Nielsen and Digimarc Cement Alliance with New JVs

Nielsen and secure identity solutions firm Digimarc are to launch two joint ventures that will combine the latter's solutions for deterring fraud, counterfeiting and piracy with the former's consumer and business data. The ventures replace a more informal agreement in place since 2007.

The pair say that through the creation of these joint ventures, they will extend their existing relationship to enhance TV viewing, facilitate mobile commerce, and create other opportunities for TV networks and consumer brands to engage with their audiences.

Digimarc's technology offers new digital media distribution and monetization models that provide consumers with more choice and access to content. Its intellectual property portfolio includes digital watermarking and media identification and management.

The new joint ventures expand and replace the previous Digimarc/Nielsen license and services contract that has been in operation since late 2007. Under the new agreement, the firms will work together to develop new products and services, and expand and deploy those that are already under development as part of the prior agreement.

Comments Itzhak Fisher, Nielsen's Head of Global Product Leadership: 'By combining our market intelligence - particularly our analysis of video consumption across TV, Internet and mobile - with Digimarc's rich patent portfolio, we are uniquely positioned to drive exciting new ways to engage consumers through digital entertainment and transactions.'

Each company will own roughly one-half of each joint venture, and it is expected that each will provide shared general overhead services to the new operations.

Web sites: www.digimarc.com and www.nielsen.com .