O2
xda Pocket Pc defines new mobile era
[October 4th 2001] mmO2 has announced that it is to custom manufacture a fully
connected, integrated mobile phone
and data device equipped with Microsoft's Pocket PC 2002.
The O2 xda is designed to offer GSM and 'always on' high-speed GPRS network connectivity for Microsoft's Pocket PC 2002 software
applications.
The
O2 relationship with Microsoft reflects its strategy to step up the development of mobile data services. The O2 xda will offer users
the benefits of an Internet-ready pocket PC and mobile phone in a stylish and
light full-colour device. The O2 xda will be mmO2's first device to carry the new O2 brand when the product is introduced in its European
markets next year.
Dave McGlade, managing director of BT Cellnet and executive director of mmO2, said, "mmO2 plans to contribute to the development and
marketing of
a new generation of mobile data devices and services. The decision to design and source the manufacture of our own device has greatly benefited from our close relationship with Microsoft. It gives us a head-start as
we exploit the advantages offered by our GPRS capability, and identify new business opportunities. It
also demonstrates mmO2's determination to lead the mobile data market by providing customers with useful services that enhance their lives."
"Microsoft is excited to work with mmO2 in their commitment to
delivering the new O2 xda Pocket PC 2002 to customers in what we believe is a revolutionary step for the mobile era," said Juha Christensen, Vice President,
Microsoft Mobility Group. "With the integrated high-speed connectivity offered by a wireless operator like mmO2, the O2 xda is equipped to deliver advanced wireless data solutions that take advantage of the rich capabilities offered with Pocket PC 2002 and is a clear
indication that Microsoft is a solid business partner in the mobile
arena."
In order to maximise ease of use the device incorporates a personal
information manager system (PIM) so all information within the device is accessible for either phone or organisational purposes. For example, in
order to make a call, users need only tap a contact on the screen and O2
xda will access the record from thousands that can be stored in its
memory and activate the dial icon.
Other standard features are expected to include: -
· A full-colour, touch
sensitive screen that makes it easy to read and
input data
· MP3 player, GSM/GPRS
mobile phone, PC style gaming, Windows Media
Player and personal digital organiser functionality on one integrated
device for the first time
· Unified messaging - users
can receive voice-mail, email and SMS
through O2 xda
· Users can make and
receive calls whilst web-browsing without having to
keep reconnecting to the Internet
· The ability to access the
Internet faster than ever from a mobile
device speed and content is comparable to accessing the Internet at
home and O2 xda is small enough to fit in users' pockets
· Access to all web sites
on the Internet, not just those specially
configured for mobile devices. Users
will also have quick access to a
set of web based services and content specifically designed for busy,
time-pressured people on the move
· The ability to create and
save Microsoft Pocket Word and Pocket Excel
documents and create, send and receive email through Microsoft Pocket
Outlook on the move
· Third party applications
and O2's own applications will also be
available on O2 xda
· Advanced battery
developed specifically for O2 xda with a longer talk
and standby time than many mobile phones and PDAs
mmO2
Following completion of the proposed demerger from BT, mmO2 will have
wholly owned operations in the UK (BT Cellnet), Germany (VIAG Interkom),
The Netherlands (Telfort), the Republic of Ireland (Esat Digifone) and
the Isle of Man (Manx Telecom) and will also include Genie, a leading
mobile internet portal in Europe. mmO2 will own third generation licences to operate future 3G mobile
services in the UK, Germany and the Netherlands - all territories where its operating companies have already introduced GPRS services. mmO2
expects its Irish subsidiary to apply for a 3G licence in Ireland when
the application process commences.
mmO2 is the holding company of the mmO2 group of companies and O2 will be
the brand of the customer facing businesses of mmO2 plc.
www.mmo2.com
