There.com Launches Second Project with MTV Networks, Developing & Hosting New 'Virtual Hills' 3D Virtual World

There.com Launches Second Project with MTV Networks, Developing & Hosting New 'Virtual Hills' 3D Virtual World

SAN MATEO, Calif., Jan. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- There.com parent company Makena Technologies announced today that it has collaborated with MTV Networks to launch "Virtual Hills," an online extension of the popular MTV television show "The Hills." Fans of the show can immerse themselves in a virtual environment that replicates the show's Hollywood setting, interact with cast members in- world, and participate in special events closely tied to the show's storyline.

The project extends the relationship between MTV Networks and Makena Technologies that began with last fall's launch of "Virtual Laguna Beach," a 3D social virtual world based on the hit MTV reality show.

Going live at 7 pm tonight at http://www.virtualhills.mtv.com/ , "Virtual Hills" enables users to live the LA lifestyle celebrated in the show as well as meet, socialize and create experiences inspired by "The Hills."

MTV Networks and cast members are working together to create and execute special events. Currently on the calendar are a series of fashion challenges by stars Lauren and Whitney, concerts and dance competitions hosted by music lover Audrina, and exclusive nightclub and at-home parties arranged and orchestrated by resident social butterfly Heidi.

"Both 'Virtual Laguna Beach' and 'Virtual Hills' represent a fresh use of the online medium to strengthen the connection between consumers and TV programming," said Michael Wilson, CEO of Makena Technologies. "MTV Networks is the first to recognize the potential for using social virtual worlds to enhance the viewer experience and build a stronger bond with the audience."

"Makena Technologies has been a great partner on the development and hosting of Virtual Laguna Beach and their expertise has been just as important to the launch of Virtual Hills," said Matt Bostwick, senior vice president of business development for MTV Networks' Music and Logo Group. "They've helped us realize our vision for creating immersive environments that extend our core franchises and allow us to deeply engage with our audiences in new and meaningful ways."

About Makena Technologies, Inc.

Makena Technologies is the parent company of There.com, a fully interactive 3D online social network where members can hang out with friends, get involved in There.com-sponsored events ranging from paintball to fashion shows, create their own events, build and decorate a virtual home, and participate in building the community. The site offers sophisticated integration of multi-person voice chat, avatars who communicate with a full range of emotions, a virtual economy enabling users to buy and sell items using a currency called Therebucks, and a PG-13 environment suitable for ages 13 and up. The company has offices in San Mateo, CA and Laguna Beach, CA. For more information, visit http://www.there.com/ .

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Source: Makena Technologies, Inc.

CONTACT: Belinda Banks of S&S Public Relations, +1-908-685-2300,
belinda@sspr.com

Web site: http://www.virtualhills.mtv.com/
http://www.there.com/

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