They have agreed to cross-licence each other's intellectual property that address fundamental capabilities for computer and server-based infrastructure in the gaming industry, including IGT's Alcorn authentication and encryption patents.

"This agreement underscores the strong commitment by both companies to drive industry change, clearing the way to provide casino operators with significant new benefits and players with innovative gaming experiences enabled by the advanced technology of networked gaming," said Brian R Gamache, President and Chief Executive Officer for WMS.

TJ Matthews, Chief Executive Officer of IGT, said, "This agreement will provide the momentum for both companies to achieve their common vision - a revolution in networked gaming applications, player features, and casino entertainment. The agreement accelerates the introduction of innovative, value-add applications previously announced by IGT and WMS, such as IGT's award-winning sb Service Window."

In early March, IGT and Cyberview Technology engaged in preliminary discussions regarding IGT's potential acquisition of Cyberview. The parties agreed to an exclusive negotiating period. Under the terms being discussed, shareholders, option holders and warrant holders of Cyberview would receive aggregate consideration of up to US$70 million for all of the outstanding equity securities of Cyberview. Neither company made further comment.

While IGT has an estimated 70 percent share of the worldwide slot machine market, its own serverbased gaming system has been tested in several properties and obtained regulatory approval, but has yet to roll out in significant numbers. Cyberview, on the other hand, has developed a robust server-based system that runs some 9,000 slot machines in the UK. It was in the final stages of acquiring a manufacturing licence from Nevada regulators when the process was put on hold, presumably pending the outcome of the acquisition discussions.

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