Latest Articles from WRAL Tech Wire

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.

Durham's saga of progress: From tobacco town to technology hub

Mon, 20 May 2013 10:42:51 -0400

"New Bull City" is the title of a multi-part series beginning today about the remarkable transition of Durham from a town of tobacco, textiles and manufacturing to a "City of Medicine" and now a rapidly growing technology hub. From its historic past to what appears to be a promising future, the remarkable saga of Durham will unfold daily for WRALTechWire Insiders.

Durham's high-tech infrastructure, talent lure Virginia company

Mon, 20 May 2013 10:32:48 -0400

The New Bully City is the new home for Nuvotronics, a high-tech manufacturing firm that uprooted itself from Virginia and transplanted itself among the high-tech infrastructure of Durham. CEO Noel Heiks explains why she and husband David Sherrer, who is company president, decided to call Durham home even though they received no tax incentives to do so.

CEO continues Yahoo's makeover with $1.1B deal for Tumblr

Mon, 20 May 2013 09:27:10 -0400

Yahoo is buying online blogging forum Tumblr for $1.1 billion as CEO Marissa Mayer tries to rejuvenate an Internet icon that had fallen behind the times.

Almost takeoff time: HondaJet moves closer to commercial launch

Mon, 20 May 2013 09:19:39 -0400

Greensboro-based Honda Aircraft recently flight tested its fifth FAA-conforming HondaJet complete with a production interior and options. The company's CEO says its final phase of flight testing before actual production is underway.

Lenovo acknowledges layoffs in Morrisville as part of shift to 'PC Plus' strategy

Mon, 20 May 2013 07:22:51 -0400

"Some" job cuts are made in staff at the executive headquarters of the world's No. 2 PC maker as it continues to transition to a more diversified lineup of products, a corporate spokesperson says.

To meet growing demand, DukeNet upgrades core network across southeast

Mon, 20 May 2013 05:32:32 -0400

The Charlotte service provider says it is now capable of delivering 100G services on its 8,000-mile network, enabling cloud computing and high-bandwidth applications for enterprise business throughout the southeast United States.

Yahoo reportedly pays $1.1B for Tumblr, plans Flickr update

Mon, 20 May 2013 05:29:26 -0400

Yahoo! Inc. is preparing to unveil updates to the company's Flickr photo-sharing site today, amid reports that the board has approved a $1.1 billion acquisition of blogging network Tumblr Inc.

GSK believes cutting prices will drive growth in emerging markets

Mon, 20 May 2013 05:17:13 -0400

"Price reductions are in many ways very important in driving the access and take-up of health-care coverage," Chief Financial Officer Simon Dingemans says. "We see very good volume response to that, which shows the strategy is working."

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

Mon, 20 May 2013 04:59:00 -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.

We want you to like us: Comment on our changes at Facebook

Mon, 20 May 2013 04:57:00 -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, 20 May 2013 04:52:00 -0400

A look back at technology, life science and other related news as reported in WRAL Tech Wire for the week of May 13-19.

Cancer products firm DARA BioSciences at risk of delisting

Fri, 17 May 2013 12:29:37 -0400

The Nasdaq has notified DARA BioSciences that the company's stock price is too low for listing requirements. Learn what DARA's options are.

Bloomberg news hires former IBM Palmisano as advisor

Fri, 17 May 2013 12:16:51 -0400

The move comes a week after revelations that Bloomberg journalists had access to some information on customers' use of Bloomberg's data terminals, including when they last logged in.

Health care software firm Axial Exchange raising $2M

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:41:43 -0400

Axial has developed software that enables hospitals and other health care facilities communicate in real time. Learn how the company aims to use it to improve health care.

Raleigh-based PRA International eyes public offering

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:24:35 -0400

Another life science services firm in the Triangle, PRA International, may follow in the footsteps of a bigger rival - Quintiles - by offering stock in order to raise capital. Just two years ago, PRA was at the center of takeover rumors in the range of $1 billion.

Charlotte entrepreneurs to discuss developing an exit strategy

Fri, 17 May 2013 09:57:32 -0400

The Business Innovation & Growth (BIG) council is hosting a discussion Monday to help startups look beyond tomorrow's business.

Triangulate, the 'digital doorway' for Triangle, goes live

Fri, 17 May 2013 09:24:44 -0400

"Triangulate will help us better organize the entrepreneurial network," says Joan Siefert Rose, president of the CED. "It helps us find each other, and it also helps people outside of the region look at the Triangle."

Angels stress need for cooperation in reviewing Triangle deals

Fri, 17 May 2013 08:53:28 -0400

As angel investors become increasingly important to the Triangle startup community, more than 30 of them gather to discuss how they can work together more closely in performing due diligence on potential deals. We also have snapshots of four major regional groups.

Syngenta unveils $72M Advanced Crop Lab in RTP

Fri, 17 May 2013 07:29:22 -0400

Built around 30 climate-controlled "environments" contained in all-glass greenhouses, the new 136,000 square foot facility had been under construction for nearly two years.

Tryton Medical gets European O.K. on new stent

Thu, 16 May 2013 17:26:47 -0400

Medical device company Tryton Medical has received marketing approval in Europe for its novel stent system.

NC Biotech Center awards $2.5M in 1Q grants, loans

Thu, 16 May 2013 16:54:10 -0400

The North Carolina Biotechnology Center awarded more than $2.5 million in loans and grants to life science companies, startups and others during the first quarter.

Hedge fund takes stake in NetApp, presses for boost in shareholder value

Thu, 16 May 2013 16:27:54 -0400

Elliott Management Corp, a hedge fund founded by billionaire Paul Singer, has been in talks with NetApp for weeks over proposals that include returning cash to shareholders, according to Bloomberg News.

OxyBio gets more time to show it meets NASDAQ listing rules

Thu, 16 May 2013 14:45:42 -0400

The Nasdaq, which had sent Oxygen Biotherapeutics, a delisting notice in March, gives the company more time to show it meets listing requirements.

Photos come into focus as center of SnappforGood's new crowdsourcing model

Thu, 16 May 2013 12:49:19 -0400

Digital technology has made it easier than ever to take and share photographs. Now Raleigh venture SnappforGood aims to turn those pictures into fundraising opportunities for nonprofits and social causes.

NetApp is preparing for layoffs, report says

Thu, 16 May 2013 10:53:54 -0400

A private note from Piper Jaffray to its clients says theNetApp layoffs will total about 1,300 people and will come from under-performing operations, IT-publication The Register reports

NeoNova expansion means move to Raleigh

Thu, 16 May 2013 09:48:55 -0400

Over the last two years, NeoNova has added more than 40 Internet service providers to its list of customers along with hundreds of value added resellers, who resell NeoNova's services.

Google's products dig deeper into people's lives

Thu, 16 May 2013 07:01:32 -0400

In the latest display of its technological prowess and sweeping ambition, Google is rolling out another wave of products and services that will test how much more people want computers to control their lives and enhance their perceptions of reality.

IBM to offer up 'Jeopardy!' winner Watson to software startups

Thu, 16 May 2013 06:37:08 -0400

International Business Machines Corp. will offer its Watson technology, which beat humans in "Jeopardy!," as a building block for startup companies making business software.

SAS pounces on 'big data' opportunities in health analytics

Thu, 16 May 2013 06:03:07 -0400

New SAS software cuts "big data" analysis from days, even hours, down to seconds. Learn why SAS sees big opportunity in the health care space.

New drug model? Quintiles to develop compounds with Merck Serono

Thu, 16 May 2013 05:35:47 -0400

Fresh off an IPO that produced $1 billion for investors and the company, Quintiles on Wednesday announced a drug development deal in which it will work with Germany-based Merck Serono. But this contract is much different from others in which Quintiles shared some of the financial risk for new drug development. WRALTechWire Insiders get the story beyond the press release.

Cisco profit tops Wall Street expectations; shares jump on news

Thu, 16 May 2013 05:33:58 -0400

"They're focused on where they can really make a dent in their growth," analyst says. "Overall, they've gotten more aggressive and more engaged."

Compuware, a subject of hostile takeover talk, spinning off cloud computing subsidiary

Thu, 16 May 2013 05:33:10 -0400

The Detroit-based technology firm, which was founded by Carolina Hurricanes owner Peter Karmanos, is looking to spin off a company to give it "greater flexibility" through an IPO.

Google expands photo offerings in bid to rival Facebook plus music service

Thu, 16 May 2013 05:32:27 -0400

The search giant is rolling out a subscription music-streaming service and additional photo services in a bid to attract more users as well as advertisers.

A PC as designer furniture? Yes, thanks to designers and Lenovo's new Table PC

Thu, 16 May 2013 05:31:05 -0400

The wizards of technology smart at the world's No. 2 PC manufacturer came up with the idea of a touch-screen PC big enough for a family or design team to enjoy at the same time. Now, some designers show how a PC can be a piece of art, too.

Triangle VC Pappas joins National Venture Capital Association board

Thu, 16 May 2013 05:30:22 -0400

Art Pappas, one of the deans of the venture capital industry in North Carolina, is among five VCs named to the board of the National Venture Capital Association.

ABC to begin live TV streaming in Triangle; Aereo service expands to Atlanta

Thu, 16 May 2013 05:20:42 -0400

Live Internet access to TV entertainment via streaming is coming to the Triangle, while startup Aereo, which also plans RTP service, expands to Atlanta.

Quintiles made plans to cut 400 jobs as it geared up for IPO

Wed, 15 May 2013 08:01:57 -0400

With its stock trading at a new high on Tuesday, Quintiles disclosed before the markets opened in a regulatory filing that it set aside $15 million to cover the costs of "restructuring" 400 workers.

The New Bull City: An in-depth series coming to WRALTechWire

Wed, 15 May 2013 07:48:05 -0400

From a tobacco town to a city of medicine to a technology hub - that's the saga of Durham. Beginning next week, WRALTechWire will launch a multi-day, in-depth report titled "The New Bull City" that will tell the stories behind Durham's rebirth and what's coming next.

Google plans music service; CEO Page discloses vocal cord ailment

Wed, 15 May 2013 07:11:43 -0400

Search giant Google reportedly plans an online musice service to rival Spotify; meanwhile, Google CEO discloses what his health problem is - difficulties with his vocal cords.

Quintiles IPO tops $1 billion, including overallotment

Wed, 15 May 2013 08:03:38 -0400

Quintiles completes its IPO selling 27.2 million shares, including the overallotment sold by investors who took stakes in Quintiles when it was private. Read just how much they stand to gain from the additional sale.

HyperBranch Medical raising $1M; surgical sealant is in clinical trials

Tue, 14 May 2013 16:52:54 -0400

HyperBranch Medical Technology's surgical sealant is in clinical trials. Learn more about the sealant and its potential surgical applications.

New Nokia smartphone fails to impress investors

Tue, 14 May 2013 15:53:11 -0400

Nokia, trying to make a comeback in a wireless communications space it once dominated, fails to impress investors with its new smartphone offering.

SAS' annual health care conference to focus on health analytics

Tue, 14 May 2013 15:09:31 -0400

Software and analytics company SAS is getting ready to kick off its 10th annual Health Care & Life Sciences Executive Conference, with a focus this year on health analytics.

Work in the Triangle turns to social media to match job seekers, 'hottest' jobs

Tue, 14 May 2013 13:24:33 -0400

The Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce, Wake County Economic Development and Work in the Triangle launch a social media campaign in the latest evolution of its talent recruitment efforts for the region.

Analyst hails BlackBerry's new low-cost phone; CEO says firm has 'reached solid ground'

Tue, 14 May 2013 12:59:04 -0400

The Q5 device, a producted targeted for emerging markets, will be available this summer. It is the firm's third smartphone to run the new BlackBerry 10 system. Research firm Ovum says the phone could be a major boost for BlackBerry. And BlackBerry's CEO says the company has "reached solid ground."

Tech truce: Microsoft embraces a Google service for a change

Tue, 14 May 2013 10:37:11 -0400

In a rare bit of cooperation, Microsoft's Outlook.com is giving users of its free email service the option of logging into Google Chat to exchange instant messages and engage in audio or video conversations.

Will lightning strike again for veteran entrepreneur Brian Handly at StepLeader?

Tue, 14 May 2013 09:24:34 -0400

As the Raleigh-based apps developer raises its first venture funding, its CEO Brian Handly talks about what's coming next at StepLeader. He has big, big plans. Handly also discusses the state of fundraising, which can be quite difficult these days.

Raleigh app developer StepLeader lands $4.4M in first fund raiser

Tue, 14 May 2013 09:24:05 -0400

The Raleigh-based startup, which is a spinout from Capitol Broadcasting's New Media Group, raises its first round of venture funding with two local firms participating. Its CEO invests as well. And the company has big growth plans. WRALTechWire Insiders can get the full story.

Chapel Hill drug startup Cempra lands $70M licensing deal

Tue, 14 May 2013 08:21:12 -0400

Cemrpa is a long way yet from proving its new antibiotic compound will be an effective, FDA-approved drug, but the compound has already delivered the company a $10 million payday with millions more possibly to come. WRALTechWire Insiders get the details.

Time running out to save 50% on WRALTechWire Insider membership

Tue, 14 May 2013 07:47:37 -0400

The introductory 50-percent off deal to become an Insider at WRALTechWire expires on May 16. Sign up today for accesses to in-depth exclusive news and much more - such as up to $900 in savings on tech-related offers from our partners.

IBM opens Linux center in China, says it will work with Red Hat

Tue, 14 May 2013 07:13:04 -0400

Big Blue is further expanding an already large presence in China with a new Linux-focused center in Beijing. And it says the world's top Linux developer, Red Hat, will be involved as well as Red Hat rival SUSE.

Red-hot Raleigh startup WedPics hauls in $1.1M in funding

Mon, 13 May 2013 17:11:58 -0400

As more people download their app to post wedding photo albums, the WedPics team should consider having a party themselves. But there's no honeymoon at hand for CEO Justin Miller and his growing team. WRALTechWire Insiders get all the details in an exclusive interview with Miller.

As AT&T expands 4G in Triangle, reports surface it may drop HTC Facebook phone

Mon, 13 May 2013 16:38:08 -0400

AT&T is expanding its 4G wireless coverage in more of the triangle, but sources say the telecommunications giant may drop the recently launched HTC phone that incorporates Facebook.

AT&T hiring across state as network expansion revs up

Mon, 13 May 2013 11:26:49 -0400

AT&T says it plans to add more than 250 jobs to help expand its network across North Carolina. The telecommunication firm also has some 150 open jobs.

Durham drug firm Chimerix reports $9.1M quarterly loss

Mon, 13 May 2013 11:14:06 -0400

The company, which went public in April, reports a drop in revenue and an increase in expenses. But stock rallies 4 percent on the news.

Supreme Court unanimously backs Monsanto on crop patents

Mon, 13 May 2013 10:55:24 -0400

The justices unanimously upheld an $84,456 award Monsanto won in a lawsuit against an Indiana farmer who sought to circumvent the company's patents on herbicide-resistant soybean seeds.

New Triangle venture capital firm slowly emerging from shadows

Mon, 13 May 2013 10:33:51 -0400

The two co-founders of the Triangle's newest venture capital firm won't talk - yet - about what they are doing. But we have some salient details about who they are, their focus, and what this means for the capital-starved southeast.

Raleigh-based WasteZero raising another $1.5 million

Mon, 13 May 2013 09:44:00 -0400

WasteZero, which works with governments to implement "Pay as You Throw" trash and recycling programs, is trying to raise $1.5 million in debt, according to an SEC filing.

Elan to pay $1B for a share of Theravance's royalties from GSK

Mon, 13 May 2013 08:42:27 -0400

Elan will receive 21 percent of the royalties earned by Theravance from GlaxoSmithKline on the four respiratory medicines, and 20 percent of that income stream will be paid to Elan shareholders as a dividend.

Titans of tech seek to excite UNC, Duke grads about a future beyond themselves

Mon, 13 May 2013 08:15:00 -0400

In graduation speeches at Duke and UNC-Chapel Hill respectively, Melinda Gates and Steve Case point to technology as a tool to build a better world. Will the graduates listen?

Triangle politician tries to accelerate crowdfunding; bill passes first hurdle

Mon, 13 May 2013 07:37:12 -0400

Rep. Tom Murry, a businessman and Republican from Morrisville, along with three others, is pushing legislation to help entrepreneurs raise money while the SEC wrestles with implementation of the JOBS Act that was passed last year. Read about the bill, who backs it - and which Republican is a powerful opponent.

Billionaire Murdock on nutrition research: 'Let's make some major discoveries'

Mon, 13 May 2013 07:03:43 -0400

Scientific research has revealed many things but science is still keeping some secrets from David Murdock. The billionaire businessman founded and funded the David H. Murdock Research Institute to search for answers. And now he's putting up $50 million more in his continuing quest.

Rumor roundup: Google Babel? Amazon 3D phone? NOOK sale?

Mon, 13 May 2013 06:56:58 -0400

When the Internet runs out of news, it starts making things up. We think this is funny, so we round up all the lies and speculation and put them here. We call it the "Rumor Roundup" and we do it all for you!

Can Dell Software be a winner? Yes, but speed is crucial

Mon, 13 May 2013 06:49:46 -0400

Analysis: With no legacy software business to protect, and a midmarket presence, acquisition and integration strategy, the new Dell Software division enjoys an edge over enterprise software vendors IBM, Microsoft and HP. TBR believes Dell Software has the IP and team to do this -- but the speed of full integration remains unknown.

Networking groups willing to pay for your ideas

Mon, 13 May 2013 06:49:22 -0400

Internet2, in conjunction with Juniper Networks, Ciena and Brocade, are giving you the opportunity to walk away with up to $10,000 for a winning networking idea though the new 2013 Internet2 Innovative Application Awards.

Bad news for BlackBerry? Pentagon to clear Apple devices

Mon, 13 May 2013 06:48:40 -0400

The move would give Apple the chance to eventually compete for military market share with BlackBerry, the Pentagon's dominant smartphone supplier, and Samsung, which gained the department's certification earlier this month.

WRALTechWire invites readers to submit news, analysis

Mon, 13 May 2013 06:47:31 -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 new look, changes: Check out WRALTechWire at Facebook

Mon, 13 May 2013 06:46:43 -0400

News in review: What made headlines in WRALTechWire

Mon, 13 May 2013 06:45:00 -0400

A look back at technology, life science and other related news as reported in WRAL Tech Wire for the week of April May 6-12.

Investor Icahn tries for Dell again with new bid

Fri, 10 May 2013 19:28:13 -0400

Billionaire investor Carl Icahn has teamed with Dell's largest independent shareholder, Southeastern Asset Management, to pitch a deal that would let Dell shareholders keep their stake in the company.

Top patent court remains deeply divided in software patent ruling

Fri, 10 May 2013 14:17:19 -0400

"We have propounded at least three incompatible standards, devoid of consensus, serving simply to add to the unreliability and cost of the system of patents as an incentive for innovation," one judge writes.

Vaccine firm Medicago develops H7N9 bird flu vaccine candidate

Fri, 10 May 2013 13:17:57 -0400

Medicago developed its H7N9 flu vaccine candide using its proprietary technology that produces vaccines from the leaves of tobacco plants.

FDA approves new once-a-day inhaler from GSK

Fri, 10 May 2013 11:57:32 -0400

GSK and its partner Theravance receive approval of their once-daily Breo Ellipta for a lung disorder that is the third-leading cause of death in the nation.

Celebration day: Quintiles' founder rings open NYSE trading

Fri, 10 May 2013 11:34:05 -0400

Chairman and co-founder Dr. Dennis Gillings joins his company's executive management team for the ringing of the opening bell on the NYSE on Friday. Quintiles executed the biggest IPO in Triangle history on Thursday.

Market stumbles lead to LipoScience sales decline, CEO pledges response

Fri, 10 May 2013 11:16:51 -0400

LipoScience revises its revenue guidance for the year after troubles getting its test into the market lead to a first quarter sales decline.

ChannelAdvisor seeks $80M, sets share target price for IPO

Fri, 10 May 2013 10:25:20 -0400

Seeking to cash in on the recent run of the bulls to stock market record highs, ChannelAdvisor prices its IPO and looks to sell 5.75 million shares. What's the price range? What would ChannelAdvisor do with the money? We've got the details.

IT job openings 28% below 2012 numbers, report shows

Fri, 10 May 2013 08:59:42 -0400

The latest IT Job Trends report from the North Carolina Technology Association shows a slight uptick in advertised openings across the state for April, but the market remains sluggish compared to a year ago. What skills are in most demand? Where is opportunity declining? We've got the numbers.

As Quintiles' Gillings rings opening bell, SciQuest CEO recalls the feeling

Fri, 10 May 2013 08:16:46 -0400

Dennis Gillings, who started Quintiles in a trailer more than 30 years ago, rings the opening bell on the New York Stock Exchange today to celebrate the giant's return to public markets. Stephen Wiehe, who led SciQuest through a similar private-to-public Odyssey, recalls the "humbling" ringing bell honor.

With new deal, Cary drug firm expands cystic fibrosis market focus, plans new hires

Fri, 10 May 2013 07:48:19 -0400

Cornerstone Therapeutics acquires a drug to treat a consequence of cystic fibrosis and has a new drug coming to market. To boost sales, Cornerstone's CEO says the company will be hiring more sales people. WRALTechWire Insiders get the details.

Facebook reportedly in talks to buy mobile map startup for $1B

Fri, 10 May 2013 07:17:15 -0400

The owner of the world's most popular social-networking service, is in talks to acquire mobile-mapping application provider Waze for as much as $1 billion, sources tell Bloomberg news. Meanwhile, Facebook settles trademark dispute over timeline feature.

Aiming to sell 60M smartphones this year, Lenovo's next target is Africa

Fri, 10 May 2013 06:59:33 -0400

With a boost from Los Angeles Lakers' Kobe Bryant, the world's No. 2 PC maker continues to ramp up its smartphone sales efforts with a push into Africa. Lenovo plans to more than double its phone deliveries this year.

AT&T launches pay-as-you-go wireless service

Fri, 10 May 2013 06:35:43 -0400

The new subsidiary will offer nationwide wireless service to value-conscious customers interested in unlimited talk, text and data plans without an annual contract.

FDA makes Salix wait on constipation drug; company says no new trials needed

Fri, 10 May 2013 07:19:26 -0400

The FDA said it needed more data to approve expanded use of Salix Pharmaceutical's constipation drug Relistor. Read why Salix thinks it has enough information.

Developer gives $150M boost to Wake Forest Innovation Quarter

Fri, 10 May 2013 07:06:44 -0400

"This is the tipping point for Innovation Quarter," says John McConnell, chief executive officer at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center. "As a result of this unique public-partnership the city, county and region will all benefit significantly."

Prescription growth lifts Salix's 1Q sales

Fri, 10 May 2013 07:20:19 -0400

First quarter sales of Salix Pharmaceuticals' top drug, Xifaxan, increased 18 percent year over year. Read more about the company's performance.

After IPO, Quintiles ready for more scrutiny, COO says

Thu, 09 May 2013 16:39:48 -0400

Following Quintiles initial public stock offering, Chief Operating Officer John Ratliff gave WRAL Tech Wire an interview from the New York Stock Exchange. Read what he has to say about the now public company.

Square 1 executive is leaving to launch new venture in Triangle

Thu, 09 May 2013 12:03:02 -0400

A senior executive at venture capital services bank Square 1 has decided to launch his own venture. WRALTechWire Insiders get the details.

Another Triangle biotech firm files to go public; will JOBS act help?

Thu, 09 May 2013 09:02:31 -0400

A startup in Chapel Hill is hoping the JOBS Act bill passed in 2012 will help ease its way at lower costs into public markets. The firm recently raised $5 million as well. WRALInsiders can get the details.

GSK, Merck slash cost of cervical cancer vaccine 95% for use in poorest countries

Thu, 09 May 2013 08:31:01 -0400

Two drug giants with substantial operations in North Carolina are drastically cutting the costs of their cervical cancer vaccines as part of the first large-scale effort to get the shots to girls in the world's poorest areas.

NC Commerce privatization plan could mean more capital for startups

Thu, 09 May 2013 08:13:00 -0400

Capital is the oxygen business startups need for growth, and in North Carolina it remains in short supply. But help could be coming from an unexpected source: A reorganization plan that calls for the privatization of the North Carolina Department of Commerce. Gov. Pat McCrory is not ignoring the need for more money to drive new businesses.

Quintiles prices its stock offering at $948M - Biggest IPO ever in Triangle

Thu, 09 May 2013 08:06:58 -0400

Shares in the world's largest life science services company are expected to begin trading Thursday on the New York Stock Exchange with an opening price of $40.

As orders surge, PowerSecure CEO hints at a major deal in works

Thu, 09 May 2013 07:28:50 -0400

Wake Forest-based PowerSecure may soon be announcing a big utility deal, its CEO says, even as the power technology firm reports a big increase in revenues and earnings. So what's Sidney Hinton talking about?

Billionaire Murdock's $50M gift positions research institute for progress in food research

Wed, 08 May 2013 20:03:03 -0400

David H. Murdock has never publicly announced any of his monetary gifts. But in announcing a $50 million gift for the research institute that bears his name, Murdock explains why this gift means much more.

Billionaire Murdock gives $50M to support scientific research

Wed, 08 May 2013 16:03:31 -0400

David H. Murdock gives $50 million to the research institute that bears his name in Kannapolis. He says he wants to do "all I can to advance scientific research that will vastly improve the quality of life for mankind."

State awards Allscripts $5.9M to land 350 new Raleigh jobs

Wed, 08 May 2013 15:58:56 -0400

The electronic medical health records services firm plans to add 350 jobs at its Raleigh campus rather than Chicago, where it is based. Jobs will pay average wages of $75,800.

Durham aims to create own South by Southwest with 'Paradoxos' event

Wed, 08 May 2013 13:40:44 -0400

The Bull City, along with help from other partners from across the Triangle, is looking to create a southeast version of SXSX, the music, film, tech and interactive festival that has become an incredibly popular event to showcase Austin, Texas. WRALTechWire Insiders can learn more about the upcoming "Paradoxos."

AstraZeneca's decision to stop pain drug's promotion leaves Pozen considering new partners

Wed, 08 May 2013 13:25:57 -0400

AstraZeneca's decision to stop promoting arthritis drug Vimovo in key markets leaves drug partner Pozen figuring out its options for what is currently its top-selling product. What might the company do?

Former prominent Red Hat execs are out at Massachusetts firm

Wed, 08 May 2013 12:22:33 -0400

Two senior executives who quit Red Hat to join a Massachusetts software firm are now looking for jobs again. WRALTechWire Insiders can get the latest scoop.

Pozen's painful partner news triggers 15% drop in stock price

Wed, 08 May 2013 11:50:00 -0400

Shares plunged Wednesday after the Chapel Hill-based pharmaceutical firm discloses in its quarterly financial report that a big drug partner is going to stop selling the company's big money maker in the U.S. and parts of Europe. What does this mean for Pozen?

Allscripts likely to announce hundreds of jobs in Raleigh expansion

Wed, 08 May 2013 11:38:50 -0400

Gov. Pat McCrory is scheduled to attend an "economic development announcement" Wednesday afternoon at Allscripts' offices in North Raleigh. How many? WRALTechWire Insiders can find out that and more information about the deal. The state also may announce manufacturing jobs in Greenville, according to announcements from the governor's office.

HIPAA: Not just for doctors anymore; beware the designation 'Business Associate'

Wed, 08 May 2013 09:05:14 -0400

TechLaw: The final rules implementing the Health Information Portability and Accountability Act ("HIPAA") became effective in March and apply to persons and companies other than those in the health industry. The rules are cumbersome to navigate, but compliance is required by September.

Latest pain for Pozen: AstraZeneca to stop sales of its pain reliever in US

Wed, 08 May 2013 08:33:18 -0400

The Chapel Hill-based pharmaceutical firm discloses in its quarterly financial report that a big drug partner is going to stop selling the company's big money maker in the U.S. and parts of Europe. What does this mean for Pozen and its shareholders?

Billionaire founder's latest 'gift' to NC Research Campus could be inflection point

Wed, 08 May 2013 07:49:46 -0400

David Murdock, the founder of the N.C. Research Campus in Kannapolis, is announcing another donation today to what Oprah Winfrey has described as his "gift to humanity." Will the endowment he is making secure the NCRC's future as a true hub for health research?

Research Triangle region is a global leader in shaping intelligent energy future

Wed, 08 May 2013 07:01:22 -0400

Leaders of the Triangle region's rapidly growing cleantech industry cluster have written an exclusive three-part series for WRALTechWire. Part One focuses on the opportunity cleantech offers the regional economy and the companies and assets that make it a global hotspot for this important emerging industry.

For common Windows 8 gripes, some possible soultions

Wed, 08 May 2013 06:21:00 -0400

Part of the problem is that Windows 8 tries to be all things to all people. It's designed to respond to touch-screen controls, but it also works with traditional mouse and keyboard commands. It offers a new layout that resembles tablet computers, but it also has a desktop mode that looks like previous versions of Windows. What results is confusion.

$30M in drug milestones propel Furiex 1Q revenue, profit

Tue, 07 May 2013 18:14:22 -0400

Regulatory approval of a partnered diabetes drug triggered a huge milestone payment, lifting Furiex's revenue and profit.

Liquidia's preclinical studies offer insight into new company's plans

Tue, 07 May 2013 17:09:24 -0400

This week Liquidia presented data from two preclinical studies at the annual meeting of the Association for Research in Vision and Ophtalmology, studies that offer a peek at ophtalmic applications Liquidia has been researching.

FDA clears Fayetteville company's device to control bleeding in battle

Tue, 07 May 2013 14:32:01 -0400

The medical device, called the Combat Ready Clamp, now has FDA clearance for treating injuries sustained from combat situations, such as a roadside bomb.

Targacept reports 1Q net loss after AstraZeneca partnership ends

Tue, 07 May 2013 12:07:07 -0400

Targacept has completed recruitment for two phase IIb clinical trials and expects to start a third phase IIb trial in a third compound in the second quarter.

Cisco joins Research Triangle Cleantech Cluster

Tue, 07 May 2013 11:17:11 -0400

Networking company Cisco Systems is the latest Triangle technology company to join the Research Triangle initiative to accelerate cleantech technologies.

BioCryst reports progress for rare disease drug

Tue, 07 May 2013 11:05:07 -0400

BioCryst is studying a compound to treat hereditary angiodema, a rare genetic disease. Read more about the company's progress with the compound.

Score one for Sqord: Durham startup lands spot in Chicago Tech Stars

Tue, 07 May 2013 07:51:58 -0400

Convincing kids to live a more active lifestyle is not just a game at Durham startup Sqord. It means better lives. And the Durham startup's founders are banking their financial futures on their emerging business. The team has just landed more funding and a major boost for its hopes. WRALTechWire Insiders can learn the inside story about Sqord's march toward success.

Charlotte's startup community is booming, survey finds

Tue, 07 May 2013 07:47:11 -0400

The Business Innovation & Growth Council's second survey of the entrepreneurial community in the Queen City uncovers more new and emerging ventures. Plus, companies are looking to hire hundreds this year. We've got the numbers.

YouTube to launch a series of new pay channels

Tue, 07 May 2013 06:42:01 -0400

The content on the new pay channels will be in addition to the millions of videos viewers watch for free on YouTube. It's not clear whether the paid videos will come with advertising.

Microsoft is tuning up Windows 8 after user gripes

Tue, 07 May 2013 06:22:49 -0400

Microsoft is retooling the latest version of its Windows operating system to address complaints and confusion that have been blamed for deepening a slump in personal computer sales.

Adobe shifts to online subscriptions for its software

Tue, 07 May 2013 06:18:01 -0400

In a shift, Adobe says it will not release new versions of its Creative Suite software package. Instead, the maker of Photoshop, Illustrator and Acrobat, is shifting focus to Creative Cloud, which makes its software available through a monthly subscription that starts at $50 for an individual if they sign up for at least a year.

Cisco loses a top tech leader in emerging software defined networking

Mon, 06 May 2013 14:35:26 -0400

A high-profile startup backed by Intel, Goldman Sachs and several high-profile venture capitalists has scored a big victory in the hunt for talent to lead product development for software defined networking, or SDN. And Cisco is the big loser.

Triangle bioscience firm Precision prevails on patent fight

Mon, 06 May 2013 13:33:05 -0400

In the third court battle between Precision BioSciences and Cellectis, the Triangle firm has won again. The companies have been fighting in court since 2008.

Publisher: Triangle Tech Talk is 'pulling back' on news

Mon, 06 May 2013 12:46:19 -0400

Chris Heivly, the publisher of Triangle Tech Talk who helps run Triangle Startup Factory and is always looking for new projects, tells his readers that he is "cutting back" on the web news site.

Billionaire Murdock to make another gift to NC Research Campus

Mon, 06 May 2013 11:48:58 -0400

David Murdock, the billionaire owner of Dole Food and founder of the N.C. Research Campus in Kannapolis, will announce another gift to the campus on Wednesday. Murdock has already invested more than $700 million of his own fortune in the project.

Bandwidth hires 3 execs for growing telecom services business

Mon, 06 May 2013 11:42:42 -0400

Three executives are joining Raleigh-based Bandwidth as it continues to grow its telecommunications and network services business.

Is IBM-Lenovo deal really dead? Insiders say no

Mon, 06 May 2013 07:58:31 -0400

An IBM facility in Research Triangle Park that even Big Blue calls a "Superlab" remains at the center of reports about a possible sale of at least a portion of IBM's server business to Lenovo. What's a SuperLab? What do they do? What are employees there hearing?

The government wants you to create startups out of data ... sort of

Mon, 06 May 2013 07:04:00 -0400

The HUB in Raleigh hosts a "Datapalooza" and Triangle entrepreneurs turn out by the score to see how they might benefit from the feds' Open Data Initiative. Can ODI help produce new companies and products? WRALTechWire Insider columnist Joe Procopio takes our members inside the opportunity.

Huge crowd shows East Coast Game Conference becoming international draw

Mon, 06 May 2013 07:03:38 -0400

Having drawn a crowd of more than 1,300 people, the organizers of the East Coast Game Conference have big plans for the future while continuing to nurture the region's game industry. Troy Knight, one of the show's co-founders, talks about future plans and the state of the Triangle gaming industry today.

TearScience goes Hollywood with feature on 'The Doctors'

Mon, 06 May 2013 06:51:04 -0400

The Morrisville-based company that could go public after having won FDA approval for its dry-eye treatment will receive a nation-wide publicity boost today via Hollywood. We have the details for WRALTechWire Insiders.

Raleigh, app startup JouleBug team up for energy contest

Mon, 06 May 2013 06:19:37 -0400

The City of Raleigh has teamed up with a mobile software application company to create a city-wide energy-saving contest. The winner will receive a prize worth $200, and the contest is open for another couple weeks.

More global wireless carriers just saying 'No' to iPhone

Mon, 06 May 2013 05:56:40 -0400

Apple is missing out on a chance to court as many as 2.8 billion new smartphone customers, many of them in Asia, as wireless-service providers balk at conditions imposed by the iPhone maker and drag their heels in signing on as partners.

Wireless group in Wake Forest has golden Rolodex of engineer talent

Mon, 06 May 2013 05:38:56 -0400

Wake Forest non-profit leverages the local engineering talent pool to push the boundaries of wireless technologies for North Carolina and the world.

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Mon, 06 May 2013 05:34:35 -0400

Iron Man's repulsor ray: A DIY kit from Raleigh's Advancer Technologies

Fri, 03 May 2013 17:39:10 -0400

Advancer Technlogies isn't about to put Stark Industries out of business, but it's got a kit for fans to make their own version of Iron Man's repulsor ray.

Former Quintiles business unit NovaQuest raises $80M

Fri, 03 May 2013 16:09:22 -0400

NovaQuest invests in small to large biopharmaceutical companies around the world, focusing on companies that are in late stage development or have commercial programs.

Veterinary clinical trial seeks cats to test hypertension drug

Fri, 03 May 2013 14:53:45 -0400

Visionaire Research & Education, a Raleigh company that recruits for veterinary clinical trials, is casting its net across North America to find cats to test an experimental hypertension drug.

Private equity firm Plexus closes $150M fund; named winner of SBA award

Fri, 03 May 2013 10:20:03 -0400

Private equity firm Plexus Caplital's $150 million third fund could be combined with funds from the Small Business Administration for a total of $300 million in investment capital.

Beaker builds recruiting chemistry with new life sciences hiring model

Fri, 03 May 2013 09:43:12 -0400

Raleigh startup Beaker isn't an executive search firm, a software company or a social network. But combining elements of all three brings a new twist to life sciences recruiting.

Text messaging wanes as new apps take over

Fri, 03 May 2013 08:10:03 -0400

Americans are saying CUL8TR to text messaging, a wireless industry group says, as Internet-based applications such as Apple's Messages are starting to take over from what was once a cash cow for phone companies.

ABB to acquire California company for gas analysis technology

Fri, 03 May 2013 07:55:33 -0400

ABB, a provider of power and automation technologies for the utility industry, is acquiring a California company that specializes in analyzers that can detect trace gases.

IBM comes under U.S. Justice Department investigation

Fri, 03 May 2013 06:53:18 -0400

The Justice Department is investigating whether IBM violated the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, the company said in an April 30 filing.

Pentagon clears Samsung's Galaxy S4, Blackberry 10 for military use

Fri, 03 May 2013 06:33:34 -0400

While the military has relied on BlackBerrys, which have consistently received federal certification for protecting sensitive data, it had announced its intention to open its networks to Android and Apple alternatives, setting up a smartphone battle.

Nanotech firm Liquidia eyes ophthalmology opportunity with new company

Thu, 02 May 2013 16:53:14 -0400

Nanotechnology company Liquidia plans to spin off a separate company. Read more about the therapeutic and financial opportunities Liquidia sees in eye drugs.

Cleantech investor SJF Ventures closes $90M fund

Thu, 02 May 2013 14:16:03 -0400

Investor interest in cleantech investing firm SJF Ventures' third fund far outstripped expectations. See just how much the fund beat its fundraising target.

Intel names company veteran to CEO post

Thu, 02 May 2013 11:53:07 -0400

Brian Krzanich becomes the sixth CEO in Intel's history and continues its tradition of hiring for the top job from within the company's ranks.

SciQuest reports 1Q loss, cites impacts of acquisitions

Thu, 02 May 2013 10:33:28 -0400

SciQuest said its financial results were impacted by two acquisitions it made last year.

Nanotechnology firm Liquidia plans new ophthalmology company

Thu, 02 May 2013 10:08:19 -0400

The new company formed by Liquidia has an experimental glaucoma treatment expected to start clinical trials in 2014.

RF Micro details restructuring charges for closing U.K. plant

Thu, 02 May 2013 09:03:06 -0400

RF Micro Devices announced in March announced it would phase out a United Kingdom manufacturing plant and move that work Greensboro. Now the wireless devices components maker is disclosing additional financial details.

YouTube says the battle with TV is already over

Thu, 02 May 2013 07:44:52 -0400

YouTube says more 18- to 34-year olds watch YouTube than any cable network.

IBM-Lenovo server deal breaks down, sources say

Thu, 02 May 2013 07:28:48 -0400

The multi-billion deal for IBM's to sell parts of its server business to Lenovo is now in doubt over valuation concerns.

Hasty vote advances Senate bill on renewables rollback

Thu, 02 May 2013 06:55:08 -0400

Senate Bill 365 would eliminate subsidies and set-asides for renewable energy producers by 2023.

Square 1 Bank expands Pacific Northwest presence

Wed, 01 May 2013 13:50:46 -0400

Square 1 Bank has moved an executive to Seattle to help build the bank’s life sciences practice in the Pacific Northwest.

IBM moves molecules to make the smallest movie ever

Wed, 01 May 2013 11:28:33 -0400

By rearranging molecules, IBM says it has made the tiniest stop-motion movie ever -- a one-minute video showing a boy dancing, throwing a ball and bouncing on a trampoline.

RTI promotes international development veteran to VP role

Wed, 01 May 2013 10:34:43 -0400

RTI International has promoted Philip Schwehm to vice president of the Governance and Economic Development Division at the research institute.

NC's broadband network about to receive another major boost

Wed, 01 May 2013 07:55:25 -0400

The North Carolina Research and Education Network, which is operated by MCNC, will soon be a deeper, more reliable network through a new contract being announced today. We've got the details.

IBM assures shareholders of profit goals after earnings stumble

Wed, 01 May 2013 07:04:35 -0400

To shape up, IBM is divesting businesses and focusing on more profitable and faster-growing areas, such as data analysis and cloud computing.

T-Mobile to debut on NYSE after MetroPCS acquisition

Wed, 01 May 2013 06:38:03 -0400

With MetroPCS, T-Mobile now has a larger holding of airwave licenses needed to offer fast services to compete with Verizon Wireless, AT&T Inc. and Sprint Nextel Corp., the biggest carriers.

Veteran entrepreneur in charge, business accelerator Launch Chapel Hill takes off

Wed, 01 May 2013 07:57:10 -0400

Serial entrepreneur Dina Mills is now leading business accelerator Launch Chapel Hill. Read about her thoughts on fostering entrepreneurship in Chapel Hill.

Food fight: Ag biotech continues to spark debate

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 20:10:33 -0400

Perhaps no such issue is as polarizing or controversial as genetically modified organisms (GMOs), or organisms that have had DNA molecules from different sources combined into a single molecule, creating a new set of genes. The GMO debate was a highlight of the BIO International Convention.

Sponsor seeks to revive bid to end NC renewable energy subsidies

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 13:44:42 -0400

Days after his party leadership shot down his proposal to freeze and repeal the state's renewable energy standards, Rep. Mike Hager, R-Rutherford, is making a second run at moving the bill to the House floor.

RTP-based drug firm Ascletis signs deal for HIV drug rights in China

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 13:03:44 -0400

Ascletis, founded by the former head of HIV research at GlaxoSmithKline, has signed a licensing deal with Janssen, which is part of Johnson & Johnson, to develop and sell an HIV drug in China.

IBM increases dividend 12%, also adds $5B to stock buybacks

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 12:34:08 -0400

Big Blue, under pressure in recent days after a worse-than-expected earnings report triggered in part by falling hardware sales, is seeking to boost confidence in its stock with a bigger dividend and a larger share repurchase program.

Another RTP biotech company files to go public

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 11:45:36 -0400

An emerging biotech company focused on drugs to control bleeding is the latest firm with major operations and links to the Triangle to seek to go public. WRALTechWire Insiders can find out more.

Epic confirms working with well-known producer on 'Gears' movie

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 09:52:00 -0400

A spokesperson for Cary-based Epic tells WRALTechWire that the videogame company is in fact working with a big-name producer in another attempt to take "Gears of War" to movie screens.

Bankruptcy court gives OK to Dex One-SuperMedia merger

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 09:50:37 -0400

The approval clears the way for a stock-for-stock merger of the two companies with Dex One shareholders owning some 60 percent of the combined company.

Software targeting musicians takes 2 top honors at Lulu eGames

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 07:54:10 -0400

Metrix, a patent-pending software program designed to link musicians, wins two of the top cash awards in the annual Lulu eGames at N.C. State.

Study: When it comes to software progamming, older is wiser

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 07:32:48 -0400

New research from N.C. State University runs counter to conventional wisdom about older programmers losing their skills or being unable to learn new ones. In fact, the report says, older can be better.

Siri vs. Google Now: How each responds to 5 questions

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 06:41:17 -0400

Which digital assistant is best at answering questions from users? The AP puts Google Now and Apple's Siri to the test.

'Gears of War' may finally go to big screen if new deal works out

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 06:19:59 -0400

After years of talks and a deal that fell through with the "Lord of the Rings' director, Cary-based Epic Games may be nearing a deal with Hollywood for a feature film about "Gears of War." And the producer is a big name, says Hollywood's Variety.

GSK terminates Parkinson's disease treatment partnership

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 15:16:00 -0400

GSK has ended a partnership with Impax Pharmaceuticals that is developing a treatment for Parkinson's disease. Delays in regulatory approval and launch dates triggered the decision, GSK says.

E-commerce firm ChannelAdvisor's going public party may be in trouble

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 12:40:47 -0400

The Morrisville-based company makes several changes in its SEC filing that indicate a proposed offering of stock is not generating traction among investors, sources familiar with IPO filings tell WRALTechWire. What are the changes, and what could they mean?

Google Now invades Apple's Siri turf with new app

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 11:33:51 -0400

"Today, with the launch of Google Now on iPhone and iPad, your smartphone will become even smarter," Google proclaims in a blog.

Despite rumors, Lenovo won't be buying NEC mobile unit

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 09:34:01 -0400

Although reports have circulated that the world's No. 2 PC maker might expand its venture into mobile phones by acquiring NEC's business, someone else is getting the group.

FDA designates bio startup Scioderm treatment a 'Breakthrough Therapy'

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 09:07:17 -0400

More good news for Triangle biotech startup Scioderm, which last week disclosed $16 million in venture funding. Now the company says the FDA has awarded fast-track status to its lead drug candidate. What does "Breakthrough Therapy" mean? This is a rare achievement. Only 10 of 40 applications for the designation have been awarded, says the FDA.

Does Dennis Gillings really deserve his big payday as Quintiles goes public?

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 08:25:18 -0400

Financial expert Bob Broda takes a look at Quintiles' updated IPO offering, the big payday for co-founder and Chairman Dennis Gillings, and whether the stock is appealing to investors. Does Gillings deserve the cash out? Is Quintiles a good "buy"?

Why did Nortel fail? Veteran reporter gets the inside story

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 08:03:08 -0400

So why did Nortel go bankrupt, causing 8,000 job losses in RTP alone? James Bagnall, the associate business editor of The Ottawa Citizen who followed Nortel closely for years, explains how a "rush to judgment" in 2001 sealed the fate of the former telecom giant.

Greenpeace goofs on IBM, moves Big Blue up 'Cool IT' list

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 07:29:00 -0400

The folks at Greenpeace were a little red in the face - i.e. a bit embarrassed - Friday, issuing a correction about IBM and moving Big Blue up its annual "Cool IT Leaderboard." What happened?

Inside Triangle videogame industry: What developers need to hear in tough times

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 06:43:55 -0400

A record crowd turns out for the fifth annual East Coast Game Conference in Raleigh, but attendees hear the truth about surviving in the rough-and-tumble industry. WRALTechWire Insider Joe Procopio gets the real story beyond the hype of the Triangle's videogame industry hub.

Smithsonian to share with world through new broadband initiative

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 06:08:09 -0400

Through a new initiative announced last week with Internet2, the Smithsonian now will be able to share historical and cultural collections, access remote instruments, and promote interactivity with its treasures all over the world.

News in review: What made news in WRALTechWire

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 05:57:00 -0400

A look back at technology, life science and other related news as reported in WRAL Tech Wire for the week of April 22-28.

Google buys startup that summarizes online content

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 17:36:18 -0400

Wavii's natural-language technology could be useful for Google's Knowledge Graph, an 11-month-old feature that summarizes information in boxes that appear alongside some of Google's search results.

On Human Genome Project anniversary, NHGRI's Green sees Big Data bottlenecks ahead

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 16:05:33 -0400

National Human Genome Research Institute Director Eric Green recognizes the progress made since the first human genome was sequenced 10 years ago. Read about the Big Data challenges he sees ahead.

Epic Games' top marketer Kendall Boyd leaves for Microsoft post

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 12:49:16 -0400

Marketing director Kendall Boyd has left Epic Games for Microsoft. Find out what he'll be doing at at Microsoft.

Why older entrepreneurs are crucial, even in Silicon Valley

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 10:49:00 -0400

Opinion: It wasn't long ago that age was equated with knowledge. The apprentice learned from the master and the disciple from the guru. Older workers earned higher salaries because of their experience. Even today, we feel more comfortable with doctors, airline pilots, and Presidents who have grey hair. Yet older workers in many industries can't even get interviews. Whether it is in computer programming or entrepreneurship, older workers have many advantages - they still are the experts.

Don't let the golden goose get away: The need for caution when contracting with a local government unit

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 10:21:58 -0400

TechLaw: When contracting with a local government unit, it is important for businesses to consider additional legal requirements that, if not complied with, may void what appeared to be a golden opportunity.

Quintiles ups IPO target in seeking $900M through stock offering

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 08:57:58 -0400

Quintiles, the world's largest life science services company, is seeking more than $900 million through a stock offering. Find out the price per share and how many shares Chairman Dennis Gillings wants to sell.

Triangle biotech startup Scioderm lands $16M in VC funding

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 08:56:17 -0400

Silicon Valley venture capital firms rarely invest in North Carolina, but two have put up the bulk of a $16 million round in a Triangle life science firm. Find out whom the firms are, what Raleigh firm they selected, and why.

Source: IBM-Lenovo server deal could be announced Friday

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 07:01:02 -0400

Neither company is talking, but no one should be surprised if Lenovo announces today that it is acquiring at least a portion of IBM's server businesses. A source close to the matter tells WRALTechWire that a deal is in the works, and tech publication CRN reports talks are "moving quickly."

Smartphones now tops in sales; Samsung surges as iPhone sales slow

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 06:02:19 -0400

As smartphone sales surpass those of regular mobile phones for the first time, Samsung continues to grow rapidly but Apple iPhone shipments are slowing, two research firms report.

GSK drug partner Theravance to split into two ventures

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 05:36:18 -0400

Theravance formed a partnership with Glaxo a decade ago to develop respiratory treatments. Glaxo is the largest Theravance stakeholder with 27 percent of the company's shares.

Yahoo Chairman Amoroso joins boardroom exodus

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 19:13:09 -0400

Alfred Amoroso's departure announced Thursday marks the seventh member of Yahoo's board to leave since early last year.

Can a gut bacteria test predict cardiovascular disease? LipoScience aims to find out

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 19:00:39 -0400

LipoScience is developing what could be its next diagnostic. But instead of testing for particles called lipoproteins, the company now plans to test for a particular substance produced by bacteria in the gut.

Cempra widens 1Q loss, boosts R&D as antibiotics clinical trials continue

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 16:59:40 -0400

The wider loss came as the Chapel Hill company boosted R&D spending on two clinical stage compounds, including its lead antibiotics candidate solithromycin, currently in phase III trials in patients with community-acquired bacterial pneumonia.

Online vacation rentals startup VacationFutures launches in Outer Banks

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 14:26:56 -0400

Online wholesale rentals marketplace VacationFutures has launched this week in the Outer Banks.

RTI expands Big Data registry of nanomaterials

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 13:44:09 -0400

RTI International is expanding an online nanomaterial registry that allows anyone to search, brows and compare data on the characteristics of a wide variety of nanomaterials.

Plunging investments in life science startups threaten our medical future

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 13:19:56 -0400

Opinion: Venture-backed medical breakthroughs cure diseases, provide new treatment options, produce better health outcomes for patients, and raise our overall quality of life in the U.S. Today, America's medical innovation ecosystem is at risk.

Twitter reportedly bolstering security after hack of wire service account

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 12:14:44 -0400

Twitter plans to bolster security on its site after the account of the Associated Press news service was hacked and an erroneous post triggered a stock-market decline, a source tells Bloomberg news.

RTP model could make India's Genome Valley Asia's biggest biotech hub, official says

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 11:46:02 -0400

As India's Genome Valley looks to reinvent itself as a biotechnology community, it is again looking at RTP for guidance.

India's Genome Valley turns to RTP for innovation ideas

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 11:48:13 -0400

A delegation from Genome Valley, India's largest biotech cluster, visited Research Triangle Park hoping to learn from RTP's model turning research into entrepreneurship.

Microsoft unveiling new Xbox May 21?; game sales slide; Zynga slips

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 11:38:50 -0400

Microsoft Corp. plans a "special unveiling" related to the Xbox, suggesting that the world's biggest software maker use the event to introduce the latest version of its game console. Meanwhile, game industry sales fell in March, according to NPD.

New IT center will test equipment before the state buys

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 11:05:34 -0400

The patchwork of hardware, software and databases used across various state agencies makes it hard, if not impossible, for state government to get things done, Chris Estes, the state's Chief Information Officer, says. A new testing center may help solve the problem.

Durham's 'Smoffice' wins global gold at World Chamber

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 09:40:19 -0400

Just in from Qatar - Durham's "Smoffice" takes global Chamber prize in the World Chambers Congress "Most Unconventional Economic Development Project" competition.

The Smoffice victory is a salute to Triangle entrepreneurial community

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 09:34:56 -0400

Writes Adam Klein: "Being in this setting in Qatar, alongside chambers from around the world, has given me and our team greater appreciation for the amount of collaboration and the quality of the Triangle entrepreneurial community."

Google's co-founders earn $1; 4 other top execs receive $124M

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 09:07:30 -0400

Google CEO Larry Page and his longtime partner Sergey Brin limited their salaries to $1 apiece last year, while four other top executives received combined compensation packages totaling more than $124 million.

Time Warner Cable reports fewer net subscribers than analysts expected

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 09:00:33 -0400

Time Warner Cable Inc., the second-largest U.S. cable-television provider, fell as much as 4 percent in early trading after adding fewer customers than projected last quarter.

Panic at Big Blue? CEO reprimands workers, reassigns a top exec

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 07:56:22 -0400

By delivering what the Wall Street Journal describes as a "reprimand" to the entire company through an internal video and in reassigning top hardware executive Rod Adkins - who had been a contender for the CEO job - IBM CEO Ginny Rometty shows that Big Blue is in trouble. Can she right the ship?

Defeat of renewable energy subsidy bill shows 'green' power

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 07:03:57 -0400

The global fight over the wisdom of "green energy" may very well have hit a pivotal point right here in North Carolina. If a state under conservative Republican control can't repeal legislation that requires utilities to provide sustainable energy and also provides subsidies to the emerging industry then the march to a greener future is likely to continue.

IBM shuffles hardware executives after poor 1Q sales

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 22:23:40 -0400

The executive change at the top of IBM's hardware division comes after a 17 percent drop in the division's sales last quarter.

Metabolon's new biomarker technology adds to drug, nutrient testing capabilities

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 15:35:39 -0400

Biomarker discovery and analysis company Metabolon has expanded its capabilities to discover new biomarkers.

MetroPCS shareholders approve sweetened T-Mobile acquisition offer

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 14:48:53 -0400

MetroPCS Communications Inc., the country's fifth-largest cellphone carrier, said its shareholders have overwhelmingly approved the company's takeover by No. 4 T-Mobile USA.

Amazon reportedly plans set-top box for streaming video

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 13:13:36 -0400

The world's largest online retailer plans to release a television set-top box that would stream video over the Internet into customers' homes, sources tell Bloomberg news.

Natural pesticides firm TyraTech raising $4.6M for market push

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 13:09:42 -0400

Using natural ingredients, TyraTech has developed a natural pesticide targets insects and pests but is safe for people.

Google, Cisco share top spot in Greenpeace 'Cool IT Leaderboard'

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 12:07:45 -0400

The global environmental group gives high marks to Google and Cisco for their efforts to adopt sustainable energy. Greenpeace especially likes Google's deal with Duke Energy in providing power to its soon-to-be-expanded data center in Lenoir.

PPD unveils new clinical trial software

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 12:03:23 -0400

Pharmaceutical Product Development, the contract research organization widely known as PPD, has introduced new software that gives the firm’s client’s real-time access to clinical trial data.