Handspring Press Release Archive
HANDSPRING BRINGS VOICE COMMUNICATIONS TO HANDHELD COMPUTING WITH VISORPHONE™
Bell South DCS, Pacific Bell Wireless, Powertel and VoiceStream to provide services for breakthrough Springboard™ module that makes wireless phone experience simpler than ever
MOUNTAIN VIEW, CALIF. (September 25, 2000) - Handspring, Inc. (NASDAQ: HAND) today introduced the VisorPhone Springboard expansion module, combining the power of voice communications with the simplicity and versatility of the Visor handheld computer. VisorPhone is a compact expansion module that snaps into the Springboard expansion slot on any Visor handheld computer so people can use Visor to make and receive phone calls. VisorPhone combines two mobile products into one, creating a single integrated product for all voice and handheld computing needs.
"The fundamental idea behind the development of VisorPhone was to re-invent the user experience for voice calling. The last major milestone in phone design was in the late 1960s when touchtone phones replaced rotary dial phones. We felt it was time to make it easier for people to use all the new features and services available," said Ed Colligan, senior vice president of sales and marketing for Handspring. "With VisorPhone, we've leveraged the robust PIM functionality and larger screen of Visor to make things like speed dialing, caller ID, and conference calling more accessible to the average user."
Handspring plans to deliver a U.S. version of VisorPhone by the end of the year for U.S. $299, with simultaneous purchase of a service plan. Initially, Handspring.com will be the exclusive channel for VisorPhone sales, providing one-stop shopping for people who want to purchase a Visor, VisorPhone and a nationwide service plan in a single transaction. Current Visor owners will also be able to purchase the VisorPhone module (sold separately) and a service plan at Handspring.com. Handspring expects to sell VisorPhone through physical distribution channels in the U.S., and to deliver a European version of VisorPhone, in the first half of 2001.
Four leading GSM (global system for mobile communications) carriers in the U.S., Bell South DCS, Pacific Bell Wireless, Powertel and VoiceStream plan to provide comprehensive service plans for VisorPhone that can be purchased directly through Handspring.com.
"We believe offering VisorPhone provides our customers with another simple solution for their wireless service needs," said Steve Sitton, president and general manager of Pacific Bell Wireless South Region. "Customers can now enjoy Pacific Bell Wireless services such as wireless Internet access and Handspring's handheld computing capabilities in one combined, easy-to-use tool."
UNPARALLELED USER EXPERIENCE
VisorPhone reinvents the phone experience by simplifying everyday mobile phone functions. 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.
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 that can be stored in the Visor's Address Book. Simply tapping on a number and then tapping on the "dial" icon will dial any number in an individual record. 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 with ease. Calls can also be made by using an on-screen dial pad.
While the primary function of VisorPhone is making and receiving phone calls, it can also be used for a robust set of data functions including SMS (short message service) text messaging; wireless synchronization with a desktop computer; and when combined with third party software, wireless access to the Internet and email applications.
ABOUT VISORPHONE
Designed and built in partnership with Option International of Leuven, Belgium, VisorPhone is a compact mobile phone module that extends slightly above and beyond the top and back of Visor itself. VisorPhone contains a battery, speaker, antenna, and three buttons: one to power VisorPhone on and off and two that allow a user to switch between voice and text messaging functions.
VisorPhone includes a headset that plugs into the module itself and enables a hands-free experience when using VisorPhone. The software interface designed for VisorPhone allows users to scroll through other applications while a call is in progress. For example, meetings can be added to the Date Book application or notes taken in the Memo Pad application while a call is in progress. This kind of functionality is unparalleled when compared to the traditional way of making a wireless phone call. Since all Visor handhelds come with a built-in microphone, VisorPhone can also be used by holding Visor to the ear like any standard mobile phone.
In addition to its extensive mobile phone features, VisorPhone offers a new and easy way to send and receive text messages. Short text messages are easily composed and sent to any email address or SMS-enabled phone. Numbers and email addresses can even be chosen directly from the Visor's address book. Incoming messages are easy to read on Visor, and outgoing messages are even easier to compose using graffiti to write or using a pull-down menu that includes short phrases like "running late" or "call me." VisorPhone automatically stores text messages that are sent and received to be read, forwarded, replied to or deleted later. People needing access to other wireless data, email and Internet applications can add third-party software to Visor that will work seamlessly with VisorPhone.
VisorPhone operates on its own lithium ion battery. Talk time battery life is three hours and standby battery life is three days. VisorPhone comes with its own AC adapter and charger cable allowing users to recharge the module as they would a standard mobile phone. A charging cradle will be sold separately, which will allow people to re-charge VisorPhone when it is inserted into Visor and placed in the cradle.
As with all Springboard modules, all software needed to use VisorPhone is included in the module itself. Springboard modules are always 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, a person simply inserts 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. The Visor need not be turned on or off, or applications closed, to insert or remove VisorPhone.
VISORPHONE SERVICE PLANS
VisorPhone operates on the GSM standard, the most widely used digital phone standard in the world, and is designed to function exclusively with the Springboard expansion slot. The GSM standard allows users to receive wireless coverage in over 4,600 cities and towns throughout North America. Handspring will sell service plans provided by four leading GSM carriers in the U.S. including VoiceStream, Pacific Bell Wireless, Powertel and Bell South Mobility. A one-stop shopping purchase and activation process available exclusively at Handspring.com will allow customers to easily choose the carrier and service plan that best fits their specific needs.
The service providers, not Handspring, will determine the pricing plans. Handspring expects pricing to be in line with typical pricing for all other advanced mobile phones today. Additional carrier information and activation details are provided at Handspring.com.
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 by the creators of the world-leading Palm Computing platform, 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 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 of VisorPhone on the Web, in retail stores and in Europe; the ease of use and enhanced calling functionality that purchasers of VisorPhone will experience; and the price of the service plans and scope of coverage that will be offered by GSM carriers. Actual results may differ materially due to a number of factors including, among others: Handspring's ability to ship VisorPhone by the anticipated delivery dates; 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 Handspring's and its suppliers' capacity to meet demand for VisorPhone in light of component constraints. The matters discussed in this press release also involve risks and uncertainties described in Handspring's Form S-1 Registration Statement 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, Visor, VisorPhone and Springboard 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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