IBM, Verizon, Levi’s and Mattel teamed up with the USC Annenberg School for Communication & Journalism to support a series of projects and initiatives focused on both real-world applications and a societal impact. Students of the school supervised by teaching staff will work together under the roof of the recently-founded Annenberg Innovation Lab, which projects are sponsored by the brands.

Coca-Cola, IBM, Microsoft and Google lead Interbrand‘s 11th annual ranking of the «Best Global Brands.»  Google (#4) sees a 36% increase in value over last year, bringing the brand closer than ever to rival Microsoft (#3). HP (#10) enters the top 10 for the first time, having increased brand value under a new business model and brand platform. For the 11th year straight, Coca-Cola (#1) retains its top spot as the number one ranked brand on the list.