Jim Goodmon's gamble pays off, helps build New Bull City

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 05:29:17 -0400

New Bully City: In the third of a three-part interview, Capitol Broadcasting CEO Jim Goodmon recalls the risk he took in committing his company to projects that ultimately led to the rebirth of Durham's downtown. But he stresses that many other people, businesses and institutions collaborated to bring new life to tobacco town.

Red Hat signs on members to open source storage Gluster Community

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 17:38:46 -0400

Open source software company Red Hat (NYSE:RHT) said that seven charter members have signed letters of intent to join the Gluster Community, a community for open software-defined storage.

Quintiles clinical trials software gets innovation award

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 12:08:16 -0400

Quintiles’s (NYSE:Q) clinical trials software has secured recognition for its use and application at a large scale.

GSK launches investigation of allegedly false data from China R&D staffers

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 11:31:49 -0400

GlaxoSmithKline has placed at least one employee from GSK's Shanghai, China lab on temporary leave during the investigation, according to Pharmalot.

Cisco, Google, TW Cable pay $490M to settle TiVo patent dispute

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 09:28:13 -0400

Tivo will get an upfront lump-sum payment of $490 million from Google and Cisco. TiVo will also enter into patent licensing deals with Cisco, Google and Arris Group.

Utilities must embrace technology to deal with hurricanes, storms

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 08:39:31 -0400

Opinion: Why upgrade utilities? You need only look back to last October's Hurricane Sandy to understand the importance of a having a resilient utility communication network. The 1,000 mile wide Superstorm caused more than $70 billion in damage and paralyzed electric, gas and water services.

Despite a 'monsoon' Paradoxos shows promise as a tech, arts celebration

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 07:53:28 -0400

Dreaming of a counter to South by Southwest: Paradoxos is trying to prove that Durham isn't just a place to start a company, it's a place to live, and a destination spot for after hours.

Lenovo's CEO wants server deal (IBM?), aims to 'win' in smartphones

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 07:51:27 -0400

Lenovo Chairman and CEO Yang Yuanqing fires up talk about a possible server deal. And you thought a deal for IBM's server business was dead? Plus, "YY" aims to "win" in smartphones with an eye on the U.S.

IBM wins protest of $600M CIA 'cloud' contract with Amazon

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 07:20:46 -0400

The U.S. Government Accountability Office sides with IBM, agreeing that the spy agency failed to properly evaluate prices and waived a contract requirement only for Seattle-based Amazon.

Restrictions on GSK diabetes drug Avandia should be modified, FDA panel says

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 18:35:56 -0400

An FDA advisory panel recommends modifying restrictions on GlaxoSmithKline diabetes drug Avandia. Learn what happens next.

U.S. Agriculture Secretary Vilsack cancels visit to N.C. bioproducts facility

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 17:50:30 -0400

U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has canceled a planned Friday visit to North Carolina for the opening of a bioproducts facility.

Obama visits Mooresville to push for fast Internet in U.S. schools

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 17:42:42 -0400

Touting the need to give every child the tools for success, President Barack Obama on Thursday toured a North Carolina school where every student has a laptop and called for 99 percent of American students to be connected to super-fast Internet within five years.

Five startups exit the 'Factory,' look to raise millions

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 17:20:21 -0400

The five survivors among six firms picked for the third group at the Durham technology startup accelerator make their pitches before a crowd of more than 350 people. WRALTechWire has the insider story on who the companies are, what they want - and details on which of them already have lined up investors.

Startup Factory drops Triangle from name for national brand appeal

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 17:18:46 -0400

Chris Heivly and David Neal are rebranding the Durham-based startup accelerator as "The Startup Factory" as part of a strategy to broaden its appeal to new companies and possible investors in those emerging ventures.

Cleantech jobs grow in N.C. thanks to solar energy projects

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 14:52:42 -0400

North Carolina ranks No. 4 among states for creating cleantech jobs, according to a new report from Environmental Entrepreneurs. Learn what's helping the state's high ranking.

Peak 10 hires away CA Technologies executive

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 10:02:19 -0400

Data center operator Peak 10 has named Joe Deney to be the company's senior vice president, customer operations where he will be responsible for a number of initiatives to support the company's growing customer base.

As PC manufacturing line opens, Lenovo moves 100 support jobs to NC from India

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 08:01:38 -0400

As Lenovo formally dedicated its first U.S. production line for PCs, laptops, servers and tablets in the Triad, the company also discloses it recently returned 100 jobs to the U.S. from India as part of an effort to improve customer support.

Jim Goodmon: Durham's diverse creative class is key to rebirth

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 07:55:52 -0400

New Bull City: In the second of a three-part interview with Capitol Broadcasting Company CEO Jim Goodmon - a driving force in the rebirth of Durham - talks about what he believes were the keys to the two-decade project. "There's no magic here," he says. The factors include hard work, an active creative class and an increasing diverse population.

'Paradoxos,' Durham's first SXSW-type event, kicks off today

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 16:44:19 -0400

A two-day mixture of business, beer, music and fun combines "Pitch Day" from the Triangle Startup Factory, a series of parties and concerts and a TED-like series of discussions about the "next big thing" put on by the Greater Durham Chamber of Commerce.

Ban on Apple iPhone 4 not seen as setback for wireless carriers

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 06:30:33 -0400

AT&T and T-Mobile US say the International Trade Commission's decision to ban versions of the iPhone 4 and iPad 2 as part of Apple's patent suit with Samsung Electronics Co. will have little effect on sales.

Cook Medical stent gets FDA marketing O.K.

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 18:13:11 -0400

The woven construction of the new Cook stent was designed to stay open and also to stay in place. It is the latest in Cook's Evolution line of controlled-release stents.

U.S. CFOs lag global firms in sustainability priorities, Duke survey says

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 17:29:29 -0400

Asia tops all regions in the emphasis CFOs place on corporate social responsibility. Read more findings from Duke University's quarterly survey of global financial executives.

Durham CRO BioAgilytix secures Riverside private equity investment

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 17:04:38 -0400

BioAgilytix Labs, which specializing in work with large molecule drugs, lands private equity investment as the contract research organization prepares to scale its operations.

Trademark dispute on "HUB" name prompts HUB Raleigh rebranding

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 15:04:26 -0400

Eight months after opening its startup space, HUB Raleigh needs to change its name. Learn what prompted the change and what HUB Raleigh is doing about it.

Dell committee: Icahn-Southeastern buyout offer falls $3.9B short

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 12:13:29 -0400

Dell says a buyout offer from Southeastern and billionaire investor Carl Icahn is approximately $3.9 billion short of the amount needed to pay shareholders as promised and operate the business.

Raleigh CRO PRA weighs private equity bids against IPO plans

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 11:29:43 -0400

Even as PRA International explores a possible initial public stock offering, the clinical trials firm is also reportedly the target of private equity bidders who could buy the company for up to $1.3 billion.

Amid smartphone rumors, Lenovo dedicates PC manufacturing line in Triad

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 07:59:55 -0400

Lenovo remains primarily focused on its PC business, which represents virtually all its revenues, and the No. 2 global PC manufacturer today dedicates its first manufacturing line in the U.S. But the ceremony is overshadowed by talk that the company is looking for a smartphone deal with a senior executive saying Lenovo is talking with "multiple parties."

Believe it or not: Social media information can be a trade secret

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 07:08:43 -0400

TechLaw: Because social media is now a vital advertising tool for businesses, it is important that your business be able to protect its social media accounts, messages, and information from unauthorized use or access. Recent court decisions demonstrate that one way your business may be able to protect its social media information is by making it a trade secret.

New BlackBerry with keyboard on sale at AT&T, Verizon Wireless, T-Mobile

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 06:49:50 -0400

The first keyboard-equipped BlackBerry sporting the company's radically new operating system is hitting U.S. stores this week with three major carriers taking orders.

Patent loss means Apple faces US import ban on some devices

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 06:43:56 -0400

Apple's first loss against Samsung Electronics Co. in a U.S. patent case could mean a ban on imports of some older devices including the iPhone 4 while lessening prospects of the largest smartphone makers ending their legal battles.

Cree lands $2.3M federal project targeting consumer lighting

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 12:36:55 -0400

The U.S. Energy Department will help underwrite the cost of developing a new design for linking LED lights. Cree also must provide funding.

Obama orders patent changes to combat 'patent trolls'

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 12:03:29 -0400

The crackdown on what critics have called "patent trolls" includes five executive actions and seven recommendations that require congressional action. A White House commission report said more than 100,000 companies were threatened with infringement last year by patent-assertion entities - companies whose sole business is to obtain patents and use them to obtain royalties from businesses that make or use products and services.

Overture secures $10M credit line for more expansion

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 11:43:00 -0400

Morrisville-based Overture, a provider of technology and services for Ethernet-based broadband worldwide, has lined up $10 million in financing in addition to $8 million in equity funding disclosed last week.

From needing a ballpark to a city's rebuilding: Jim Goodmon's 'Are you nuts?' Durham story

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 11:30:57 -0400

New Bull City series: What was the "secret sauce" that ignited the rebirth of Durham over the past 20 years? There's no secret or even a mystery to the recipe, says Capitol Broadcasting CEO Jim Goodmon, who has helped lead the efforts in recreating Durham. He cites hard work, the city's diversity and a community spirit as making up the foundation for the "New Bull City." But he started with no master plan. He just needed a place for his Durham Bulls to play baseball.

IBM to acquire cloud computing firm for nearly $2B

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 11:17:25 -0400

IBM started its cloud business in 2007 and has spent $4.5 billion on cloud-related acquisitions in the past five years. Its latest deal is for Dallas-based SoftLayer.

Lenovo acknowledges it's looking at 'potential joint venture'

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 07:20:09 -0400

As Lenovo gears up for an open house on Wednesday in the Triad, in a statement to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, the world's No. 2 PC maker says it is "in preliminary negotiations with a party in connection with a potential joint venture transaction." What firm is the other party? Speculation ranges from NEC to BlackBerry to IBM.

Research, analytics firm picks Raleigh for 400-job site

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 06:44:55 -0400

Evalueserve to open a financial services research center as part of its "knowledge process outsourcing" offerings.

Microsoft's CEO reportedly plans broad restructuring

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 15:38:07 -0400

Steve Ballmer, who is struggling to gain share in mobile-phones and tablets, announced a shift in strategy last year for the world's largest software maker to focus on computing devices and Internet-based services. Any staffing changes will also provide clues as to the executives who may eventually succeed Ballmer.

'e-patient Dave' dishes on big data's looming health care impact

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 15:12:04 -0400

Dave deBronkart, the blogger, speaker and advocate better known as "e-patient Dave," talks to WRAL Tech Wire about how big data's is changing how patients and doctors interact.

iRadio? Talk of new Apple music service triggers run on Pandora stock

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 15:09:21 -0400

Apple is pressing to sign music licensing deals in time to announce the service at its annual developer conference starting June 10 in San Francisco, according to media reports.

GSK buys arthritis/multiple sclerosis candidate for $577M

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 11:10:55 -0400

Glaxo acquires the rights to a German-based company's drug that is under clinical trial as a treatment for arthritis and multiple sclerosis. In other news, GSK reports the use of a breast cancer drug fails in a clinical trial as a treatment for gastic cancer.

After Duke study, FDA to reconsider GSK diabetes drug Avandia

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 10:57:19 -0400

The former blockbuster diabetes pill which was subjected to major safety restrictions in 2010 may not be as dangerous as once thought, according to the latest analysis of the much-debated GlaxoSmithKline drug.

Microsoft reportedly cutting Windows RT software price

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 09:25:10 -0400

Microsoft is cutting the price of its Windows software for small tablets, seeking to shore up foundering efforts to combat Apple in the mobile-computing market, sources say.

New Bull City story far from finished, but future can be even brighter

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 07:54:38 -0400

Over the past two weeks, Jason Parker and WRALTechWire has taken an in-depth look at the past and present of Durham - a reborn city. And the future appears to be bright for what we have called "The New Bull City." But as Parker writes in today's installment, there are challenges to be overcome.

Speculation grows that Lenovo is raising cash to buy IBM server group

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 06:57:00 -0400

The world's No. 2 PC maker is meeting with investors this week to raise capital through the sale of bonds amid growing indications that Lenovo wants the money in order to buy at least part of IBM's server business. But selling the bonds may not be easy.

GSK kidney cancer drug shows promise against ovarian cancer

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 06:45:41 -0400

Disease progression was delayed for a median of 17.9 months among patients taking Votrient, compared with 12.3 months among those on placebo, according to the study of 940 patients with advanced ovarian, fallopian tube and primary peritoneal cancer, GSK says.

Local Library app takes top honors at CityCamp NC

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 06:24:00 -0400

The Local Library team is the winner of the CityCamp NC competition.

Home networks driving demand for more tech support

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 05:50:14 -0400

A new study by Parks Associates indicates that 78 percent of households in the United States with broadband use a home network router, which is driving the demand for more comprehensive tech support.

WRALTechWire invites readers to submit news, analysis

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 05:45:00 -0400

WRALTechWire is expanding its content lineup, and we want you to participate. We are looking for news and analysis about all things tech and life science from people who know their business.

Come follow us: Comment on our changes at Facebook

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 05:44:00 -0400

Week in review: What made headlines in WRALTechWire

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 05:39:00 -0400

A look back at technology, life science and other related news as reported in WRAL Tech Wire for the week of May 27-June 2.

Long before dirt moves, RTP Foundation gathering to help shape Park's future look

Fri, 31 May 2013 12:12:34 -0400

A gathering of global architectural and other thought leaders this weekend will provide RTP leaders with feedback and ideas about how the Park should be "re-invented."

Heat Biologics prices its IPO after reverse stock split

Fri, 31 May 2013 11:16:00 -0400

The Chapel Hill startup reported only $3,110 in revenue a year ago and a loss of $2.5 million. Since its launch in 2008 it has lost some $6 million.

Despite Durham's rebirth, startup funding remains scarce resource

Fri, 31 May 2013 11:13:16 -0400

New Bull City, Day Ten: Over the past two decades, Durham's entrepreneurial community has flourished as new and rebuilt infrastructure combined with the city's talent and rich culture ignited a spark that turned into a flame. But a persistent lack of funding - the oxygen for startups - remains hard to find and thus is a limiting factor on further growth. WRALTechWire's Jason Parker examines the funding situation.

Dell sets date for shareholder vote on its CEO's leveraged buyout offer

Fri, 31 May 2013 10:28:26 -0400

The world's No. 3 PC manufacturer will hold a shareholder vote on July 18 on a $24.4 billion leveraged buyout offer by founder Michael Dell and Silver Lake Management LLC.

Regado Biosciences prices its IPO, aims for as much as $80M

Fri, 31 May 2013 10:12:22 -0400

The life science company, which has licensed technology from Duke University, sets the pricing for its stock offering and how many shares its underwriters can purchase.

Lenovo goes bond route to raise cash; acquisition in the works?

Fri, 31 May 2013 09:40:33 -0400

With its cash reserves having dwindled $303 million over the past year, Lenovo is launching a fund-raising drive next week with a bond sale. Raising more money provides further evidence that Lenovo is prepping for another acquisition. Is the IBM server unit still a possibility?

RTP Foundation brings in architects, thinkers for a 'design summit'

Fri, 31 May 2013 06:54:06 -0400

A master plan unveiled earlier this year for Research Triangle Park moves another step forward this weekend with a "design summit" at which numerous architects, artists and others are gathering for an "imagining" of the Park's future.

Google plans own pure Android version of HTC's One smartphone

Fri, 31 May 2013 06:53:34 -0400

Google's latest handset comes two years after the company agreed to buy Motorola Mobility for $12.5 billion in a bid to take on the iPhone and gain more clout for Android in the wireless business. Android now runs on 75 percent of smartphones, and Google is stepping up its focus on hardware with handsets, laptops and wearable devices, including computer-enabled eyewear.

EMC boosts its stock buyback plan by $5 billion

Fri, 31 May 2013 06:52:55 -0400

The storage device maker, which maintains large operations in RTP, also launches a quarterly dividend as part of a strategy to drive up its stock price.

Cisco demonstrates staying power with latest earnings

Thu, 30 May 2013 11:03:53 -0400

Analysis: Cisco's revenue mix in 1Q13 shifted further away from traditional routing and switching products toward next-generation segments, particularly Service Provider Video, Wireless, Data Center and Services. These segments accounted for 53% of Cisco's total revenue in 1Q13, up from 50% in 1Q12. TBR believes this trend will continue throughout 2013, as the company continues to successfully capitalize on customer demand for cloud, mobility and video-based technologies.

AT&T extends 4G wireless service to Goldsboro, Asheville

Thu, 30 May 2013 09:37:00 -0400

AT&T's (NYSE: T) growing 4G wireless broadband service across North Carolina now includes Goldsboro and Asheville.

Tomorrow's energy innovations emerging today in Research Triangle Region

Thu, 30 May 2013 09:28:45 -0400

Cleantech refers to products, services and processes that use renewable materials and energy sources, reduce the use of natural resources, and cut or eliminate emissions and waste. Business opportunity exists for companies who work in each of those areas, as well as where they intersect. And the Triangle is home to many of these firms turning cleantech ideas into business.

Reboot! Microsoft aims to simplify with Windows 8.1

Thu, 30 May 2013 09:17:17 -0400

Microsoft is trying to fix what it got wrong with its radical makeover of Windows. It's making the operating system easier to navigate and enabling users to set up the software so it starts in a more familiar format designed for personal computers.

Immigration debate: What you, US Senate need to know about Canada

Thu, 30 May 2013 09:12:14 -0400

Analysis: While U.S. leaders debate the merits of immigration reform, other countries are eagerly taking advantage of our dysfunction. The Canadian government even purchased a large billboard on Route 101--the main thoroughfare between San Francisco and Silicon Valley, which says "H-1B problems? Pivot to Canada."

Reborn downtown Durham is now a 'cool place to be'

Thu, 30 May 2013 08:01:50 -0400

New Bull City: Talk to some Durham residents or visitors and they often will say the cultural appeal of downtown hasn't lost its history - or flavors - as more businesses, new and rebuilt buildings, and more technology firms flock to the city's center.

Looking to future, Durham aims to be nation's next hot tech hub

Thu, 30 May 2013 07:58:54 -0400

New Bull City, Day Nine: Over the past two decades, Durham's downtown has been reborn with technology startups helping spark the rebirth. But what's ahead over the next two decades? Can the city maintain its momentum? WRALTechWire's Jason Parker reports on Durham's future.

Cempra CEO: Novel antibiotic could help kids and thwart bioterrorists

Thu, 30 May 2013 06:48:00 -0400

If Prabhavathi Fernandes is confident terrorists won't succeed in engineering a pathogen that's resistant to Cempra's solithromycin, perhaps it's because Cempra has already tried. The CEO explains why Cempra's antibacterial candidate shows promise as a bioterror countermeasure.

Bayer CropScience aims to improve bees' health with new RTP center

Thu, 30 May 2013 06:47:45 -0400

The RTP bee care center will be a gathering place for researchers, bee experts, students, Bayer scientists and others to collaborate on bee health. It's on the Alexander Drive campus that serves as the German company's North American headquarters, near its recent $20 million, 60,000-square-foot R&D greenhouse expansion for the development of new plant seeds.

Commerce Secretary spells out more details on N.C. Commerce changes

Thu, 30 May 2013 06:31:40 -0400

Lawmakers were supportive of Decker's efforts to improve the state's economic recruitment efforts but questioned whether some businesses might be hesitant to do an economic development deal with the state given the potential changes with the department.

First smartphone assembled in US to be built by Motorola

Thu, 30 May 2013 06:21:59 -0400

Motorola is opening a Texas manufacturing facility that will create 2,000 jobs and produce its new flagship device, Moto X, the first smartphone ever assembled in the U.S.

More than ever, 'City of Medicine' fits Durham's new economy

Thu, 30 May 2013 00:38:18 -0400

New Bull City, Day Eight: In 1988, Durham had just four total life science companies. Now the city has 92 firms and counting. Read how the life sciences took root in the "City of Medicine" as WRALTechWire's report about the rebirth of Durham continues.

FDA approves two GSK melanoma drugs and bioMerieux companion genetic test

Wed, 29 May 2013 17:25:04 -0400

In gaining regulatory approval on Tafinlar and Mekinist, GSK also gets steps into the arena for personalized medince skin cancer therapies, territory already staked out by Roche. Like Roche's Zelboraf, GSK's two new skin cancer drugs will be administered only to patients that have a particular gene mutation showing that the drug will work for them.

Merck returns antifungal rights to Scynexis

Wed, 29 May 2013 14:53:58 -0400

Merck (NYSE:MRK)is returning all of the rights of an antifungal compound to Scynexis after the drug giant decided it did not want to pursue that compound anymore.

Cisco to acquire energy management software firm JouleX for $107M

Wed, 29 May 2013 12:57:55 -0400

Cisco, the biggest maker of networking equipment, calls the JouleX acquisition complementary to Cisco's offerings. JouleX manages energy use for enterprise customers by accessing networks.

GFI Software buys Dutch backup software company

Wed, 29 May 2013 12:26:34 -0400

GFI Software is building up its software portfolio by acquiring online backup software company IASO.

VCs distributed more cash in 2012 than they brought in, report says

Wed, 29 May 2013 11:40:29 -0400

Investing in venture capital funds looks like a solid bet for putting your money when viewed with a 10-year horizon.

Safer aspirin from Pozen accepted for FDA review

Wed, 29 May 2013 10:10:25 -0400

An FDA approval decision on Pozen's PA drug could come by early January.

'Creativity Vitality Index' shows New Bull City's muscle

Wed, 29 May 2013 08:01:37 -0400

As WRALTechWire continues its multi-part series about "The New Bull City," today's report focuses on the culture of creativity at the heart of a rebirth dating back two decades. A "Creative Vitality Index" documents Durham's growth beyond tech and medicine.

Apple CEO promises 'several more game changers'

Wed, 29 May 2013 07:35:30 -0400

Apple hasn't released a new product since October, turning up pressure on Tim Cook to debut something fresh to reignite sales growth. Less than two years after succeeding Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, Cook's tenure has been marked more by controversies - including criticism of the company's tax practices and labor standards in China - than by blockbuster gadgets. Since September, he's had to contend with a stock slide.

GSK buys Swiss vaccine developer for $324M

Wed, 29 May 2013 07:28:01 -0400

"This is a fantastic opportunity for patients and our research organisation as it is expected to contribute to the development efforts for an exciting new generation of vaccines, building on the excellent science and expertise of both companies," president of GSK Vaccines says.

A chef and venture capitalist says food helps spark Durham innovation

Wed, 29 May 2013 07:10:17 -0400

New Bull City: Durham's rise as a technology and life sciences hub owes something to the city's emergence as a food town. A Durham venture capitalist explains.

Biotech in Durham builds on Venable building's history

Wed, 29 May 2013 07:19:06 -0400

The New Bull City: A former tobacco building now houses several life science related firms, and space once used to process tobacco now offers research space. The history of the Venable center reflects Durham,s transition from a tobacco town to a tech hub.

Silicon Valley data company relocates to Raleigh, hires six

Tue, 28 May 2013 16:39:19 -0400

California company TopQuadrant moved from Google's backyard to Raleigh. Chief Operating Officer Robert Coyne tells Tech Wire why TopQuadrant thinks the Triangle is key to its growth.

RTI partners with Norwegian firm on $15M carbon capture project

Tue, 28 May 2013 12:36:31 -0400

Cement plants are large producers of carbon dioxide emissions. RTI says that if the project is successful, the technology could offer the cement industry a viable option for mitigating carbon dioxide.

Chapel Hill drug firm Cempra lands bioterror antibiotic contract worth up to $58M

Tue, 28 May 2013 09:48:39 -0400

Cempra lands a $17.7 million contract over two years from the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority. The contract could be worth as much as $58 million if extended over five years.

A culture of creativity, entrepreneurship provides Durham's life blood

Tue, 28 May 2013 08:27:29 -0400

The New Bull City: So what really is at the heart of Durham's rebirth over the last two decades? Steel and concrete of new and rebuilt buildings or people? It's people who give meaning to all the infrastructure, finds WRALTechWire's Jason Parker.

Inside Cisco's earnings: 'BYOD' will help drive success

Tue, 28 May 2013 06:52:18 -0400

Analysis: Cisco's internal success story with BYOD [bring your own device] and a focus on shifting to an entirely mobile workforce provides a compelling case study for Cisco to sell its BYOD solutions.

Insomniac, which has Durham studio, launches 'Fuse' - a game with a twist

Tue, 28 May 2013 06:38:21 -0400

TechWireGamer: Two video game companies with a Triangle presence have teamed up to launch a new franchise, "Fuse." Insomniac Games created it, and Electronic Arts is the publisher. Fuse adds a new twist to gaming, allowing players to switch characters at will.

Making a 'Winning Pitch' - What one marketing firm recommends

Tue, 28 May 2013 06:36:00 -0400

Once an entrepreneur lands a meeting with a potential investor, the fine tuning of a presentation - the "pitch" - is essential or the money people might walk away within minutes. So the folks at InvestorPitches have come up with an infographic that they says includes the essentials for making a "winning pitch."

Go West, startups? The perennial question for Durham, Triangle entrepreneurs

Mon, 27 May 2013 07:54:46 -0400

New Bull City: In the latest installment of WRALTechWire's series about the rebirth of Durham, startup columnist Joe Procopio talks about a big temptation entrepreneurs face: Moving to Silicon Valley. "Time to get over it," he says.

Revitalization turns Downtown Durham into vibrant urban center

Mon, 27 May 2013 07:17:30 -0400

New Bull City: The historic, diverse, well-educated, fun, entrepreneurial urban Durham is springing to life in a big way, writes commercial real estate executive Marcus Jackson of Colliers International in this latest part of WRALTechWire's in-depth series about reborn Durham.

Electronic healthcare records hit 'tipping point' in demand

Mon, 27 May 2013 07:16:00 -0400

The Broadband Report: More than half of U.S. doctors have switched to electronic health records and are using them to manage patients' basic medical information and prescriptions, according to federal data.

Durham startup Rubycube launches new autism app

Mon, 27 May 2013 06:48:14 -0400

Children using the app, called "storysmart," see a series of interactive animated stories intended to help them develop social communication, social cognition, narrative, and critical thinking skills.

Early registration deadline looms for CED's Venture Tech Conference

Mon, 27 May 2013 06:39:28 -0400

It's not too early to register for CED's Venture Tech Conference in September. In fact, in less than two weeks, it will be too late to get the early registration rate.

CityCamp NC offers $3,000 prize for top tech idea

Mon, 27 May 2013 06:38:27 -0400

CityCamp NC, a conference featuring panels and workshops to engage people in discussion about how the web, applications and technology will shape cities, returns to Raleigh next week.

Private equity firms, Yahoo step up bidding for Hulu

Mon, 27 May 2013 06:34:49 -0400

The entry of Yahoo, which said last week it's buying the blog service Tumblr Inc. for $1.1 billion, brings the number of bidders for Hulu to at least seven, including the new private-equity suitors. It also underscores the value the parties see in Web streaming services such as Hulu and Netflix Inc. One potential buyer has offered at least $830 million, including about $330 million in assumed debt, one of the people said earlier.

WRALTechWire invites readers to submit news, analysis

Mon, 27 May 2013 06:20:00 -0400

WRALTechWire is expanding its content lineup, and we want you to participate. We are looking for news and analysis about all things tech and life science from people who know their business.

News in review: What made headlines in WRALTechWire

Mon, 27 May 2013 06:11:00 -0400

A look back at technology, life science and other related news as reported in WRAL Tech Wire for the week of May 20-26.

Zenalux diagnostic device to be studied in Duke clinical trial

Fri, 24 May 2013 14:24:55 -0400

Clinical trials on Zenalux Biomedical’s experimental diagnostic system will be done at Duke University.

Lenovo CFO sees no limit or size for acquisitions

Fri, 24 May 2013 11:30:36 -0400

The PC maker is most interested in adding assets to bolster its growing business for smartphones and tablets, and hardware such as servers and storage for business computing, Chief Financial Officer Wong Wai Ming tells Bloomberg news.

Inside Lenovo's earnings: No. 2 PC maker finding ways to combat industry woes

Fri, 24 May 2013 10:54:13 -0400

Analysis: Lenovo's focus in PCs going forward will be to drive further margin gains without sacrificing its market position as it fuels growth in other product categories, such as smartphones, tablets and server products. TBR believes that by shifting PCs into the protect status of Lenovo's corporate protect and attack growth strategy, the company is well positioned to achieve margin gains in PCs as it allocates resources to new growth opportunities.

Bidding war? Google mulls acquiring map software firm Waze

Fri, 24 May 2013 10:14:32 -0400

Google, maker of the Android operating system, is considering buying map-software provider Waze, setting up a possible bidding war with Facebook, people sources tell Bloomberg news.

Former Paradigm Genetics CEO heads new executive search firm office

Fri, 24 May 2013 09:55:38 -0400

Heiri Gugger, known around the world as an ag biotech expert, has become managing director of a Research Triangle Park office for Kincannon & Reed, the leading global retained executive search firm serving the agribusiness, food and life science sectors.

Durham's infrastructure for success: Revitalized buildings, high-octane people, organizations

Fri, 24 May 2013 07:44:00 -0400

New Bull City, Day Five: The rebirth of Durham over the past two decades came through a powerful convergence of people, places, a university, and organizations. Buildings were rebuilt to accommodate new businesses, not tobacco. New structures were added. But the key ingredient is the people: The leaders and organizations who have provided the life blood to turn new and improved buildings into the sites for a new community.

The art of failing gracefully: Lessons from a startup gone bad

Fri, 24 May 2013 06:51:02 -0400

New Bull City, Dave Five: In the second of a two-part first-person essay, Matthew Davis talks about the lessons he learned in the failure of GetZeek - a startup with a great idea that failed.

Microsoft's Xbox won't be blocked from U.S. after patent victory over Google

Fri, 24 May 2013 06:23:07 -0400

Microsoft Corp.'s Xbox video-gaming system won't be blocked from entering the U.S. after a trade panel found it doesn't infringe a patent owned by Google's Motorola Mobility unit.

FDA launches first inquiry into unregulated health apps

Fri, 24 May 2013 06:17:16 -0400

An iPhone application that lets users check levels of blood, protein and other substances in their urine is the first target of U.S. regulators seeking boundaries in a burgeoning industry for medical diagnosis on-the-go.

Making a 'public pitch' and cashing in: Mystery Brewing's TV drama

Thu, 23 May 2013 16:51:00 -0400

I can see the merits of a public pitch, as long as its understood that there's a fat line between the pitch you make for investment and the pitch you make for publicity. One has a lot more meaning, the other gets tweeted a lot if you blow it. Durham's Erik Myers was a smash hit despite being "terrified."

Pop goes ChannelAdvisor - Stock rockets 32% in IPO hit

Thu, 23 May 2013 16:32:44 -0400

Talk about "pop." The Morrisville-based provider of ecommerce services went public today on the NYSE, setting a price of $14 per share on 5.75 million shares. Shares opened at $17.60 and quickly rose more than 30 percent.

Research Triangle region leads N.C. job growth; more than 36,000 jobs created

Thu, 23 May 2013 11:54:23 -0400

The 13 county Research Triangle Region gained 36,447 net new jobs in 2012, leading the state in job growth.

ChannelAdvisor looking to raise $80M through IPO today

Thu, 23 May 2013 11:47:59 -0400

The Morrisville-based provider of ecommerce services anticipates going public today on the NYSE, setting a price of $14 per share on 5.75 million shares.

PowerSecures acquires safety firm, remaining stakes in two companies

Thu, 23 May 2013 09:00:24 -0400

PowerSecure is expanding its holdings in a mix of deals that have cost the firm $4.3 million in cash and stock.

UNC Wilmington hires Triangle exec to lead entrepreneurial center

Thu, 23 May 2013 08:46:02 -0400

Since 2000, Jim Roberts has been involved in technology startups. He launched entrepreneur bootcamps in Charlotte in 2000, started the entrepreneurial council and angel investor network in Asheville and has worked for NC Department of Commerce and Center of Innovation for NanoBiotechnology.

SciQuest board names CEO Wiehe as its chairman

Thu, 23 May 2013 08:42:19 -0400

Stephen Wiehe, the top executive at SciQuest since 2001, succeeds Noel Fenton, the formal board chair, did not stand for re-election.

Bull City blues: Learning lessons from some big failures

Thu, 23 May 2013 08:32:18 -0400

New Bull City series, Day Four: Alongside all of the many startup technology success stories in Durham over the past two decades, some notable failures have occurred as well. From telecommunications and wireless to app development and videogames, WRALTechWire reviews some of the disappointments - and the lessons learned.

'The underbelly:' A first-person account of a startup's march to doom

Thu, 23 May 2013 08:19:30 -0400

New Bull City, Day Four: Matthew Davis is in the early stages of a new career as director of product marketing at Raleigh-based apps developer StepLeader. But in September 2011, he and a partner launched their own company, GetZeek, through which they hoped to capitalize on mobile coupons. The business failed, and Davis has chosen to share his story of what he calls "the underbelly" of business startups.

Lenovo profits soar 90% behind growing PC share, smartphone sales

Thu, 23 May 2013 07:21:20 -0400

"Somebody over there is doing something right," an analyst in Hong Kong tells Bloomberg news. For its full fiscal year ending March 31, Lenovo's profit rose 34 percent to $635 million on a 15 percent rise in sales to a record $34 billion.

Overture lands $8M in new funding, expands operations

Thu, 23 May 2013 06:24:13 -0400

Morrisville-based Overture, a provider of technology and services for Ethernet-based broadband worldwide, is adding new offices after securing new equity financing.

Twitter beefs up account security with two-step process

Thu, 23 May 2013 05:44:59 -0400

Twitter is adding a new security tool to its website, making it harder for outsiders to gain access to accounts, a month after a false posting triggered a stock-market decline.

HP's slump deepens in 2Q as earnings fall 32 percent

Wed, 22 May 2013 18:23:44 -0400

Hewlett-Packard's slump is deepening as the world's largest personal computer maker scrambles to meet the growing demand for more versatile and less expensive mobile devices.

Oxygen Biotherapeutics names new chief medical officer

Wed, 22 May 2013 17:41:02 -0400

Oxygen Biotherapeutics (NASDAQ:OXBT) has appointed a chief medical officer as the company prepares to move forward on mid-stage clinical trials for its experimental treatment for traumatic brain injury.

'Lab on a chip' developer Advanced Liquid Logic lands bank financing

Wed, 22 May 2013 16:57:57 -0400

New financing from Square 1 Bank gives Advanced Liquid Logic to continue developing applications of its "lab on a chip" microfluidics technology.

Quintiles, DCRI shine in CRO industry survey

Wed, 22 May 2013 16:31:39 -0400

Quintiles and the Duke Clinical Research Institute are very different providers of clinical trial services but pharma executives give both high marks. Learn what makes them stand out.

Life sciences deals declined in 1Q, Morrison & Foerster analysis says

Wed, 22 May 2013 11:53:16 -0400

Life sciences dealmaking in the first quarter saw considerable declines despite two high profile licensing deals, according to an analysis from law firm Morrison & Foerster.

Salix rectal inflammation drug shows positive clinical trial results

Wed, 22 May 2013 10:58:42 -0400

Salix Pharmaceuticals' topical foam to treat rectal inflammation could be filed for approval with the Food and Drug Administration by the end of September.

GSK wins up to $200M in contract with US for biothreat research

Wed, 22 May 2013 10:50:06 -0400

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has awarded GlaxoSmithKline a contract worth as much as $200 million for research into antibiotics to counter bioterror and other threats.

Inside NetApp's earnings: Restructuring work force a move to ensure long-term success

Wed, 22 May 2013 08:43:33 -0400

Analysis: Technology Business Research believes NetApp's decision to eliminate approximately 7 percent of its employee base, or 900 employees, indicates that the company is working with great urgency to correct its slipping operating margin.

AT&T extends 4G wireless service to Outer Banks

Wed, 22 May 2013 08:31:20 -0400

AT&T's (NYSE: T) growing 4G wireless broadband service across North Carolina now includes the Outer Banks.

Australian health institute embraces SAS Visual Analytics

Wed, 22 May 2013 08:26:13 -0400

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare has implemented SAS Visual Analytics with the goal of making more informed decisions about health, welfare and community services.

SciQuest hires veteran executive to lead sales efforts

Wed, 22 May 2013 08:18:21 -0400

Jeffrey Martini is leaving the e-procurement services firm after eight years. He will be replaced by Douglas Keister.

A rising tide of new entrepreneurs gives big lift to Durham's future

Wed, 22 May 2013 07:51:52 -0400

In this latest installment of the "New Bull City" series, WRALTechWire's Jason Parker takes an inside look at a host of emerging startups that are adding additional sparks to Durham's technology surge over the past two decades.

Cheers! Durham's Mystery Brewing wins $50,000 in CNBC's Crowd Rules

Wed, 22 May 2013 07:28:00 -0400

Erik Myers built Mystery like a tech startup, raising $50,000 on Kickstarter and another $250,000 in private seed money. He blogs, he markets well, and he's everywhere - and in that, Mystery Brewing and companies like it deserve to be in the same sentence as Triangle Startup Factory graduates, NC IDEA winners, and, you know, all those other startups from Durham that landed on a CNBC reality show. WRALTechWire Insiders get the full story.

Exec: Despite layoffs, NetApp to continue hiring, growing in RTP

Wed, 22 May 2013 06:47:03 -0400

NetApp CEO Tom Georgens said that while the restructuring will cut some jobs, it will also free up resources to redeploy elsewhere. And he said the company won't stop hiring. Another exec also says NetApp remains committed to growing its campus in RTP.

It's live! Microsoft rolls out new XBox One console

Wed, 22 May 2013 06:26:51 -0400

Microsoft, the top seller in U.S. consoles for more than two years, will face fresh competition from Sony Corp.'s PlayStation 4, scheduled for release near year-end, and Nintendo Co.'s Wii-U, introduced last November. It also must fend off a larger threat: companies including Apple, Facebook, Google Inc. and Amazon.com Inc. offering an array of entertainment services, software and products.

Google, Yahoo, other tech firms join Apple in avoiding taxes

Wed, 22 May 2013 06:20:05 -0400

Similar practices by an assortment of companies - from Google Inc., owner of the world's most popular Internet search engine, to Forest Laboratories Inc., the maker of antidepressant drug Lexapro - are drawing increased scrutiny from regulators in the U.S. and around the world, particularly as European nations face a backlash against austerity measures.

Sometimes it's good to be small ... and even better to be micro! - Micro entity status under the America Invents Act

Wed, 22 May 2013 06:04:50 -0400

TechLaw: On March 19, 2013, the United States Patent and Trademark Office implemented a provision of the America Invents Act establishing micro entity status and providing a 75% discount to qualifying applicants for many patent and patent application fees. Are you small enough to qualify?

NetApp to lay off 900 workers in global restructuring

Tue, 21 May 2013 16:31:39 -0400

NetApp will cut 900 workers globally as the company embarks on a "realignment of resources."

Apple's CEO tells Congress: We pay 'all the taxes we owe' by law

Tue, 21 May 2013 13:36:00 -0400

Apple Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook defends his company's use of offshore tax shelters before U.S. senators who castigated the most-valuable technology company for avoiding $9 billion and more in payments.

Elster names president for metering, smart grid solutions

Tue, 21 May 2013 12:57:56 -0400

Mark Fronmuller, a veteran utilities executive, is the new president of Elster Solutions.

Industry competitors collaborate to grow Triangle cleantech cluster

Tue, 21 May 2013 11:22:31 -0400

In the marketplace, they compete fiercely for market share and profits. In the Research Triangle Region of North Carolina, they collaborate with equal ferocity to create the smart, clean technologies of the future. And they're paying $75,000 each for the privilege. They are the founding members of the Research Triangle Cleantech Cluster.

NC Biotech Center braces for worst as Senate slashes budget, too

Tue, 21 May 2013 11:12:48 -0400

A Senate budget calls for a 50 percent cut in funding for the North Carolina Biotechnology Center. While not as bad as Gov. Pat McCrory's 60 percent slash, the Senate's total would mean big reductions for the Center. It's also a nasty indicator that major cuts are coming with two of the three budget players supporting a substantial reduction. Can the House save the day?

Nanotech firm Liquidia extends PATH pneumonia vaccine partnership

Tue, 21 May 2013 10:47:38 -0400

Liquidia Technologies is applying its proprietary nanoparticle manufacturing process to the development of a broader and more affordable pneumonia vaccine.

Apple execs face likely Senate grilling in hearing about tax avoidance

Tue, 21 May 2013 08:40:53 -0400

Apple Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook will face off against U.S. senators leveling accusations the iPhone maker has created a web of offshore entities to avoid paying billions of dollars in U.S. taxes.

ArchiveSocial, a new Durham success story, brings home international award

Tue, 21 May 2013 08:05:35 -0400

Bringing order to the chaos of social media record keeping is the goal of Durham-born and based startup ArchiveSocial. An example of the New Bull City's emerging reputation as a home for successful tech startups, the company came home a winner in the "Top 50" competition put on by TiE organization. And its CEO is thankful for the support his firm has received from others across its home town.

Durham 1999 to today: From a 'zip code destination' to boom town built on tech pillars

Tue, 21 May 2013 08:00:38 -0400

New Bull City, Day Two: One can't appreciate a revitalized Durham today without looking back to the late '90s and remembering a desolate city center. But the Internet boom coupled with the rebuilding of the city's infrastructure and the love of several entrepreneurs for the Bull City triggered a perfect storm of development that turn dead town into boom town.

With a curse of joy, Tumblr's 26-year-old CEO cashes in on $1.1B Yahoo deal

Mon, 20 May 2013 17:00:39 -0400

"Our headquarters isn't moving. Our team isn't changing. Our road map isn't changing," says founder David Karp. "Our mission -- to empower creators to make their best work and get it in front of the audience they deserve -- certainly isn't changing."

From tobacco town to tech hub: Durham's rise from humble beginnings

Mon, 20 May 2013 12:40:29 -0400

In just over a decade, the city of Durham's population has exploded 46 percent to more than 233,000 - and that's an estimate from two years ago. The New Bull City is a vibrant combination of technology and culture yet one that is proud of a long and eventful history. Here's a look back at the beginnings and its evolution on which Durham today is built.

Lenovo EMC joint venture begins selling servers

Mon, 20 May 2013 11:28:45 -0400

The world's No. 2 PC manufacturer and one of the world's top storage device makers closed on their joint venture in January. Now their products hit the street.