Ericsson, Motorola, Siemens and Sony Ericsson plan Interoperable Products & Solutions for Q2 2004. Ericsson, Motorola, and Siemens announced today the first joint interoperability tests for Push-to-Talk over Cellular (PoC) technology. The tests are designed to help provide network operators with easy integration, interoperability and a competitive environment in which to deploy commercial PoC service. For consumers, the testing helps ensure a simple, seamless Push-to-Talk experience.
The PoC function enables mobile phones to be used like walkie-talkies, providing communication at the touch of a button. Already popular in North America, PoC is poised for growth in Europe and in Asia - but interoperability is a key factor to such broad-based acceptance.
The first technical standard specification for Push-to-Talk – PoC Phase One - was submitted to the Open Mobile Alliance (OMA) in August 2003. Ericsson, Motorola, Siemens and Sony Ericsson are promoting a final version of the PoC standard through the OMA.
Today, the industry leaders take the next step by successfully starting joint interoperability tests to help speed delivery of compatible PoC solutions to network operators. The first interoperable products and solutions are expected to be introduced in Q2 2004. Other manufacturers are encouraged to join the interoperability tests to help ensure compatibility between devices and PoC servers across vendors.
About Push-to-Talk over Cellular service
Push-to-Talk over Cellular is similar to a walkie-talkie experience; it is a means of quick one-to-one or group communication. Instead of dialing a number to start a conversation, with one push of a button you simply go to a "buddy list" and select the person you want to contact. Push the button again, talk, and your voice is heard by the recipient.
You can also create group calls so everyone on your buddy list can hear your message simultaneously - just as in a telephone conference. Instead of having to SMS or call each recipient individually, a push of the key is all it takes to send a message directly to an entire
circle of friends or work colleagues, for example.
For network operators, PoC opens up a whole new realm of voice services, as it significantly enhances telephone service. Experience has proven that consumers with PoC features on their phone tend to become more engaged with their handset potentially providing mobile operators with a new source of revenue - potentially a high return from existing infrastructure at a relatively low risk.
And, PoC service fits a variety of markets - from consumers who want quick communication to small, medium and large enterprises that need frequent intermediate contacts.
About PoC Phase One Specification
The PoC Phase One Specification was developed by leading wireless vendors to ensure an interoperable Push-to-Talk solution over standard cellular networks. The specification is intended to help drive rapid uptake of PoC by enabling a simple, seamless Push-to-Talk experience for end-users.
The Open Mobile Alliance (OMA) is further enhancing this specification based on wider industry feedback. Multiple vendors are developing products according to the existing PoC specification. The ongoing work in OMA indicates that some new functionality will be added in the future, for example the Network-to-Network Interface (NNI) that enables inter-operator communication.
For further information, please contact
Ericsson
Eva Sparr, Communications
Phone: +46 8 719 57 50, +46 8 719 69 92
Email: press.relations@ericsson.com
Motorola
Sharen Santoski, Mobiles Stephanie Forrest, InfrastructureBR>
Phone: +1.617.252.9662
Phone: +44 7739 884452
Siemens mobile
Axel Schafmeister
Phone: +49 89 636 51675, +49 170 63 29 546
Email: siemens-mobile.press@siemens.com
Sony Ericsson
Sony Ericsson Corporate Communications
Phone: +44 (0) 208 762 5858
Email: info@SonyEricsson.com
About Ericsson
Ericsson is shaping the future of Mobile and Broadband Internet communications through its continuous technology leadership.
Providing innovative solutions in more than 140 countries, Ericsson is helping to create the most powerful communication companies in the world.
Read more at www.ericsson.com/press
About Motorola
Motorola, Inc. (NYSE: MOT) is a global leader in wireless, broadband and automotive communications technologies that help make life smarter, safer, simpler, synchronized and fun. Sales in 2003 were $27.1 billion. Motorola creates innovative technological solutions that benefit people at home, at work and on the move. The company also is a progressive corporate citizen dedicated to operating ethically, protecting the environment and supporting the communities in which it does business. For more information: www.motorola.com/.
About Siemens mobile:
The Siemens Information and Communication Mobile Group (Siemens mobile) is one of the world's leading full-line suppliers in the field of mobile communication, offering mobile phones, cordless phones, wireless modules and mobile infrastructure, as well as all radio and switching modules, consulting services and systems integration. The mobile communication arm of Siemens AG markets products and services in more than 120 countries, generating sales of € 10 billion with a workforce of some 26,900 people in fiscal 2003 (September 30). Siemens mobile is the world market leader in prepaid solutions and digital cordless phones. More: www.siemens-mobile.com/press
About Sony Ericsson
Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications AB offers mobile communications products for people who appreciate the possibilities of powerful technology. Established in 2001 by Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson and Sony Corporation, the joint venture continues to build on the success of its two innovative parent companies. Sony Ericsson creates value for its operator customers by bringing new ways of using multimedia communications while mobile. The company's management is based in London, and has 4,000 employees across the globe working on research, development, design, sales, marketing, distribution and support.
For further information, please visit: www.sonyericsson.com
