iConnect.com and Marvel Launch MarvelOnline ISP

Posted on November 28, 2000

iConnect.com, a developer of branded Internet services has launched its latest Internet Service Provider (ISP), MarvelOnline. Known as ``the official Internet Service of the Marvel Universe,'' MarvelOnline leverages Marvel's more than 4700 proprietary characters, including the X-Men and Spiderman.

``MarvelOnline is an important enhancement to our web strategy,'' commented Bill Jemas, president of publishing and new media at Marvel Enterprises. ``Marvel fans will really like the features and benefits of the service. And we get to extend our brand even further on the Internet.''

``We have high expectations for MarvelOnline,'' said Michael Salaman, iConnect.com's CEO. ``The goal of MarvelOnline is to pass real savings and discounts on comic book related products and services, back to the millions of Marvel comic book fans around the world, by aggregating their purchasing power through their exclusive membership in MarvelOnline.''

MarvelOnline will offer to subscribers nationwide dial-up Internet access, eight email addresses branded with their favorite Marvel character, (e.g. yourname@x-men.com), access to a member-only homepage with exclusive content and benefits, behind-the-scenes peeks at Marvel's famed ``Bullpen'', a free limited edition X-Men comic, discounted ecommerce, and other incentives. Monthly service fees are $16.95 to $19.95 for unlimited access. MarvelOnline also offers a $4.95 ``bring your own access'' plan that allows subscribers to join the service without switching from their current ISP.

MarvelOnline is launching with a nationwide marketing blitz which includes comic book bundles (the installation CD is included with select Marvel comics) and links from the Marvel.com site. In addition, there will be exhibits at comic-book conventions and distribution at comic-book retailers. MarvelOnline will be an extension of Marvel.com, the company's website that provides content and community tools based around Marvel comic book characters.