• DirecTV sticks with Convergys
By Brian Santo

DirecTV has extended its contract with Convergys for another two years.

Convergys has provided customer service support for DirecTV since the satellite company launched in 1994, including information and services changes to billing and account inquiries and setup.

In the past year, Convergys has re-signed many of its largest accounts, including Comcast, Time Warner Cable and Insight Communications.

• Level 3 to expand in Seattle area
By The Associated Press

SEATTLE (AP) – Internet-network provider Level 3 Communications Inc. is expanding its operations in the Seattle area, the company said Monday.

Level 3, based in Broomfield, Colo., said the move is aimed at improving its services for mid-sized business customers.

The company will be expanding fiber-optic connections in the area and adding sales and customer support workers. It did not say how much it will be spending on the upgrades.

• Macrovision in license deal with Sony
By The Associated Press

SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) – Macrovision Solutions Corp. has reached a deal with Sony Corp. to license its television program guide technology and patents, the company said Monday.

Aside from providing TV listings, Macrovision's technology allows electronics makers like Japan's Sony to install interactive guide features directly into TVs and DVD and Blue-ray devices, as well as other machines.

Macrovision, a digital home entertainment company, did not disclose financial details of the agreement or say when the multiyear contract expires.