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Handspring Press Release Archive
HANDSPRING INTRODUCES VISORPHONE WORLD PHONE TO EUROPEAN MARKETS
VisorPhone module adds GSM world phone and enhanced data capabilities to Handspring's popular line of Visor handheld computers
CANNES, FRANCE (February 21, 2001) - Handspring (NASDAQ: HAND), a leading innovator of handheld computers, will introduce VisorPhone to the European market at 3GSM World Congress this week, with targeted customer availability in the first half of 2001. VisorPhone is a GSM world phone (900/1900 MHz) that leverages the robust PIM functionality and larger screen of Visor handhelds to bring Address Book dialing, enhanced caller ID, conference calling and other features to a new level of usability. Handspring is now making VisorPhone available to GSM carriers for testing and expects to begin selling the product in Europe this summer.
In addition, VisorPhone's SMS application coupled with the flexible and efficient text input functions of Palm OS make writing and managing messages compelling to a whole new class of subscribers. Handspring also intends to provide its own high-performance Web browser, Blazer, developed by recently acquired Bluelark Systems, to browse virtually any website. This and other applications will enable people to access the Internet, send and receive e-mail messages and even text chat using their Visor handheld and VisorPhone module.
"When we look back on the handheld industry years from now, we'll see it clearly divided into two periods of evolution: before and after wireless. The handheld industry is just now beginning to cross that divide," said Joe Sipher, vice president of product marketing. "We believe the handheld computer is the most compelling interface for mobile voice and data applications."
Joe Sipher will participate in a keynote panel session at 3GSM World Congress in Cannes, France highlighting the company's role in the continued development of wireless handheld solutions. The keynote will take place at 9:35 Friday 23rd February.
During 3GSM World Congress Handspring announced a partnership with Wavecom to explore the development of future wireless data products based on Wavecom's WISMO (wireless standard module) technology. WISMO is a family of dual-band GPRS-compatible GSM plug-in modules used for building products that enable wireless Internet and e-mail access. Additionally, OmniSky, a key Handspring partner in wireless communications, announced plans to bring its wireless e-mail and web services to European markets with VisorPhone and Handspring's 16-bit colour Visor Prism and high-performance Visor Platinum handhelds. OmniSky will be providing the full package of product and services at a competitive price point utilizing an aggressive rebate.
About VisorPhone
Introduced to US markets in December of 2000, VisorPhone is a compact Springboard module that combines GSM voice and data capabilities with the benefits of handheld computing and brings two mobile products together into one. VisorPhone's integrated software takes advantage of the easy-to-use Visor interface to make functions such as conference calling, caller ID, programming and using speed-dial numbers, detailed call history, and standard dialing functions fast and intuitive. The simple user interface of the VisorPhone allows people to utilize the advanced capabilities of the GSM network and increases overall user satisfaction.
This ease of use is attributed mainly to the VisorPhone's integration with Visor's PIM (personal information manager) functionality. For example, when snapped into Visor, VisorPhone can instantly access thousands of numbers stored in the Visor's Address Book. Simply tapping on a number and then tapping "dial" will call any number in an individual record. Users can even highlight phone numbers stored in other Palm OS applications and press the phone button to dial that number. In addition, any call received will be checked against the Address Book contents so that names of callers can automatically appear on the Visor screen to let a person know exactly who is calling. For frequently dialed numbers, VisorPhone supports up to 50 speed-dial numbers that can be created and named with ease and a detailed call history can store up to 1000 calls.
While the primary function of VisorPhone is making and receiving phone calls, it can also be used for a robust set of data functions. Included is an SMS application that allows users to create messages based on easy-to-use templates. These templates include customizable selections of greetings and signatures. Users can also write free text with a proven set of input methods such as Graffiti or the onscreen keyboard. These messages can be easily addressed to anyone in the users' Address Book - even to multiple recipients. Correspondence longer then 160 characters will be automatically split into multiple messages. The VisorPhone SMS application also includes four folders to manage incoming, outgoing, pending and draft Short Messages.
VisorPhone also serves as a modem for any "connected" Palm OS application, including browsers, email and instant messaging clients. For the best browsing experience Handspring provides Blazer, a Palm OS web browser that enables fast, seamless Internet access from handheld computers to virtually any website. Blazer's excellent performance is largely attributed to the BlueSky proxy technology which supports major existing standards. The BlueSky server transcodes content for viewing on handheld displays regardless of origin. For example, Blazer can display optimized content from sources including HTML, WML and cHTML (iMode). Blazer particularly excels at displaying rich color content on handhelds such as the Handspring Visor Prism.
VisorPhone contains a battery, speaker, antenna, and three buttons: one to power VisorPhone on and off and two that allow users to switch between voice and text messaging functions. As with all Springboard modules, all software needed to use VisorPhone is included in the module itself. Springboard modules are self-installing and self-de-installing and can run in place so there is no need to transfer software between Visor and the module. The process is automatic and fast. To use VisorPhone, uses simply insert the module into the Springboard slot. When powered on, VisorPhone will automatically register to the GSM network. When the module is removed, software is automatically deinstalled, leaving Visor in a clean state.
About Handspring
Handspring is a leading innovator in the handheld computing industry. The company develops, manufactures and markets a family of expandable handheld computers for a broad range of markets and customers. Founded in 1998, Handspring's flagship technology is the Springboard platform that provides a simple and easy method for hardware and software expansion. Today Handspring sells its Visor line of handheld computers, along with a line of Springboard expansion modules and accessories, at Handspring.com and through select Internet and retail partners in Asia, Canada, Europe, Japan, the Middle East and the United States.
CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, including those relating to: the future availability and timing of introduction of VisorPhone and related applications in relevant markets; Handspring's plans to work with wireless industry leaders to bring the power of voice communications to handheld computing; and plans to build relationships with carriers and other global partners. Actual results may differ materially due to a number of factors including, among others: consumer acceptance of the product; timing of the introduction of VisorPhone in relevant markets; the degree to which GSM carriers will facilitate the successful introduction of VisorPhone and the pricing and terms of rate plans that they will offer for use with the product; and the rapid pace of technological change and competitive developments in the handheld computer and wireless Internet industries. The matters discussed in this press release also involve risks and uncertainties described in Handspring's most recent Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Handspring assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking information contained in this press release.
Handspring, the Handspring logo, VisorPhone, Springboard and Visor are trademarks of Handspring, Inc. and may be registered in certain jurisdictions. All other brand and company names are trademarks of their respective owners.
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