Imation, DataPlay Partner in Digital Media Pact

Data storage and information management provider Imation Corp., and DataPlay, the developer of the universal media format for “all things digital,” today announced they have finalized a series of agreements related to the upcoming introduction of DataPlay digital media. These agreements position Imation as the first U.S.-based manufacturer of both blank and pre-recorded DataPlay digital media, as well as the semi-exclusive worldwide distribution partner.

“With its long history and development experience in optical storage technologies, Imation will be a valuable addition to DataPlay’s team of strategic partners,” said Steve Volk, chairman and CEO of DataPlay. “We will also benefit from Imation’s extensive worldwide distribution capabilities as DataPlay penetrates the global market.”

DataPlay selected Imation to be the first U.S.-based manufacturer of both blank and pre-recorded DataPlay digital media based on its manufacturing excellence and technology leadership. Imation plans to manufacture the media in its Wahpeton, N.D. plant, which was recently selected by Industry Week, the leading manufacturing management magazine, as one of the “14 Best Manufacturing Plants in North America and Europe.”

Imation was also among a group of leading consumer electronic device manufacturers, technology companies, and retail distributors who recently made significant investments in DataPlay’s latest round of financing, which raised an additional $55 million.

In addition to its position as a media manufacturer, Imation will be the semi-exclusive worldwide distribution partner of blank DataPlay digital media. DataPlay digital media enables access to all forms of digital content across all digital devices and platforms, including music, images, documents, software, games, video and more. One 500MB digital media can hold more than 11 hours of music downloads or five complete pre-recorded albums of CD-quality music, hundreds of high-resolution photographs, or dozens of games.

DataPlay is slated for commercial availability in Q4 2001.