In Hand Guides signs breakthrough deal for language software provision
Under the deal, Canadian mobile tourism specialist AudioConexus will distribute the Cork-based company’s hand-held audio device, which will be triggered by GPS to give visitors location-specific guided tours to Toronto’s colourful history and many attractions. In November, the company signed a similar deal with Twin America to equip its fleet of 100 double-decker tour buses in New York city.
In partnership with Cork City Council, In Hand Guides has also created a guide in Mandarin for Chinese visitors to Cork.
Company founder and chief executive Trevor Winckworth said: “We have formed a partnership with AudioConexus. They have added our product into their portfolio, which is used in cinemas and public buildings across north America. There is one deal already in the offing which will cover the initial $1.2m in our partnership agreement.
“We are also developing a wireless version of the product that will be tested in Mallow’s digital hub in the next few months.
“We have also received an Enterprise Ireland investment which will help us with product development. So we’re only being held back now by the lack of funding from the banks.”
The Enterprise Ireland investment will fund three new full-time jobs for the company, as part of a product development initiative with Cork Institute of Technology. All of the company’s audio guide devices are developed in Cork. Audio and voice work is facilitated by actor Conor Tallon.
The company will support AudioConexus from its office in the business district of Manhattan. Aided by Enterprise Ireland, Irish companies now employ over 4,200 people in New York.
