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n-CD offers a unique and innovative combination of internet-based bonus features reserved only
for users of original discs with consumer tracking opportunities for the music industry.
Salzburg, Austria, August 14, 2003 - Sony DADC announces the launch of the n-CD. This exclusive
concept allows the placement of premium content on top of a conventional music CD granting only
owners of an original access to the bonuses via Internet. The n-CD is a unique direct marketing
tool with one-to-one marketing opportunities for music labels and exclusive cash-value features for
their consumers. Modern disc identification technology ensures that these premium features are
exclusively reserved for only one user of an original disc. As a first, Sony DADC will present this
new innovative solution to the music industry at the PopKomm exposition in Cologne, Germany from
August 14-16, Hall 7, Booth B61.
N-CD pairs disc content with a secure web link, which is solely accessible via a unique
identification number inscribed on the disc. When a user browses the secure link, valuable
information on his online and purchasing preferences is generated for future marketing activities.
The technology ensuring that only owners of an original disc can access the bonus area is called
Postscribed IDTM. This disc identification method connects the disc with the secure web link.
Business can use the data as a basis for upcoming offers and to tailor marketing offers to the
customer. With the n-CD one-to-one marketing and customer relationship management is now becoming
reality for the entertainment and information business.
The premium site is a vehicle to reward users with promotions or cash-value benefits.
Businesses can implement lotteries, offer vouchers and therefore award loyal customers. "Current
ideas are to offer consumers access to major discounts, such as on concert tickets, or to install a
bonus point system comparable to an airline's frequent flyer program. Therefore, the consumer is
receiving a true cash value for his purchase," says Martin Prieler, Product Manager at Sony DADC.
"The n-CD creates a win-win situation for labels and their customers. This revolutionary concept is
the first solution in providing consumers additional value, which is actually worth money. Labels
on the other hand have created a true incentive for purchasing a disc and can benefit from the
tracking and security options."
With the n-CD solution Sony DADC has created a good reason for consumers to purchase discs
instead of copying or downloading them. The n-CD answers the question: "Should I purchase a disc
when I can copy or download it for free?" with a definite "yes". Customers buying an original will
receive more than just the listening and entertainment experience advertised on the product's
label. These customers will enjoy a great deal offering additional exclusivity and access to bonus'
worth real cash. The customer is rewarded with a bundle of benefits unlike their counterparts who
chose to copy. One disc means one identification number and one user taking advantage of the
benefits via secure web link. Offers are exclusively reserved for one n-CD identification number
only.
Sony DADC offers the n-CD in several combinations. The n-CD can consist of an audio or ROM
session and allows the combination of both. Additional add-ons are copy control solutions.
Key2audioXS copy control is designed specifically for the audio session and SecuROM™ offers leading
protection against illegal copying of the CD-ROM session. The technology behind this exclusivity
concept is Postscribed IDTM allowing the automated inscription of unique data on each disc after
the discs have been manufactured. This procedure is integrated in the mass production process and
the code is readable by any CD drive.
As the world's largest producer of pre-recorded optical discs, Sony DADC supplies a full line
of high-quality products and services for the music business. Services include digital authoring,
editing, copy control, graphic design, mastering, replication, packaging, distribution and
fulfillment for CD-Audio, CD-ROM, DVD and Super Audio CD. For further questions, please contact
Martin Prieler, n-CD Product Manager at Sony DADC at +43 (0) 6246-880-555 or via Email at
n-CD@sonydadc.com
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