Cisco Entrepreneurs in Residence (Cisco EIR) is a unique 6-month startup program that supports entrepreneurs working on the next big ideas in the Internet of Everything (IoE), Smart Cities, Big Data/analytics and other transformational opportunities strategic to Cisco.

I’m pumped to share LISNR has been selected into this elite program – joining the ranks of more than two dozen companies hand-picked by Cisco to develop ground-breaking innovations.

LISNR had to undergo a rigorous multi-phase selection process, which included evaluating the viability of our business plan, the merits and competitive differentiation of our technology, the strength of our teams and overall alignment with Cisco’s strategic focus. The process culminated with LISNR CEO Rodney Williams presenting to a panel of Cisco executives and technology experts.

Disruptive Technology

Cisco EIR was founded to “build relationships with early-stage innovators who are about to reshape our industry’s future through truly disruptive technologies.”

With the ability to send data over audio, LISNR’s SmartTones are redefining “right place, right time” messaging.

Unlike other wireless data communications, LISNR’s SmartTones deliver data over inaudible sound waves to mobile apps. Because these audio tones are delivered through existing speaker infrastructure, no new hardware or other costly implementations are needed to turn any audio speaker into a beacon capable of sending video, data and messages.

This means all infrastructures outfitted with speaker or microphone equipment – stadiums, indoor or outdoor venues, and even TVs – can transmit SmartTones, creating opportunities for live events, sports venues and broadcasters to create new engagement opportunities with fans.

Next Steps for LISNR

Over the next six months, LISNR will participate in multiple Cisco EIR  events and have the opportunity to work with Cisco product and engineer teams. Additionally, LISNR will be paired with a Cisco executive who will serve as a mentor/advocate, helping drive market validation and assisting LISNR in getting traction for this new technology.

“LISNR has gained momentum in the entertainment space through working with professional sports teams, brands and retailers and major music festivals,” says LISNR CEO Rodney Williams. “Now we’re looking at wider opportunities. Our collaboration with Cisco helps us continue on the path toward having a dominant presence across industries. LISNR will be the world’s leading communication protocol, connecting devices and overcoming communication challenges between devices everywhere.”

Cisco EIR has incubated 17 companies to date. We are thrilled to join this group. The program represents everything we believe is possible with a strong entrepreneurial spirit and ground-breaking innovation.

To keep up with other news and other data over sound applications, follow @LISNR.

LISNR is the creator of SmartTones, a new technology that sends data over audio. LISNR uses an inaudible digital sound file to turn any device into a beacon. LISNR gives brands and content creators a platform that delivers second-screen experiences and proximity-based messaging. Clients include Budweiser, Roc Nation, Shakira and Sony. For more information, visit www.lisnr.com.

LISNR is a high frequency, inaudible technology; a new communication protocol that sends data over audio. As the leaders of the Internet of Sound, we use inaudible sound waves called SmartTones™, to transmit information.  LISNR essentially transmits customizable packets of data every second that enable proximity data transmission, second-screen functionality, authentication and low-fi device to deviceconnectivity on any LISNR enabled device.  We enable this functionality better and more efficiently than bluetooth (proximity), ACR (2nd Screen), and NFC/RFID (authentication). As an integrated software partner, LISNR can power devices to connect with world around better than ever before.

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