As new research shows the benefits of bilingual learning for the brain and the importance of foreign language skills to employers, we're pleased to announce the release of Portuguese Immersion, the latest in our line of foreign language "Immersion" apps for iPhone and iPad. As an educational app developer, we've long been committed to encouraging foreign language education for all ages, especially since strong foreign language skills can offer many benefits. For example, being comfortable with another language is often seen as a way for job seekers to stand out in a tough market, as demonstrated by a recent survey of HR managers conducted by the British Council, Booz Allen Hamilton and Ipsos Public Affairs. According to the study, released in March, finding job candidates with foreign language skills is one of the top challenges for businesses today. Asked about the importance of "intercultural skills" to employers, many organizations stated that employees with these skills bring in new clients, facilitate work within diverse teams and support the organization's brand and reputation. Multilingualism is seen as a strong indicator of these coveted intercultural abilities. However, HR managers report that fewer than half of job candidates display this skill. With our Language Immersion apps, users can acquire new language skills with confidence while playing fun "find it" games and exploring real-world settings.

Our latest language release, Portuguese Immersion, features realistic environments, fast "find it" games and over 700 Portuguese words and phrases. Users listen to and speak aloud words and phrases while exploring scenes such as a restaurant or market, and matching pictures to the words. Portuguese Immersion is an easy and effective way for beginners and travelers to learn to speak Portuguese and is a quick, entertaining refresher for advanced and intermediate speakers.

In addition to potential career benefits, scientific research also continues to show the benefits of foreign language learning, as in a recent study published in the Journal of Neuroscience which suggested a connection between bilingualism and faster reaction time. According to the study, speaking more than one language can reduce the decline of cognitive flexibility over time, specifically in older adults. As a family-oriented developer with a background in both casual games and educational programs, we're committed to creating apps that combine education with fun games for a lifetime of learning. To this end, the Language Immersion apps are part of our extended line of educational language apps for iOS, Android, Windows and Mac which also includes the popular Play & Learn series, the top-selling series Speak & Learn, the Flash Card Fun language apps, Spanish Travel Talk, Audio-Forum apps and more.

Full press release online at PRWeb.

We have lots of new apps this week! First up, Scottish Gaelic Immersion for iPhone. Learn a new language with "find it" games and over 700 words and phrases! We've also released French Basic Course Advanced B (Level 4) for iOS. Learn French in as little as 25 minutes a day with Audio-Forum courses! You'll be amazed at how easy it is to achieve fluency in French using this proven audio/text method. Next we have Home Massage for Mac. There’s nothing like massage for relaxing your body and soothing away the stresses and strains of your busiest day! Finally, Hidden Collection 2 HD for Android Tablet. From the makers of the Top 100 iPad trivia game Hidden Collection - Go on a quest for hidden objects in sixteen fun locations, including a carousel, tropical beach, pool hall and more. Uncover hidden treasures in detailed indoor and outdoor scenes filled with over 1000 carefully placed items. We're always adding more new iPhone®, iPad®, Mac, Android, Kindle and NOOK apps, so be sure to check back often for updates.