Macrovision’s Solution Creates New Model for Hardware Manufacturers to Profit from Embedded Software

Macrovision Corporation (NASDAQ: MVSN) today introduced its Hardware Value Maximization solution, which is designed to help original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) manage and sell the software that is developed for their hardware products. In today’s market environment, software features and functionalities play a larger role in the value of electronic products. Macrovision’s Hardware Value Maximization solution allows OEMs to benefit from this increased importance of embedded software by automating software licensing and enabling it to be packaged, priced and updated independently from the hardware device, before or after it goes to market.

With more embedded software options available to provide to customers, OEMs can increase the value of their hardware products and generate additional revenue from their product portfolio. In addition, many manufacturers are looking to shorten the time and cost associated with developing brand new devices. The Hardware Value Maximization solution enables hardware manufacturers to alter their products without having to significantly modify product layout or manufacturing.

As an example, Agilent Technologies, a leading provider of measurement tools and solutions, employs Macrovision’s FLEXnet Publisher in its Electronic Measurements Group to enhance the products it provides to its customers. FLEXnet Publisher, a product incorporated in Macrovision’s Hardware Value Maximization solution, enables Agilent to easily turn on and off software and hardware features embedded in its test and measurement equipment according to customer specifications.

“FLEXnet Publisher helps us customize the configurations of the software and hardware included in our comprehensive line of test and measurement equipment,” said Jeff Bertoli, Software Alliance Manager, from Agilent. “We’re able to provide our customers with products that meet their needs at a more convenient cost of ownership.”

“Our Hardware Value Maximization solution provides OEMs with the technology that will help them better leverage software as a core component of their value proposition,” said Corey Ferengul, senior vice president, product and solutions management at Macrovision. “We are committed to providing technology and services that support our customers’ business needs.”

In addition to FLEXnet Publisher, Macrovision’s Hardware Value Maximization solution includes FLEXnet Operations, FLEXnet Connect, Macrovision’s professional services, and porting and support services.

While FLEXnet Publisher provides flexible software licensing capability, the solution features:




License Management: Provides OEMs with a variety of options for setting licensing terms for different packaging, try-and-buy promotions, electronic product configurations and pricing models.

Product Management: Allows OEMs to proactively manage and track each customer’s licenses and entitlements through the entire license lifecycle. And provides tools to build systems that cost-effectively test and implement new pricing and packaging options.

Update Management: Gives OEMs the ability to electronically deliver software updates and messages to their customers’ systems without manual intervention. Supports OEMs’ direct monitoring of their products and enables them to capture customer intelligence.