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ERICSSON: World's smallest, lightest dual-mode satellite phone
introduced for Globalstar service
Source: M2 Presswire
M2 PRESSWIRE-23 June 1999-ERICSSON: World's smallest, lightest dual-mode
satellite phone introduced for [Globalstar] service (C)1994-99 M2
COMMUNICATIONS LTD
* Dual-Mode Satellite/GSM Phone, Designed and Built by Ericsson, Will
Enable Telecom Service to Virtually Anywhere
LONDON, UK -- Globalstar achieved an important milestone today, with the
unveiling of the Ericsson R290 satellite phone, designed specifically to
work with Globalstar's satellite-based digital telecommunications
system. The Ericsson R290 dual-mode GSM/satellite phone, weighing only
350 grams (11.9 ounces) - the equivalent weight of many people's wallets
- will allow users to send and receive voice communications virtually
anywhere in the world. Globalstar will use Ericsson's existing cellular
phone distribution network to make the new phone available to customers
later this year.
"Soon, no matter where you go, you'll never be out of touch -- and you
won't be weighed down," said Anthony J. Navarra, executive vice
president and acting chief operating officer of Globalstar. "The
Ericsson R290 phone will give subscribers a light, compact, easy-to-use
device designed to meet all of their telecommunications needs
practically anywhere in the world."
This announcement follows on the heels of two other Globalstar
milestones: an agreement with Telital, under which Telital will also
manufacture dual mode satellite phones for GSM markets; and the recent
approval of the Qualcomm fixed-location telephone for use throughout the
European Union. Qualcomm also is manufacturing tri-mode telephones for
the North and South American market. These milestones help pave the way
for Globalstar to begin a progressive roll-out of its services in the
third quarter of 1999.
Slim, Simple Satellite Telephone
With the R290, subscribers will use just one mobile phone and one mobile
phone number to make and receive telephone calls, where service is
available - whether they're travelling around the world, or working in
areas with little or no traditional fixed or cellular telephone service.
The Globalstar system will also allow data and fax functions next year.
The phone will provide comprehensive coverage wherever Globalstar
services are offered. The phone can be set to operate in four modes:
satellite only, satellite preferred, GSM only and GSM preferred. Users
who travel to areas where there is no cellular coverage, limited roaming
or capacity limitations can use the phone in satellite mode to ensure
connectivity. Globalstar subscribers will receive one bill to cover both
satellite and cellular calls.
Globalstar's service providers in GSM markets have contracted with
Ericsson to manufacture R290 series handsets by the end of 1999.
Ericsson will also offer useful accessories designed to simplify and
complement R290 use, including a car kit with a hands-free option and
portable hands-free earphones, as well as carrying cases.
About Globalstar: Globalstar (NASDAQ: GSTRF), led by founding partner
[Loral Space & Communications], is a partnership of the world's leading
telecommunications service providers and equipment manufacturers,
including Qualcomm Incorporated, AirTouch Communications, Alcatel,
Alenia, [China Telecom] (HK), DACOM, DaimlerChrysler Aerospace, Elsacom
(a Finmeccanica company), France Telecom, [Hyundai], Space Systems/Loral
and Vodafone. For more information, visit Globalstar's web site at
globalstar.com .
About Ericsson: Ericsson is the leading provider in the new
telecommunications world, with communications solutions that combine
telecom and datacom technologies with freedom of mobility for the user.
With more than 100,000 employees in 140 countries, Ericsson simplifies
communications for its customers - network operators, service providers,
enterprises and consumers - the world over. For more information, visit
Ericsson's web site at ericsson.se .
Note to editors: A high definition electronic photo of Ericsson's R290
phone can be found at the Ericsson pressroom website noted above.
CONTACT: Cass Meaden Tel: +44 (0)171 351 2400 e-mail: cmeaden@gciuk.com
Jeanette Clonan Tel: +1 212 338-5658 e-mail:
jeanette.clonan@hq.loral.com
*M2 COMMUNICATIONS DISCLAIMS ALL LIABILITY FOR INFORMATION PROVIDED
WITHIN M2 PRESSWIRE. DATA SUPPLIED BY NAMED PARTY/PARTIES.*
(Copyright 1999)
