Blurring the divide between fixed and mobile: Incoming and outgoing GSM calls can now be connected directly to a fixed line phone at home via Siemens' cost efficient 'HomeStation' module, which was demonstrated at the 3GSM World Congress in Cannes (February 21-23, 2001). GSM calls will never be lost in the home again, as users will easily connect their mobile GSM network together with their fixed line network in one simple system. The person calling a mobile phone connected to a HomeStation will benefit from being charged at the cost efficient rates of a mobile net internal call, while using a fixed line network telefone handset.
By simply plugging the small HomeStation module in to a power supply and fixed line socket - then connecting the fixed line telephone and mobile phone to the HomeStation module - users can pick up all their GSM calls on their fixed line, without having to stand next to a window or any other part of the home which previously offered the best GSM reception.
The convenience of the HomeStation allows users improved accessibility whilst maintaining mobility. Users roam with one cordless home phone** to receive all calls in the knowledge that, if desired, all messages (GSM or fixed line) can be collected on their fixed line answer service whilst their mobile phone recharges as it sits in the desktop charger***.
The system is also scalable. If a user wants to connect more than one mobile phone, additional HomeStation modules can be added to increase the network. All GSM calls will still be routed to one fixed line phone.
Peter Zapf, President of Mobile Phones within the Information and Communication Mobile Group said, "The HomeStation will streamline all telecommunications at home and will prove more cost-efficient, as the person calling a mobile phone connected to a HomeStation will benefit from being charged at the rates of a mobile net internal call, while using a fixed line network telephone handset. Zapf continued, "We believe that not only home owners, but small businesses**** will be inspired by this practical, but revolutionary solution."
The HomeStation is compatible with Siemens' C35i, M35i, S35i and SL45 mobile phones and will comply with future Siemens mobile phones. It can be used both with analogue and ISDN (in connection with PABX) lines.
Siemens' will introduce the HomeStation in Europe in spring of this year. It will be priced at approximately 130 Euro. Further information on Siemens' HomeStation can be found on the Internet at siemens.com
Note to Editors:
* For example, in Germany, costs generated (depending on day/time and tariff) would amount to approximately DM 0,5 per minute. This is in contrast to using a forwarding function instead of the HomeStation, which would amount to additional costs of approximately 1 DM per minute (depending on day/time and tariff). Additionally, it would then not be possible to place GSM internal calls from the fixed line phone, without incurring higher costs.
** The Siemens HomeStation is compatible with all Siemens Gigaset cordless phones, which are ideal for roaming round the home. The HomeStation is also compatible with any existing fixed line phone with European Standard.
*** Users can select whether they want voicemail to transfer to their mobile phone or their fixed line phone - HomeStation is completely flexible.
**** Siemens' research indicates that many people prefer to use their fixed line handset at home and business people enjoy using a hands-free facility with a large display at the office.
The Siemens Information and Communication Mobile Group (IC Mobile) offers the complete range of mobile solutions including mobile devices, infrastructure and applications. Devices include mobile phones, wireless modules, mobile organizers, cordless and corded phones as well as products for wireless home networks. The infrastructure portfolio includes the complete range of mobile network technologies from base stations and switching systems to intelligent networks, e.g. for prepaid services. Applications cover UMTS services for Unified Messaging, Location Based Services, and Mobile Payment. For the fiscal year 2000 (which ended September 30, 2000), IC Mobile recorded sales of EUR 9 billion and EBIT of EUR758 million. The group employs 27,450 employees worldwide.
For further information about Siemens IC Mobile, please visit our home page:
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