the 411:

Move over CNN. There’s an alternative to your “Magic Wall” that offers similar interactive capabilities at a fraction of the price.

The Avatar Technologies division of St. Louis-based Avatar Studios, a media communications company, has partnered with Lishen Battery Company in Tianjin, China and Demand Energy of Spokane, WA to create a unique, touch-screen application for digital signage to be installed in the two companies’ headquarters.

Lishen is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of clean energy lithium ion batteries used in Apple computers and iphones, many handheld devices and even automobiles. Demand Energy is a pioneer in smart energy storage for the electrical grid.

The Flash-based application, called AMP Touch, allows the user easy access to a wide variety of customizable and continuously changeable content delivered through Avatar’s Intercast ® a Web based content management system to a flat screen television. This user-friendly system can be operated from anywhere with Internet access and allows users to easily upload and approve videos, build playlists and schedule distribution.

Avatar Technologies developed the AMP Touch and the Intercast system as a platform for its primary business, content development and production through Avatar Studios. The Lishen/Demand Energy project is the latest in Avatar’s many video and presentation projects in China.

“Avatar has been tapped by several clients to provide multilingual programs and content.  We have developed a roster of international producers, language experts and voice talent to meet our customers’ needs.” said Bill Faris, Avatar Studios President.  According to Faris, Avatar has a significant sales presence in China and works closely with several international clients.