SanDisk

Microsoft is working on turning USB-based flash drives into a “Windows companion” — a new product known as “StartKey” — that will allow users to carry their Windows and Windows Live settings with them.

StartKey isn’t just for USB sticks; it also will work on other flash-storage devices, like SD memory cards. Microsoft is looking to turn these intelligent storage devices portable “computing companions” for users in both developed and emerging markets, with availability (at least in beta form) likely before the end of this year, according to sources who asked not to be named.

SanDisk and Big Fish Games Inc. today announced a new web site offering a large library of casual games that run on USB flash drives enabled with U3™ smart technology.

The new site address - www.bigfishgames.com/sandisk

SanDisk Corporation today announced availability of Cruzer® Contour, a sleek USB flash drive that brings together high-end design and blazing speed. Much like a fine wristwatch, Cruzer Contour is a luxury personal accessory as well as a piece of functional technology.

Available in 4 gigabyte (GB) and 8 GB capacities, Cruzer Contour’s features include:

SanDisk today introduced Cruzer® Contour™, a USB flash drive with the elegant look and feel of a fine fountain pen or wristwatch. The elegance extends inside Cruzer Contour, with state-of-the-art engineering, support for Windows® ReadyBoost™, and, a generous gallery of pre-installed U3™ software applications. Cruzer Contour will be available in the United States in March in three models with suggested retail pricing of $89.99 for 2GB, $149.99 for 4GB and $239.99 for 8GB.

SanDisk today announced the completion of its acquisition of msystems Ltd. in an all stock transaction valued at approximately $1.5 billion.

Digitimes reports that SanDisk and M-Systems will start billing a 5% royalty fee from NAND flash disk drive makers that adopt the U3 platform, according to sources at controller IC design houses.

Read more here 

SanDisk and msystems today entered into definitive agreements for SanDisk to acquire msystems in an all stock transaction. This combination joins together two flash memory pioneers with complementary products, customers and channels. Together the combined company will have the people, technology, manufacturing and IP to play a leading role in creating new markets and accelerating the penetration of flash memory into existing storage applications.