I would LOVE to see more of these. Licensing IP can be very lucrative.
Tuesday January 16, 9:37 am Eastern Time
Press Release
Socket Licenses CompactFlash Technology to Agere Systems
NEWARK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 16, 2001--Socket Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ:SCKT, PSE:SOK) today announced that Agere Systems, formerly known as the Microelectronics Group of Lucent Technologies (NYSE: LU - news), has licensed its technology to design integrated circuits for use in special-purpose CompactFlash plug-in cards for personal communications devices. Socket also announced that Agere is evaluating additional technology for designing interface components that can be used in plug-in cards based on the emerging Secure Digital I/O standard.
``We're excited about our agreement with Agere,'' said Mike Gifford, founder and executive vice president of business development for Socket Communications. ``Lucent's agreement indicates its interest in our core chip technology, and could enhance our business model by adding IP-based revenue, and could open the door to collaboration with major partners on personal communication products.''
``We're very pleased to have access to Socket's CompactFlash interface technology,'' said Kevin Lynch, manager, Strategic Marketing, Access Business Unit, Agere Systems. ``This is a significant input/output (I/O) technology interface for hand-held electronic devices such as PDA's, digital cameras and MP3 players. It's also an enabler for next generation mobile IO systems,'' said Lynch. ``We are looking forward to working with Socket to help our customers develop the next generation of personal communications solutions.''
About Agere
Agere Systems, formerly known as the Microelectronics Group of Lucent Technologies, is the world leader in semiconductors for communications applications. Lucent has announced it intends to spin off the Microelectronics Group as an independent company that will include its optoelectronics and integrated circuits divisions. Agere has the expertise to offer integrated optoelectronics and integrated circuits solutions to help customers reduce the time and expense of developing the new communications equipment. The new company will also provide wireless computer networking system solutions through its ORiNOCO(TM) product line. More information about the Microelectronics Group is available from its Web site at agere.com.
About Socket
Socket Communications, Inc. develops and sells connection products for Windows-powered computers and other devices. Socket's products include the Battery Friendly® family of plug-in cards for enhancing mobile computers by adding wireless Internet connectivity, local area networking, bar code scanning, and data communication. Socket's products incorporate the company's energy-efficient chip technology, making them ideal for battery-operated mobile computers. Socket is an Associate Member of the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) and is developing products that will add Bluetooth wireless technology to handheld computers, notebooks and other electronic appliances. For information about Socket's complete range of products, visit socketcom.com.
Socket and Battery Friendly are registered trademarks of Socket Communications, Inc. BLUETOOTH is a trademark owned by Aktiebolaget LM Ericsson and licensed to Socket. All other product and company names herein may be trademarks of their respective owners.(c)2000, Socket Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Contact:
Socket Communications:
Jerry Houston, 510/744-2740
jerry@socketcom.com |
