SINGAPORE -- 25 July 2000 -- Cisco Systems, Inc., the worldwide leader in networking for the Internet, and Aretae Interactive Ltd., a leading provider of Internet business solutions, have launched a new technology solution called Internet Powered Property (IP2). This is designed to equip the real estate industry with a comprehensive package of products and services needed to build Internet-ready homes. The Equatorial, launched by City Developments Limited (CDL), is the first development to benefit from IP2.
The IP2 solution is aimed at property developers, property management companies, mechanical and engineering consultants, architects, interior designers and systems integrators. The solution is offered as a series of modular building blocks made up of hardware, software and services, giving developers the freedom to pick and choose different components to suit their individual requirements.
The IP2 solution combines Cisco's networking technology and software applications, with Aretae Interactive's business and technology consultancy services. The IP2 software solution set comprises a Property Management Portal, Home Dashboard Application complete with integrated content and services.
Mr. Khoong Hock Yun, Assistant Chief Executive (Infocomm Development) at the Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore said, "Since the IDA/Cisco joint launch of the Internet Home project in a Bishan HDB flat, we have seen a surge in the demand for knowledge and tools to build Internet ready homes and offices. IP2 is a good example of an industry led initiative to enable Broadband Internet access services and appliances for both residential and commercial properties in Singapore."
Mr. David Leong, Chairman of Aretae Interactive said, "More and more developers are constructing 'Intelligent Buildings' to differentiate their properties. The convergence of the PC, the Internet and consumer electronics is creating a new wave of interest in the modern e-lifestyle. To address this demand, we've created a complete solution for the real estate industry which not only makes it easy to build Internet-powered offices and homes but also provides a full-range of services and applications necessary for the e-lifestyle."
Mr. Bill Chang, Cisco Systems Managing Director for Singapore, said, "IP2 is the first commercial e-property solution to emerge from CiscoNet. Our vision for CiscoNet, of which Aretae Interactive is a member, is to create an entire ecosystem of real estate developers, software vendors, systems integrators, e-business solutions providers, and other complementary service providers. Under the CiscoNet initiative, Cisco will provide ecosystem members with a framework for the development of Internet-enabled commercial and residential properties as well as training in networking and Internet technologies."
"This collaboration between Cisco and Aretae Interactive in IP2 delivers a complete solution that includes all the applications and services needed to make the Internet home or office a reality. We are, in effect, helping to accelerate the adoption of the e-lifestyle by making it easier for developers to build Internet powered properties in Singapore," added Mr. Chang.
"Cisco Systems and Aretae Interactive have come up with exactly the right solution for a problem challenging many of our members," said Mr. Ho Wing Yin, Executive Director, REDAS. "Many companies in the real estate industry are keen to build 'intelligent' homes and offices with Internet capabilities and will benefit from the CiscoNet initiative which provides a good foundation."
Keplandehub is also an early adopter of IP2.
About Aretae Interactive
Headquartered in Singapore and with offices in Taiwan and Hong Kong, with the intention of expanding regionally, Aretae's clients include DBS Bank, Sony and SingTel. Aretae Interactive is a rapidly growing end-to-end Internet business solutions provider operating in Asia. Aretae uses its 3-Pillar Framework of Strategy, Design and Technology to provide strategic consulting services, comprehensive Internet business solutions and application hosting services. For more information, go to: www.aretae.com.
About Cisco Systems
Cisco Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: CSCO) is the worldwide leader in networking for the Internet. Cisco news and information are available at www.cisco.com.
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