Compaq Ushers in New Era of Internet Products for Business Customers
Launches Business-to-Employee (B2E) Internet Initiative With Industry Leaders
NEW YORK, Nov. 10 /PRNewswire/ -- Ushering in a new era of products specifically designed to deliver
the power of the Internet to business customers, Compaq Computer Corporation (NYSE: CPQ - news)
today unveiled iPaq(TM), an Internet device that simply and affordably provides the right features for
Internet-based commercial computing while still supporting mainstream personal productivity
applications.
In addition, Compaq announced a new initiative to deliver the first highly relevant, task-oriented, Internet
destination for the business-to-employee (B2E) market. This web site destination will provide supporting
services and content offered by American Express, CMGI, Intel, Microsoft and Siebel.
Today's announcement defines the next step in Compaq's global strategy to unlock the power of the
Internet for business customers. This is the first in a series of innovative Internet devices and services
that represent a major transformation of the business PC.
''Today's announcement is further evidence of Compaq's commitment to industry leadership and
innovation,'' said Michael Capellas, Compaq's president and chief executive officer. ''It also reinforces
our corporate strategy, which is focused on three key elements. First, we are creating the NonStop
eBusiness environment that enables companies to operate 24x7, making them unstoppable. Second,
we are expanding our industry leading partnerships, as our new initiative demonstrates. Third, we are
redefining Internet access with innovative products and services. The iPaq is just the beginning.''
With its small, sleek, innovative industrial design, one-touch Internet access and simple configuration
choices, Compaq iPaq is the first business computer specifically designed for companies moving
toward an Internet-based computing model. Compaq iPaq is the industry's first ''Legacy-Free'' Windows
2000 device, using USB ports in place of ISA/PCI expansion slots or legacy ports. Available in January
2000 via the Web and phone, it will be aggressively priced, starting at $499 (U.S. price with Internet
keyboard, without monitor). A version of Compaq iPaq with support for legacy ports is also available for
businesses who require existing hardware and software compatibility. ''Compaq iPaq answers the
business customer objections to client products today,'' said Mike Winkler, Compaq senior vice
president, group general manager, commercial PC group. ''It's simplified, consistent and stable with a
12-month lifecycle making it easier for companies to maintain and lower support costs.''
First Industry-led Initiative for ''B2E''
Compaq also announced a new initiative to deliver a highly relevant, task-oriented,
business-to-employee web destination for business professionals. The initiative is supported by
American Express, CMGI, Intel, Microsoft and Siebel through the development of content and services.
The new web site, scheduled to go live in the first quarter of 2000, will deliver profession-specific tools,
research, information, content, goods and services to enable employees to do their jobs more effectively
through the Internet. The initial vertical community focus will be on IT professionals, and extend later to
other vertical communities including procurement, finance, sales and marketing, and human resources.
''Many businesses are looking to the Net for advice, support and service in their increasingly complex
world. Our destination will be brought to you by the strongest partners in their respective domains and
the industry leaders who are pioneers in shaping the way businesses do business. We partnered with
these leaders because we share a joint vision and commitment, and our combined strengths will provide
the most productive web experience and the number one web destination for business professionals,''
said Capellas.
The new destination site will empower IT professionals with tools and information to manage day-to-day
tasks, such as finding software patches, drivers, and updates from top tier hardware and software
vendors. It will also act as catalyst to improve decision making through the aggregation of research,
best practices, industry reviews and expert panels. Additionally, online procurement of goods and
services will be supported.
''Microsoft is working in close partnership with Compaq as it develops its Internet destination for IT
professionals. We believe the Internet will drive new market opportunities in the form of simpler, more
effective solutions such as this, made possible by new devices and web-based content and services,''
said Rick Belluzzo, Group Vice President, Consumer and Commerce Group, Microsoft. ''The
combination of Windows 2000 Professional and the new Compaq iPaq will provide customers with a
more manageable and reliable desktop solution making it an ideal Windows 2000 platform for the next
era of business.''
''Intel is excited to be a key contributor of technology and content to Compaq's new initiative,'' said Pat
Gelsinger, Vice President and General Manager of Intel's Desktop Products Group. ''Intel's Internet
building blocks and legacy free platform technology will be at the core of the new generation of
e-business solutions.''
Other New Internet Devices to Follow
The future of Internet-based commercial computing is the rapid movement of business processes and
operations to the Internet. What is now required are products and services that can take full advantage
of the Internet by providing access to its content and services at any time and from any location.
Compaq will continue to expand the scope of Internet products and deliver the devices, appliances and
services required for Internet-based commercial computing.
Some of the first of these will join hand-held and cell phone technology in the form of small mobile
devices that will provide instant wireless connectivity to corporate and personal data and services, with
Internet and Intranet capabilities. Other devices similar to very light laptops will offer remote wireless
access to full desktop applications. These and other devices will be available next year.
Company Background
Compaq Computer Corporation, a Fortune Global 100 company, is the second largest computer
company in the world and the largest global supplier of computer systems. Compaq develops and
markets hardware, software, solutions, and services, including industry-leading enterprise computing
solutions, fault-tolerant business-critical solutions, enterprise and network storage solutions,
commercial desktop and portable products and consumer PCs. The company is an industry leader in
environmentally friendly programs and business practices.
Compaq products are sold and supported in more than 100 countries through a network of authorized
Compaq marketing partners. Customer support and information about Compaq and its products are
available at compaq.com.
Compaq, Registered U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Product names mentioned herein may be
trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective companies.
SOURCE: Compaq Computer Corporation
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