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To: Eric L who wrote (15189)	9/19/2001 3:23:50 PM
From: Eric L	Read Replies (1) \| Respond to of 34857

re: GPRS Launched in Canada (With the MOT P280 Handset) >> Mobile Internet Takes Quantum Leap in Canada with FIDO Sep 19, 2001 Canadian Corporate News Microcell first wireless company to launch GPRS data services, bringing unmatched speed and security to the mobile environment. Microcell Solutions Inc., a leading Canadian provider of Personal Communications Services (PCS) operating under the Fido brand name, today announced that it has launched the new generation of mobile data services, becoming the first Canadian wireless communications provider to offer data services based on the new General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) technology. "The launch of Fido's GPRS offering marks the first opportunity for Canadians to take advantage of these much-anticipated new-generation services," said Fulvio A. Bussandri, President and COO of Microcell Solutions. " The April completion of Microcell's national GPRS network was followed by the June launch of Project Rainbow, which aims at accelerating the development of data applications and services. Our commercial launch of GPRS service this week is yet another milestone in Microcell's strategy to make enhanced wireless data capabilities available to users." Using Fido's new P280 GPRS handset from Motorola and one of Fido's bundled voice and data monthly airtime packages, wireless business users can now send and receive data at speeds of up to 56 kbps in a fully mobile environment using their GPRS phone or connecting it to their laptops, personal computing devices and PDAs. Fido customers can also benefit from "always-on" capability to access the Internet, e-mail and company intranets with the security and reliability of Microcell's network, without worrying about dial-up delays or time-based billing. Priced at $500 (smart card included), the Motorola P280 is WAP-enabled, utilizes the latest handset features such as voice-activated dialing and predictive text entry, and comes with a headset and USB cable to provide fast mobile Internet access through laptops and other computing devices. Fido also expects to add more GPRS devices to its portfolio in the near future, including new handsets, PC modem cards and handheld PDA devices. "Customers are already demonstrating demand for a wide variety of data applications, from the travelling professional who needs 24/7 e-mail availability, to the field worker who needs handheld Internet access on demand," continued Mr. Bussandri. "In response to immediate customer demand, we are first launching the most popular basic applications such as higher speed connectivity and e-mail access. We are also currently working with applications service providers, developers and device manufacturers to introduce more applications on an ongoing basis, according to customers' priorities." Fido customers are offered an introductory voice and data pricing bundle to meet the needs of mobile professionals and businesses. The $100 monthly plan includes unlimited GPRS network access and WAP services until December 31, 2001. This offer also includes 1,000 weekday voice minutes, unlimited evening and weekend calls, Call Display and Fido's exclusive Performance Voice Messaging(TM). Starting October 15, Fido will also offer four data-only monthly packages for access to GPRS services: from $25 for 2 Mb ($10 per additional Mb) to suit the needs of PDA users to $150 for 100 Mb ($1.50 per additional Mb) for laptop users. WAP-GPRS phone users will also have access to a pay-per-use plan at $0.05 per Kb. Available now on the Microcell GSM/GPRS network across Canada, these services will soon also be accessible in most major cities in the United States. GSM is the leading wireless communications standard, offered by more than 400 operators around the world. Many of those operators are in the process of introducing GPRS service on their network. Fido customers already enjoy access to voice roaming around the world, with data to follow. << - Eric -