Kona firm
hopes to fuel
’Net commerce

The company has unveiled
a product that improves Web-page
viewers' communication

Star-Bulletin staff

A technology business in Kona said today it has launched a new invention to boost businesses' sales through the Internet.

The product is software that lets Web-page viewers not only see a video on their computer screens but also chat with a sales representative by exchanging text messages online.

What makes it different from others is that it works through Java, a programming language included in most new computers, said CJ Villa, president of privately owned Kona Systems Inc., developer of the system. Computer users on the receiving end don't need special plug-in software to open and run the video, he said.

Kona Systems said its trademarked WebHeads system allows any Web page owner to add a color video that can be seen and heard through the latest versions of the most popular Internet browsers.

The ChatHeads version also allows a live exchange of messages between the viewer and the company promoting products or services on the Web. A BannerHeads version that allows businesses to place a banner advertisement on their Web site along with the video feed.

Villa said the programs are designed for low-bandwidth communications, allowing users of common dial-up Internet services to view them. He said the company has patents pending for the system.

For additional company information, check http://www.konasys.com.