Zi solidifies lead in mobile browser space with AU-System contract
Calgary, AB (October 3, 2001) - Zi Corporation (NASDAQ: ZICA) (TSE: ZIC) and
AU-System (SSE: AUS) will work together to integrate eZiText(tm) with the
AUS WAP Browser, a customizable platform that is currently licensed to more
than 40 companies around the world. Today's marketing agreement solidifies
eZiText(tm) as the leading input solution for mobile browsing applications.
Current and prospective AU-System customers will be offered the enhanced AUS
WAP Browser with eZiText(tm) predictive input capabilities. eZiText(tm) is
a software input solution that enables people to interact with applications
such as short messaging, e-mail, e-commerce - with ease from a limited
keypad. When integrated with a mobile browser, eZiText(tm) enhances the
mobile experience by allowing users to access rich content through a minimum
of key presses.
"As connection technologies advance to GPRS, almost every handset will have
a mobile browser," said Jonas Brandén, Vice President, Mobile Technologies,
AU-System. "Mobile users will soon be able to connect at improved speeds
and they will need an advanced input system like eZiText(tm) combined with
the AUS WAP Browser for a complete mobile Internet experience."
AU-System is an active member in the WAP Forum and has participated in the
development of the WAP browser used by Ericsson in its terminals. The AUS
WAP Browser has also been licensed to other suppliers of communication
devices and the client list includes companies like Motorola, Samsung,
Compaq and LG Electronics. Continuing to advance in the mobile browser
space, AU-System has recently shown a preview version of their new mobile
Internet browser, AUS WAP Browser 2.0. The new browser is compatible with
both existing and future WAP protocols, including fixed Internet protocols,
HTTP and TCP/IP. The browser is also capable of running existing WAP
applications as well as next generation WAP, i-mode and Internet
applications. The browser complies with the "M-Services Guidelines", a new
recommendation recently issued by the GSM Association.
"Zi is forming alliances with industry leaders like AU-System to extend the
marketing leadership for eZiText(tm), becoming the preferred input solution
for leading mobile Internet browsers," says Gary Mendel, vice president,
Sales and Marketing, Zi Corporation. "Soon, all phones will have a mobile
browser - and eZiText(tm) as the preferred input system."
AU-System is a leading Mobile Internet consultancy. Through the subsidiary
SandbergTrygg, the company also offers integrated services for marketing
communications. Major clients include Ericsson, Telia, Volvo, Nordea
Nordbanken and Motorola. AU-System was established in 1974 and currently
employs more than 1,000 staff in offices in Sweden, the U.K., Italy, U.S.A.,
Thailand and Singapore. AU-System is listed on Attract40 of the Stockholm
Exchange, under the symbol AUS. For more information, please visit
<www.ausystem.com>. |
