Sonic and Microtech Enable Content Owners and Distributors to Monetize Broader Entertainment Libraries

NOVATO, Calif. and BELMONT, Calif., Sept. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- Sonic Solutions® (Nasdaq: SNIC) and Microtech Systems today announced a collaboration to enable the efficient, on-demand manufacturing of DVDs. Microtech has licensed Sonic's latest Qflix™ technology that supports DVD-9 (dual-layer) recording in addition to DVD-5 (single-layer), to integrate into its Xpress XP automated disc publishing system. Titles are electronically delivered to Qflix-enabled systems then recorded on-demand with the same quality, security controls, and content features as mass-replicated discs, giving content owners and distributors the ability to sell deep catalog content with virtually no inventory risk.

"With the ability to custom produce discs in response to immediate demand, Qflix-enabled publishing systems have helped production facilities reduce the cost of carrying physical inventory while making it possible for entertainment owners, retailers, and distributors to cost-effectively monetize a broader range of content," said Mark Ely, Executive Vice President, Sonic Solutions. "Qflix has already helped support successful programs for major studios and online retailers. Now, with support for DVD-9, Qflix technology can enable more titles to be manufactured on demand and deliver everything from blockbusters to film classics with superior economics."

The Qflix program offers a means for content owners to release titles for custom recording in industrial and retail environments with CSS (the industry-standard Content Scramble System) encryption. Qflix technology is being used to create discs on-demand to fulfill online orders and can also be used by retailers to broaden the number of movies they offer by augmenting physical product with the ability to record content on-demand via in-store DVD-creation kiosks.

"Microtech has been a Sonic Qflix licensee since the initial launch and we've seen a steady growth in our business as more content owners and distributors recognize the benefits of manufacturing on demand," said Corwin Nichols, CEO Microtech Systems. "With new support for DVD-9 recording, we look forward to enabling our partners to efficiently distribute and profit from a new range of content offerings."

Microtech's Xpress XP system has the largest capacity and highest throughput for manufacturing on demand production with six Qflix recorders supported on a single automated publisher. The fully-automated system allows DVD-5 and DVD-9 titles to be produced without additional programming.

About Microtech

Established in 1980, Microtech Systems is a pioneer in the development of automated digital content storage. Microtech is a manufacturer and global supplier of robotic CD/DVD/HD & Blu-ray on demand fulfillment systems. For more information visit: www.microtech.com.

About Sonic Solutions

Sonic Solutions® (NASDAQ: SNIC) is powering the digital media ecosystem through its complete range of Hollywood to Home™ applications, services, and technologies. Sonic's Roxio products enable consumers to easily manage and enjoy personal media and premium Hollywood entertainment on a broad range of connected devices. A wide array of leading technology firms, professionals, businesses, and developers rely on Sonic to bring innovative digital media functionality to next-generation devices and platforms. Sonic Solutions is headquartered in Marin County, California.

Forward Looking Statements

This release may contain forward looking statements that are based upon current expectations, including the launch, distribution, and market acceptance of Qflix. Actual results could differ materially from those projected in the forward looking statements as a result of various risks and uncertainties, including those discussed in Sonic Solutions' annual and quarterly reports on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. This press release should be read in conjunction with Sonic Solutions' most recent annual report on Form 10-K, Form 10-Q and other reports on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which contain a more detailed discussion of the Company's business including risks and uncertainties that may affect future results. Sonic Solutions does not undertake to update any forward looking statements.

Sonic, the Sonic logo, Sonic Solutions, Roxio, RoxioNow, Qflix, and Hollywood to Home, are trademarks or registered trademarks owned by Sonic Solutions in the United States and/or other countries. All other company or product names are trademarks of their respective owners and, in some cases, are used by Sonic Solutions under license. Specifications, pricing and delivery schedules are subject to change without notice.

SOURCE Sonic Solutions