Wireless Data News Blog

Wireless Data News - May 19 to June 15

2007-06-15T13:26:01Z

Wireless Data News Blog

To subcribe (or to unsubscribe) visit Zinester site
© Leonid Iakovlev , Helsinki, 2007	Back issues are available at LiveJournal	May 19 to June 15, 2007

Contents

Week summary
General wireless data market related news
Carriers news
Wireless data related middleware vendors news
Terminal development for mobile data
Vendors of software for client wireless devices news
Mobile application related news
Application outsourcing and hosting news
News about financing for wireless data businesses

Week summary
* -Star sign marks especially important (from the editor's point of view) news items and is also a link to the next important news item.
Location-aware applications are growing - from retail shopping to improving commercial navigation maps and sharing them to point/click search to displaying (globally collected) local info on a giant wall screen in real time - and with more ways to get the location including improved Wi-Fi fix. Wibree merges into Bluetooth as a low-power variant. Boingo roams into community-based network. Inline advertising now comes to mobile messaging and mobile video. Sprint combines iDEN/walkie-talkie and CDMA. New touch based phone from HTC is introduced. Meanwhile while both SonyEricsson and Nokia introduce enhanced multimedia phones they now keep in mind that lower price and enterprise functionality (like e-mail access) are important for consumers - in same way as multimedia can be important for enterprise. Palm joins other vendor and introduces Internet companion device (and gets more money to implement that strategy) - while Sony PSP is becoming such a device (they btw cost just €98 in Finland now, funny price). More better cheap reliable push e-mail solutions. Livescribe provides way to capture simultaneous pen and audio input on the go. Nice way to collect your thoughts and impressions.
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General wireless data market related news

* Wibree forum merges with Bluetooth SIG Original news source
The Wibree forum , the group specifying the Nokia developed ultra low power wireless technology, will be merged with the Bluetooth SIG . With this announcement, the Wibree specification will become part of the Bluetooth specification as an ultra low power Bluetooth technology.

2.5 Billion GSM Subscribers Worldwide Original news source
GSM subscribers, including nearly 130 million UMTS/HSDPA subscriptions, currently comprise nearly 85% of the global mobile wireless market.

Strategy Analytics : Mobile Media Advertising Commands 20 Percent of Global Internet Ad Spend by 2011 Original news source
Advertisers will spend $1.4 billion on mobile media this year, rising to $14.4 billion by 2011, according to the new report, “Global Mobile Advertising Update: Outlook Bright as Inventory Expands.” Strategy Analytics predicts that mobile media advertising will account for a fifth of global spending on Internet advertising by 2011.

GSMA and MMA Collaborate to Accelerate Global Development of Mobile Advertising Original news source
The GSM Association ( GSMA ) and the Mobile Marketing Association ( MMA ) have agreed to cooperate to accelerate the development of mobile advertising worldwide. The two organisations will collaborate to deliver standardisation and transparency around current mobile advertising activity, and to develop new, innovative advertising techniques.

Web 2.0 fuses the fixed and mobile Internet says Berg Insight Original news source
According to a new research report from the analyst firm Berg Insight , the rise of Web 2.0 is fusing the fixed and mobile Internet into a single entity. The key conclusions are that the wireless Internet will principally evolve as the wired and that mobile communication should not be regarded as a separate business.

EJL Wireless Research Predicts Global Mobile Advertising Market Correction and Consolidation before Growing to USD $9.5 billion in 2011 Original news source
The United States mobile advertising market is expected to reach USD $2.3 billion, roughly 25% of the overall market by 2011. The largest segment is expected to be mobile couponing reaching almost USD $4 billion by 2011 or 42% of the overall market.

Parks Associates : Mobile WiMAX Will Grab a Significant Market Share in 2012 Original news source
Mobile WiMAX will connect 8% of the world’s 1.1 billion mobile broadband subscribers by 2012, accounting for nearly 88 million users worldwide, according to Mobile Broadband Wireless: Path toward 4G.
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Carriers news

* Sprint Customers Get New Location-Aware Shopping Application Original news source
Sprint and GPShopper announced the launch of Slifter, mobile local product search application that employs GPS technology to find products at neighboring retail locations.

* Boingo to Roam onto FON ’s Wi-Fi Network More Than Doubling Its Hot Spot Network Worldwide Original news source
The 130,000 Wi-Fi locations come from businesses and individuals who add their own hot spots to the FON community in exchange for the right to roam on other FON community locations for free or at a reduced rate. For Boingo users, these new locations provide a rich network of Wi-Fi locations in areas that complement Boingo’s existing commercial locations.

Celcom Selects First Hop To Deploy Mobile Browsing And Multimedia Solution Original news source
Celcom , Malaysia’s leading mobile communications provider, has selected First Hop Wireless Broker to enhance the delivery of browsing and multimedia services for its subscribers.

Enforta Brings WiMAX to the CIS Countries Original news source
Enforta , using Alvarion ’s platform, is among the first companies to commercially deploy WiMAX networks in Russia. Alvarion’s local partner in Russia is Cedicom .

Strix Systems Tapped for Deployment of First Wireless Mesh Network in Greece Original news source
The municipality of Galatsi is using Strix ’s Access/One Outdoor Wireless System (OWS) to deploy the first wireless mesh network in Greece. Galatsi will provide fee-based broadband services to residents and businesses, free Internet access to students, and free Internet access and VoIP service for municipal employees.
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Wireless data related middleware vendors news

Alcatel-Lucent Announces Software Platform That Lets Mobile Operators Capitalize on the Increasing Demand for Mobile Content Shopping Original news source
The Alcatel-Lucent 5965 Mobile Content Platform gives operators the tools needed to create a simplified one-stop shop for mobile content, providing the integrated shopping experience subscribers are looking for.

* Colibria Brings Advertising Capability to Mobile Instant Messaging Portfolio Original news source
The application enables banner ads to be inserted into the MIM interface, including the ‘buddy list’ and messaging screens.

* Ad Infuse and Minick to Launch Ad-Supported Mobile Video Original news source
Rather than paying a download or subscription fee to receive video via a wireless device, Swisscom Mobile customers are able to access video on demand content supported by brief, 10-20 second advertisements at the beginning and end of each program.

Nokia powers mobile email solution for PCCW mobile Original news source
The Nokia Intellisync solution will allow PCCW mobile to offer secure, easy-to-use mobile email to its business and consumer customers under its own brand.
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Terminal development for mobile data

* Customers Get High Speed Multimedia and Walkie Talkie Services with Newest Sprint PowerSource Phone Original news source
Motorola Deluxe ic902 utilizes the Nextel National Network (iDEN) for walkie-talkie services and the Sprint Nationwide Network (CDMA) for voice and data services and is the first in this category of unique devices to support Power Vision capabilities and other key features.

ARCHOS Introduces Connected Portable Media Players With Wireless Video Streaming and Downloads Original news source
Two new WiFi-enabled products feature the high quality screens with 800x480 resolution on a touch-screen display.

* HTC Touch Delivers New Touch Screen Experience Original news source

The HTC Touch is the first device to feature TouchFLO, the new underlying touch screen technology developed by HTC. Consumers simply sweep their finger up the display to launch an animated, three-dimensional interface comprising three screens: Contacts, Media and Applications. The interface can be spun by swiping a finger right or left across the display, providing efficient access to the features consumers use most. TouchFLO also enhances finger touch scrolling and browsing of Web pages, documents, messages and contact lists. Leveraging the broad functionality of Windows Mobile 6 Professional, the HTC Touch includes Outlook Mobile, Office Mobile, Windows Live and the capabilities to run thousands of third-party applications.

* Nokia 3109 classic offers affordable, straightforward functionality Original news source
The Nokia 3109 classic is a well-balanced package for consumers and companies who appreciate simplicity and value for money. Functional for office use, the Nokia 3109 classic includes email with attachments, and synchronizes calendars and to-do lists with personal computers through its USB connection. The memory of the Nokia 3109 classic is also expandable to 2GB with a microSD memory card.

FOMA SH904i launched recently is based on Symbian OS Original news source
The FOMA SH904i is equipped with a touchpad to give an operational feel similar to a PC, and a 3 inch widescreen. It is manufactured by Symbian customer Sharp Corporation and includes the MOAP platform.

* An artful fusion of materials and technology define new mid-range Nokia handsets Original news source
Designed to be precisely balanced in the hand, with large keys and ergonomically correct dimensions and surfaces, both phones have been created with maximum usability in mind. Along with third generation WCDMA technology and sleek, contemporary designs, these new devices feature carefully engineered touches that help to ensure that the beauty endures.

* Palm Advances Mobile Computing with Its First Mobile Companion Product Original news source

The Linux-based Foleo mobile companion has a large screen and full-size keyboard with which to view and edit email and office documents residing on a smartphone. Edits made on Foleo automatically are reflected on its paired smartphone and vice versa.The Foleo mobile companion turns on and off instantly and features fast navigation, a compact and elegant design, and a battery that lasts up to 5 hours of use. Its applications include email, full-screen web browser, and editors or viewers for common business documents such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint and PDF files. The Foleo stays synchronized via Bluetooth wireless technology and uses the smartphone's radio or the Foleo's built-in Wi-Fi radio for general Internet connectivity.

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Vendors of software for client wireless devices news

* Sony Ericsson extends business email across portfolio Original news source

With announcement of the K850 Cyber-shot phone and the W910 Walkman phone, Sony Ericsson further extended its business email offering into the feature-phone segment of its product line-up. Both phones are Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync enabled and support wireless synchronization and Direct Push of email, calendar and contacts. In addition, they also include support for Java push mail solutions provided by third parties and leading email standards, such as POP/IMAP.

* emoze releases Version 1.4 - breakthrough in battery power consumption for push email Original news source
Significant breakthroughs in battery consumption, synchronization and set-up wizards make the latest version of emoze a smart choice for consumers seeking free push-email and calendar access on their personal cell phones.

* BT and Sony to offer advanced communications for the PSP Original news source
BT and Sony Computer Entertainment Europe ( SCEE ) have signed a groundbreaking deal to transform the PSP (PlayStationPortable) gaming device by adding wireless broadband communications functions, including high quality handheld video calls, voice calls and messaging.
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Mobile applications related news

* OceanLake Commerce Introduces "meemo" Mobile Email Original news source

meemo allows any Internet-enabled mobile phone with text messaging on any U.S. wireless carrier to have mobile email service at a fraction of the cost of other solutions. When a new message arrives, meemo sends a text message to the user's phone with a mobile web link to their meemo inbox. Consumers can read, forward and reply to messages and view attachments from their phone. meemo can also manage multiple email addresses, optimize images and documents per specific wireless device, and set date and time reminders.

* TomTom to Offer Users the Ability to Improve Maps Instantly Through Map Share Technology Original news source

TomTom announced the introduction of TomTom Map Share on the new TomTom GO 520 and TomTom GO 720. This new map improvement technology allows TomTom users to easily improve their maps as soon as they spot changes in the roads with a few touches on the screen of their device. Via TomTom HOME, TomTom Map Share users also receive all map improvements made by others, making their maps as dynamic as the world they live in.

* GeoVector & CyberMap Japan launch Mapion Pointing Application in Japan Original news source

Mapion Pointing Application is an exciting tool that allows users to easily find and launch rich content by pointing and clicking mobile phones at retailers, restaurants, historical sites or any of Mapion’s 700,000 Points of Interest (POI) across Japan. The service combines Mapion ’s POI data with GeoVector ’s pointing based technology and spatial search engine, providing truly personal local search. The new release builds upon the success of Version 1.0, user feedback and solid experience, greatly improving functionality and ease of use. New capabilities include user driven opt-in advertising, sponsored categories and preferred placement.

Bank of America 's Mobile Banking Now Available Anytime, Anywhere Original news source
Bank of America completed the rollout of its secure Mobile Banking service -- enabling more than 20 million Online Banking customers to manage their personal finances 'on the go.' Consumers across the country now can use their cell phones and smartphones to check account balances, pay bills and transfer money.

* CityWall Public Multi-touch Display in Helsinki Original news source
The CityWall is designed to support the navigation of media, specifically annotated photos and videos which are continuously gathered in realtime from public sources such as Flickr and YouTube. To contribute content to the CityWall people can send pictures and videos via MMS or email.

Crisp Wireless Announces Release of mLogic MicroSite Builder Original news source
Crisp Wireless announced the official version 1.0 release of the mLogic MicroSite Builder tool, developed specifically to give mobile publishers and advertising agencies the ability to quickly and easily create robust mobile websites for advertisers.

* Livescribe Launches New Mobile Computing Platform Original news source
The Livescribe platform turns plain paper into a computer screen and bridges the gap between the paper and digital worlds. Livescribe’s first key application is “Paper Replay.” When taking notes during a discussion or lecture, the smartpen records the conversation and digitizes the handwriting, automatically synching the ink and audio.
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Application outsourcing and hosting news

Gracenote Launches Mobile Music 2.0 Platform Original news source

Gracenote announced the deployment of its Mobile Music 2.0 Platform, an integrated solution that combines products and services for simple content search and discovery, music recognition, and connection to online music stores. The solution will power mobile music search and discovery services based on Gracenote's Global Media Database of more than 60 million tracks representing the most popular music in the world.

* New Funambol Open Source Software Improves Push Email, Contacts and Calendars for Everyone Original news source
Funambol v6 enables mobile carriers and service providers to offer a low-cost push email solution that lets mass market consumers access Yahoo! Mail, Gmail, AOL and other popular email services. It includes a new portal that automates over-the-air provisioning of mobile devices, a new open source Java ME push email client for commodity handsets, and capabilities to ease mass deployments.

Sprite Pioneers New Consumer Connections Through Mobile Technology Original news source
The Coca-Cola Company is redefining the relationship between consumers and their sparkling beverages with the launch of the Sprite Yard, a real-time digital “on-the-go” community that provides social connections and downloadable content via their mobile phone anytime, anywhere. This mobile marketing breakthrough launched in China on June 1, and will go live in the US later this month.

Jangl Upgrades a Billion Phones Instantly Original news source
Jangl, Inc ., the company bridging the web and the phone, is unveiling an easy-to-use service that lets you call anyone with an email address, anywhere in the world. The new service is free now, during the official beta period.

EQO Communications Launches EQO Mobile, Changing Global Mobile Calling Landscape Original news source
EQO Communications announced the launch of EQO Mobile, a new service that lets users make international long distance calls and exchange IM and text messages on their mobile phones at local calling and messaging rates. People using EQO save up to 95% on all international calls and enjoy free calling and “texting” with other EQO users.

* Skyhook Wireles s Launches Loki 2.0 Original news source
Developed using Skyhook 's WPS location engine, Loki 2.0 delivers what can best be described as a big ol' bucket full of capabilities - new user controls, an updated look and feel, support for the Mac OS, a mobile version and a first-of-its-kind JavaScript API that gives any web developer the power to location-enable their content, application or service.

Google Checkout goes mobile Original news source

Existing Google Checkout buyers are now able to make fast, secure purchases on their mobile phones from any WAP–enabled Checkout merchant. The Checkout experience has a couple differences in the mobile world -- for example, buyers verify their identity with a PIN rather than with their full Google login -- but generally it's the same secure and convenient experience that's offered on the desktop.

Mobile Application Developer Blinkcorp Introduces SMS Broadcasting Service Original news source
Simply called Blink, the application will allow subscribers to receive messages from multiple content providers via SMS.

AskMeNow to Introduce Natural Language Wikipedia Desktop and Mobile Search Original news source
AskMeNow, Inc. announced a preliminary agreement with the Wikimedia Foundation to introduce a natural language desktop search and mobile search of Wikipedia , the vast online encyclopedia of knowledge.

WidSets reaches 1 million registered users Original news source
WidSets is a handset manufacturer-independent service from Nokia that brings the best bits of the Internet, such as communities, news, blogs, reviews, and weather reports straight to the mobile phone. It uses J2ME mini-applications called widgets to deliver up to date Internet content to mobile phones and enables the user to create their own widgets.

JiWire Expands Mobile Broadband Advertising Network with Wi-Fi Positioning System Original news source

Generally, the JiWire Mobile Broadband Advertising Network uses information about Wi-Fi hotspots contained in its registry, including the hotspots’ location and venue type, to intelligently select advertising for delivery to Internet users at those hotspots. In cases in which the user is unable to determine the hotspot to which he or she is connected, WPS from Skyhook Wireless will enable JiWire to deliver offers and messaging that is driven by geographic location.

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News about financing for wireless data businesses

DVC Labs Raises $4.8 Million Original news source

Motorola Invests in VOCEL Original news source

Mobicious Secures $4 Million First-Round Funding Original news source

AdaptiveMobile Receives Funding to Continue Growth in Mobile Security Original news source

IceBreaker Secures $7.2 Million in Funding for Mobile Social Networking Platform Original news source

Mobile Social Messenger "Qeep" Receives Series A Funding Original news source

IXI Mobile Announces the Closing of the Merger With Israel Technology Acquisition Corp . Original news source

Mobile Marketing Company HipCricket Secures $6 Million in Series B Funding Original news source

New York Based Mobile Dating Service Announces Completion of Series A Financing Original news source

Israeli startup Oberon Media buying I-Pay for more than $100 million Original news source

DoCoMo to Enhance Mobile Map Service Via Alliance with ZENRIN DataCom Original news source

Xinhua Finance Media acquires Mobile Service Provider in China Original news source

* Palm Announces Strategic Recapitalization Original news source

Palm, Inc. announced a strategic relationship with the private-equity firm Elevation Partners and a recapitalization plan that will position Palm to lead the next phase of the smartphone and mobile-computing markets. Under the planned recapitalization, shareholders will receive a $9 per share cash distribution. Elevation will invest $325 million in Palm, and the company will utilize these proceeds along with existing cash and $400 million of new debt to finance the cash distribution.

On2 Technologies Announces Acquisition of Hantro Products Original news source

Migo to Acquire MacroPort Original news source

Greystripe Secures $8.9 Million Original news source

QUALCOMM Commits €100 Million to Strategic Venture Investments in Europe Original news source
QUALCOMM Ventures ' first direct equity investment in Europe is in Streamezzo , a provider of rich media solutions, platforms and service for mobile communications.

T-Online Venture Fund Makes Strategic Investment in JAJAH Original news source

Aylus Networks Secures $15 Million Original news source

Nokia Growth Partners Invests in kyte.tv Original news source

Gemini Mobile Closes Funding Original news source

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Wireless Data News - May 12 to 18

2007-05-18T13:01:18Z

Wireless Data News Blog

To subcribe (or to unsubscribe) visit Zinester site		Instructions and disclaimers
© Leonid Iakovlev, Helsinki, 2007	Back issues are available at LiveJournal	May 12 to 18, 2007

Contents

Week summary
General wireless data market related news
Carriers news
Wireless data related middleware vendors news
Terminal development for mobile data
Mobile application related news
Application outsourcing and hosting news
News about financing for wireless data businesses

Week summary
* - Star sign marks especially important (from the editor's point of view) news items and is also a link to the next important news item.
Motorola showcases new phone models that are nice but just an evolution of previous ones - while manufacturers in China are really creative with such things as fingerprint-enabled and solar-powered mobile phones. More color e-ink screens - and 8Gb microSD cards. AOL authorizes mobile payments by IM. New players in enterprise mobile VoIP - Microsoft and SAP.
Back to Contents

General wireless data market related news

This section lists all breaking wireless data related news that do not belong to any particular section (or should belong to multiple) as well as to general reviews of interest.

Berg Insight says 52 million machines will be connected to European mobile networks by 2011 Original news source

According to a new research report from the analyst firm Berg Insight, the number of machines connected to mobile networks in Europe will grow by 43.7 percent annually to reach 52.0 million by 2011. At the end of 2006 there were about 8.5 million active cellular and satellite wireless M2M connections in the EU and Western Europe. Energy meters currently constitute the largest vertical market segment in terms of deployed units, followed by motor vehicles, security alarms and POS-terminals.

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Carriers news

This section lists news about innovative and competitive usage of wireless data by network carriers.

Nokia Siemens Networks to build Moscow region’s first 3G network for MTS Original news source

Mobile Telesystems OJSC, the largest mobile phone operator in Russia and the CIS, and Nokia Siemens Networks announced their cooperation in building a turnkey 3G network in the Moscow region. The announced collaboration covers the delivery of a 3G WCDMA radio network; a hardware and software package for data transfer; a multi-technology, multi-vendor network management system; plus turnkey implementation and technical services for network operation by Nokia Siemens Networks.

mFoundry and Verizon Wireless Working Together on Mobile Banking and Financial Services Solution Original news source

mFoundry, an award-winning mobile application platform provider, announced that it is working with Verizon Wireless on a banking and financial services solution. Verizon Wireless is expected to support the mFoundry Spotlight Financial Platform, which will offer an easy, secure way for Verizon Wireless customers to access and manage their financial relationships. The Spotlight Financial Platform provides financial institutions with a turnkey method of creating well-branded, unique mobile applications that run seamlessly and independently within the Spotlight solution.

Glocalnet and Proxim launch Sweden’s first outdoor internet Original news source

Proxim Wireless Corporation, a global pioneer of end-to-end solutions in Wi-Fi mesh, WiMAX, WLAN, and wireless backhaul and wholly owned subsidiary of Terabeam, Inc., announced that Swedish residential broadband provider Glocalnet, a subsidiary of Norway’s Telenor, has selected and deployed Proxim’s AP-4000MR access points to launch Sweden’s first outdoor internet access network to the country’s twenty-five largest towns by June 2007. The new service, GlocalZone, is free of charge for its 500 000 customers, whilst for non-subscribers prices will range from SEK19 (USD2.6) per hour to SEK99 for a full month. Glocalzone, involves the deployment of 500 Proxim AP-4000MR access points across Sweden’s cities including Stockholm, Gothenburg and Malmo. Proxim’s seamless integration between AP4000 indoor and AP4000MR outdoor mesh access points will enable Glocalnet to extend its outdoor Wi-Fi networks indoors.

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Wireless data related middleware vendors news

This section lists breaking news from companies which provide middleware used by carriers and software developers to offer access to diversified corporate data.

T-Mobile Germany Selects O3SIS for Consumer Mobile Email Platform Original news source

O3SIS Information Technology AG, provider of personal mobile applications and Over-the-Air data synchronization (DS) technology for first tier mobile network operators and internet service providers, announced that T-Mobile Germany has launched the O3SIS Mobile Mail platform, giving its consumer subscribers the power to read and respond to email from their handsets in real time. With the O3SIS Mail solution, T-Mobile Germany makes their high profile "Web'n'Walk" offering even more appealing with advanced mobile email options such as spam filtering, user-configured filters, and the mobilization of an existing email account based on POP3/IMAP4 standards or from Web-based providers like GMX or Yahoo.

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Terminal development for mobile data

This section lists breaking news from companies which manufacture actual end user wireless devices (phones, pagers, PDAs etc.), as well as other information relevant to such companies.

* Hi-Tech Wealth Inc. Launches Solar-Powered Mobile Phone Original news source

Hi-Tech Wealth, Inc., a leading consumer sales and marketing company engaged in the development and distribution of proprietary and branded digital mobile devices, announced the launch of the world’s first commercialized solar-powered mobile phone, the “S116.” When exposed to direct sunlight for 60 minutes, the S116 battery allows for 40 minutes of talk time. Even when exposed to “weak light” such as sunlight on an overcast day, indoor lighting or candle light, the S116 generates enough electricity to charge the battery. Additionally, the S116 solar-powered mobile phone incorporates Hi-Tech Wealth’s established and well-known information security technology, supports a T-Flash card and features a 1.3 megapixel camera. The S116 retails in China for USD$510.

* CECT Introduces High Security Mobile Handset with Fingerprint Recognition Original news source
Qiao Xing Mobile Communication Co., Ltd. , one of China’s leading manufacturers of mobile handsets through its CECT subsidiary, today announced the introduction of the Company’s most innovative handset to date - the T100- a information security mobile phone featuring fingerprint recognition, ultra long standby and multimedia features such as streaming TV.

* Motorola Showcases New Mobile Devices Product Portfolio Original news source

The RAZR², which will debut around the world in July 2007, features a slimmer exterior than its RAZR predecessor, along with ground-breaking new features designed to empower consumers in every facet of communication. New products such as the MOTO Z8, MOTO Q 9 and ROKR Z6 were also on display and will begin shipping in Europe and Asia within the next month. The ROKR brand will be synonymous with Motorola’s music-optimized handsets and headsets as the company addresses the importance of music for today’s mobile consumer.

* Microsoft, Manufacturers to Deliver New Generation of Workplace Phones and Devices Original news source

Microsoft Corp. and nine industry-leading companies will introduce a new generation of devices that connect the workplace phone to e-mail, instant messaging, real-time presence information, conferencing, voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and mobile communications. A new wave of phones and devices will become available for use in the public beta program of Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007 and Microsoft Office Communicator 2007. Microsoft is providing the device manufacturers with design specifications, helping to assure customers that the new phones and devices work easily with Office Communications Server and Office Communicator.

* LG.Philips LCD Develops Flexible Color A4-Size E-Paper Original news source

The 14.1-inch flexible color E-paper uses electronic ink from E-Ink Corp. to produce a maximum of 4,096 colors. It can be viewed from a full 180 degrees, so that images always appear crisp, even when the display is bent. Like the black and white flexible display, the color version uses a substrate that arranges Thin-Film Transistors (TFT) on metal foil rather than glass, allowing it to recover its original shape after being bent. This model includes a color filter coated onto the plastic substrate, allowing it to display color images.

* Samsung Develops Mobile Phone Memory Card With Record Storage Capacity Original news source
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. announced that it has developed an 8Gigabyte (GB) microSD (Secure Digital) memory card, a size optimal for today’s multimedia mobile phones. Featuring the highest capacity today for a microSD card, the new fingernail-sized card is capable of storing 2,000 MP3 music files, 4,000 digital photos, or approximately five DVD-quality movies.

WebTech Wireless Integrates Motorola G24 Java Platform in Locator Family of Telematics Devices Original news source

WebTech Wireless Inc., a provider of location-based and fleet Telematics services, today announced the introduction of Motorola, Inc.’s embedded G24 JAVA wireless module in WebTech Wireless’ Locator family of Telematics devices. The latest JAVA option integrates the new J2ME programming environment of Motorola’s G24 JAVA wireless module with the Locator application processor. This allows the large community of JAVA programmers to add custom functionality to the Locator and leverage the wide set of existing JAVA applications and reference APIs.

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Mobile applications related news

This section lists news that describe innovative and competitive implementation of wireless data applications.

Wells Fargo to Offer Mobile Banking for Business Customers Original news source

Wells Fargo & Company has introduced its CEO Mobile service to a select group of customers, becoming the first major U.S. financial services company to offer mobile service for businesses. The initial version of the CEO Mobile service, made available to a small number of business customers on April 30, delivers key treasury reports through a secure browser session. Functions that Wells Fargo plans to add later this year include wire approvals, image positive pay exceptions, and administrative tools such as password resets.

Novatel Wireless Demonstrates Internet-Based GPS Original news source

Novatel Wireless Inc. announced the demonstration of Internet-Based GPS on a notebook computer using QUALCOMM’s gpsOneXTRA Assistance technology. The live demonstration will be running on a Dell ATG laptop, using the Novatel EU870D module. QUALCOMM’s gpsOneXTRA Assistance technology, supported as part of the gpsOne solution on select Mobile Station Modem (MSM) chipsets, provides enhanced operation for Standalone-GPS by enabling a user to download a small assistance data file through a brief Internet access session. The gpsOneXTRA Assistance technology provides benefits such as a faster time-to-fix and operation, indoors and in challenging environments for up to seven days.

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Application outsourcing and hosting news

This section lists news about outsourcing/hosting of mobile corporate/enterprise applications by e.g. software developers, network carriers, and consulting companies. News about mobile access to portals are also included here.

* AOL’s AIM Users Can Make Mobile Payments Right From Their Buddy Lists Original news source
Obopay, comprehensive mobile payment service in the U.S., announced the availability of a new AIM Obopay plugin for users of AOL’s AIM service, the largest instant messaging community in the U.S. This new plugin allows eligible AIM users to launch Obopay and use it to make payments directly from the AIM Buddy List feature.

Contec launches BUZmob service Original news source

Contec Innovations, a provider of mobile infrastructure software, announced the beta release of BUZmob, a new publishing service for mobilizing Internet news, business information, weather, sports, entertainment and user-generated content. Based on patent-pending technology, BUZmob provides content publishers a simple, web-based solution to deliver feed-based digital content to mobile users on any device, on any network, anywhere. Publishers such as news agencies, media companies, blog platforms and social networks can now effectively target their mobile audience without having to create new mobile versions of their existing web content.

IAC Launches Ask Mobile GPS Original news source
IAC announced the availability of Ask Mobile GPS, a GPS-enabled lifestyle application featuring the best of Ask.com, Citysearch, and Evite.com, along with instant location finder and turn-by-turn navigation powered by the Global Positioning System. The service -- that is to combine local content, social networking and GPS navigation -- is now available for download at gps.ask.com.
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News about financing for wireless data businesses

This section lists news about new financing opportunities for and in the wireless data industry.

Mobile Phone Gambling Developer Cometa Raises $1.9 Million Original news source
Cometa Wireless Gaming Systems, a developer of mobile phone gambling technology, has raised $1.9 million in its first round of venture capital financing, led by fellow mobile phone gambling firm Mfusion.

* SAP Acquires Wicom Communications to Deliver Communication-Enabled Business Processes Original news source

In a move that will enable companies to streamline and improve the agility of their customer-facing processes, SAP AG announced the acquisition of Wicom Communications, a leading, privately-held provider of all-IP contact center and enterprise communications software based in Espoo, Finland. The acquisition will enable SAP to offer companies the ability to better integrate communications technologies and business systems so that they can more effectively serve their customers, regardless of how they connect to the business; connecting functions such as customer service, marketing, finance and sales; and making sure that all customer-facing employees wherever they are located have access to the same relevant knowledge and data.

uLocate Secures $11 Million in Growth Capital Investment Original news source

uLocate Communications, Inc., an award-winning publisher of location-enabled mobile applications, announced the close of an oversubscribed investment round of $11 million. Poised at the leading edge of the LBS mobile application market, uLocate will use the capital to fuel the continued development and marketing of the WHERE platform. International venture capital firm Venrock led the round, with additional participation from returning investors GrandBanks Capital and Kodiak Venture Partners.

Strengthening of Buongiorno's Marketing Services Continues With the Acquisition of Flytxt's Agency Business Original news source
Buongiorno, multinational operating in the market of digital entertainment, announced the acquisition of UK and US agency operations of Flytxt, specialist in mobile marketing and advertising. The newly formed Buongiorno Marketing Services Ltd. and Buongiorno Marketing Services Inc. will retain all agency clients and the strong and experienced Flytxt agency team.

AOL Acquires Third Screen Media Original news source
AOL announced that it has acquired Third Screen Media, the leading mobile advertising network and mobile ad-serving and management platform provider. Third Screen Media will operate as a wholly-owned subsidiary of AOL's Advertising.com division.
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This publication is licensed for simultaneous use in any form (including printed form) only by direct recipients. Reproduction in part or whole by any means is prohibited without copyright owner's prior written consent. Forwarding of sample copies to colleagues is allowed provided that no changes are made to the original html file and that the editor is informed about a fact of forwarding.

Only freely available English language information sources have been used to prepare this publication and links to original information sources are always included. The reader is free to use such links according to policies of respective copyright holders. Some of the links are time sensitive and may not be available after a certain period of time has passed. Access to some of the links may require free registration to the news source.

A recommended introductory reading that may be helpful in understanding the scope of this publication is the Wireless Data Forum's Wireless Data Primer.

A glossary of wireless industry terms and acronyms can be found at the Wireless Week site.

Disclaimer: The information presented is personal opinion of Leonid Iakovlev (the editor) and does not necessarily represent the opinion of any company with which he may be affiliated or of any referred third party. All information in this report is NOT guaranteed to be accurate. The information and links were however verified at the time this text was created. Editor does not take responsibility for any actions you may take based on the information you find here. Editor accepts no liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or omissions or by statements of any kind in this publication, whether such errors result from accident, negligence, or any other cause. Editor assumes no liability for incidental or consequential damages arising from the use of information in this publication. Editor provides no warranties regarding the information contained in this publication, whether expressed, implied, or statutory, including implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Editor also does not assume any liability for links from this publication to publications from other companies, organizations, or individuals. Editor does not imply endorsement of any specific company, organization, or individual through offering links to this content. All information provided within this publication is subject to change at any time and is provided for informational purposes only by the editor. All products and company names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.

Wireless Data News - May 5 to 11

2007-05-11T18:25:43Z

Wireless Data News Blog

To subcribe (or to unsubscribe) visit Zinester site		Instructions and disclaimers
© Leonid Iakovlev, Helsinki, 2007	Back issues are available at LiveJournal	May 5 to 11, 2007

Contents

Week summary
Carriers news
Wireless data related middleware vendors news
Terminal development for mobile data
Vendors of software for client wireless devices news
Mobile application related news
Application outsourcing and hosting news
News about financing for wireless data businesses
News about trade shows and conferences

Week summary
* - Star sign marks especially important (from the editor's point of view) news items and is also a link to the next important news item.
A lot of mobile related Java/J2ME announcements Helio Ocean double slider now shipping Cognos offers mobile business intelligence
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Carriers news

This section lists news about innovative and competitive usage of wireless data by network carriers.

Boingo Blankets Metropolitan Tokyo Original news source
Boingo Wireless Inc., wholesale network aggregator and operator of neutral-host Wi-Fi networks, announced a roaming agreement with Tokyo-based media services giant livedoor Co. Ltd., that adds the company’s Tokyo metropolitan Wi-Fi network to the Boingo Roaming System.

NTT DoCoMo and Hutch Essar Not to Proceed With i-mode Contract Original news source
DoCoMo and Hutch had been striving to launch i-mode service in India within 2007. Due to the changes in business environment, both companies concluded that it would be difficult to launch i-mode service at this time and agreed not to proceed.

VimpelCom and NeuStar Bring Mobile IM to Russia Original news source
NeuStar announced that Russian mobile operator, VimpelCom, has selected NeuStar's Next Generation Messaging solution for its mobile instant messaging (IM) service. Under VimpelCom's popular Beeline brand, NeuStar's IMSC (IM Service Centre) and IM Clients will provide real-time, presence-enabled instant messaging to VimpelCom's 48 million subscribers in Russia.
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Wireless data related middleware vendors news

This section lists breaking news from companies which provide middleware used by carriers and software developers to offer access to diversified corporate data.

* Ericsson to contribute to open source application server and provide IMS support for developer communities Original news source

Ericsson announced a collaboration agreement with Sun to develop an open source Java technology-based multimedia application server as well as a supporting program for the developer community. With this collaboration, Ericsson will contribute parts of its server development to the open source project GlassFish. The supporting program includes a variety of tools and expertise to support developer communities, as well as a possibility for developers to test their applications on a live IMS-based network.

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Terminal development for mobile data

This section lists breaking news from companies which manufacture actual end user wireless devices (phones, pagers, PDAs etc.), as well as other information relevant to such companies.

Samsung Unveils the Q1 Ultra Original news source

Complete with an integrated split-QWERTY keypad, mouse, and user-defined function keys, the Q1 Ultra UMPC is designed to enhance productivity, ease-of-use and portability in a range of personal and professional scenarios. With an increased battery life of 4.5 hours coupled with faster speeds, flexibility and mobile functionality, the Q1 Ultra product provides a compelling solution packed into a 1.5 pound package. The Q1 Ultra UMPC features the new Intel Ultra Mobile Processor running at a clock speed of 600 or 800 MHz, along with 1 GB of high speed DDR2 system memory. The Q1 Ultra supports a minimum of 4.5 hours of continuous run time via the integrated Lithium Ion prismatic batteries. Use of the higher-density polymer batteries enables greater battery capacity in a smaller space, thereby leading towards a smaller overall form-factor. The Q1 Ultra continues to push the connectivity boundaries, by including integrated 802.11b/g Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 2.0 + EDR and the factory optional 3.5G HSDPA cellular modem. Microsoft Windows VistaTHome Premium and Windows XP Tablet Edition operating systems are supported, enabling full PC compatibility with all applications.

Sony Ericsson adds light and colour to its global range Original news source
Sony Ericsson announces two new phones that are borne out of their designers love for the materials and colours found in the natural world. The 3G T650 fuses illumination effects with a stainless steel finish and scratch-proof mineral glass, whilst the 2.5G S500, a slim slider phone, reveals desktop and menu themes that change over time.

Sony Ericsson P1: the 5th generation P-series smart phone Original news source

Building on the feature set of earlier models, the Sony Ericsson P1 supports a wide range of push email solutions and Web browsing applications, plus connectivity via hi-speed UMTS and Wireless LAN (WiFi™). Add to this its compact size and multimedia capabilities and the P1 is the complete mobile office. It is based on the Symbian operating system (v9.1) and UIQ 3.0, an open platform that offers broad potential for multimedia applications from operators/carriers, content owners and third party developers.

* Helio Ocean Now Available Original news source

Dual-slider combining a traditional numeric keypad and a separate full QWERTY keyboard in a single device, Ocean delivers the definitive 3G mobile experience in an uncompromising form factor, exclusively on Helio's nationwide service. Ocean merges Instant Messages, text messages, picture messages and emails from the major portals and ISPs in one location. Running over a nationwide high-speed 3G network, Ocean also offers full over-the-air music downloads, video-on-demand, a high-resolution camera, an HTML browser, GPS-enabled Google Maps for mobile, Buddy Beacon, full Web search from the device home screen, integration of IM presence into the address book, GPS tagging of photos and videos, MySpace on Helio and more U.S. industry firsts, all in a single, beautifully designed package. Ocean sports a 2.4-inch, 260K color high-resolution QVGA display viewable in both portrait or landscape modes, external stereo speakers, Bluetooth for wireless voice and stereo Bluetooth for untethered music and videos, a 2.0 megapixel camera with digital zoom and flash for photos and over two hours of continuous video recording, 200MB internal memory expandable via microSD™ to 2GB, and USB Mass Storage Mode for drag-and-drop sideloading of content from a computer.

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Vendors of software for client wireless devices news

This section lists breaking news from companies which provide client software that runs in end user wireless devices (phones, pagers, PDAs etc.).

* Sun Unveils Mobile Software Original news source

Sun Microsystems previewed a mobile phone prototype with a rich, graphical interface, made possible by new software from Sun. JavaFX Mobile, a mobile phone software system available to carriers, content owners and consumer electronics manufacturers, could help to reduce the costs of creating rich, mobile Internet devices. Sun today also previewed JavaFX Script, a new scripting language targeting creative professionals, radically simplifying the process of creating and distributing interactive content that spans all Java enabled platforms, from handsets to set tops, laptops to dashboards. Both technologies are part of Sun's new JavaFX family of Java technology-based products. JavaFX leverages the security and ubiquity of the Java platform and will support all content and applications currently available across the billions of Java devices in use today. Sun will deliver additional JavaFX products for the manufacturers of set top boxes, navigation devices and automobile dashboards.

* Community Participation Drives Evolution of Java Micro Edition Platform Original news source

Sun Microsystems, Inc. announced the immediate availability of the Milestone Release (MR2) of the phoneME Feature project in the open source Mobile & Embedded Community. MR2 also contains a high performance implementation of Java bindings for the OpenGL ES API, which provides access to high-end 3D graphic functionality on the device. These capabilities facilitate the creation of graphically rich and compelling entertainment, business, and social networking mobile applications. In addition, Sun announced updates on the evolution of the Mobile & Embedded Community, including new projects around Web 2.0/Ajax, Scalable Vector Graphics(SVG), Blu-ray Disc and digital TV and developer best practices.

* Forum Nokia introduces Series 40 platform 5th Edition Original news source

The new Series 40 5th Edition is a full hardware, software and Application Programming Interface architecture, incorporating Java Platform Micro Edition (Java ME) technology with support for the latest version of the mobile information device profile (MIDP 2.1), and providing an enhanced UI that enables developers to build richer multimedia applications and services for mass market Nokia mobile devices. The latest evolution of the highest-volume mobile-development platform available, Series 40 5th Edition implements the advanced JSR-248 Mobile Service Architecture specification, completed in 2006 and designed by an industry task force led by Nokia and Vodafone to reduce fragmentation and provide a consistent set of Java technologies for high-volume mobile handsets. JSR-248 is also a key component of the S60 platform and Nokia's commitment to JSR-248 implementation in both platforms ensures a high level of application portability between Series 40 and S60 devices.

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Mobile applications related news

This section lists news that describe innovative and competitive implementation of wireless data applications.

Metropolitan Life and Clickatell introduce insurance by mobile phone in South Africa Original news source

South African insurance company Metropolitan Life has introduced a new service called Cover2go that makes innovative use of mobile phone technology from Clickatell to offer insurance cover to those on lower incomes in South Africa. The service costs around R10 (approx €1), which is deducted from the phone’s airtime and provides instant life insurance for six days, paying out R60,000 (approx €6,300) in the case of accidental death. Cover2go has already been offered to the public at taxi ranks in Gauteng, South Africa, in a pilot campaign. The customer purchases the policy by sending their name and identity number to a premium-rate number. The system, powered by Clickatell, replies with a confirmation and policy number, requests the name of a beneficiary, and reminds the policyholder to inform an associate about the life insurance. One policy is permitted per person and a renewal notification is sent on expiry.

* Cognos Showcases Mobile Solution to Blackberry Customers Worldwide Original news source

Cognos 8 Go! Mobile is purpose-built for the BlackBerry wireless platform from Research In Motion. It has a rich mobile-client that allows executives or front-line mobile workers to use their BlackBerry smartphones to read and securely interact with the most relevant operational and strategic company performance information, even while offline, for real-time decision-making. Cognos 8 Go! Mobile fully leverages the proven capabilities of the Cognos 8 BI platform, including common security and a single report authoring environment, to deliver timely, personalized and secure information automatically over the air.

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Application outsourcing and hosting news

Raketu Adds Global SMS Text Messaging to VoIP Service Offering Original news source

Raketu introduced its new Global Short Message Service (SMS) Text Service. Through Raketu, consumers can now send SMS text messages to the mobile phones of their friends, family, and co-workers anywhere in the world. Raketu offers a flat rate for each text message sent to a given country regardless of the location of where the message originates. Raketu currently offers the lowest published rates of any SMS text message provider in any country globally.

MOBIVOX Enables Skype and Free International Phone Calls From ANY Cell Phone Original news source

MOBIVOX announced the Beta launch of its hosted service, making it the first ever communication provider to bring Skype to any mobile device. The service also offers free international fixed and mobile calls between MOBIVOX users. Best of all, MOBIVOX works with every mobile phone and requires no download on the mobile or on the PC. MOBIVOX is underpinned by a global infrastructure and extensive proprietary technology.

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News about financing for wireless data businesses

This section lists news about new financing opportunities for and in the wireless data industry.

Quattro Wireless Unveiled; Company Will Establish Network of Mobile-Specific Websites for Premier Publishers and Advertisers Original news source
Quattro snared $6 million in its first round of funding, led by Highland Capital Partners.

mig33 Closes $10 Million Series A Original news source

mig33, the global mobile Internet community, announced that parent company, Project Goth, has closed a Series A funding round of $10 million co-led by Accel Partners and
Redpoint Ventures, with substantial contribution from Technology Venture Partners, to expand its mobile phone based global communications service. mig33 is opening the most popular Internet services up to all mobile phone users with a rapidly emerging user base, already serving more than 200 countries since launching in beta in December 2005.

Apptix Acquires WebMessenger Original news source

Apptix, provider of unified on-demand business communications solutions for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), announced the acquisition of , a technology company with a suite of Mobile Instant Messaging (IM) products that work across more devices, platforms, and public & private IM networks than any other provider. WebMessenger provides Apptix with market-ready mobile messaging & collaboration products and extensive engineering expertise in critical emerging Mobile IM and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) markets.

Comeks Raises Funds Original news source

Comeks, a Finland-based developer of tools for creating user-generated mobile content, announced that it has raised an undisclosed sum in its first round of funding, from Accel Partners. The company's software can be downloaded by users to their phones, and then used to create panel-style comics using photos, text and cartoonish images. The resulting "comeks" may then be shared using e-mail, SMS or MMS services.

Intercasting Corp. Secures $12 Million Original news source

Intercasting Corporation, a mobile media company, announced that it has raised $12 million in Series B financing that was led by Venrock and also supported by existing backers Avalon Ventures and Masthead Venture Partners. Intercasting Corp. will use the funding to go towards its strategy of expanding carrier-based distribution and partners for both its mobile social networking application, Rabble, and its Social Networking Service Gateway (SNS-G) ANTHEM Platform, which enables wireless carriers to mobilize web-based social networking and community sites.

Intel Capital Announces Six New Global Investments Original news source
The deals, all led by Intel Capital, include: China-based 51.com (social networking) and Phoenix Microelectronics (microelectronics); Aternity (application management software) and Ceedo (portable computing environment), both based in Israel; and from the United States, Jajah (Internet telephony solutions) and Tutor.com (education network).

THQ Announces Acquisition of Mobile Game Developer Universomo Original news source

THQ Inc. announced that it has acquired mobile game development studio Universomo Ltd. Based in Finland, Universomo has been offering a mobile game development solution for leading global game publishers since 2002. The company’s proprietary game development environment and automated porting solution supports all major mobile platforms, enabling rapid and cost efficient development and porting on a worldwide basis.

Zenops Acquires In-Fusio And Filao Original news source
ZENOPS, mobile games publisher on i-mode in Europe announces the acquisition of IN-FUSIO, FILAO and MOBILE SCOPE. These acquisitions give ZENOPS access to catalogues of top games titles such as Ages of Empire II, Neopets, Asterix, Tour de France, Line Rider and Brain Trainer as well as first-class service applications for carriers and handset manufacturers through MOBILE SCOPE.
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A recommended introductory reading that may be helpful in understanding the scope of this publication is the Wireless Data Forum's Wireless Data Primer.

A glossary of wireless industry terms and acronyms can be found at the Wireless Week site.

Wireless Data News - April 21 to May 4

2007-05-04T14:06:02Z

Wireless Data News Blog

To subcribe (or to unsubscribe) visit Zinester site		Instructions and disclaimers
© Leonid Iakovlev, Helsinki, 2007	Back issues are available at LiveJournal	April 21 to May 4, 2007

Contents

Week summary
General wireless data market related news
Carriers news
Terminal development for mobile data
Vendors of software for client wireless devices news
Mobile application related news
Application outsourcing and hosting news
News about financing for wireless data businesses
News about trade shows and conferences

Week summary
* - Star sign marks important (from the editor's point of view) news items and is also a link to the next important item.
NFC is to be unified. Some carriers/Internet providers are not afraid of independent integrators like FON anymore. RIM is now supplying separately innovative phones, client software and server software and is providing worldwide-capable phones. More and more innovatively looking and working terminals including gps receivers on sim cards. Microsoft buys more into mobile. More and more local and global flat-rate offerings, and they become more and more popular.
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General wireless data market related news

This section lists all breaking wireless data related news that do not belong to any particular section (or should belong to multiple) as well as to general reviews of interest.

CDG: CDMA2000 Is The Technology Of Choice For 3G Services In Africa And The Middle East Original news source

The CDMA Development Group (CDG) announced today that CDMA2000 is rapidly expanding in Africa and the Middle East. 62service providers in 38 countries within the region have commercially deployed or are planning to deploy 3G services using CDMA2000 technology. As of 2006, there were more than 10 million CDMA subscribers in the region and this number is expected to more than quadruple within the next four years.

Developers and Corporations Unite to Advance GNOME Technology as Leading User Experience Platform for Mobile and Embedded Devices Original news source

The GNOME Foundation announced the creation of the GNOME Mobile & Embedded Initiative (GMAE), and a software platform for user experience development across a wide range of device profiles. The GNOME Mobile & Embedded Initiative will advance the use, development and commercialization of GNOME components as a mobile and embedded user experience platform. It brings together industry leaders, expert consultants, key developers and the community and industry organizations they represent.

JupiterResearch Finds Limited Consumer Interest in Mobile Banking Original news source

JupiterResearch has found that despite renewed efforts on the part of financial institutions, overall interest in mobile banking services is limited. Just eight percent of online consumers who own a cell phone are interested in using mobile browsing to check account balances. In a new report, "Mobile Banking: Assessing Servicing Opportunities via Cell Phones," JupiterResearch advises that major US banks, which are working to expand mobile banking offerings, should experiment with services that leverage the mobile channel's characteristics to respond to the needs of three key consumers segments.

* Momentum builds around GSMA’s pay-buy mobile project Original news source

Nokia and a further 10 mobile operators have thrown their weight behind a GSM Association initiative to enable the worldwide use of mobile phones for payments at retail outlets. The GSMA’s 'Pay-Buy Mobile' initiative seeks to define a common global approach to using Near Field Communications (NFC) technology to link mobile devices with payment and contactless systems. Together with a SIM/Universal Integrated Circuit Card (UICC) card in a mobile handset, NFC can be used to enable a wide range of secure, interoperable and transparent services, such as credit and debit payments.

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Carriers news

This section lists news about innovative and competitive usage of wireless data by network carriers.

Orange launches new flat rate net bundles Original news source
Orange will release new mobile internet rates to make pricing easy for customers. The flat rate pricing will include four new bundles for both prepay and contract customers.

NTT DoCoMo's Flat-Rate Data Communication Billing Plan Subscribers Top 10 Million Original news source

The pake-hodai plan, launched on June 1, 2004, allows 3G FOMA i-mode subscribers unlimited viewing of i-mode content for a flat monthly subscription fee of 4,095 yen (including tax). The plan has attracted great popularity by freeing users from concerns about data charges when enjoying data-intensive services; these include "Mega i-appli™" applications as large as 1MB, "Deco-mail" for embedding e-mails with high-resolution icons, and video clips.

The Cloud switches on advanced WiFi network across the City of London Original news source

Outdoor WiFi network will be switched on across the entire City of London – the famous Square Mile. More than 350,000 people who work in and visit the area now have wireless broadband access throughout the City. The network has been built and is operated by The Cloud, a leading wireless broadband provider. Free access for the first month will be provided in association with Nokia, allowing anyone with a WiFi-enabled device to get online in the City.

* Time Warner Cable Partners With FON for WiFi Network Original news source

FON announced a partnership with Time Warner Cable which allows Time Warner Cable broadband subscribers to access the world's largest and fastest-growing WiFi network. The partnership specifically allows Time Warner Cable subscribers to become FON community members and create FON access points via their home or business broadband connection. Furthermore, the same subscribers would enjoy free WiFi access around the world, wherever FON has partner ISPs.

Vodafone Mobile Internet is now available in 32 countries at the domestic rate Original news source

From now on, customers pay € 14.50 for Vodafone Germany WebSessions in the 32 countries where Vodafone networks or Vodafone partner networks exist to get 24-hour mobile internet usage without a contract or an extra basic charge. This continues the WebSessions value-for-money offer that Vodafone launched at CeBIT for business travellers and holidaymakers in 18 new countries. Vodafone WebSessions is now available in Vodafone networks and Vodafone Partner networks in the following countries outside Germany: Austria, Australia, Belgium, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Cyprus, Denmark, Egypt, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, United Kingdom.

Sonera launches a mobile karaoke service Original news source
The new mobile karaoke by Sonera brings the popular entertainment service to the mobile phone. The customer can easily order a karaoke song through the Sonera SurfPort service. The song is sent to the customer in an MMS message and stored in the phone. The service is available for most new Nokia smartphones.

mFoundry and Sprint Partner to Launch Mobile Banking and Financial Services Application Original news source

mFoundry, mobile application platform provider, announced a formal agreement with Sprint that will bring mobile banking and financial services to Sprint customers with Vision or Power Vision phones, enabling them to check their bank balances, transfer funds between their accounts, make bill payments and more, with participating banks. mFoundry’s Spotlight Financial Platform will be used to deploy a tightly integrated, single-point solution that supports security features including multi-factor authentication, encryption and the ability to deactivate the application remotely.

AT&T Announces Unlimited Messaging Plans Original news source

A new plan from AT&T called Messaging Unlimited will give customers the ability to send unlimited messages of any type, including text, picture, video and instant messages (IM), to any wireless phone in the U.S. for $19.99 a month. Additionally, AT&T customers who send most of their messages to other AT&T subscribers can add unlimited mobile-to-mobile messaging to a messaging plan for just $5 more a month.

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Terminal development for mobile data

This section lists breaking news from companies which manufacture actual end user wireless devices (phones, pagers, PDAs etc.), as well as other information relevant to such companies.

Alltel Wireless Introduces One of the Thinnest Phones in the U.S. Original news source

The Wafer by Samsung, weighing only 2.7 oz., features XM Radio Mobile, Axcess TV and Axcess Mobile Guide. The Wafer is preloaded with Axcess Search, which allows customers to search for ringtones, wallpaper or other information on their phones by simply holding down the pound key. Other features include a 1.3 megapixel camera with video capabilities, an MP3 player, an expandable memory slot, Stereo Bluetooth Headset capability and Alltel’s Celltop technology.

LG Electronics Aims to Be a Leader in Premium Technology Phones Original news source
LG Electronics launched its latest HSDPA series 60-based smartphone, LG-KS10, in Italy. LG’s smartphone provides a full web browsing experience on its 2.4-inch wide LCD screen.

* RIM Introduces the BlackBerry Curve Smartphone Original news source

The BlackBerry Curve features a liquid silver finish, chrome highlights, smooth edges and soft curves. It is a full-featured smartphone with a full QWERTY keyboard and large display and yet it boasts an impressively small and lightweight design at 4.2'' x 2.4'' x 0.6'' and approximately 3.9 oz. The ultra-bright 320x240 display brings images and video to life and includes RIM's light sensing technology that automatically adjusts backlighting levels for indoor, outdoor and dark environments. The handset also features RIM's innovative trackball navigation system that makes scrolling and selecting fast and easy. The BlackBerry Curve comes with a 2 megapixel camera, complete with 5x digital zoom, built-in flash, self-portrait mirror and full screen viewfinder. The audio system is crisp and clear, playing music and videos through the handset's integrated speaker or through the 3.5 mm stereo jack. The Bluetooth stereo audio profile (A2DP/AVRCP) is supported, and dedicated volume controls are conveniently located on the side of the handset.

Nokia empowers consumers in emerging markets to stay connected Original news source

The new products announced include: - Nokia 1200 and Nokia 1208: Utilizing new industry-leading phone-sharing and call-tracking technology, these two new products are aimed at the first-time mobile phone consumer worldwide; - Nokia 1650 and Nokia 2660: Contemporary phones that combine functionality with attractive design; - Nokia 2505: The latest phone for entry CDMA markets in Asia/Pacific, Middle East, Africa, China and Latin America; - Nokia 2630 and 2760: Fashionably-designed phones that convey style and status, combined with Nokia's easy-to-use feature set.

Samsung Unveils the Symbian OS Smartphone SGH-i400 Original news source

The new smartphone i400 is based on S60 which offer extensive language supports, enhanced download applications and multitasking features. The stylish slider phone supports full web browsing and Bluetooth connectivity for active business users. To enhance its multimedia features, the Samsung i400 also includes 2 Megapixel camera, music key and stereo dual speaker. Moreover, the i400 has a 2.3” wide display for the convenient use of business and multimedia functions.

New Hitachi Mobile Phone Uses AuthenTec Sensor for Security and Handset Navigation Original news source

The AES1510 fingerprint sensor is mounted below the W51H’s high-resolution display that flips and swivels so that users can browse mobile web pages in an easily readable 2.9 inch 480 x 800 widescreen display. The robust AES1510 is specifically designed to withstand common wear and tear associated with an externally exposed sensor, such as the typical minor bumps and scratches caused by coins, keys and other objects. The AES1510 also enables secure and convenient near field communication (NFC) transactions used for mobile ticketing and check in, stored value, mobile credit, and Internet commerce payments.

NTT DoCoMo Unveils New FOMA 904i Series Original news source

The new handsets have features that are significantly more advanced than those supported by 903i Series models. Among these features are "2in1", which takes the capabilities of two phones and folds them into a single handset; "Uta-hodai", which allows via i-mode full-track music downloads from content providers for a flat monthly subscription fee; and "Chokkan Game", which are played using intuitive motion. All models in the 904i Series support "Video Clips (10MB i-motion)", Windows Media Audio (WMA) and Full Browser, while some also support "One-segment" terrestrial digital broadcasting and High-Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA).

* Verizon Wireless Announces the Next Evolution in Global Connectivity Original news source

Verizon Wireless and Research In Motion introduced the first Global CDMA/GSM BlackBerry. In addition, Verizon Wireless announced the May 14 availability of its new Global BlackBerry service, an “always-on, always connected” wireless e-mail solution that provides quick, easy access to e-mail, contacts, calendar, organizer and the Web while on-the-go. With the BlackBerry 8830 World Edition smartphone and Global BlackBerry service from Verizon Wireless, customers get wireless e-mail and the convenience of one local number for domestic and international use in Australia, Europe, parts of Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East and North America.

* BlueSky Positioning Helps Operators Benefit From New Emergency Call Legislation Original news source

BlueSky Positioning's new approach incorporates a highly accurate GPS receiver and proprietary antenna into the SIM card, which provides the opportunity to deploy precise, legally-mandated positioning capability quickly and cost-effectively across all mobile handsets. BlueSky Positioning has developed patent-pending technology and processes to embed Assisted Global Positioning System (A-GPS) capability in the SIM card (USIM in the case of 3G handsets), with minimal impact on signal strength and battery life. This means that operators need only replace the SIM cards, not the phones themselves – a far more manageable solution.

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Vendors of software for client wireless devices news

This section lists breaking news from companies which provide client software that runs in end user wireless devices (phones, pagers, PDAs etc.).

* RIM Announces New BlackBerry Application Suite for Windows Mobile-based Devices Original news source

Research In Motion announced plans to expand its support for Windows Mobile-based devices with a new software application suite that will enable devices from third-party manufacturers to benefit from the popular BlackBerry software applications and services. RIM plans to begin offering the new software application suite later this year for select devices based on Windows Mobile 6. Once installed, the software will provide users with a virtual BlackBerry application experience, including support for BlackBerry email, phone, calendar, address book, tasks, memos, browser, instant messaging and other applications developed for the BlackBerry platform. Devices running the BlackBerry application suite will be able to connect to BlackBerry services via BlackBerry® Enterprise Server as well as BlackBerry Internet Service.

Back to Contents

Mobile applications related news

This section lists news that describe innovative and competitive implementation of wireless data applications.

Mamma.com Enters Mobile Market With New Technology Original news source
Mamma.com Inc. announces that it has entered the rapidly growing mobile market by introducing an add-on for their Copernic Desktop Search (CDS) product targeted to mobile phone users. This new plug-in will enable CDS users to search and access their own emails, files, music, pictures, videos and other content remotely via any mobile device, such as cellular phone, PDA, etc.

GrandCentral Unveils Ground-Breaking Application for Mobile Original news source

GrandCentral, a next-generation personal communications company, today announced GrandCentral Mobile, the mobile version of the company's One Number for Life service. With GrandCentral Mobile, available at http://m.grandcentral.com, users can now access their GrandCentral account and all the service's core features from any mobile device that has a Web browser. At GrandCentral.com, users choose a single phone number that ties their telephone numbers (home, work, cell) and services (voicemail, etc.) to a single inbound number. After that, when anyone calls the GrandCentral number, all their telephones ring simultaneously and they can answer from whichever phone is most convenient. Users can control which phones ring, which ring-back tones are played and which voicemail greetings are heard, all based on who is calling. The service is free and works across all phones, regardless of type, network or service provider.

Tira Wireless Transforms Mobile Development and Deployment With the Release of Tira Jump 2007 Platform Original news source

Tira Wireless, provider of technology and services for the mobile market, announced Tira Jump 2007. This latest release of Tira Wireless' flagship technology platform is designed to accelerate the time it takes developers and publishers of mobile content to get new titles to market. New features provide significant productivity breakthroughs in Java Platform, Micro Edition (Java ME) content development and deployment by enabling code re-use, collaboration and interoperability.

AdMob 'Plugs in' to Mobilize the WordPress Community Original news source
Mobile innovator Andy Moore of Web2Txt has teamed with AdMob, the world's largest mobile internet advertising Marketplace, to launch a free mobile plug-in for popular blogging tool WordPress. The new offering will enable the global WordPress blogger community to both go mobile quickly and then immediately start to monetize their content from advertising revenue.

Global Mobile Technologies Files Patents for Delivery of Interactive Multimedia Advertising to Mobile Phones Original news source
Global Mobile Technologies (GMT) announced the filing of patents for real-time delivery of rich, user-requested content with interactive advertising to mobile phones. Push-It enables Internet advertising to be translated into a mobile-ready format with "click through" and "call through" capabilities.

vFlyer Rolls Out vFlyer Mobile Original news source
vFlyer, comprehensive classified ad and content creation, management and submission platform, announced a new enhancement that supports a secure, mobile version of its flagship flyer services. vFlyer Mobile enables business account users with a Web-enabled mobile device to access, view and distribute their flyers to prospective buyers via SMS or email messages.
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Application outsourcing and hosting news

GotZapp Takes Popular Social Networking Sites Mobile Original news source
GotZapp, a new mobile social networking platform from Trivantis, does more than send exclusive user- created content from its Web site to Web-enabled mobile phones; users can now use the Page Zapper to import their profile page from the most popular social networking sites on the web.

AskMeNow Launches Mobile Push Services-AlertMeNow Original news source
AskMeNow Inc. announced it has launched a new push content service for consumers branded 'AlertMeNow.' The service offers easy access to fun and informative content pushed daily to customers' mobile phones for free.

More than a million Cellular One customers have access to Napster Mobile hosted by Ericsson Original news source
Cellular One customers across the US have access to the world's largest mobile music catalog thanks to a joint partnership between the wireless provider, Ericsson and Napster . Napster Mobile is available to customers of Cellular One from Dobson Cellular Systems.

Frucall Unveils Version 2 of its Popular Mobile Shopping Search Original news source
Frucall announced the availability of Version 2 of its popular mobile search service for price comparison shopping. Frucall is a free, phone-based service that lets consumers hear current online prices and purchase products using their mobile phones, anytime, anywhere.

Napster Set to Launch Over-the-Air Music Subscription Service in Japan Original news source
Napster announced that the company will soon launch the first deployment of its over-the-air (OTA) music subscription service through Napster Japan, a joint venture between the company and Tower Records Japan, with NTT DoCoMo, Japan's largest wireless carrier.

PhoneSpots Redefines Local Search and Advertising on Mobile Phones Original news source

PhoneSpots, a provider of next-generation mobile phone advertising, announced the company's public launch and the immediate availability of its mobile advertising exchange. The exchange enables directory assistance operators and online yellow pages providers to deliver enhanced listing information, category search results, and highly targeted advertising in text or multimedia messages sent to mobile phones.

4INFO to Launch SMS/Text Advertising Marketplace Original news source
The 4INFO Advertising Marketplace will allow marketers to reach new customers by placing highly targeted advertising within valued, timely SMS/text mobile content from 4INFO's mobile services, as well as partners including USA Today, Spark Networks and TV Guide.

CellSigns launches Newspaper Industry's first mobile platform Original news source
Cellifieds bridges the offline, online and mobile channels. With a cell phone, users can shop the local classifieds for a car, browse pictures and information on homes for sale, or even sign up for alerts and breaking news. The customer can also click on the newspaper website and send a news story, coupon or ad to their cell phone with send-to-phone.
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News about financing for wireless data businesses

This section lists news about new financing opportunities for and in the wireless data industry.

Mobile Social Network Frengo Raises $5.7 Million Original news source
Frengo, a mobile social network, announced that it has raised $5.7 million in its first round of venture capital financing, led by Trilogy Equity Partners.

Benefon announces that geosolutions transaction closed and share exchange accomplished Original news source

The Board of Directors of Benefon Oyj has resolved on purchase of GeoSolutions B.V. according to authorization granted to it by the Annual General Meeting of April 16th, 2007. Accordingly the Board has decided to issue agreed number of Benefon Oyj's new investment series shares to GeoHolding B.V., to the sole owner of GeoSolutions B.V., and agreed number of option rights to key resources of GeoSolutions B.V.

Juice Wireless squeezes $2.3M in funding Original news source
Juice Wireless hauled in $2.3 million from Qualcomm Inc. and 21 Ventures as part of a second funding round. The New York-based startup is hoping to tap the user-generated content market with JuiceCaster, a cross-platform offering that allows users to create videos on mobile phones and distribute them to social networking sites.

Sonopia Secures $12.7 Million Original news source
Sonopia announced a $12.7 million series B financing round led by Cardinal Venture Capital. The funds will be used to advance the company’s goal of providing American consumers with mobile services tailored to their lifestyles and preferences.

Hostopia acquires assets of Nexthaus Original news source
Hostopia.com Inc. announced that it has acquired all of the software assets of Nexthaus, Inc., a US-based developer of software applications for mobile devices, in accordance with a definitive agreement. The acquired software uses wireless communications to synchronize data between computers and mobile devices, such as calendar and contact updates from a desktop to a smart phone.

* Microsoft Acquires ScreenTonic Original news source
Microsoft Corp. announced it has agreed to acquire ScreenTonic SA, a Europe-based mobile advertising pioneer, in a move that combines the breadth of Microsoft(R) Digital Advertising Solutions offerings with the mobile expertise and industry relationships of ScreenTonic to help advertisers reach a global audience of mobile users.

zamano has completed the acquisition of Eirborne Text Promotions Original news source
zamano has completed the acquisition of Eirborne Text Promotions Ltd, an Irish-based mobile content company active in the UK, Irish and Australian markets. zamano has acquired the entire issued share capital of Eirborne for an initial consideration of €1.7m.

EQO Communications Secures US$9 Million in Series B Funding Original news source
EQO Communications, a provider of mobile internet phone services, today announced that the company has received a US$9 million Series B financing to fund its global expansion. The financing round was led by Ventures West and included investments from existing investors GrowthWorks and BDC Capital.

OZ Acquires Thumbspeed Original news source

OZ, consumer mobile messaging solution provider, announced that it has acquired Thumbspeed Inc. from Hands-On Mobile Inc., for an undisclosed amount. This acquisition will expand OZ’s expertise and offering for the mobile messaging market. With OZ’s technology and market leadership, and Thumbspeed’s strength in mobile client applications and innovation, a new and more formidable mobile messaging solution provider is formed.

MobileMail (US) Enters Into a Letter of Intent to Acquire Significant Interest in Market-Leading Mobile Content Delivery Solutions Provider Original news source
txtNation, headquartered in the UK, is a solutions provider of mobile messaging, content and billing services, encompassing SMS chat services, white-label campaigns for mobile platforms, web-based mobile content delivery, and secure mobile customer billing.

Limbo 41414 Secures $8 Million In Venture Capital To Expand Its Mobile Entertainment Services Original news source
Mobile pioneer Limbo 41414 announced that it has secured $8 million in new financing from Azure Capital Partners, Draper Fisher Jurvetson and New Enterprise Associates (NEA) to continue fueling Limbo's aggressive growth and plans to deliver an expanded array of mobile and online entertainment services to consumers and marketers.
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News about trade shows and conferences

This section lists the trade shows and conferences which are relevant to wireless data from either participation or exhibiting point of view.

MobileMonday presents Mobile Finland Original news source
May 7, 2007, Helsinki

FT Mobile Media Conference Original news source
May 15-16, London.
Back to Contents

A recommended introductory reading that may be helpful in understanding the scope of this publication is the Wireless Data Forum's Wireless Data Primer.

A glossary of wireless industry terms and acronyms can be found at the Wireless Week site.

Wireless Data News - April 14 to 20

2007-04-20T14:43:57Z

Wireless Data News Blog

To subcribe (or to unsubscribe) visit Zinester site		Instructions and disclaimers
© Leonid Iakovlev, Helsinki, 2007	Back issues are available at LiveJournal	April 14 to 20, 2007

Contents

Week summary
Carriers news
Wireless data related middleware vendors news
Terminal development for mobile data
Vendors of software for client wireless devices news
Mobile application related news
Application outsourcing and hosting news
News about financing for wireless data businesses

Week summary
* - Star sign marks especially important (from the editor's point of view) news items and is also a link to the next important news item.
Nokia introduces simple and powerful S60-based HSDPA phone. Also company pushes rich web applications on mobile devices, especially in S60 browser. Intel joins Nokia by introducing its' own tablet Linux-based Mobile Internet Device. u-blox now is producing devices that use a combination of GPS and dead reckoning data that counters the respective disadvantages of each approach. Thus accurate position is provided in tunnels, indoor parking facilities, roofed logistics centers, urban canyons and any other environment where obstructed GPS signals hinder positioning. Etelos allows web applications to be run in offline mode with seamless synchronization.
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Carriers news

This section lists news about innovative and competitive usage of wireless data by network carriers.

Cellcom Has Launched an Ad-Funded Games Service Original news source

Israel's largest mobile operator, Cellcom has launched an ad-funded mobile games service powered by innerActive's technology. The new innovative service offers the subscribers free games downloads, sponsored by top brands. The mobile game service offers Cellcom’s mobile users the opportunity to download (free of charge) mobile games, in exchange for exposure to advertisements within the games. The dynamic ads are injected into the games as Product Placement and appear at different media areas within the game as part on the environment, using innerActive innovative technology.

Globetrotters Roam Economically When Abroad with New AT&T International Data Plans Original news source

Accessing e-mail and other data wirelessly while overseas is now much more cost-effective as AT&T Inc. announced the availability of international data plans that offer greatly reduced data roaming rates to customers using any AT&T-powered smartphone or PDA. The new global rate plans range from $44.99 to $69.99 a month, depending on device class and e-mail platform. They include 20 megabytes (MB) of international data use in nearly 30 countries with UMTS, EDGE or GPRS wireless data networks, as well as unlimited domestic access. The plans apply to such devices as BlackJack, the Cingular 3125 Smartphone, Cingular 8525 Pocket PC, HP iPAQ hw6920 Mobile Communicator, Palm Treo™ 680 and Palm Treo 750.

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Wireless data related middleware vendors news

This section lists breaking news from companies which provide middleware used by carriers and software developers to offer access to diversified corporate data.

Acuity Mobile Launches Next Generation Mobile Advertising Platform Original news source

Acuity Mobile, provider of mobile marketing content delivery technology, unveiled the next generation of its Embedded Mobile Advertising Platform (EMAP) that delivers Spot Relevance - the capacity to target the right content to the right person, at the right time and in the right location. EMAP 4.0’s patented technology meets the challenges of mobile content delivery through ease of deployment, customization and enhanced analytical tools that allow the EMAP Preference Engine to learn over time and supply the end user with increasingly relevant content and advertising.

Back to Contents

Terminal development for mobile data

This section lists breaking news from companies which manufacture actual end user wireless devices (phones, pagers, PDAs etc.), as well as other information relevant to such companies.

* Nokia's latest mobile phone gives you more time for the important things in life Original news source

More and more consumers are using their mobile phones for tasks such as downloading music, streaming video, browsing the Internet or receiving emails with attachments. The compact Nokia 6120 classic phone makes these tasks faster and easier by utilizing HSDPA (High Speed Downlink Packet Access), an evolutionary technology offering downloads up to 10 times faster than over usual WCDMA networks. Giving the Nokia 6120 even more functionality for busy lives, the new phone features two cameras -- a 2-megapixel camera with 4-times digital zoom, flash and panorama mode for taking high-quality photographs as well as a second camera in the front that adds a personal touch to calls by making use of the video call feature.

* Intel Keeps Mobile Engine Humming Original news source

Intel introduced Ultra Mobile platform 2007 (formerly codenamed "McCaslin") for MIDs and UMPCs and said systems will be available over the summer from Aigo, Asus, Fujitsu, Haier, HTC and Samsung. The Intel Ultra Mobile platform 2007 is based on the Intel processor A100 and A110, the Intel 945GU Express Chipset and the Intel ICH7U I/O Controller Hub. Intel will deliver its next-generation platform for MIDs and UMPCs – codenamed "Menlow" – in the first half of 2008. Intel also announced the formation of the Mobile Internet Device Innovation Alliance. Together, alliance members will work on engineering challenges, including power management, wireless communications, and software integration, that are associated with delivering the full Internet in ever-smaller MID form factors.

* u-blox announces LEA-4R dead reckoning GPS module Original news source

u-blox' dead reckoning technology uses sensors that detect travelled distance and turn rate, supplementing GPS data and thus providing an accurate position in tunnels, indoor parking facilities, roofed logistics centers, urban canyons and any other environment where obstructed GPS signals hinder positioning. Its built-in Enhanced Kalman Filter algorithm uses a combination of GPS and dead reckoning data that counters the respective disadvantages of each approach. Depending on the quality of the GPS signal and on how well the dead-reckoning sensors are calibrated, the technology uses a weighted mix of both data, generating optimal accuracy and coverage results. The LEA-4R's algorithmic approach also eliminates multi-path effects caused by high-rise buildings, position inaccuracies, and distortions from jamming sources. Samples will be available in May 2007.

T-Mobile USA Launches the Performance-Driven BlackBerry 8800 Original news source

The BlackBerry 8800 complements the popularity of the BlackBerry Pearl, providing customers with a proven mobile experience in a slim design with a full QWERTY keyboard. The BlackBerry 8800 includes support for up to 10 work and personal e-mail accounts (including the most popular ISP e-mail accounts), a built-in multimedia player for music and video, and full HTML web browsing. Premium features also are included such as Bluetooth 2.0 support for hands-free use with headsets, car kits and Bluetooth peripherals, RIM's user-friendly trackball navigation system, noise cancellation for enhanced audio performance, and a microSD expandable memory slot for storage.

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Vendors of software for client wireless devices news

This section lists breaking news from companies which provide client software that runs in end user wireless devices (phones, pagers, PDAs etc.).

* Nokia Demonstrates New Technologies for Internet on Mobile Devices Original news source

Nokia announces is taking a significant step in mobilizing Internet content and Web 2.0 services with its global launch of widget support and Web Run-Time, a new Web application development environment for developers. Nokia's S60 will be the first mobile software platform that enables the creation of widgets using familiar standards-based Web technologies. Nokia and Orb announce that Orb's MyCasting is immediately available for the Nokia N800 Internet Tablet.

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Mobile applications related news

This section lists news that describe innovative and competitive implementation of wireless data applications.

* Etelos announces Apps on a Plane Original news source

Apps on a Plane will enable builders of any Application ported into the Etelos Ecosystem to give their Applications the ability to function without being connected to a live Internet connection. This means that the builders of Web-based Applications can enable them to run offline. Apps on a Plane creates a version of a customer's Application that is stored locally on a user's computer. Every time changes are made offline, those changes are synchronized with the main hosted Application. The synchronization occurs automatically.

Cyphermint Partners With Fidelity Express to Launch Mobile Bill Payments Original news source

Cyphermint, Inc., provider of secure electronic payment solutions, announced that they have signed an agreement with Fidelity Express, a full service financial services company, to provide mobile bill payment services using Cyphermint's PayCash Mobile technology. The Cyphermint and Fidelity Express partnership will enable consumers to pay bills using their cell phones or other mobile devices.

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Application outsourcing and hosting news

Tellme Launches Mobile Search for Everyone Original news source

Tellme Networks, Inc., which operates the world's largest voice platform, announced new ways for anyone to search for information they need from any phone. Tellme gives people the easiest ways to get things done when they're on the go, by speaking or typing their query and then hearing or seeing the answer. The free service launches today with local business search by business name or category.

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News about financing for wireless data businesses

This section lists news about new financing opportunities for and in the wireless data industry.

Britain’s ROK Tunes in $7M Original news source

Brash British import, ROK Entertainment, is gunning for MobiTV, the venture-backed leader of the U.S. mobile TV market. Still setting up its offices in Los Angeles, ROK said Friday it pulled in another $7 million from its two well-heeled benefactors, one of whom owns companies that make tequila and hair care products. ROK, which announced it will go public by the end of the year, hopes to use those funds to generate interest in a market the company believes lacks pizzazz in the United States.

Mobixell Completes Acquisition Of Adamind's Assets Original news source
Mobixell Networks, provider of innovative mobile multimedia solutions, announces that it has closed the acquisition of the key assets of Adamind Ltd., a global supplier of media adaptation software for the mobile messaging (MMS), content, and convergence services markets. The acquisition of Adamind’s assets includes intellectual property and all its software products.

Wherify Wireless Raises Additional $1.4 Million in Equity Financing Original news source
The financing is in addition to the sale of approximately $4.6 million of Series A stock announced last week, and $1.2 million previously raised through the issuance of a 10% Senior Convertible Promissory Note. These transactions raised an aggregate gross total of $7.2 million, and resulted in net proceeds to Wherify of approximately $6.4 million.

Mobile Assets Announces New Wireless Subsidiary Original news source
Mobile Assets Corp. announced the establishment of Mobi Axxess Inc., a subsidiary of Mobile Assets Corp. focusing on tri-play wireless network technology turn-key solutions for governments and businesses.

Emotive announces "Push Ringer" Original news source
The D. E. Shaw group, Bertelsmann Digital Media Investments, Warner Music Group and prominent media and telephony angel investors have invested $7.7 million in Emotive Communications, Inc., a media technology and services provider that has developed a real-time interactive ringtone format for 3G, 4G and VoIP services.

Artificial Life Acquires SMS Galaxy Original news source

Hong Kong based Artificial Life, Inc., provider of mobile 3G technology and applications, announced that it has acquired the SMS Galaxy system from Swiss-based Script Avenue AG (formerly Blackpencil AG) in a cash and equity transaction. Script Avenue is owned by Claude Cueni, a bestselling Swiss author of many TV thrillers, who is a successful entrepreneur and pioneer in interactive and online games, and has been an inventor of interactive TV formats since 1991. SMS Galaxy is a revolutionary mobile interface used to complement live TV shows.

Back to Contents

A recommended introductory reading that may be helpful in understanding the scope of this publication is the Wireless Data Forum's Wireless Data Primer.

A glossary of wireless industry terms and acronyms can be found at the Wireless Week site.

Wireless Data News - April 6 to 13

2007-04-16T10:25:03Z

Wireless Data News Blog

To subcribe (or to unsubscribe) visit Zinester site		Instructions and disclaimers
© Leonid Iakovlev, Helsinki, 2007	Back issues are available at LiveJournal	April 6 to 13, 2007

Contents

Week summary
General wireless data market related news
Carriers news
Wireless data related middleware vendors news
Terminal development for mobile data
Vendors of software for client wireless devices news
Mobile application related news
Application outsourcing and hosting news
News about financing for wireless data businesses
News about trade shows and conferences

Week summary
* - Star sign marks especially important (from the editor's point of view) news items and is also a link to the next important news item.
More and more carriers offer mobile search with found content being downloadable - and with queries entered by making a camera snapshot. Device vendors, carriers/portals and technology providers partner and merge to be able to offer competitive applications - SanDisk/Yahoo!, Sun Microsystems/SavaJe Technologies, NextWave Wireless/IPWireless, Benefon/GeoSolutions and Comcast/Fandango. Mobile payment, banking and credit applications continue to appear on a global scale
Back to Contents

General wireless data market related news

This section lists all breaking wireless data related news that do not belong to any particular section (or should belong to multiple) as well as to general reviews of interest.

ABI Research: Mobile Marketing and Advertising to be Worth $3 Billion by 1Q 2008 Original news source
The world market for mobile marketing and advertising is expected to be worth about $3 billion by the end of 2007, according to a recent study from ABI Research. By 2011, the value of this market will reach $19 billion, including mobile search and video advertising. ABI Research also expects some of the highest levels of spending to come in the broadcast mobile video space.

ABI Research: Twenty Percent of Mobile Handsets Will Include Near Field Communication by 2012 Original news source
In its latest analysis of the Near Field Communication market, ABI Research forecasts that by 2012, some 292 million handsets — just over 20 percent of the global mobile handset market — will ship with built in NFC capabilities. 2007 will be critical for NFC technology as key standards and operator trials complete the foundations for the first real deployments.

ABI Research: Mobile Broadband-Enabled Consumer Electronics Will Approach 100 Million Shipments by 2012 Original news source
According to a new study from ABI Research, portable consumer electronics — digital cameras, media players, portable game devices, and more — are beginning to offer direct mobile broadband connections to the Internet. By 2012, annual shipments of such devices are expected to approach 100 million.

Leading mobile companies to endorse common mobile TV implementation based on OMA BCAST Original news source

The profile simplifies the Open Mobile Alliance (OMA) Mobile Broadcast Services Enabler Suite (BCAST) specification for fast implementations ensuring interoperability and future proofing further developments. Support for DVB-H broadcast networks and cellular systems, as well as the 3G Mobile Broadcast Service (MBMS), are benefits of the OMA-BCAST specification. This allows companies to extend current business models and broaden current and future Mobile TV services. As a result, operators will be able to offer customers more choice in watching TV on their handset.

eMarketer: Mobile TV/Video to Reach $12.7 Billion Globally Original news source

Two key drivers of the market are 3G and smartphones, both of which are necessary for mobile video and TV. So any attempt to size up the potential Mobile TV/video market is largely a function of 3G penetration forecasts. eMarketer predicts that by 2011 there will be 120 million 3G subscribers who pay a premium for mobile video clips or streams. There will be 80 million mobile TV subscribers worldwide by 2011.

Back to Contents

Carriers news

This section lists news about innovative and competitive usage of wireless data by network carriers.

* Alltel and JumpTap Launch First Carrier-Branded Search on a Dedicated Handset Key Original news source
The new, dedicated search key launches an Alltel-branded BREW client that presents Alltel subscribers with a search box to find content, services and information. The visibility of the dedicated key will not only increase the uptake of mobile search, but also will increase content purchases by helping subscribers find what they want quickly and easily.

* Scanbuy and Telefonica Moviles Espana to Launch Solution Allowing Widespread Use of Barcodes with Mobile Handsets in Spain Original news source

By selecting Scanbuy's mobile barcode technology, TME will offer its Movistar subscribers access to content by simply pointing their camera phone at a two-dimensional barcode, to be found in advertising, on TV, business cards or websites. Scanbuy's client application ensures quick and easy access to online data and multimedia services from a wide range of handsets. Scanbuy's service platform will allow content providers to create, manage, and monitor their barcodes and to launch couponing and ticketing campaigns by sending barcodes within SMS or MMS.

QUALCOMM and Amp’d Mobile Bring BREW Services to Canada Original news source
Launched in the Canadian market on March 14, Amp'd Mobile is delivering its line-up of popular, exclusive entertainment content, information applications, messaging and more via TELUS' high-speed CDMA2000 1xEV-DO wireless network. The launch marks the first commercial deployment of BREW services in Canada.
Back to Contents

Wireless data related middleware vendors news

This section lists breaking news from companies which provide middleware used by carriers and software developers to offer access to diversified corporate data.

24/7 Real Media Extends Mobile Search Marketing Services With Enhanced DECIDE DNA Platform Original news source

Decide DNA 6.1 improves advertiser ROI by providing greater understanding of the most profitable creative units, keywords, and landing pages, automatically adjusting keyword portfolios based on parameters defined by the advertiser. 24/7 Real Media’s full suite of search support services and tools, such as campaign analysis, creative development and landing page optimization, as well as its new mobile search capabilities.

Volantis And Mobixell Announce Joint Mobile Video Offering, Available For Immediate Deployment Original news source

Leveraging Mobixell’s Content Production suite for mobile multimedia production and adaptation, Volantis extends and enhances its content management and delivery capability to include intelligent asset transcoding and real-time streaming adaptation of video and audio of any format. This ensures that the mobile subscriber experience is always optimized for any type of media, regardless of mobile devices, domains and networks.

Back to Contents

Terminal development for mobile data

This section lists breaking news from companies which manufacture actual end user wireless devices (phones, pagers, PDAs etc.), as well as other information relevant to such companies.

* SanDisk and Yahoo! Music Partner for Sansa Connect Wireless Internet MP3 Player Original news source

The partnership pairs SanDisk’s new wireless MP3 player with both free and subscription-based services from Yahoo!, allowing consumers to stay constantly connected to their music, photos and friends via WiFi, with no PC required. The flash-based Sansa Connect MP3 player boasts several Yahoo! features that can be accessed with the simple click of a button and an open WiFi connection2. Owners with a Yahoo! ID can listen to LAUNCHcast Internet radio, browse Flickr sets and photos, and see what their Yahoo! Messenger friends and other Sansa Connect owners nearby are listening to. Sansa Connect users with a Yahoo! Music Unlimited To Go subscription are also able to discover and download music, as well as listen to or download tracks their friends are listening to or have recommended. When the Sansa Connect is not connected to a WiFi network, the player behaves like a traditional Flash MP3 player and can be connected to a PC. Users can play music and view photos stored either on the player or on an optional microSD card.

SAMSUNG Launches New Mobile WiMAX Devices in Korea Original news source

Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. released three new Mobile WiMAX (WiBro in Korea) devices - a WiBro smart phone (SPH-M8100), a top of the range multimedia convergence device (SPH-P9000), a USB Dongle (SPH-H1200) and a PCMCIA card. Samsung's SPH-M8100 is a PDA WiBro smart phone which offers wireless Internet, voice telephony and video telephony services through WiBro and CDMA 1x EV-DO. The slider phone boasts a 2.8" color touch screen display, a TV-out, an MMC card slot, and 2 cameras; a 2 megapixel camera and a VGA camera for video calls. Samsung's M8100 also features T-DMB, Bluetooth with A2DP functionality, 128ROM/64MB RAM memory and Microsoft's latest view and edit function.

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Vendors of software for client wireless devices news

This section lists breaking news from companies which provide client software that runs in end user wireless devices (phones, pagers, PDAs etc.).

Palm to release Linux-based platform Original news source

At a meeting with analysts in New York, Palm executives cited research that forecast the market for smartphones -- which surf the Web, send e-mail and manage data in addition to making phone calls -- growing to $36 billion by 2009. Palm said it would deliver new products, and suggested it was developing operating system software based on the open-source Linux platform. But executives declined analysts' repeated requests for specifics, saying only that information would come soon.

Back to Contents

Mobile applications related news

This section lists news that describe innovative and competitive implementation of wireless data applications.

* Gemalto Technology Empowers Secure SMS-Based Mobile-Payment Service Original news source

Gemalto is providing Belgian mobile operator BASE with a comprehensive solution which allows its subscribers to perform secure payment by just sending an SMS. Gemalto supplied BASE with a mobile payment application compatible with third generation SIM cards, incorporating the m-banxafe technology designed by Banksys, the company behind the authorization, security and guarantee of electronic payments in Belgium. Gemalto also provided the specific personalization services required to guarantee the highest levels of security for SMS-based transactions. The service went live on March 20, 2007.

* Smart SMS Corp. Launches MP3NY’s Mobile Visa Debit Card Original news source

The T-Weed Wireless Visa allows consumers the convenience of wireless banking. The card is designed to be accessible from a cell phone, PDA, computer or landline telephone. It’s the premiere mobile bankcard with advanced security features. T-Weed’s Wireless Visa Card intends to give unbanked Americans, small business owners, immigrants, and families the freedom of a bank debit card that can be used in coordination with a current bank account, powered by employment direct deposits or deposits made at Money Gram or Safeway locations. New Wireless Visa customers do not need to have a previous bank account or credit history, only a cell phone and a US address. The card carrier can make purchases or use ATMs with the Star or Visa logos worldwide. The account-to-account transfer feature allows customers to transfer money instantly by phone, by texting the recipient’s cell phone or card account number. Cardholders can also receive funds by simply providing their cell phone number to the sender.

* Mobile phone based online payment service OneBip monetises Web 2.0 Original news source

New mobile phone based online payment service OneBip allows consumers to turn their mobile phone credit into money to be spent online, transforming any mobile phone account into a payment tool without the need for a credit card or bank account. With OneBip consumers can purchase digital goods and services online from any merchant that accepts OneBip. The purchase is then securely processed and added directly to the consumer’s mobile phone bill, or taken from their pre-pay credit total.

CallWave Ushers in Next Generation of Text Messaging Original news source
CallWave, Inc. announced the launch of its text messaging gadget (also known as a widget) for Microsoft Vista – a free, desktop-based application enabling users to send text messages to virtually anyone, anywhere from their computer whether their handset is nearby or not.
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Application outsourcing and hosting news

* UpSNAP Pioneers Mobile Metasearch for Cell Phones Original news source

Looking for Justin Timberlake ringtones and wallpaper? Then go to www.upsnap.com and type in the query to receive a listing of content that will work on your mobile phone and that you can download to your cell phone. UpSNAP’s mobile metasearch is free, but there may be charges for downloading features. For access to more than 1,600 audio feeds, free 411 and other content, send a text message to UpSNAP’s shortcode 27627 (2SNAP).

Mobiya Signs up to Deliver Mobile Classified Ad System for Metro Original news source

Thanks to Mobiya's technology, Metro readers will be able to place classified ads through 'SMS Deal' - a user-friendly classifieds service. Advertisers can place an ad in the paper by sending a text message to a short code number; if they have a mobile phone with a camera, they can also send a picture. Their ad appears in the paper with a unique ad code and is also immediately published on Metro’s website. Responders simply send an SMS reply quoting the ad code which triggers the exchange of mobile numbers between the two parties who are then free to contact each other by text or phone call.

Back to Contents

News about financing for wireless data businesses

This section lists news about new financing opportunities for and in the wireless data industry.

Vimio Establishes Ukrainian Joint Venture Original news source
Vimio, provider of live TV, media distribution solutions and content to mobile network operators, announced that it has entered into a joint venture with Nichols Limited, a British Virgin Islands company owned by Ukrainian investors, through a newly incorporated company VEE, to commence operations in the Ukraine.

Cellular applications developer pdway raises $3m Original news source
Israeli start up pdway Ltd., which is developing cellular coupon applications, has closed its first financing round, raising $3 million from a private investor active in the real estate market. The company will use the funds to complete the development of its technology and carry out commercial feasibility tests in the US, in which it has already invested a few million dollars.

80108 Secured Financing Original news source
80108 Media, a Boston-based local SMS alerts company, has received $12 million in two round of funding, and has launched its service. The round included General Catalyst Partners, IDG Ventures Boston, Khosla Ventures, and Borealis Ventures as investors.

* Sun Microsystems to Acquire Assets from SavaJe Technologies Original news source

Additional information regarding the acquisition of these assets will be unveiled at the annual JavaOne Conference being held in San Francisco, May 8-11, 2007. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to be completed during the fourth quarter of Sun's 2007 fiscal year which began on April 2, 2007. The terms of the deal were not disclosed as the transaction is immaterial to Sun's earnings per share.

* NextWave Wireless to Acquire IPWireless Original news source

Under the terms of the agreement, NextWave will pay approximately $100 million at closing, consisting of $25 million in cash and $75 million in NextWave common stock. Additional consideration of up to $135 million will be paid based on the achievement of certain revenue milestones in the 2007 – 2009 timeframe as specified in the agreement, with potential payments of up to $50 million in late 2007 or 2008, up to $7.5 million in 2008, up to $24.2 million in 2009 and up to $53.3 million in 2010.

Wherify Wireless Raises $4.6 Million Original news source
This financing is in addition to $1.2 million previously raised by Wherify's issuance of its 10% Senior Convertible Promissory Note as disclosed in the 8-K. The Company plans to use the net cash proceeds of approximately $4 million for general working capital purposes, including purchase of inventory, and to re-launch its corporate strategy.

* Benefon Signs Letter Of Intent To Acquire Geosolutions Original news source

Benefon Oyj announced it has signed a letter of intent to acquire GeoSolutions BV, a developer of location-based technologies, products, and services for mobile and Internet-connected devices. Based in Amsterdam, GeoSolutions provides an innovative method enabling mobile users to access not only traditional Internet-based content but also access to user generated content and local information that is aggregated from third party information sources such as directory services. GeoSolutions´ products provide Mobile Network Operators, Mobile Handset Manufacturers and Directory Providers (Yellow and White pages) sizeable income potential from mobile-based localized geo-targeting. Benefon expects the acquisition of GeoSolutions BV, a pre-revenue software company, to generate significant revenues and to be accretive to earnings reasonably soon from the acquisition to make it attractive. Benefon will acquire GeoSolutions BV for approximately €6 million in stock. Completion of the transaction, which will be made through a Dutch subsidiary to be established, is subject to regulatory and other customary closing conditions and is expected to be completed by April 30.

* Comcast Reaches Agreement to Acquire Fandango Original news source

Comcast Corporation, the nation's leading provider of cable, entertainment and communications products and services, announced that it has reached an agreement to acquire Fandango, destination for movie information, showtimes and ticketing, and one of the Web's top entertainment sites. The company also announced plans to launch Fancast.com, a new national online destination that will enable consumers to search, discover, manage and enjoy their entertainment experience across many devices and channels, including television, computers, DVDs and wireless services.

AskMeNow Signs Letter of Intent to Acquire Expert System Original news source
The acquisition is contemplated to close within the next three to four months providing the funding is in place to meet the terms of the Letter of Intent.
Back to Contents

News about trade shows and conferences

This section lists the trade shows and conferences which are relevant to wireless data from either participation or exhibiting point of view.

Press Registration Now Open for Computerworld's Mobile and Wireless World (MWW) Conference Original news source
Computerworld's Mobile & Wireless World (MWW) Conference held May 21 - 23, 2007 in Orlando, Fl. is a rare opportunity to gain insight on the way user companies deploy their mobile and wireless strategies in the enterprise. At Mobile & Wireless World, CIOs and VPs of IT join thought leaders, key solution providers, and their peers for a visionary overview of mobile and wireless.
Back to Contents

A recommended introductory reading that may be helpful in understanding the scope of this publication is the Wireless Data Forum's Wireless Data Primer.

A glossary of wireless industry terms and acronyms can be found at the Wireless Week site.

Wireless Data News - March 24 to April 5

2007-04-05T14:55:38Z

Wireless Data News Blog

To subcribe (or to unsubscribe) visit Zinester site		Instructions and disclaimers
© Leonid Iakovlev, Helsinki, 2007	Back issues are available at LiveJournal	March 24 to April 5, 2007

Contents

Week summary
General wireless data market related news
Carriers news
Wireless data related middleware vendors news
Terminal development for mobile data
Vendors of software for client wireless devices news
Mobile application related news
Application outsourcing and hosting news
News about financing for wireless data businesses
News about trade shows and conferences

Week summary
* - Star sign marks especially important (from the editor's point of view) news items and is also a link to the next important news item.
Nokia Siemens Networks has just started - but already announced an innovative deal to host Blyk MVNO. Turkcell deployed mobile signature. You can use your mobile on Everest now. Advanced innovative handsets from HTC and Helio - while Nokia offers full-fledged multimedia for almost nothing. J2ME is now a professional development platform and is not just for games. Mobile banking will be as common as online banking already this year - and the trend is supported by Mastercard and Visa. Microsoft shows itself as an innovative mobile company. Now there are multiple providers of freely hosted push e-mail for everyone. P.S. I'm now trying to introduce a lighter/easier content set-up - please comment whether it's good or bad.
Back to Contents

General wireless data market related news

This section lists all breaking wireless data related news that do not belong to any particular section (or should belong to multiple) as well as to general reviews of interest.

ABI Research: 203 Million Mobile Phones Will Use Linux Operating Systems by 2012 Original news source
In a new study, ABI Research forecasts that by 2012, more than 127 million devices will be enabled with a commercial Linux OS, up from 8.1 million in 2007. Additionally, device shipments that incorporate Linux as an RTOS replacement are set to grow to more than 76 million units in 2012, up from nearly zero in 2007.

CTIA Releases Comprehensive Wireless Industry Survey Results Original news source
CTIA announced that wireless data service revenues for 2006 rose to $15.2 billion. This represents a 77% increase over 2005. Wireless data revenues now total roughly 13% of all wireless service revenues.
Back to Contents

Carriers news

This section lists news about innovative and competitive usage of wireless data by network carriers.

Blue Ocean Wireless Launches GSM Network for Merchant Maritime Vessels Original news source

Blue Ocean Wireless’ service willenable seafarers to use their existing mobile phones on board vessels in deep ocean water in exactly same way that they would do in port or on land. Users of the service will be able to make and receive voice calls, send and receive SMS text and email messages and browse the internet using their existing handset. The service will be directed at more than one million seafarers serving as crew on more than 40,000 merchant ships in service world-wide.

New mobile content service drives 3G video calling as One Italia launches service in Italy Original news source
The service, powered by a hosted platform from IP Unity Glenayre, Inc. and Pradac Informatica, will enable Italy’s 13 million 3G mobile users to access and download content, such as ringtones and games, via a rich 3G mobile video experience, rather than traditional WAP methods.

Thin Multimedia and Tata Teleservices Enter Into a Commercial Agreement for Mobile Multimedia Services Original news source

Tata Teleservices will license TMI’s thinMME (Mobile Multimedia Engine) to enable multimedia playback of content on its handsets. thinMME allows users to access multimedia content from the Internet and play it back on their handset in real-time. Users will also be able to view multimedia content from their handsets. thinMME can be easily integrated into cell phones, smart phones, PDAs, and other portable devices. thinMME operates on a variety of platforms such as Brew, Symbian, WIPI, Java, and Linux.

Qtel Chooses Visto to Power Mobile Email in Qatar Original news source

Qtel has implemented Visto’s Visto Mobile platform to offer Qtel Mobile Email Service, its own branded mobile email offering, to its fast growing subscriber base. Qtel’s Mobile Email service provides busy mobile professionals with a choice of 27 mobile handsets with which to send and receive email on the move, access and update their desktop calendar, and search their contacts – safely and securely.

* Nokia Siemens Networks to host full core network in groundbreaking deal with Blyk Original news source

Blyk, the pan-European free mobile network for young people, funded by advertising, has chosen Nokia Siemens Networks to supply, build and host its core network as it embarks on a new approach to offering mobile telephony service. In its first-ever full mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) hosting arrangement, Nokia Siemens Networks will be hosting the entire operation of Blyk’s core network.

* Turkcell Selects Gemalto and Valimo for World’s Largest Mobile Signature Rollout Original news source

Turkcell has selected Gemalto's SIM-based identification solution to implement a large-scale mobile signature program. The program is based on qualified digital certificates by E-Guven, a Turkish Certificate Authority. Digital certificates are created under Turkish Digital Signature Law that is also in accordance with EU’s Digital Signature Directive. The Gemalto solution will allow Turkcell subscribers to securely access services that require strong authentication, such as internet banking or e-government applications, using their mobile phone to generate a legally binding electronic signature.

* Everest mobile call effort begins Original news source

Making a phone call from the summit of Everest has become possible thanks to a mobile base station installed in China that has line of sight to the north side of the mountain. Mr Baber was confident that the attempt on the world record would work because the phone he will use has been tested in very low temperatures and the final climb will only happen if weather conditions are good. The downside is that staying in contact with this base station demands that climbers follow the north ridge to the top - generally regarded as the toughest route.

Rogers Introduces Wireless Video Calling Original news source
In addition to wireless video calling, Rogers VISION allows customers to communicate in an entirely new way with mobile multimedia and visual services like video-on-demand; Mobile Television to access your favourite TV and video programs with incredible clarity; radio-on-demand; and Rogers MusicStore.
Back to Contents

Wireless data related middleware vendors news

This section lists breaking news from companies which provide middleware used by carriers and software developers to offer access to diversified corporate data.

Openwave Mobile Widget Solution to Drive Increased Personalization and Service Adoption Original news source
The AJAX-based solution, based on the Openwave MIDAS application development environment, enables compelling and highly relevant mobile widgets to be integrated directly into the mobile device's idle screen and run on diverse mobile platforms.

O3SIS Opens Push Mail to Broad Consumer Market With Support for Virtually Any Mobile Device Original news source

This consumer-oriented push mail solution extends phone client support to virtually any mobile device, giving mobile operators a broad target market for mobile email as most subscribers can easily use the service with their existing mobile phones. O3SIS Multi Channel Push Mail is able to support multiple client technologies, including MMS, OMA-DS, OMA-EMN, P-IMAP, as well as native POP3, and IMAP4 clients.

i-Vision Provides Mobile Broadcast iTV Solutions for Beijing 2008 Original news source
With i-Vision's solution, mobile TV users can choose to interact with the relevant services or commercials broadcasted to them. By pressing a button, the interested users can be connected to value-added services or infomercials via the mobile network. Interactive TV services such as voting, ticketing, surveys and online payments can be provided.

Ericsson Pulls WiMax Plug Original news source
The company confirmed that it stopped internal WiMax development efforts at the end of last year and is instead relying on a reseller strategy for the technology.

Nellymoser Releases New ASAO Platform To Power User Generated Content, Community And Mobile Advertising Original news source
ASAO enables companies to rapidly leverage their existing media investments to meet the ever-increasing consumer demand for rich, interactive content on mobile phones, while unifying and simplifying the complexities surrounding media ingestion, correlation, optimization and syndication across thousands of phones, hundreds of network configurations and dozens of media formats.
Back to Contents

Terminal development for mobile data

This section lists breaking news from companies which manufacture actual end user wireless devices (phones, pagers, PDAs etc.), as well as other information relevant to such companies.

* HTC Introduces Shift and Advantage Original news source

The HTC Shift brings the full power of Windows Vista and advanced wireless connectivity into an innovative and compact design that is sure to create a new paradigm for mobile computing. The HTC Advantage delivers extreme portability that leverages the mobile office strengths of Windows Mobile 6 and advanced wireless connectivity in one of the smallest mobile computer designs available. The HTC Advantage includes a thin, magnetically connected QWERTY keyboard and advanced connectivity with Tri-Band UMTS/HSDPA, Quad-Band GSM/GPRS/EDGE, Bluetooth 2.0 and Wi-Fi. In addition, the HTC Advantage enables powerful navigation capabilities with built-in GPS navigation.

Motorola Brings the Office to The Mobile Worker with New Sleek Handheld Computer Original news source

The MC35 combines advanced cellular technology, including built-in Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) capabilities, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, with laptop functionality, camera, and bar code reader. Users can talk, e-mail, connect to the Internet, use mission-critical business applications, and capture data (including signatures) with one, easy-to-use device for lower total-cost-of-ownership.The MC35 is based on Intel’s XScale PXA270 416 MHz processor and Microsoft Windows Mobile 5.0 operating system.

Meet the W580: the Walkman phone with street style Original news source
This slim slider phone speaks volumes in urban cool while delivering the full-on Walkman phone music experience. It will store up to 470 full-length tracks, has a 2.0 megapixel camera tucked discretely within the slider itself, plus stacks of gaming, fun sports and entertainment features.

Stay up to speed with the stylish Z750 – Sony Ericsson’s first HSDPA phone Original news source
The Z750 is Sony Ericsson’s first Tri-band HSDPA and Quad-band EDGE enabled phone. It offers full broadband speed for web access, email handling and picture blogging on the move, all within a stand-out design.

* Meet The New Helio Ocean Original news source

Ocean is a dual-slider combining a traditional numeric keypad and a separate full QWERTY keyboard in a single device. Designed to be the ultimate social networking tool, Ocean merges Instant Messages, text messages, picture messages and emails from all the major portals, ISPs and even corporate Exchange servers, in one location. A 3G media and content powerhouse, Ocean also delivers full over-the-air music downloads, video-on-demand, a high-resolution camera, an HTML browser, MySpace on Helio, GPS-enabled Google Maps for mobile, Buddy Beacon and much more.

* Nokia 5700 XpressMusic: Adding a new twist to mobile music Original news source
Nokia 5700 XpressMusic is an accessible 3G smartphone augmented by a dedicated audio chip for enhanced music performance. It features an iconic twist design that easily switches between four modes at the flick of the wrist - music player, 2 Megapixel camera, video call and smartphone.

* Nokia 5070: Fun and function Original news source
With strong messaging, leisure and personalization features, the Nokia 5070 has everything that the mobile social set needs. The Nokia 5070 will be available in the second quarter of 2007 with an estimated retail price of EUR 100 excluding taxes and subsidies.

Motorola Makes Mobile Music and Multimedia a Must -- for Everyone Original news source

Motorola, Inc. introduced four new mobile devices designed to deliver amazing entertainment experiences to CDMA users in markets around the globe. From the MOTORAZR maxx Ve, with its EVDO high-speed mobile music and video experience, to the powerful yet affordable integrated FM radio features of the W355, Motorola is creating industry-leading products and solutions to satisfy the demands of consumers by creating choice without compromise.

Back to Contents

Vendors of software for client wireless devices news

This section lists breaking news from companies which provide client software that runs in end user wireless devices (phones, pagers, PDAs etc.).

Nokia Announces Open C SDK Plug-In Availability for S60 Devices Original news source
Nokia announced the immediate availability of the Open C Plug-In extension for the S60 3rd Edition Software Development Kit (SDK), enabling easier porting of Linux-targeted open source projects to Symbian OS-based S60 smartphones and increased productivity for developers of mobile applications running on S60 devices.

* Sony Ericsson announces new Java Platform 8 with first phone supporting the next-generation Mobile Services Architecture Original news source
The Z750 clamshell phone is the first phone based on Sony Ericsson’s Java Platform 8 (JP-8), supporting a range of new Java programming features including instant messaging / chat and presence based functionality, handling banking, payment transactions, user identification and authentication through secure encryption technology, mapping and other location-aware applications.

* RIM Opens New BlackBerry APIs to Support Growth in Mobile Applications Original news source

The Java APIs are a rich collection of programming controls based on the industry standard Java Micro Edition along with an extensive set of Java APIs for BlackBerry that enable tighter integration with the unique features of BlackBerry smartphones and applications. With access to almost every functional component and application on a BlackBerry smartphone, developers are now building robust wireless applications that leverage the inherent capabilities of the BlackBerry platform, including secure access to the Internet and corporate intranet, rich multimedia features, access to personal content, location and mapping services, alerting and notification and device personalization.

HelloSoft Launches VoIP on Symbian OS Original news source
HelloSoft has taken one of the first of many steps to enable VoIP technology globally for the next generation of Symbian smartphones. HelloSoft's VoIP technology, HelloDual-Mode, on Symbian OS will allow users to experience award winning power-efficient and fully-featured multi-mode applications.

MontaVista Linux Professional Edition 5.0 Enables Media Convergence on Intelligent Devices Original news source

This release of the popular software development platform provides the most advanced native Linux real-time capabilities to date, with performance matching that of traditional real-time operating systems for the first time in the industry. Moreover, MontaVista has dramatically reduced the memory footprint of this fifth-generation OS, giving device manufacturers a high performance, feature rich solution for even the smallest connected devices.

Microsoft's 'Deepfish' Mobile Browser Surfaces Original news source

Microsoft Research has released "Deepfish," a prototype browser for Windows Mobile 5+ phones that users can sign up for and try out. The technology is not quite in beta stage, Microsoft said, lacking key features such as ActiveX controls, AJAX, cookies, Javascript, and HTTP POST functions. Available from the Microsoft Live Labs Web site, the Deepfish browser is designed to maintain the look and feel of today's Web pages, through its own rendering methods as well as a zooming methodology that's apparently similar to one of Microsoft's own spinoffs, ZenZui.

Symbian announces Symbian OS v9.5 Original news source
Symbian OS v9.5 brings high performance features designed for richer consumer and enterprise experiences as well as significant savings to phone build costs and time-to-market, delivering a truly scalable mobile operating system for the global market.
Back to Contents

Mobile applications related news

This section lists news that describe innovative and competitive implementation of wireless data applications.

RealNetworks and Nokia Make Wi-Fi Rhapsody a Reality With N800 Internet Tablet Original news source
The innovative collaboration gives Nokia N800 Internet Tablet users rapid access to Rhapsody's three million songs anywhere they have a Wi-Fi connection.

BasWare Introduces Mobile Application For Controlling The Purchase To Pay Process Original news source
It allows businesses to remove any delay from the procurement and invoice approval process, enabling them to more easily capture early payment dividends and avoid late payment charges.

Harris Corporation, LG Electronics Announce In-Band Mobile DTV System Original news source
The inventor of the transmission standard for digital television (DTV) and the market leader in broadcast equipment and automation technology announced an innovative new technology designed to extend over-the-air broadcast TV signals beyond the living room to viewers on the go.

* Citibank Introduces Citi Mobile Original news source
A push of a button on your cell phone is all it takes to check your balance, pay bills, transfer funds, find an ATM and more.

* MasterCard announces trial of mobile search and content service Original news source
MasterCard Worldwide has unveiled MasterCard Nearby, a trial of a new service that allows US MasterCard cardholders to use their mobile phones to access a wealth of helpful information, including ATM and merchant locations, driving directions, rewards and special offers, and much more.
Back to Contents

Application outsourcing and hosting news

24/7 Real Media Debuts Open AdStream Mobile Edition Original news source
Open AdStream Mobile Edition allows marketers and mobile content providers to seamlessly integrate mobile ads into their broader digital marketing campaigns. The new solution provides enhanced delivery and reporting tools designed to target users and streamline ad operations across online and mobile channels.

* emoze launches free global service for push email without server side software Original news source
emoze offers a central server solution with a seamless connection via an Outlook Web Access (OWA). The expanded service offering is completely free of charge to consumer and businesses.

Yahoo! Launches Mobile Publisher Services Original news source
The new services publishers will have access to are the Yahoo! Mobile Ad Network, Mobile Content Engine, Mobile Media Directory and Mobile Site Submit.

Bango 2Go gives brands the fast-track to the mobile web Original news source
Bango 2Go is a simple, cost effective way for brands and content providers to launch a presence on the mobile web. The service costs $4,995 to set up, with monthly fees as low as $1,395 for hosting, the Bango Service (billing, tracking, traffic, info) and ongoing maintenance.

* Metavante and Monitise To Create Mobile Payments System for North America Original news source
The joint venture to be established by Metavante and Monitise will enable consumers to rely on a common, intuitive and secure interface to initially check account balances, transfer funds between bank accounts and pay bills any time from the device they always have with them — the mobile phone.

fring Rings in Mobile VoIP Freedom of Choice Original news source
fring users (fringsters) now can easily pick-and-choose between their favourite SIP-based VoIP networks, even without a SIP-enabled phone.

* Consilient Launches Free Push Email Application for Five Mobile Accounts Original news source
The service features multi-account access, giving users a single application for retrieving up to five different mail accounts on mobile phones. The Push service also includes photo attaching and saving with color-coding for easy identification of multiple accounts.

* ClairMail and TELUS Enable Canadian Banks to Offer Mobile Banking Original news source
TELUS and ClairMail will initially focus on enabling retail banks, credit unions, brokerages, and credit card companies across Canada to offer mobile banking and payments services.

* BancorpSouth Announces Mobile Banking Application Original news source
BancorpSouth customers who subscribe to AT&T's wireless service can download the mobile banking application directly to their device, where they can access the application anywhere and at any time with just one click.
Back to Contents

News about financing for wireless data businesses

This section lists news about new financing opportunities for and in the wireless data industry.

Ecrio Announces Major Investment by NTT DoCoMo Original news source

NeoMedia Technologies Announces 12snap Sale Original news source

Wireless Edge Addresses Broadening Product Demand Via New Name, $2 Million in Second Round Funding Original news source

* Microsoft Backs New Mobile Technology Company: ZenZui Original news source

ZenZui’s core technology brings advanced information visualization techniques out of the research lab and onto mobile phones and into the hands of mobile device operators, marketers and consumers. ZenZui’s high-frame rate zooming user interface employs up to 36 individual “Tiles” that are selected and customized by the user to reflect their interests and lifestyle with relevant content, interactive communications and fresh data. From the connected communities of social networks and the immediacy of pop culture to the have-to-know sports and weather info, this modular tile interface lets users sync, surf, and share digital content quickly, easily, and in a distinctly new way.

* Visa CEO Sees Collaboration with Wireless Industry as Key to Unlocking Potential of Mobile Payments Original news source

Valimo Wireless Secures Major New Investment Original news source

AdMob Closes $15 Million in Series B Funding Original news source

NextWave Wireless Raises $355 Million in New Capital Original news source

Back to Contents

News about trade shows and conferences

This section lists the trade shows and conferences which are relevant to wireless data from either participation or exhibiting point of view.

CTIA WIRELESS Announces E-Tech Award Winners Original news source
Nearly 250 submissions were received for this year’s E-Tech Awards. Judges evaluated each entry on innovation, functionality, wow factor, importance of technology and ease of use/implementation.
Back to Contents

A recommended introductory reading that may be helpful in understanding the scope of this publication is the Wireless Data Forum's Wireless Data Primer.

A glossary of wireless industry terms and acronyms can be found at the Wireless Week site.

Wireless Data News - March 17 to 23

2007-03-23T15:40:37Z

Wireless Data News Blog

To subcribe (or to unsubscribe) visit Zinester site		Instructions and disclaimers
© Leonid Iakovlev, Helsinki, 2007	Back issues are available at LiveJournal	March 17 to 23, 2007

Contents

Week summary
Carriers news
Vendors of software for client wireless devices news
Mobile application related news
Application outsourcing and hosting news
News about financing for wireless data businesses

Week summary
* - Star sign marks especially important (from the editor's point of view) news items and is also a link to the next important news item.
Wireless data terminal in jet fighter? No problem. US Carriers now offer reasonably priced LBS from TeleNav. VSearch - new targeted ad platform - receives customer's voice as wireless data and does server recognition. Iridium is now used as low-priced global wireless data provider.
Back to Contents

Carriers news

This section lists news about innovative and competitive usage of wireless data by network carriers.

* ViaSat Demonstrates Airborne IP Connection between F/A-18 and Ground Network Original news source

ViaSat Inc. and DRS Technologies Inc., under a contract with the U.S. Navy Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR) , have demonstrated an Internet Protocol (IP) data connection from the cockpit of an F/A-18 jet fighter to a ground network. The data link uses ViaSat Multifunctional Information Distribution System LVT(1) terminals modified to provide IP communications to and from an onboard DRS Airborne Tactical Server (ATS). The tests were conducted at Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division, China Lake. Just the ability to use the Link-16 equipment to exchange IP-format files between the cockpit and a ground network is a major advance In the test, the aircrew employed an Advanced Technology Forward-Looking Infrared (AT-FLIR) camera to record video. Although the test flight was during the day, the AT-FLIR typically captures images at night or in other low-light conditions. The aircrew created video captures and transferred IP data files at rates in excess of 70 kbps, moving images of 35,000 bytes to the ground network in seconds. In combat, these images could be used for intelligence and reconnaissance missions to identify and locate targets, enemy movements, or friendly forces.

Blyk's Free call mobile network launch appears imminent Original news source
The company describes itself as a "pan-European free mobile operator for young people, funded by advertising." Until recently, the official launch was slated as being in the UK in mid-2007. But it now looks as if the launch is imminent. So that just leaves the question as to who will actually host the network for Blyk?

* AT&T Helps Wireless Business Customers Keep Track with New GPS-Enabled, Location-Based Services Solution Original news source

AT&T Inc. introduced a fully hosted, on-demand and comprehensive GPS-based workforce-management solution for business customers, TeleNav Track from TeleNav, Inc. TeleNav Track is an affordable enterprise-grade application for companies of all sizes and includes multiple features, such as GPS-enabled location-tracking, mileage-tracking, wireless time sheets, alerts and detailed location-reporting to capture field data. A premium version of TeleNav Track is also available with features including wireless forms, dispatching, barcode- scanning support and voice and on-screen turn-by-turn GPS directions. Initially, TeleNav Track is available on the new BlackBerry 8800 and HP iPAQ hw6920 Mobile Communicator, both of which have integrated GPS.

* Sprint Customers Get GPS Navigation Bundled In Data Packs Original news source

Sprint customers soon will have the power of a new robust GPS-enabled navigation service included at no additional charge in select Sprint data packs. Sprint Navigation powered by TeleNav will give customers the power of a full-featured GPS navigation device right on select Sprint phones, and unlimited use of Sprint Navigation will be included in the new Sprint Power Vision Navigation Pack, along with two other existing data packs. In addition, Sprint customers who subscribe to other Sprint data packs will have access to Sprint Navigation for just $2.99 per day.

Back to Contents

Vendors of software for client wireless devices news

This section lists breaking news from companies which provide client software that runs in end user wireless devices (phones, pagers, PDAs etc.).

Red Herring Partners With Mobile Advertising Pioneer Smaato Original news source

Smaato Inc., developer of ad-enabling technology for mobile phones, announced a partnership with Red Herring Inc., publisher and producer of Red Herring magazine as well as a heralded international and U.S. conference series following innovation, technology, financing and entrepreneurial activity. As part of the agreement, the upcoming Red Herring Mobile News Reader will support the innovative SOMA (Smaato Open Mobile Advertising) platform, which enables dynamic response for mobile phones.

Back to Contents

Mobile applications related news

This section lists news that describe innovative and competitive implementation of wireless data applications.

* Enpocket Partners with VoiceSignal to Provide Ads for New Voice-Enabled Mobile Search Platform Original news source

VSearch is activated via a button on the handset and prompts the user to speak the location and name or category of a business. The system sends the processed audio information to the VSearch server via the mobile data network where the user's query is converted into text by the VSearch speech recognition engine. This combination aims to offer the highest accuracy and reliability in all environments for the consumer. The requested listings along with relevant, interactive advertisements are sent to the device and displayed on the screen. The user can review the information, place a call to the business, and get a map of its location and more.

* WebTech Wireless and Iridium to Provide Intelligent Dual-Mode Cellular and Satellite Telematics Solution Original news source

WebTech Wireless Inc., a provider of location-based and fleet telematics services, and Iridium Satellite, the global provider of mobile satellite voice and data communications, announced the introduction of a new dual-mode cellular and satellite asset tracking and management solution for the transportation industry. WebTech’s new WT1900system incorporates Iridium’s 9601 short-burst data modem, offering seamless coverage for long-haul customers. The system utilizes cellular frequencies when in range of terrestrial wireless networks and Iridium satellite links in other areas.

Back to Contents

Application outsourcing and hosting news

Ingenio and Medio Team Up to Mobilize Pay Per Call Original news source

Ingenio, Inc., provider of Pay Per Call advertising, and Medio Systems, provider of mobile search and advertising solutions, announced a partnership to integrate Ingenio Pay Per Call ad listings into the newly-launched Medio MobileNow Ad Network. Starting in Q2, 2007, Ingenio Pay Per Call advertisements will appear in response to consumer search queries across mobile properties participating in the Medio MobileNow Ad Network. The Ingenio Pay Per Call advertiser only pays when a consumer initiates a call to the business from their mobile phone, thus ensuring completely measurable results from mobile ad campaigns.

Crisp Wireless Enables Companies to Generate Revenue Via Mobile Advertising Original news source
Crisp Wireless has released the beta version of its mLogic MicroSite Builder tool, which enables publishers to create, preview and publish mobile microsites for advertisers. The Weather Channel Interactive is the first customer to use the MicroSite Builder, which helps generate incremental revenue via mobile advertising.
Back to Contents

News about financing for wireless data businesses

This section lists news about new financing opportunities for and in the wireless data industry.

Pulse Mobile announces Series B financing for mobile platform expansion Original news source
Pulse Mobile, provider of user-generated mobile messaging and entertainment services, announced that it has received $7M in a Series B funding from an international consortium of investors including Anthem Venture Partners, Draper Associates, Shea Ventures, Hikari Tsushin Group in Japan, and several other Asian and European investors.

HipCricket Secures $2 Million in Funding Original news source

HipCricket, mobile marketing firm, announced it closed a second and final tranche of Series A funding, driven by strong investor demand and the company's growing momentum with the broadcast community and major consumer brands. In addition to its Series A round that closed in January, HipCricket has received $2 million from angel investors, Broadmark Capital, and a European investment group.

Glu Mobile Announces Initial Public Offering Original news source

Glu Mobile announced the pricing of its initial public offering of 7,300,000 shares of common stock at a price to the public of $11.50 per share. The Company has also granted the underwriters a 30-day option to purchase up to an additional 1,095,000 shares from Glu and certain selling stockholders. Glu's common stock will be listed on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol "GLUU" and will begin trading on Thursday, March 22, 2007.

Back to Contents

A recommended introductory reading that may be helpful in understanding the scope of this publication is the Wireless Data Forum's Wireless Data Primer.

A glossary of wireless industry terms and acronyms can be found at the Wireless Week site.

Wireless Data News - March 10 to 16

2007-03-16T13:43:33Z

Wireless Data News Blog

To subcribe (or to unsubscribe) visit Zinester site		Instructions and disclaimers
© Leonid Iakovlev, Helsinki, 2007	Back issues are available at LiveJournal	March 10 to 16, 2007

Contents

Week summary
General wireless data market related news
Carriers news
Terminal development for mobile data
Mobile application related news
Application outsourcing and hosting news
News about financing for wireless data businesses

Week summary
* - Star sign marks especially important (from the editor's point of view) news items and is also a link to the next important news item.
CeBIT is virtually dead - from mobile applications point of view at least. Opera is turning more and more into mobile portal company. Microsoft has bought into voice-enabled mobile applications.
Back to Contents

General wireless data market related news

This section lists all breaking wireless data related news that do not belong to any particular section (or should belong to multiple) as well as to general reviews of interest.

Strategy Analytics: Yahoo! Offers Best Mobile Web Experience Original news source

The newly launched Strategy Analytics Wireless Media Lab service has released, "Yahoo! Offers Best Mobile Web Experience as Interest in Web 2.0 Outstrips Media Industry Content," which concludes that Yahoo! has the leading mobile web experience, based on evaluation of leading mobile web offerings by a Strategy Analytics Wireless User Panel. Yahoo! beat Google, Napster, YouTube and MySpace, after participants carried out a set number of tasks specific to each provider on both a laptop PC and a wireless device.

Berg Insight says 66 million machines will be connected to North American cellular networks by 2011 Original news source

According to a new research report from the analyst firm Berg Insight, the number of machines connected to cellular networks in North America will reach 66 million by 2011. At the end of 2006 there were about 9 million active cellular and satellite wireless M2M connections in the US and Canada. Private vehicles constitute the largest vertical market segment in terms of units, followed by commercial vehicles, security alarms and POS-terminals.

Back to Contents

Carriers news

This section lists news about innovative and competitive usage of wireless data by network carriers.

Globalstar Completes Installation of Global Packet Data Satellite Network Original news source

Globalstar, Inc., provider of mobile satellite voice and data services to businesses, government and individuals, announced that it has completed the hardware installation needed to finalize the company’s satellite packet data network. With the implementation of the hardware and software now complete, all corporate and independent Globalstar ground stations are capable of providing packet data satellite services to the more than 250,000 Globalstar customers around the world.

3 launches ad-funded mobile content offering Original news source
3, the mobile media company, announces the launch of a new range of free-to-access content for customers on its Planet 3 portal. Working in partnership with Rhythm New Media, the new service will be supported by personalised advertising from major brands, meaning content that was previously paid for can now be viewed for free by customers.

Nokia, Sprint Nextel to Roll Out Mobile WiMAX Services in Texas Original news source

Nokia will deploy WiMAX infrastructure, including the Nokia Flexi WiMAX Base Station, at sites throughout the four Texas markets, enabling Sprint Nextel to deliver wireless Internet broadband access to consumers, businesses and governments. Service is expected to commence in the Texas markets during the first half of 2008. Sprint Nextel's mobile WiMAX network intends to cover 100 million people nationwide by the end of 2008.

Vodafone introduces internet and Web 2.0 for mobile phones Original news source

Vodafone is introducing popular internet services for mobile phones. One of the highlights is a video community that enables customers to upload videos they have made themselves. Vodafone Sitebuilder is an easy tool for creating personal websites on mobile phones and putting them on the internet. Vodafone has also signed up exclusive partners so that its customers can use internet portals or the messaging services on their mobiles and PCs.

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Terminal development for mobile data

This section lists breaking news from companies which manufacture actual end user wireless devices (phones, pagers, PDAs etc.), as well as other information relevant to such companies.

Sony Ericsson announces W660 Original news source
Sony Ericsson announces the W660 – a Walkman phone which places an emphasis on style and feel. With a tactile finish that just begs to be touched, it’s a classic-design 3G phone available in two distinctive colours, Record Black and Rose Red. Also introduced is a compact new music accessory, the Snap-on Speakers MPS-75, which let you play the tracks stored on your Walkman phone out loud.

Tranzda Selects u-blox GPS Module for Revolutionary Smartphone Original news source
u-blox AG, Swiss provider of GPS receiver technology, announced a deal that sees its LEA-4S GPS module included in a revolutionary smartphone produced by innovative design house Tranzda Technologies Co. Ltd. The PM328 is a NEWPLUS Linux-Core smartphone that integrates phone, PDA, GPS and other multimedia entertainment functions in a product that is 16 mm thin.

The embedded DUALphone 3088 for Skype becomes a PBX-like system with multiple handsets Original news source
RTX announced that its DUALphone 3088, a standalone cordless Internet phone with Skype, will become a PBX-like system for the SoHo and home markets with four-handset capability and simple PBX functions. The additional DUALphone 3088 handsets will be sold separately.
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Mobile applications related news

This section lists news that describe innovative and competitive implementation of wireless data applications.

uLocate Announces WHERE, Platform for Mobile GPS Widgets Original news source

uLocate Communications, Inc., publisher of location enabled mobile applications, announced WHERE, the first mobile GPS widget platform for rapid development and publishing of location enabled wireless content and applications. Currently available on select Sprint phones, WHERE Widgets allow consumers to quickly launch a personalized mobile experience that uses GPS location to put the people, places and things they look for at their fingertips. Consumers can add WHERE Widgets to their WHERE handset application by choosing from menus on the handset, or by dragging and dropping them from the Where.com website instantly to their phone.

Free Calls from Nokia Phones to USA landline and mobiles for barablu users Original news source
Nokia phone owners can make free calls to USA landlines and mobiles until March 31 though free calls provider barablu. barablu already offers free calls on a mobile, PC or PDA between barablu users, who have downloaded the barablu application. Now barablu is extending free calls to anyone calling a USA landline or mobile in a special promotion.
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Application outsourcing and hosting news

GotZapp Revolutionizes Mobile Social Networking Original news source

Trivantis Corporation, developer of publishing software for the FORTUNE 1000, unveiled GotZapp, a new mobile social networking platform that empowers users to create and send a dynamic combination of text, photos and music to Web-enabled mobile phones in a single transmission called a "Zapp." GotZapp, which utilizes Zirada mobile content creator, will take mobile communications to the next level by bringing genuine self-expression, robust social networking and a rich multi-media experience to the mobile handset.

* T-Mobile brings the My Opera Community to its web'n'walk users Original news source
Opera Software announced that T-Mobile is bringing a customized version of the My Opera Community to its web'n'walk users. By integrating the community into their product offering, T-Mobile allows its customers to take advantage of popular My Opera features such as photoblogging, photo albums and more, all from the convenience of their web'n'walk powered phones.
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News about financing for wireless data businesses

This section lists news about new financing opportunities for and in the wireless data industry.

Mobifusion nets $3.1M Original news source

Mobile media company Mobifusion Inc. said it picked up $3.1 million in its first round of venture funding. Mobifusion targets carriers and publishers with a content-delivery platform designed to increase customer acquisition and loyalty. Backers in the initial round included Emergic Ventures, Ingram Digital Group, Global Asia Partners and an undisclosed “major telecom company” in India.

Ericsson acquires Mobeon and strengthens multimedia strategy Original news source

Ericssonhas announced it will acquire business and assets of Mobeon AB, specialist in IP-messaging components for mobile and fixed networks. This deal represents yet another step in Ericsson's strategy to become the leader in multimedia. 21 percent of Mobeon is already owned by Ericsson, which is also the primary partner and original developer of Mobeon's CompEdge series of carrier-class messaging.

* Microsoft to Acquire Tellme Networks Original news source

Microsoft Corp. announced it will acquire Tellme Networks, Inc., a provider of voice services for everyday life, including nationwide directory assistance, enterprise customer service and voice-enabled mobile search. Microsoft and Tellme share a vision around the potential of speech as a way to enable access to information, locate other people and enhance business processes, any time and from any device. Combining Tellme's talented people and expertise in high-volume voice services with Microsoft's platform, resources and worldwide customer reach will inspire new and innovative solutions.

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A recommended introductory reading that may be helpful in understanding the scope of this publication is the Wireless Data Forum's Wireless Data Primer.

A glossary of wireless industry terms and acronyms can be found at the Wireless Week site.

Wireless Data News - March 3 to 9

2007-03-09T14:56:28Z

Wireless Data News Blog

To subcribe (or to unsubscribe) visit Zinester site		Instructions and disclaimers
© Leonid Iakovlev, Helsinki, 2007	Back issues are available at LiveJournal	March 3 to 9, 2007

Contents

Week summary
Carriers news
Terminal development for mobile data
Vendors of software for client wireless devices news
Mobile application related news
Application outsourcing and hosting news
News about financing for wireless data businesses
News about trade shows and conferences

Week summary
* - Star sign marks especially important (from the editor's point of view) news items and is also a link to the next important news item.
City-wide public wireless network deployed in Oulu, Finland. More advanced UMPC announced shortly before CEBIT. Nokia now hosts mobile advertising services for 3rd parties. With such a global offering company is for real moving into service provider business.
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Carriers news

This section lists news about innovative and competitive usage of wireless data by network carriers.

* Strix Systems Selected for the First City-Wide Wireless Mesh Network in Finland Original news source

The City of Oulu, Finland, is using Strix Systems’ Access/One 2400 Outdoor Wireless System (OWS) to build its first city-wide wireless mesh network. Strix mesh technology will provide faster connection speeds and extended coverage beyond the coverage offered by the old WiFi network. The Strix mesh network delivers high-speed broadband mobility and high-quality voice, video, data access to the general public. The wireless network, called panOULU, provides open and free wireless (WiFi) Internet access to the general public and an established business plan for panOULU subscriptions enabling organizations to provide its own open panOULU visitor network to customers and guests in its premises.

Artificial Life Launches Get ALIFE WAP Portal On TeliaSonera Original news source

Hong Kong-based Artificial Life, Inc. , a provider of mobile 3G technology and applications, announced the launch of the Get ALIFE portal on TeliaSonera, the Nordic and Baltic leader in telecommunications, and will feature the latest mobile games: America's Next Top Model 7, V-boyfriend, V-girl and V-Penguins, as well as their accompanying side products like wallpapers and screensavers. Over 100 handset models are supported during the first launch.

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Terminal development for mobile data

This section lists breaking news from companies which manufacture actual end user wireless devices (phones, pagers, PDAs etc.), as well as other information relevant to such companies.

GIGABYTE at CeBIT 2007 Original news source
At CeBIT this year, GBC proudly presents DVB-T, DVB-H, DAB and T-DMB enabled Windows Mobile based device, GSmart t600. In addition, GBC will also unveil its first 3.5G/3G PDA phone, GSmart q60 and PPC phones with analog TV, GPS with safety, tracking and GeoTag enabled features.

* Samsung’s Ultra-Mobile PC Optimized for Windows Vista Makes Its Debut Original news source

Featuring an Intel Pentium processor (running at 1.0 GHz), an impressive 60MB hard drive and 1GB of memory — which is twice that of the original Q1 model — Samsung designed the Q1P for Windows Vista UMPC for the professional user who wants a no-compromise, high-performance solution for completing projects and meeting deadlines while on the go. With the Q1P model’s increased battery life of approximately two and a half hours, coupled with faster speeds, flexibility and mobile functionality, this product provides a compelling solution in a highly portable package. As with the entire Q1 line, the Q1P for Windows Vista UMPC is equipped with a brilliant seven-inch wide LCD touch screen. The unit also features an easy-to-use “inking” feature, which allows data to be directly inputted through the touch screen, with results similar to a handwritten note. Handwriting can be also transferred to regular text. The Q1P for Windows Vista is available now for an MSRP of $1,299.

* FlipStart Labs UnveilsSuper Compact Personal Computer Designed for Usability Original news source

FlipStart Labs announced that its first product, the FlipStart super compact PC will ship to customers before the end of the month. With a design based on extensive user preference research and usability studies, FlipStart is the only compact PC (under two pounds) with a clamshell design. FlipStart coalesces everything mobile professionals expect from their laptops -- full Windows(R) application usage, communications, entertainment and constant connectivity -- in a convenient form factor.

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Vendors of software for client wireless devices news

This section lists breaking news from companies which provide client software that runs in end user wireless devices (phones, pagers, PDAs etc.).

MontaVista selected to provide smartphone building blocks to designer of Italy’s most advanced handsets Original news source

The two new smartphones, the iGO730 and the LinAP, have been designed by Italian manufacturer Enteos, a specialist in the development of advanced mobile handsets. Enteos, a supplier of handsets to OEMs and to network operators such as Italian market leader TIM, expects the products to attract business customers who require mobile broadband, e-mail and office productivity applications. Enteos’ products typically incorporate features or functionality that manufacturers of mainstream handsets have not yet widely adopted. The new phones combine 3G, Wi-Fi and VoIP capability.

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Mobile applications related news

This section lists news that describe innovative and competitive implementation of wireless data applications.

Alpha Financial Services Launches Mobile Money Transfer Service Original news source

Alpha Financial Services, Inc. announced its "on-the-go-money transfer" service that will revolutionize the remittance business. This remarkable innovative service will eliminate the need for customers to drive around and wait in line at old-fashioned money transfer locations. This service will make it easier than ever to send and receive money -- using nothing more than a mobile phone. This remarkable payment solution is a swift, easy and most secure new way to send money worldwide.

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Application outsourcing and hosting news

VelvetPuffin Launches Complete Social Networking Service for Mobile Phone and PC Users Original news source

VelvetPuffin launched the first integrated social networking service that allows its users to instantly communicate, create and share user-generated content of all types with friends and family through a mobile phone or desktop computer. Completely carrier independent and offered at no cost to the consumer, VelvetPuffin merges instant messaging and social networking to create truly mobile social networking. Taking a new approach to the desktop experience, it doesn't require users to interact or obtain contact through a Web browser.

* Nokia announces platforms to connect advertisers and media publishers with mobile Original news source

Nokia announced two mobile advertising services. Nokia Ad Service is a fully managed service for advertisers to conduct targeted advertising on mobile services and applications. Nokia Ad Service consists of a group of mobile publishers forming a mobile ad network and a platform to deploy, manage and optimize mobile advertising campaigns. Nokia also introduced Nokia Advertising Connector, a private label service for third party Publishers and Advertising Aggregators that want to extend to relevant mobile advertising. Nokia Advertising Connector operates as an intelligent switch, selecting between text, visual, audio and video ads - depending on the user's context - and feeding the ad to the device.

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News about financing for wireless data businesses

This section lists news about new financing opportunities for and in the wireless data industry.

Free Mobile Email Provider Flurry Finds Series A Funding Original news source

Flurry, creator of mobile applications and services, announced the close of $3.75 million Series A funding. The company launched a mobile email and RSS service for consumers in early 2006 and will use the funding to accelerate growth and adoption of the service, enhance the product and expand the management team. Draper Fisher Jurvetson and Draper Richards joined initial angel investor Borealis Ventures to fund the round.

Xtract raises €2 million in venture capital funding Original news source

Xtract, the customer analytics expert, announced that € 2 million in growth capital funding has been secured in a first round of funding from one of the largest technologyfocused
funds in Northern Europe, Eqvitec Technology Fund III. A second round of growth funding is expected to be raised later in 2007. Xtract is specialised in automated customer analytics solutions, enabling the analysis and prediction of events supporting targeted advertising in online communities and social networks. The funding will be used to further expand internationally, growing the customer base for the Xtract proprietary solutions, which include mobile advertising solutions to advertisers, as well as community and social networking analytics.

Gemini Mobile Secures $20 Million Original news source
Gemini Mobile Technologies, developer of wireless software infrastructure, announced that it has raised $20 million from Goldman Sachs. Goldman Sachs joins Gemini's current investors, three of Japans marquee financial institutions, Mitsubishi-UFJ, Mizuho, and Tokyo Marine.

FON Receives euro 10 MM to Further Its Exponential Growth Original news source
FON announced that it has raised an additional euro 10 million from both current and new investors. This comes one year after FON received euro 18 million in financing. During its first year, FON has become the largest WiFi community in the world with more than 320,000 members and 120,000 WiFi access points, 60,000 of which were added in the last 60 days.

Exponentia Announces Investment Original news source

Exponentia, a Vancouver-based global specialist in mobile and online games and applications, announced an investment by Indianapolis-based Emmis Communications Corporation, the ninth largest radio operator in the United States. Exponentia's PlayAction connects audiences of live events via their mobile phones -- whether at-home, in-venue or anywhere in the world -- to participate in prediction and trivia via their cell phones.

Vollee, 3G Mobile Gaming Solution, Completes Series A Financing Original news source

Vollee (formerly Game Stream) announced the closing of its $4 million Series A financing round from lead investor BlueRun Ventures, along with Benchmark Capital who joined as an investor during 2006. Vollee provides PC and console-quality games on 3G mobile devices with a development & porting process of less than four weeks, without requiring access to the games’ original source code.

Starent Networks Files Registration Statement for Proposed Initial Public Offering Original news source

Starent Networks, Corp. announced it has filed a registration statement on Form S-1 with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission relating to the proposed initial public offering of its common stock. The shares of common stock to be sold in the offering are expected to be offered by Starent Networks and certain of its stockholders. Starent Networks, Corp. is a provider of infrastructure solutions that enable mobile operators to deliver multimedia services to their subscribers.

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News about trade shows and conferences

This section lists the trade shows and conferences which are relevant to wireless data from either participation or exhibiting point of view.

Title Original news source
Abstract...

Title Original news source
Abstract...
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A recommended introductory reading that may be helpful in understanding the scope of this publication is the Wireless Data Forum's Wireless Data Primer.

A glossary of wireless industry terms and acronyms can be found at the Wireless Week site.

Wireless Data News - February 24 to March 2

2007-03-02T15:24:04Z

Wireless Data News Blog

To subcribe (or to unsubscribe) visit Zinester site		Instructions and disclaimers
© Leonid Iakovlev, Helsinki, 2007	Back issues are available at LiveJournal	February 24 to March 2, 2007

Contents

Week summary
General wireless data market related news
Mobile application related news
News about financing for wireless data businesses

Week summary
* - Star sign marks especially important (from the editor's point of view) news items and is also a link to the next important news item.
Verizon starts Qualcomm-based mobile TV broadcasting. Citi provides mobile payment pilot.
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General wireless data market related news

This section lists all breaking wireless data related news that do not belong to any particular section (or should belong to multiple) as well as to general reviews of interest.

IDC Says Don't Underestimate Full Potential of Mobile Marketing Original news source

Mobile marketing represents one of the most promising and challenging opportunities for both the advertising and mobile industries. With more than two billion mobile users in the world today, IDC believes that mobile prevails as the first medium through which advertisers can reach such a large audience on an individual basis in the developing world. According to IDC, the brand spend of the U.S. mobile marketing market in 2006 should more than double the spend in 2005.

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Carriers news

This section lists news about innovative and competitive usage of wireless data by network carriers.

Elisa to pilot Nokia's next generation mobile gaming platfor Original news source
Nokia and Finnish carrier Elisa announced that they will carry out a pilot of Nokia's new N-Gage mobile gaming service. The pilot will start in February 2007 and run until mid 2007.

* Verizon Wireless Launches Live Cell TV Original news source

Verizon Wireless launched a broadcast TV service for cell phones in about 20 Midwestern and Western markets, charging $15 to $25 a month for the initial lineup from eight leading networks. While Verizon had already said it planned to introduce the service this month, the launch provided this country's first detailed glimpse of the features and pricing for a long-awaited next wave in cellular technology. Notably, the launch came one day after a demonstration in New York of a planned rival broadcast service called Modeo, as well as an announcement by MobiTV, a forerunner to these new offerings, that it has reached 2 million users. V Cast Mobile TV, delivered over a separate wireless network operated by Qualcomm Inc., requires a new handset capable of receiving the broadcast signal in addition to the regular cellular signal for phone calls and mobile Internet access. The eight 24-hour channels are CBS Mobile, Comedy Central, ESPN, Fox Mobile, MTV, NBC 2Go, NBC News 2Go and Nickelodeon.

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Mobile applications related news

This section lists news that describe innovative and competitive implementation of wireless data applications.

* Citi and Obopay to Pilot Mobile Person-to-Person Payment Service Original news source

Citi announced that an agreement has been reached with Obopay, Inc. to pilot an innovative, real-time Person-to-Person mobile payments service later this year. The service will be offered to new and existing Citi credit and debit card customers. Further details, including cities for the consumer pilot, are to be confirmed and announced at a later time. The new Citi-Obopay Mobile Person to Person service will allow pilot participants to easily and securely send and receive money instantly via any mobile phone. Participants will be able to remotely track and manage their mobile payment accounts by checking balances, viewing payment histories, and adding funds directly from their mobile phone. Funds received via the Citi-Obopay Mobile Person to Person service can also be accessed with a debit card provided with the service.

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News about financing for wireless data businesses

This section lists news about new financing opportunities for and in the wireless data industry.

Carl Icahn Invests $50 Million in Motricity Original news source
Motricity, provider of mobile content services and solutions, announced the completion of $50 million in equity funding from Carl Icahn, through an affiliated company, along with the appointment of Brett Icahn, an investment analyst with Icahn Associates and affiliated companies, to the Motricity board of directors.

InterDigitalInterDigital Leads Funding Round in Kineto Wireless Original news source

InterDigital Communications Corporation and Kineto Wireless, Inc. announced the closing of a $10 million round of funding in Kineto, innovator and supplier of UMA technology. InterDigital led the round with an investment of $5 million, while Kineto’s existing investors -- Sutter Hill Ventures, Venrock Associates, 3i, Oak Investment Partners, SeaPoint Ventures and Storm Ventures – also participated in the financing.

iSkoot Raises $7 Million in Series B Financing Original news source

iSkoot, provider of mobile Internet communications solutions, announced that it has secured $7 million in Series B financing. iSkoot is recently working in close partnership with Skype to enable The 3 Group to become the first mobile operator to bring Skype-enabled mobile phones to consumers. iSkoot software was pre-loaded onto Nokia and Sony Ericsson handsets used by The 3 Group to launch the industry’s first mobile Skype service. The round was led by Charles River Ventures and includes previous investors Khosla Ventures, ZG Ventures, and Jesselson Capital Corp.

Back to Contents

A recommended introductory reading that may be helpful in understanding the scope of this publication is the Wireless Data Forum's Wireless Data Primer.

A glossary of wireless industry terms and acronyms can be found at the Wireless Week site.