Cisco to Acquire NDS for Video Security

Cisco (CSCO) announced its intent to acquire NDS Group Ltd., a leading provider of video software and content security solutions that enable service providers and media companies to securely deliver and monetize new video entertainment experiences. NDS will become an integral part of Cisco's next-generation entertainment platform and broaden Cisco's opportunities in the service provider market. The approximately $5 billion acquisition has been approved by the boards of directors of both companies.

"Cisco and NDS are helping drive the transition that will enable service providers and media companies to offer new revenue-generating video experiences," said Dr. Abe Peled, Executive Chairman at NDS.  "NDS's open software video platform and services are highly complementary to Cisco technology, and together we are uniquely positioned to enable service providers to deliver fresh and exciting multi-screen video services to their customers.  A key component of NDS's success has been our open software and services model, working with a wide range of set-top box manufacturers to enable greater choice for our customers; following this acquisition this strategy will continue and expand the choice of hardware solutions available to service providers worldwide."

In another video-related deal, Avaya announced it has signed an agreement to acquire RADVISION Ltd. (RVSN), a leading provider of videoconferencing and telepresence technologies over IP and wireless networks. The enterprise video infrastructure and high value endpoints from RADVISION will be integrated with Avaya's Aura Unified Communications platform to create a solution designed to accelerate the adoption of video collaboration.The RADVISION portfolio includes a full range of videoconferencing products, technologies and expertise serving enterprises, small business, and service providers. It includes standards-based applications, open infrastructure and endpoints for ad-hoc and scheduled videoconferencing with room-based systems, desktop, and mobile consumer devices. The approximately $230 million acquisition has been approved by each company's Board of Directors.

"The opportunity for personal workspace is now. Customers demand a rich, collaborative user experience that is interoperable and easy to use, said Kevin Kennedy, president and CEO of Avaya.  "In addition, we believe this transaction will leverage a highly-skilled, incredibly talented and experienced workforce ready to deliver video to enterprise customers. With this acquisition we will seek to extend videoconferencing to any device, anytime, anywhere, making it as easy as a phone call, seizing the opportunity to deliver a fully-integrated solution and architecture that we believe sets us apart from the competition."