Office 12 for Mobiles

As Microsoft pushes the old office suite forward once more. It seems that this new release will also make available versions of applications inside the suite, custom made for mobile devices

Everybody is expecting the release of a new Beta for Office 12 as Microsoft pushes the old office suite forward once more. It seems that this new release will also make available versions of applications inside the suite, custom made for mobile devices.

At the end of last week, Microsoft sent notices to the first group of testers accepted to participate to the Office 12 Beta 1 program. The company let the testers know they should expect to receive the Beta 1 code, documentation
and support sometime in the next two to three weeks.

In addition to the Office 12 desktop suite, Microsoft is also updating the Exchange Server and SharePoint Portal Server products.

Still, the issue of Office 12 for Windows Mobile is not very clear as none of the Microsoft representatives made any official statements on the subject. We are aware of rumors from partners close to Microsoft who said there is another Office 12 suite, designed for Windows Mobile, that will include viewers for Word, Excel and PowerPoint, and these applications should be light enough to run on smartphones and PDAs.

Spice Telecom kicks off New Strategic Initiatives

Spice Telecom, the premier telecom service provider today announced that Mr. Prakash Nanani has taken over as the Chief Executive Officer for Punjab and Karnataka circles. Mr. Prakash Nanani unveiled the new Spice logo.

Spice Telecom kicks off New Strategic Initiatives
spice.jpg
Mr. Prakash Nanani takes over as the Chief Executive Officer for Punjab &  Karnataka circles
Spice unveils the new brand logo
Launches first of its kind Lifelong Validity Offer on Mahabuck
 
 Chandigarh, October 28, 2005: Spice Telecom, the premier telecom service provider today announced that Mr. Prakash Nanani has taken over as the Chief Executive Officer for Punjab & Karnataka circles. Mr. Prakash Nanani unveiled the new Spice logo. The new Spice logo shall be common to Spice group companies operating in the ICE (Information, Communication & Entertainment) sector. The new brand identity is derived from the Brand Core Purpose, Brand Vision & Brand Values. Mr. Prakash Nanani also announced the launch of a first-of-its kind ‘Life time validity’ offer on Mahabuck for Spice pre-paid subscribers.
 
 
 Mr. Prakash Nanani takes over as the Chief Executive Officer, Spice Telecom

Mr. Prakash Nanani, has taken over as the CEO, he confirmed the news of the exit of Distacom from the mobile service venture. The Honk Kong based Distacom, the foreign shareholder has sold its stake in the B.K.Modi promoted Spice Telecom, to Ashmore Investment Management Ltd., a financial investor and the Deutsche Bank Group.

Mr. Nanani also stated that Mr. Navin Kaul, former Chief Operating Officer, Punjab circle, has taken over as the Chief Operating Officer, Karnataka circle.

Speaking at the occasion Mr. Nanani, stated that “Spice being the oldest cellular operator in this region, has always remained focused and committed towards developing state-of-the-art telecommunication infrastructure and Spice Telecom is also in the process of consolidating and investing in various disciplines, like network and technology upgradation, increase in infrastructure and resources and also enhancement of the brand image.”

New Spice Logo

Spice is owned by Mcorp Global, the holding company for the brand. Mcorp Global is focusing on the ICE sector and in this direction has been building on the strength of its subsidiaries that have been in operation in this sector, like Spice Telecom & Spice Mobile. The group has also made recent forays into certain specific market segments of the ICE sector, like Spice Malls & Multiplexes. The group believes that it will gain from having a common brand for the ICE sector, as it would be able to gain from the economies of scale in branding & marketing. A common consumer brand shall also foster greater consumer awareness for the brand and in time lead to greater trust in the brand.

The Spice logo is depicted in Orange, Purple, Green, Blue & Yellow colours. The colors of the brand logo depicts specific values that are synonymous to Spice Telecom: Orange – Vibrancy, Purple – Innovation, Green – Freshness, Blue – Trust & Yellow – Fun.

The new Spice brand identity is derived from the Brand Core Purpose, Brand Vision & Brand Values. The strategy for the brand is captured concisely by these:

Brand Core Purpose: To always be the first to provide user-friendly and innovative solutions for young minds in the ICE space

Brand Vision: To be the most preferred choice for energetic young minds
for ICE products and services by 2011

Brand Values: Fun, Innovative, Vibrant, Empathy, Trust, Speed of Response

The new Spice identity shall be shared by a group of companies namely: Spice Telecom (GSM service provider), Spice Mobile Phone (Mobile Handset), Spice Mega Malls & Multiplexes (Commercial Property (Development & Management), Spice Films (Film Production), Spice Onshore Telecom BPO and Spice IT Peripherals (Printers & Computer Hardware). The new Spice logo will ensure that a common identity is created that is synergistic and relevant to all the companies. All these companies shall work in tandem to provide consumer delight.

First of its kind offer – Life time Validity on Maha Buck

Spice today announced the launch a first of its kind offer in India for Spice Megatalk pre-paid subscribers termed as the ‘Maha Buck’ offer. Maha Buck provides
Spice Megatalk subscribers Life time validity on a recharge of Rs. 3300.

The details of Spice Maha Buck Voucher are as follows:

MRP of Maha Recharge: Rs.3+300/-

Talktime on Maha Recharge: Rs.500/-

Validity on Maha Recharge: Life Long

Subscriber who avail this offer cannot have zero balance for consecutive 90 days, and will have to be on the Megatalk tariff plan.

 
  About Spice Telecom
 
  Spice is Punjab’s premier mobile phone service provider and is the first cellular operator in India to be ISO 9001-2000 certified for its entire operations. Spice has an extensive network across more than 205 cities and towns in the state, covering 95% of Punjab’s urban area. In addition, it also covers more than 3250 km of roads and highways in Punjab including connectivity on the National Highway and GT Road. Spice subscribers can roam on national and international networks. In fact, Spice has the highest International roaming coverage involving tie-ups with over 414 International operators across 199 countries.
 

Samsung launches SGH D600 in the Indian market

Global technology
leader, Samsung Electronics today announced the launch of its 2 Mega pixel , quadband masterpiece, the SGH D 600 in the Indian market

Samsung launches SGH – D600 in the Indian market
– The perfect balance of business and multimedia
(Nov,17,2005 / SEC)
New Delhi, November 16, 2005: Global technology
leader, Samsung Electronics today announced the launch of its 2 Mega pixel , quad
band masterpiece, the SGH D 600 in the Indian market. The superior design of the
D600 slides up to reveal a digital camera quality imaging solution in a mobile
handset that sets the standard in its balance of function and design. Weighing
a mere 103 gms, the SGH – D 600 maintains a perfect balance of business
and multimedia.

d600_press4.jpg

Priced at Rs.23,999/-, the D600 is equipped with 2.0 Mega pixel camera with
flash and MPEG4 video recording and messaging that stand out on the 262144 colors
of the striking 2.0” QVGA LCD. Samsung’s business sense of D600
allows the user to stay connected and well informed. Embedded software, called
Picsel Viewer in the D600, allows access to business critical information in
a seamless, graphically rich environment. Supporting a variety of file types,
including all popular office formats like MS Word, PowerPoint, Excel, PDF ,
HTML and Standard Image formats , the D600 displays downloads exactly as they
appear on a desktop PC to view , manipulate and send .
d600_press2.jpg
With a world first feature of Direct TV output link, the D600 can even display
data files, videos, images directly onto a Television screen as well as a beam
projector onto a screen for instant projection. This link can also be used to
plug and play the MP3 player on audio systems like it allows you to play games
on TV screens. All in all, this truly world class feature of direct output function
takes the concept of ‘shared entertainment’ to a different level
in mobile phones.
d600_press3.jpg

Piscel Viewer , Bluetooth wireless sharing and mobile printing , PictBridge
, TV Output support, Sync ML DS , Email client capabilities , USB 1.1 and TransFlash
memory combine to make the D600 a mobile office master .The world’s smallest
removable storage module , TransFlash supplements the existing mobile phone
storage while allowing for easy transfer of personal content.

A music player adds to its abilities with MP3/AAC/AAC+ as well as dual speakers
for 3D sound and Bluetooth stereo headset compatibility. States Mr. H C Ryu,
Director, Telecom, Samsung India, “The SGH D600 is targeted both at professionals
and high life seekers who are looking for a perfect blend of business and multimedia
solution from their phones .” The D600 also supports a 7 regional language
regional menu in Hindi, Marathi, Tamil, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada and Punjabi.

About Samsung Electronics:

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. is a global leader in semiconductor, telecommunication,
digital media and digital convergence technologies with 2004 parent company
sales of US$55.2 billion and net income of US$10.3 billion. Employing approximately
113,000 people in over 90 offices in 48 countries, the Company consists of five
main business units: Digital Appliance Business, Digital Media Business, LCD
Business, Semiconductor Business and Telecommunication Network Business. Recognized
as one of the fastest growing brands, Samsung Electronics is the world’s largest
producer of color monitors, color TVs, memory chips and TFT-LCDs.

SGH D600 SPECIFICATIONS

    * GPRS Class 10, QUAD – BAND (850/900/1800/1900MHz)

    * 2.0 Mega at 1600 x 1200 pixels/ CMOS Built-in Camera with Flash and 3.3x
      Zoom

    * 262144 TFT Colour QVGA LCD (240 x 320 pixels, 2.0")

    * Internal Memory – 69 MB

    * External Memory Slot (Trans Flash – 64MB included with phone)

    * Dual Speaker for 3D Sound

    * Music Player & Ringtones (MP3, MIDI, AAC, AAC+)

    * Camcorder & Video Messaging (MPEG4, H.263)

    * Picsel Viewer / PictBridge / Direct TV Output

    * Video Wallpaper / Video Caller ID

    * Bluetooth , SyncML, E-mail Client

    * Battery time (900 mAh) ; Talk Time : 7H , Standby Time : 300 H

Hutch gets 140 million dollar loan for expansion in india

Hutchison Essar Ltd, India’s fourth largest mobile-phone company, got a $140mn to expand its phone network in India

Hutchison Essar Ltd, India’s fourth largest mobile-phone company, got a $140mn to expand its phone network in India.
The deal is the first syndicated loan for Hutchison Essar, a joint venture between Hutchison Whampoa Ltd.’s Hong Kong-based Hutchison Telecommunications International Ltd. and the Essar Group in Mumbai.

The deal was arranged by Bank of America Securities LLC, N Bayerische Hypo-UND Vereinsbank AG, Chinatrust Commercial Bank, Rabobank NA and Raiffeisen Zentralbank Oesterreich AG.
   

Motorola to assemble GSM Phones in India

MOTOROLA TO ASSEMBLE GSM PHONES IN INDIA – intends to upgrade the unit into a manufacturing facility in phases

Motorola is setting up a unit in collaboration with a multinational company to assemble global system for mobile communication (GSM) phones in India. It proposes to upgrade the unit into a manufacturing facility in phases and hopes to finalise the project in Dec 2005. Elcoteq Network Corporation of Finland is setting up a unit in India to manufacture 6 million mobile handsets a year for Nokia and Sony Ericsson. LG and Nokia also plan to manufacture mobile handsets in India.

Source: [tmcnet.com ]

Intellisync Corporation to be Acquired by Nokia

Nokia (NYSE: NOK) and Intellisync (NASDAQ: SYNC) today announced they have signed a definitive agreement for Nokia to acquire Intellisync, a leader in platform-independent wireless messaging and applications for mobile devices

NOKIA PRESS RELEASE November 16, 2005

Nokia to extend leadership in enterprise mobility with acquisition of Intellisync

Combined product portfolios will provide more choice for carriers and businesses
 
New York, USA  – Nokia (NYSE: NOK) and Intellisync (NASDAQ: SYNC) today announced they have signed a definitive agreement for Nokia to acquire Intellisync, a leader in platform-independent wireless messaging and applications for mobile devices. By acquiring Intellisync, Nokia is positioned to deliver the industry’s most complete offering for the development, deployment and management of mobility in the enterprise.
 
The transaction will also enhance Nokia’s ability to respond to customer needs in this fast growing market. The combination of Nokia’s security expertise, mobile device leadership, customer reach and partner relationships coupled with Intellisync’s proven wireless email, synchronization and device management software and skilled workforce is expected to significantly extend Nokia’s position within the enterprise mobility market.
 
"Enterprises face increasing challenges when it comes to selecting devices, enabling access to email and securing corporate data, while carriers are facing more and more complexity to support these demands.  We want to make it simple for our business customers to mobilize their workforces no matter what their starting point," said Mary McDowell, executive vice president and general manager, Nokia’s Enterprise Solutions business group. "Based on our customers’ needs, we identified the acquisition of Intellisync as the best way to provide solutions to these challenges.  The combination of our portfolios and the addition of the Intellisync team will make Nokia the core mobility provider for businesses of all sizes."
 
Intellisync delivers some of the largest deployments of wireless email over the widest array of devices and application platforms across carrier networks all over the world. The company has been at the forefront in enterprise mobility applications and device mobility with its wireless messaging software. Intellisync technology allows for synchronization of data and files with high levels of accuracy and security across complex software applications. Building on Nokia’s recent launch of Nokia Business Center, a software solution enabling push email and other collaborative business applications, this acquisition underscores the company’s commitment to be the leader in enterprise mobility. Nokia will be able to offer its customers the ability to connect practically any device to any data source, application, or network, empowering companies as they make mobility a defacto way of doing business.
 
"Our combined teams will present the most compelling mobility offering to enterprises and carriers all over the world," said Woodson ‘Woody’ Hobbs, president and chief executive officer of Intellisync.  "With a platform-independent and device-agnostic mobile software offering, Intellisync has long been committed to delivering on the mobility needs of wireless carriers and enterprises and we’ve built a leadership brand in the mobile marketplace. Intellisync’s market leadership in platform-independent push email, device and systems management, mobile application deployment, integrated messaging, data and file synchronization, and mobile security is validation of the company’s success with carriers and enterprise customers alike."
 
Under the terms of the agreement, Intellisync stockholders will receive USD 5.25 per share in cash for each Intellisync common share, implying an enterprise value of approximately USD 430 million or approximately EUR 368 million (on a fully-diluted basis). The transaction is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2006. Intellisync was founded in 1993 and has approximately 450 employees.
 
About Intellisync
Intellisync Corporation (NASDAQ: SYNC), the leader in platform-independent wireless messaging and mobile software, develops and markets carrier-grade and enterprise-class wireless email and mobile platforms to large enterprises, mobile operators, software providers and device manufacturers. Intellisync has won the mobility industry’s top awards by providing seamless synchronization, secure wireless email, device control and mobility management software that connects nearly every device, data source and application available. More than 75% of the Fortune 50 companies and over 35 wireless carriers worldwide are ‘Powered by Intellisync'(TM). Some of the largest global corporations that have selected Intellisync as their mobility solution standard, include America Online, Cr?dit Agricole, Domino’s Pizza, Guidant, Microsoft, NTT DoCoMo, Oracle | PeopleSoft, Pfizer, Target, T-Mobile, Union Pacific, Verizon Wireless, Vivo, Wind and Yahoo! For more information, please visit www.Intellisync.com
 
About Nokia
Nokia is a world leader in mobile communications, driving the growth and sustainability of the broader mobility industry. Nokia connects people to each other and the information that matters to them with easy-to-use and innovative products like mobile phones, devices and solutions for imaging, games, media and businesses. Nokia provides equipment, solutions and services for network operators and corporations. www.nokia.com.

3 new phones from Sony Ericsson

Sony Ericsson is strengthening its product line-up with the introduction of three new handsets offering a combination of design quality, ease of use and value that reaches out to a broad range of consumers with basic mobile phone needs for calling and texting

November 14 2005, London – Sony Ericsson is strengthening its product line-up with the introduction of three new handsets offering a combination of design quality, ease of use and value that reaches out to a broad range of consumers with basic mobile phone needs for calling and texting.

The new models are:

  • J220 – a stick phone optimised for ease of use with simplified one click menu access
  • J230 – a stick phone offering simplified menu access along with the benefit of an FM radio
  • Z300 – an attractive clamshell with beautiful design lines

These new phones will appeal to consumers looking for handsets with great design from a trusted brand that are reliable, affordable and simple to use. Each handset has its own appeal and is firmly focused on making voice and text communications as easy as possible with the use of features such as one click navigation, single icon menus and colour screens.

“We are continuously expanding the Sony Ericsson offering to a wider range of consumers and customer needs,” said Steve Walker, Vice President Product Marketing. “With this launch, even more people that aspire to the Sony Ericsson brand can now afford to own one of our handsets and importantly, they have real choice from a range of phones, all of which are simple to use and beautifully designed.”

J220 – Simplicity and ease of usese j220i
The J220 is designed for ease of use. Consumers can choose their most familiar menu – either a single icon menu that is visually simple or the popular Sony Ericsson multi-icon menu that gives an at-a-glance overview of all the key functions. The one-click navigation key and icon markings on the navigation key make it simpler and easier to access the most commonly used functions. It has a large storage capacity for phone numbers (up to 500) and SMS (up to 200) and Style-Up™ covers are available from accessory outlets allow personalization. J220 is available in smooth black or sky blue.

J230 – Stay tuned in
se j230A built in stereo FM radio enables consumers to be always tuned into their favourite stations for music, sports or news with the click of one button from the navigation key. The phone also comes equipped with a stereo hands free to enhance the user experience. A speaker phone in the back of the phone completes the package. J230 also allows a choice between the single or multi-icon menu styles and easy access to handset features with the one-click interface. Listening to the radio, answering a call, looking up a phone number, and starting an SMS message are all done in one click. The J230 comes in cosmo white, cherry red or deep blue and can also be personalised with the Style-Up™ covers. In addition J230 offers a large phone book (up to 500 phone numbers) and large SMS storage (up to 200)

Z300 – An elegant clamshell
z300This small, elegant clamshell available in granite grey or amethyst purple has great appeal for the style-conscious individuals looking for a simple phone that fits their mood, taste and lifestyle. Open the clam to reveal a bright, sharp colour display and a surprisingly large keypad plus a navigation key that reaches all the main functions in one click. Close the clam to lock the phone and the outer display shows the clock and incoming caller information. The Z300’s focus is on voice and text, but it also offers a phone book, calendar, reminders and alarm clock. Also it offers consumers to personalize their phones with the Style-Up™ covers available from accessory outlets. Also in addition there will be Crystal D?cor included in every box, allowing customers to make their handsets more personal

Availability

J220 and J230 will be commercially available in Q1 2006. Z300 will be available in Q4 2005. These phones will be available in the following variants:

  • Z300i, J220i, J230i: Dual band GPRS 900/1800 Mhz
  • Z300a, J220a, J230a: Dual band GPRS 850/1900 Mhz – For Americas
  • Z300c, J220c, J230c: Dual band GPRS 900/1800 Mhz – For mainland China

Features at a glance:

  Z300 J220 J230
Imaging and messaging      
128 x 128 pixels STN display Yes Yes Yes
65,536 colours Yes Yes Yes
External display Yes No No
MMS, SMS, EMS Yes Yes Yes
Single icon UI and Icon desktop No Yes Yes
Wallpapers/themes Yes Yes Yes
Entertainment      
FM Radio No No Yes
Polyphonic ringtones – 32 voices Yes Yes Yes
Embedded games Yes Yes Yes
Animated GIF Yes Yes Yes
Direct links for easy download Yes Yes Yes
Calendar Yes Yes Yes
To-do-lists with reminder Yes Yes Yes
Style-Up™ Covers Yes Yes Yes
Crystal D?cor Yes No No
Speakerphone No Yes Yes
Connectivity      
Dual band GPRS 900/1800 & 850/1900 Yes Yes Yes
GPRS (4+1) Yes Yes Yes
WAP 1.2.1 Yes Yes Yes
Standby time 250 hours 280 hours 280 hours
Talk time 5.5 hours 6 hours 6 hours

Motorola and Bharti Teletech Announce Strategic Alliance

Motorola today announced that it has joined forces with Bharti Teletech Ltd. in a strategic agreement that extends Motorola?s reach across metros, cities and to the smallest towns in India

Motorola and Bharti Teletech Announce Strategic Alliance to Expand Distribution Reach

11/14/2005 8:16:02 AM

Alliance Continues Motorola’s Drive to ‘Connect the Unconnected’ in India; Bharti Teletech to Leverage its Distribution Network for Motorola handsets & accessories

New Delhi, Nov 14, 2005 – Motorola today announced that it has joined forces with Bharti Teletech Ltd. in a strategic agreement that extends Motorola’s reach across metros, cities and to the smallest towns in India. Today’s announcement gives Motorola unprecedented breadth of distribution through one of the widest retail networks for phones in the country.

Bharti Teletech’s access to the burgeoning rural market is a perfect match for Motorola’s efforts to ‘connect the unconnected’ by providing handsets like the new C113a suited to mass-market users. Their broad distribution to urban cities also allows Motorola to reach the growing population of professionals eager for the latest high-end handsets including the award winning RAZR V3.

Motorola’s agreement to extend the availability of its products for consumers in the market through Bharti Teletech’s national distribution presence* underscores Motorola’s continued commitment and focus in India. Combining, ‘Beetel’, one of the strongest brands of Bharti Teletech in India, with Motorola’s internationally recognised brand, opens a world of new opportunity for mobile consumers.

Motorola is committed to delivering on its vision of connecting the unconnected here in India. Together with Bharti Teletech’s outstanding distribution network we will bring even greater reach and choice of mobile communications to consumers in India wherever they are,” said Allen Burnes, Corporate Vice President, High Growth Markets, Mobile Devices Business, Motorola Inc. “Our new and exciting portfolio extends across all tiers and will bring both added value and choice for consumers in India.”

Mr. Rakesh Bharti Mittal, Vice Chairman & Managing Director, Bharti Teletech, said, “Our relationship with yet another telecom major, Motorola, is a further endorsement of Bharti’s superior distribution and its quality practices. Bharti has had the privilege of joining with best-in-class, blue chip companies, from around the world that have come and joined hands with Bharti, at different stages, to develop the telecom sector in India. Our understanding of the Indian market, a strong brand presence, distribution reach across India; the experience and expertise of marketing products to the Indian customer should be a perfect match for Motorola’s growth strategy in India. For Bharti, the alliance helps us further widen our product portfolio and also leverage economies of scale.”

“Our new relationship with Bharti Teletech is extremely significant and helps Motorola in its efforts to connect the unconnected,” commented Sudhir Agarwal, Director-Sales, India, Nepal & Sri Lanka, Mobile Devices, Motorola India Private Limited. “We are committed to increasing our presence and investment in the Indian market and this news is a major step towards it.”

Mr. Pawan Kapur, CEO, Bharti Teletech, said “We are happy to be a part of Motorola’s plans in India and our customers can now look forward to a wide range of technologically advanced GSM handsets from our stable. I am confident that the alliance would be mutually beneficial for both the companies and the future would see us growing and further strengthening this strategic alliance”.

Notes

* Bharti Teletech’s national distribution presence constitutes a network of over 250 distributors and more than 11,000 retailers across India

About Motorola

Motorola is a Fortune 100 global communications leader that provides seamless mobility products and solutions across broadband, embedded systems and wireless networks. In your home, auto, workplace and all spaces in between, seamless mobility means you can reach the people, things and information you need, anywhere, anytime. Seamless mobility harnesses the power of technology convergence and enables smarter, faster, cost-effective and flexible communication. Motorola had sales of US $31.3 billion in 2004. For more information: www.motorola.com.

About Bharti Teletech

Bharti Teletech – a Bharti enterprise, is India’s leading telephone instrument manufacturing company and one of the largest in the globe. Established in 1985, the company’s manufacturing operations are spread across ISO-9000 certified plants in Mapusa (Goa) and Ludhiana (Punjab) with an installed capacity of 6 mn telephone units annually upgradable to 10 mn units. An in-house Centre for Excellence with industrial and engineering design capability and equipped with facility for product reliability and life tests ensures a quality standard that compares with the best internationally.

Bharti Teletech produces a comprehensive basket of customer premise equipments, comprising of over 40 models spanning the basic, feature-rich and cordless telephone categories, under the Beetel brand. Beetel commands a market share of over 40% in the retail market, 95% in the PSP business and 60% in the tender market. The company has been in the forefront of growing the open retail market by providing feature-rich and world-class telephone products at affordable prices. Bharti Teletech currently exports to 30 countries in five continents, including the PTT markets. Bharti plans to double its exports in 05-06 over last year.

Bharti Teletech has a tie-up with Atlinks (No.1 in home and office telephony worldwide) for marketing of GE telephones in India and neighbouring countries as well as exports. It’s list of credits also include a contract with France telecom for supplies of our products for their worldwide requirement as well as supplies to Telefonica, Peru.

The new initiatives of the company under the ‘Beetel’ brand include Broadband Products and Set Top Box – a hi-growth market in India. Both are focus areas for the company

Nokia and T-Mobile test HSDPA in live networks in the UK, the Netherlands and Germany

Nokia and T-Mobile have completed High Speed Downlink Data Packet Access (HSDPA) calls using Nokia’s 3G network technology

NOKIA PRESS RELEASE November 15, 2005

Nokia and T-Mobile successfully test HSDPA in live networks in the UK, the Netherlands and Germany

A step forward in delivering faster mobile services to consumers
 
Espoo, Finland – Nokia and T-Mobile have completed High Speed Downlink Data Packet Access (HSDPA) calls using Nokia’s 3G network technology. The calls were made in T-Mobile’s live network in the UK, the Netherlands and Germany, and are the result of the strong collaboration between the two companies to deliver HSDPA to the commercial networks. The solutions will now be used to further progress testing with T-Mobile prior to commercial launches.
 
"The HSDPA calls demonstrate T-Mobile’s commitment to raising the bar for the quality of broadband mobile data services," says Hamid Akhavan, Chief Technology Officer, T-Mobile. "The calls are a good example of the successful cooperation that is taking place between T-Mobile and Nokia in the field of high speed mobile access and broadband applications."
 
"Nokia is pleased that the collaboration with T-Mobile has resulted in successful HSDPA calls, which demonstrate that Nokia’s HSDPA solution is ready to support operators leveraging their mobile data opportunities," says Kari Sundbäck, Vice President, Networks, Nokia. "We will continue to work very closely with T-Mobile in the UK, the Netherlands and Germany in preparing their networks for commercial HSDPA launches."
 
The Nokia HSDPA solution is a software upgrade to the WCDMA 3G network that offers end users significantly faster download speeds – up to 1.8 Mbps in the first phase, compared to 384 kbps on standard WCDMA 3G networks. Operators upgrading their networks with the Nokia HSDPA solution can take advantage of improved data rates and throughput, enhancing the efficiency of the network to support a higher number of users at a lower cost per user. The Nokia HSDPA solution allows operators to provide enhanced end-user services at significantly lower cost per bit.
 
Later, an upgrade to High Speed Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA) with enhanced upload speeds, will be available in a similar manner. Nokia upload speed is already 384 kbps. Nokia already has over 20 HSDPA contracts, 7 of which have been published.
 
About T-Mobile
T-Mobile International is one of the world’s leading companies in mobile communications. As one of Deutsche Telekom`s three strategic business units, T-Mobile concentrates on the most dynamic markets in Europe and the United States. By end of 2004, almost 120 million people were using the mobile communications services provided by companies in which T-Mobile or Deutsche Telekom have a majority or minority stake. And all that over a common technology platform based on GSM, the world’s most successful digital wireless standard. This also makes T-Mobile the only mobile communications provider with a seamless transatlantic service. www.t-mobile.com
 
About Nokia
Nokia is a world leader in mobile communications, driving the growth and sustainability of the broader mobility industry. Nokia connects people to each other and the information that matters to them with easy-to-use and innovative products like mobile phones, devices and solutions for imaging, games, media and businesses. Nokia provides equipment, solutions and services for network operators and corporations. www.nokia.com.

Nokia committed to universal access to mobility and new growth markets

Nokia, one of the main sponsors of the ICT 4 All Exhibition, continues to work towards universal access to mobility – the ability of all people to connect to people, information and services – by making mobile communications more affordable and accessible.

NOKIA PRESS RELEASE November 14, 2005

Nokia highlights its strong commitment to universal access to mobility and new growth markets

Nokia promotes universal access to communications technologies, celebrates two billion mobile subscribers and showcases mobile phones and network solutions for bridging the digital divide at the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) and the ICT 4 All Exhibition in Tunis, Tunisia.
 
Espoo, Finland / Tunis, Tunisia – Nokia, one of the main sponsors of the ICT 4 All Exhibition, continues to work towards universal access to mobility – the ability of all people to connect to people, information and services – by making mobile communications more affordable and accessible.
 
Nokia believes the right combination of mobile phones, network solutions, services and a favourable regulatory environment is essential in spreading the benefits of mobility. The key is to reduce the total cost of ownership to the consumer, whilst ensuring a profitable, and thus sustainable, business model for operators and vendors.
 
As part of its commitment to universal access, Nokia has developed the Nokia Connect GSM solution and new value-added services, such as the Nokia Prepaid Tracker and the Nokia Connect eRefill, to enable operators to profitably bring mobility to low income customer segments. Nokia also offers affordable, high-quality mobile phones like the Nokia 1600 and Nokia 1110 that are designed for new growth markets with special features such as a speaking clock and an iconic phonebook.
 
"Nokia is truly engaged in bridging the digital divide by offering affordable communications technologies. Mobility improves society’s productivity and social welfare, which are mutual responsibilities of the private and public sectors as well as civil society," says Dr. Walid Moneimne, Senior Vice President, EMEA region, Networks, Nokia. "In addition to our advanced technological solutions, Nokia is visible at the local and global level through several community involvement projects that extend beyond the technology, products and services that the company creates."
 
In September this year, the global mobile subscription base reached two billion. Nokia celebrates this important milestone with the Nokia 2 Billion Award that will be presented at the World Summit Award Gala by Simon Beresford-Wylie, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Networks, Nokia. The Nokia 2 Billion Award will be presented as recognition for promoting global mobility.
 
As the number of mobile subscribers is expected to grow to three billion by 2010, the importance of new growth markets continues to increase. Around 20 percent of the next billion subscriptions will come from the Middle East and Africa region.
 
About WSIS (November 16-18)
The World Summit on the Information Society provides a unique opportunity for all key stakeholders to develop a common vision and understanding and to address the whole range of relevant issues related to the Information Society. The two-phased Summit has been endorsed by the UN General Assembly. The first phase took place in Geneva in December 2003. Organized by the International Telecommunication Union, it will be held under the high patronage of Kofi Annan, UN Secretary-General.
 
The World Summit Award Gala (November 16)
The World Summit Award (WSA) is a global initiative to select and promote the world’s best in e-Content and Creativity, held in the framework of, and in cooperation with, the United Nations’ World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS). The World Summit Award Gala will be held on November 16 at Kram Palexpo, Central Place at 17:30 onwards.
 
About ICT 4 All (November 15-19)
ICT 4 All aims to contribute to a more effective worldwide use of ICTs and stimulate action between developing and developed countries through the showcasing and presenting of concrete solutions. ICT 4 All Exhibition is a parallel event to the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS).
 
About Nokia
Nokia is a world leader in mobile communications, driving the growth and sustainability of the broader mobility industry. Nokia connects people to each other and the information that matters to them with easy-to-use and innovative products like mobile phones, devices and solutions for imaging, games, media and businesses. Nokia provides equipment, solutions and services for network operators and corporations. www.nokia.com

Nokia powers Optus 3G network in Australia

Nokia today supported Optus’ 3G services launch in Australia providing the behind-the-scenes network infrastructure and turnkey services as well as assisting Optus to develop 3G consumer applications

NOKIA PRESS RELEASE November 14, 2005

Nokia powers Optus’ 3G network in Australia

Sydney, Australia – Nokia today supported Optus’ 3G services launch in Australia providing the behind-the-scenes network infrastructure and turnkey services as well as assisting Optus to develop 3G consumer applications.
 
In November 2004, Optus jointly announced an innovative infrastructure sharing deal with another operator to have Nokia build a shared 3G network.
 
The shared network is the first in the world to feature Nokia’s Multi-Operator Radio Access Network (MO-RAN) technology, which allows for the easy sharing of radio services.
 
Where MO-RANs are deployed they allow for two operators to share the same base station and to share the radio network controller which directs the voice and data traffic back to the operator’s own core network.  An analogy is that it works like two banks sharing an Automatic Teller Machine.
 
"The issue for many operators is no longer whether to share a network, but rather, what approach will offer the best solution. We are delighted to have worked with Optus on their 3G network and applications," said Henrik Glud, Optus Account Director for Nokia Australia.
 
In addition, Optus and Nokia have worked with Australian developer, Bullant, to bring to market a 3G content personalisation application called ‘MyZooNow’ which will run as the active handset user interface on a range of mobile phones including the Nokia N70 and Nokia 6680.
 
Optus MyZooNow features a homepage that pushes information to customers that is relevant to their interests, work and social needs, such as news and weather, music and lifestyle.
 
MyZooNow was ‘incubated’ in the Optus Nokia Future Lab. The Future Lab is a joint initiative by both companies designed to test and develop potential mobile applications.
 
According to Allen Lew, Managing Director, Optus Consumer, "We have worked with infrastructure providers, application developers and handset manufacturers like Nokia, to ensure that we use the faster speeds of 3G to deliver simple and user friendly applications like MyZooNow that add value to customers mobile experience."
 
Nokia is providing Optus with complete 3G core and radio networks and turnkey services, including supplying, deploying and testing the equipment in the field as well as network optimization, management, monitoring and maintenance services. Nokia has also provided a 3G operations startup, where Nokia operational staff works along side Optus people while operating the network and through this exersice also train Optus staff. 
 
Introducing new technology platforms and services is a highly complex business and Nokia has over 15 years experience in assisting operators deploy the latest technology.
 
With its operational expertise gained from running networks on behalf of operators around the world, Nokia is able to support operators provide the highest-quality service to their subscribers while also improving their operational efficiency.
 
About Nokia
Nokia is a world leader in mobile communications, driving the growth and sustainability of the broader mobility industry. Nokia connects people to each other and the information that matters to them with easy-to-use and innovative products like mobile phones, devices and solutions for imaging, games, media and businesses. Nokia provides equipment, solutions and services for network operators and corporations. www.nokia.com
 

Airtel to adopt new number series in Karnataka from Nov 13

Keeping in tune with the new directive from the Department of Telecommunications, Airtel Broadband and Telephone Services, India?s largest broadband service and private telephone service from Bharti Tele-Ventures Ltd, will adopt a new number series beginning with ?4? for its fixed line services, instead of ‘5’, in Karnataka from November 13.

Keeping in tune with the new directive from the Department of Telecommunications, Airtel Broadband and Telephone Services, India’s largest broadband service and private telephone service from Bharti Tele-Ventures Ltd, will adopt a new number series beginning with ‘4’ for its fixed line services, instead of ‘5’, in Karnataka from November 13.

Airtel, in a release here today, announced that it would continue to connect all calls received on the old number till February 28 next. Post this till March 31 next, an automated voice recording system would inform customers about the change in numbers. To make life simpler for its customers, Airtel would also be launching a new short code for general customer care: 121. This general customer care number would be uniform across all circles of Airtel Broadband and Telephone Services.

The change would take place in phases depending on the city of operation. In Karnataka the change would happen in Bangalore on December 11, Mysore–November 13, Mangalore, Hubli, Belgaum and Manipal-November 20, the release said.

Airtel has more than one million fixed line customers in the country and provided broadband and telephone services in Andhra Pradesh, Delhi, Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Kerala, Kolkata, Madhya Pradesh, Maharastra, Mumbai, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, UP (East) and UP (West).

SAMSUNG Electronics Presents New Slim Line-up

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., the world’s third largest producer of mobile phones, introduces 5 new mobile phones for the European market.

SEOUL, Korea – November 8, 2005: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., the world’s third largest producer of mobile phones, introduces 5 new mobile phones for the European market. The average of the newly unveiled phones are under 15mm and offer the latest multimedia features, such as music playback capability, megapixel camera and Bluetooth connectivity. The lineups include two 3G phones (model: SGH-Z510, SGH-Z540), two slide-up GSM/GPRS phones (model: SGH-D800, SGH-D820), and a credit-card size mobile phone (Model: SGH-P300).

samsung_1105.jpg 

Samsung’s mobile phone leadership is based on its ability to design phones with innovative form factors, such as the clamshell phones, slide-up phones, and TV viewable landscape phones. This reputation is further cemented by its introduction of phones with ever slimmer designs. It was the first to reveal a 9.8mm slim mobile phone (SPH-N2000) in 2001.

The current trend in mobile phone design is moving towards “slim & wide” design. The “slim & wide” design concept offers better portability with its lightweight and thinness, as well as enriches multimedia features in a mobile environment with larger screens.

Kitae Lee, President of the Telecommunication Network Business at Samsung Electronics, says “Samsung’s new slim phones are equipped with the latest multimedia features and meet the highest standard of quality. Our values for quality, extraordinary design, and essential multimedia features were not compromised to bring to market our innovative slim concept.” He adds, “We will continue to add more ‘slim & wide’ designs with varying form factors and features to the award-winning Samsung product line-up.”

SGH-Z510 and Z540 are the slimmest 3G phones at a depth of 14.9mm. Equipped with a 1.3 megapixel camera and 4x digital zoom, the two phones offers a full spectrum of 3G features, including video telephony, real-time video streaming and video messaging.

The SGH-Z510’s 2.2-inch QVGA screen displays crisp high-speed video streaming clips. It also includes MP3 playback functionality, allowing users to listen to 3D sound quality music content anywhere and at anytime.

The SGH-Z540 is a modernistic and exquisitely designed phone that will attract fashion-conscious consumers and working professionals who desire the many features of 3G in a superior slim design. It holds 150MB of content and supports Bluetooth and USB transfers.

The SGH-D800 is a 14.9mm slim slide-up phone that is packed with today’s latest technology – 1.3 megapixel camera, document viewer, Bluetooth, PictBridge, and TV-out. Encased in a black and silver metal, it exudes modernity and elegance.

At a depth of 15.2 mm, the SGH-D820 is slim slide-up phone with a full line-up of multimedia features. It features a wide (2.12-inch) and high resolution (QVGA) LCD screen and 1.3 megapixel camera. With Quad Band capability, the SGH-D820 is functional across all GSM frequency bands. It also supports microSD external memory. With its modern, premium exterior design, the phone is the best fit for sophisticated business users who desire top-quality features in a sleek appearance.

Samsung’s SGH-P300 is packed with the most advanced features in an elegant ultra slim package with mere 8.9mm thinness. This easy-to-carry mobile device shares the look and dimension of an ordinary credit card, yet comes with a 1.3 megapixel camera with flash, music player, and video recording capabilities. Its premium feather-light weight and stylish mini design is sure to turn heads everywhere you go. Nicknamed “The Card,” the P300 is perfect for users who desire the most advanced mobile technical features in a slim, unique appearance.

All phones will be launched in Europe in the fourth quarter of this year.

Nokia shows 7 solutions at TeleManagement World

Nokia is showcasing seven of its Services software solutions at TeleManagement World in Dallas until November 10, all part of its ongoing drive to help operators to manage their services life cycle in a multi-vendor environment, both enhancing their offerings and reducing their costs

Nokia shows Services muscle with 7 solutions at TeleManagement World
November 08, 2005

Solutions help operators win and retain subscribers, simplify an increasingly complex technology environment
 
Dallas, TX, USA – Nokia is showcasing seven of its Services software solutions at TeleManagement World in Dallas until November 10, all part of its ongoing drive to help operators to manage their services life cycle in a multi-vendor environment, both enhancing their offerings and reducing their costs.
 
"Many operators are facing increased competition from both traditional and new rivals, and the convergence of the mobile and fixed telecom environments is bringing increased complexity to technology management. Nokia is committed to making our customers’ lives easier," said Jyrki Holmala, Vice President Operations Solutions, Networks.
 
"Our solutions portfolio, comprehensive understanding of the mobile telephone spectrum, and proven track record in helping customers achieve greater efficiency all give us a clear edge over rivals, " said Holmala.
 
To demonstrate the company’s Services capabilities, in Dallas Nokia is showing its industry-leading solutions in the following areas:
 
– Self Provisioning
– Mass Provisioning
– Device Management – Firmware update over-the-air
– Portal Performance Optimization
– VIP Service for Corporate Clients
– Service Level Management
– Customer Care
 
Nokia has set up a Solution Bar at TeleManagement World, with a team of "Solutioneers" ready to discuss the latest in managing consumer service life cycles in a multi-vendor environment. The company is showing the solutions most recently launched at the Nokia Mobility Conference in Barcelona, including Nokia’s Service Level Management and Integrated Provisioning solutions. Nokia’s Service Management solution components follow the e-TOM model defined by the TeleManagement Forum, and its Nokia Profile Manager (NPM) on display is OSS/J compliant.
 
Nokia has provided a full range of support and services to help operators differentiate and innovate their mobile offerings for close to 20 years. Seeking to better tap the growing Services trend, Nokia established its Services business unit in Networks earlier this year, and has since taken significant steps to demonstrate its commitment to this growing business.
 
Today, Services represents more than 30 percent of revenues in the Networks business group, including operations support software. In addition to Service Management, where Nokia is the market leader with over 80 clients, the company expects to see important developments particularly in the areas of Managed Services, Systems Integration and Consulting.
 
About Nokia
Nokia is a world leader in mobile communications, driving the growth and sustainability of the broader mobility industry. Nokia connects people to each other and the information that matters to them with easy-to-use and innovative products like mobile phones, devices and solutions for imaging, games, media and businesses. Nokia provides equipment, solutions and services for network operators and corporations. www.nokia.com.

Nokia N90 and Nokia N91 Win ABest Of Whats New Award

Nokia today announced that the Nokia N90 and N91, two flagships of the company’s Nseries range optimized for imaging and music respectively, were honored with Popular Science magazine’s “Best of What’s New” Award in the publication’s annual search for the top 100 technology innovations of the year.

Twice The Honor: Nokia N90 and Nokia N91 Win A "Best Of What’s New" Award
November 08, 2005

Two Nseries multimedia devices receive prestigious commendation from Popular Science magazine
 
New York, NY, USA – Nokia today announced that the Nokia N90 and N91, two flagships of the company’s Nseries range optimized for imaging and music respectively, were honored with Popular Science magazine’s "Best of What’s New" Award in the publication’s annual search for the top 100 technology innovations of the year.
 
Packed with advanced features to capture and print high quality photos and video, the Nokia N90 is the first mobile device to feature superior Carl Zeiss Optics plus boasts a two megapixel camera with autofocus, 20x digital zoom and high quality video capture with on-device editing capabilities. Facilitated by its dual screens, the Nokia N90 features two ergonomic modes for instant photo and video capture.  With Nokia’s XpressPrint printing solution, users can select from a range of mobile printing options, including PictBridge, connected directly to a compatible photo printer with a USB cable; wireless printing over Bluetooth wireless technology; or by extracting the MultiMediaCard from the side of the phone and inserting it into a compatible printer.
 
The Nokia N91 is optimized for connected mobile music enjoyment, including the ability to download new songs, manage music collections, as well as create and share playlists on the go. Transferring files between the Nokia N91 and a compatible PC is simple with the built-in WLAN, Bluetooth or USB connections, and downloading songs over the air is quick with support for GPRS/EDGE networks.  The Nokia N91 delivers a premier music experience with its 3.5mm stereo headset jack, integrated 4GB hard disk with room for up to 3000 songs and support for a wide range of digital music formats.   Encased in stainless steel, the Nokia N91 has dedicated music keys on its face, which slide down to reveal the phone keypad.
 
"Popular Science’s award is a tribute to Nokia Nseries innovation and we are honored to be recognized in this way," said Nigel Rundstrom, vice president of Multimedia for Nokia. "Both the N90 and the N91 merge incredible multimedia experiences with leading-edge telephony features.  This combination of mobility and high performance creates entirely new ways for people to enjoy their favorite pictures and music."
 
"Best of What’s New is the ultimate Popular Science accolade, representing a year’s worth of work evaluating thousands of products," says Mark Jannot, editor of Popular Science. "These awards honor innovations that not only influence the way we live today, but that change the way we think about the future."
 
Each year, the editors of Popular Science review thousands of products to find breakthrough products and technologies that represent a significant leap in their categories. The winners – the Best of What’s New – are awarded inclusion in the much-anticipated December issue of Popular Science, the most widely read issue of the year since the debut of Best of What’s New in 1987.
 
Best of What’s New awards are presented to 100 new products and technologies across 12 categories, including Auto Tech, Aviation & Space, Cars, Computing, Engineering, Gadgets, General Innovation, Home Entertainment, Home Tech, Personal Health, Photography and Recreation.
 
The Nokia N91 will begin to shipping to retailers around the globe in early 2006.  More information about the device is available at http://www.nokia.com/N91.
 
About Nokia Nseries
Nokia Nseries is a range of high performance multimedia devices that delivers unparalleled mobile multimedia experiences by combining the latest technologies with stylish design and ease of use. With Nokia Nseries products, consumers can use a single device to enjoy entertainment, access information and to capture and share pictures and videos, whenever and wherever they want.
 
About Nokia
Nokia is a world leader in mobile communications, driving the growth and sustainability of the broader mobility industry. Nokia connects people to each other and the information that matters to them with easy-to-use and innovative products like mobile phones, devices and solutions for imaging, games, media and businesses. Nokia provides equipment, solutions and services for network operators and corporations. www.nokia.com
 
About Popular Science
Founded in 1872, Popular Science is the world’s largest science and technology magazine; with a circulation of 1.45 million and 6.5 million monthly readers. Each month, Popular Science reports on the intersection of science and everyday life, with an eye toward what’s new and why it matters. Popular Science is published by Time4 Media, a subsidiary of Time Inc., which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Time Warner Inc