Mobility Phones - Mobile Phones

“The world’s top handset maker Nokia Oyj expects the role of the Linux operating system in its product portfolio to increase as the role of its Internet-focused devices grows, company officials said.”

“NTT DoCoMo Inc., Japan’s top mobile phone operator, plans to cut its handset prices, the Nikkei business daily reported on Tuesday, bucking an industry trend to boost handset prices in return for lower calling fees.”

In the wake of personal navigation devices’ success, cellular carriers have started to offer on-board and off-board navigation solutions, as well as a range of LBS (Location Based Services) such as friend finder and local search on GPS handsets. Community and social-networking-related functionality, such as the sharing of POIs (Points of Interest) and geo-tagged pictures, is also becoming popular and is expected to boost GPS-enabled handset uptake as carriers, handsets manufacturers, and service providers look to capitalize on the LBS trend.”While most CDMA handsets are already GPS-enabled and GPS is set to become a standard feature in GSM smartphones, GSM feature phones are next on the agenda to be equipped with GPS technology,” says ABI Research principal analyst Dominique Bonte. “GPS chipset vendors increasingly target handsets, looking for new markets and spurred on by the recent dramatic growth of personal navigation devices.”

However, as GPS begins to penetrate lower-end phones, the cost, power consumption, and footprint of GPS chipsets will have to be further reduced. This will be made possible by single chipset technology and the emergence in 2009 of combination chips integrating GPS, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi all on one die. Major silicon vendors such as Broadcom, NXP, and Atheros are well positioned to develop such solutions following the acquisition of GPS chipset vendors Global Locate, GloNav, and u-Nav, respectively.

At the same time, the thorny issue of indoor GPS coverage has to be addressed, since handset-based LBS services are frequently used in challenging environments with reduced GPS signal strength. Network-assisted A-GPS and high-sensitivity GPS-receivers are becoming key requirements to reduce the time necessary to acquire fixes and to improve location accuracy.

ABI Research’s report, GPS-Enabled Mobile Devices, examines the market landscape and future potential for GPS-enabled mobile phones. It discusses critical business and marketing issues, as well as market opportunities and challenges for handset vendors, mobile operators, semiconductor vendors, and other industry players who address the GPS-enabled handset market.

This report forms part of two ABI Research Services: Mobile Devices and Location Aware Services, which include a variety of Research Reports, Research Briefs, Market Data, Online Databases, ABI Insights, and Analyst Inquiry Support.

HTC Corp. today unveiled its new flagship phone, the HTC Touch Diamond. Delivering unmistakable style and meticulous craftsmanship, the HTC Touch Diamond is defined by its compact size, game-changing Internet and its new captivating 3D touch interface called TouchFLO 3D. The result is an uncompromising mobile phone that sets a new benchmark for phone sophistication and shapes consumer expectations for how a phone can be used.”Today we mark a new era in mobile phone evolution, an era where beauty and size integrate with uncompromising innovation at broadband speeds,” said Peter Chou, president and CEO, HTC Corp. “The HTC Touch Diamond will make browsing the Web and using Web-enabled applications just as practical and easy to use as making calls.”

A New Dimension To Touch

HTC has taken a great leap forward in touch screen innovation with the introduction of its new 3D touch interface called TouchFLO 3D. TouchFLO 3D provides animated access to people, messaging, email, photos, music, weather and more. In addition, HTC is introducing a new innovative touch-sensitive control for interacting with Touch Diamond.

Making The Mobile Internet Fun

With the introduction of the Touch Diamond, HTC delivers an entirely new mobile Internet experience that utilizes broadband-like speeds with HSDPA 7.2 Mbps and HSUPA wireless connectivity. Committed to improving Web browsing, HTC provides a new customized mobile Web browser that enables easy viewing and effortless navigation of Websites in the way they were designed. As part of this browsing experience users can zoom and pan Websites with one-hand and automatically view optimized content that has been specially created to fit the display. Turning the device sideways automatically rotates the web page view from a portrait to landscape view.

In addition to Web browsing, the Touch Diamond includes a customized new, HTC-developed, YouTube application for watching a variety of user generated video content as well as utilizing Google Maps for mobile for mapping and traffic data.

Unmatched Style and Size

The Touch Diamond is crafted with precision to fit comfortably in a user’s hand without compromising on features or functionality. Blending contrasting design elements of metal and unique geometric facets, the Touch Diamond complements a user’s personal style.

Bursting with Innovation

The Touch Diamond delivers an unrivalled combination of features and functionality that set a new standard for integrating mobile phone innovation into a small package. The 2.8 inch display provides near-print quality viewing that enables beautiful Web browsing and viewing of photographs. The built-in camera includes an optical auto-focus lens that ensures the photos you take will be clear and consistent. Advanced wireless and auto sensor screen pivoting are just a few of the features that make the Touch Diamond experience a stand out.

Availability

Orange today announced the availability of the HTC Touch Diamond in its Signature devices range.

The HTC Touch Diamond will be available to customers across all major European carriers in June. It will be available later this quarter in Asia and the Middle East. The North American and Latin American versions of the Touch Diamond will be available in the second half of 2008.

HTC Touch Diamond Key Specifications

* Size: 102 x 51 x 11.33mm

* Weight: 110 g

* Connectivity: WCDMA / HSPA: 900/2100MHz. HSDPA 7.2 Mbps and HSUPA

* Operating system: Windows Mobile 6.1 Professional

* Display: 2.8-inch VGA touch screen

* Camera: 3.2MP, with video calling

* Internal memory: 4 GB Internal Storage, 256 MB flash, 192 MB RAM,

* Bluetooth: 2.0 with EDR

* Wireless: WiFi 802.11b/g

* GPS: GPS/AGPS

* Interface: HTC ExtUSB (mini-USB and audio jack in one; USB 2.0 High-Speed)

* Battery: 900 mAh

* Talk time: GSM: up to 4 hours

* Standby time: GSM: up to 300 hours/100 hours with push email

* Chipset: Qualcomm MSM 7201A 528MHz

Today saw the launch of an innovative little device called SIMable, which effectively puts an end to the complicated business of mobile phone unlocking.SIMable is an ultra thin chip, that when attached to a SIM card, immediately fools most mobile phones into thinking that they have been unlocked. It is compatible with the majority of mobile handsets, including all the latest 3G devices, which are becoming more and more difficult to be freed from their original Network.

Introduced to the market by Essex based company 24/7 Mobile Solutions Ltd, SIMable can be installed and working in a Network locked handset in a matter of seconds. By using a customised manufactured cutting press, which comes with each unit, a tiny hole needs to be pressed out in the SIM card. Next SIMable needs to be aligned with the SIM and inserted into the locked handset. Using the cutting press, SIMable can be used more than once by transferring to any other SIM card.

Whilst mobile phone unlocking is not illegal, it will in most cases invalidate the handset’s warranty. SIMable requires no handset interference and thus the full manufacturer’s guarantee remains intact.

The company are keen to stress that unlike any other similar application on the market, SIMable enables 100% functionality on all phones, including full 3G operation.

The product, available at the company’s website www.SIMable.com is launched at a retail price of Euro 16.99, with a standard small delivery charge covering all destinations worldwide. Each package includes the SIMable chip and customised cutting press, which eliminates any need for messy SIM cutting with scissors.

The company is also seeking global Distributors / Resellers to market the product. SIMable can be “white labelled” meaning that it can be rebranded and sold as their own product. Suitable parties would include Travel SIM Operators, Mobile Phone Accessory Distributors and any online or retail mobile phone unlocking outlets.

The worldwide mobile phone market experienced an expected sequential downturn in shipments following a busy holiday quarter. According to IDC’s Worldwide Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracker, vendors shipped a total of 291.6 million units during the first quarter of 2008 (1Q08), down 11.6% from the 330.8 million units shipped during the previous quarter (4Q07) and up 14.3% from the 255.0 million units shipped during 1Q07. While the first quarter results are in line with IDC’s 2008 forecast, concerns over the economy may negatively impact handset purchases as the year progresses.”The mobile phone market will be under increased pressure from a number of factors that compete for users’ attention and wallets,” said Ramon T. Llamas, senior research analyst with IDC’s Mobile Device Technology and Trends team. “Disposable income is being eroded by rising food and fuel prices and worries about global financial markets and slow economic growth are creating a cautious outlook for the months ahead. Against this backdrop, many emerging markets continue to offer tremendous growth potential and IDC expects highly competitive pricing and innovative service plans will keep the overall market on track for the year.”

Demand for handsets in the low cost segment will remain present in certain emerging markets throughout 2008, driving worldwide shipment growth. In contrast, more mature regions are increasingly characterized by highly competitive markets for replacement handsets and somewhat slower shipment growth.

“As predicted, most mobile phone vendors experienced a lull in the first quarter of 2008 with the exception of LG,” said Ryan Reith, senior research analyst for IDC’s Worldwide Mobile Phone Tracker. “Continued growth in the low cost segment will mean average selling prices (ASPs) will be generally lower than in the past, but this will be balanced somewhat by further expansion in the converged mobile device or smartphone segment, especially in mature markets.”

Top Five Vendors

Nokia once again outperformed its competitors, with total shipment volumes greater than those of the next three vendors’ combined. Keeping volumes at a high level were its entry level devices going into emerging markets, including its successful 1100 and 1200 series devices, while more fully featured devices like its 5310, 5610, and 6500 series and Nseries devices generated the most revenue and profit for Nokia. With a strong presence in emerging markets, Nokia is poised to capitalize on replacement handset opportunities in these markets.

Samsung gained further clarity as the No. 2 vendor worldwide, building its largest margin yet against Motorola. Although shipments remained even from the holiday quarter, Samsung improved its presence within key emerging markets, balancing out against soft demand in Europe and North America. In the process its decreased marketing expenses, allowing for double-digit profitability. Samsung remains confident that it will reach its goal of 200 million units shipped this year, and look to more full featured devices to be released in the months to come.

Motorola had a disappointing quarter, falling further behind Samsung and reaching shipment levels not seen since the second half of 2004. Gaps in its product portfolio left the company vulnerable, especially in the areas of music, touch, and messaging where other vendors have flourished with their own products. Further compounding its problems was another quarter of operating loss and lower operating margin. While the results speak to its ongoing difficulties, Motorola has been building a framework to turn its fortunes around with plans to separate the mobile devices business unit from the company and streamline its silicon and software platforms to bring new devices to the market later this year.

LG Electronics capitalized on Sony Ericsson’s challenges to re-take the No. 4 position for the first time since the beginning of 2006. Thanks to the continued demand of its flagship feature phones, including the Viewty, Voyager, and Venus, LG bucked the trend of seasonal decrease in shipments. In addition, LG returned to double-digit profitability. Looking ahead, LG plans to grow its presence within emerging markets and ship more high-end devices next quarter.

Sony Ericsson started off the year citing several challenges affecting its shipment volumes: diminished demand for its mid-range and high-end devices, channel inventory buildup, component shortages, and greater interest in low-price handsets in Asia/Pacific, an area where the company has not had a strong presence. Despite this dour news, the company hopes that its renewed focus on the North American market with the W350, W760, Z555, and XPeria along with several Cybershot, Walkman, and Web-ready devices around the globe will yield positive results later in the year.

Sony Ericsson today introduced two new HSDPA phones into its line-up; each clearly designed to take its range web-enabled phones in a different direction, The Z780 expands the company’s range of devices for markets outside of Europe and the compact G502 brings the power of the web to a mainstream audience.”These two phones are quite distinct, yet both have the potential to introduce more users to the world of web on your mobile,” said Martin Winkler, director of global marketing and head of multimedia web at Sony Ericsson. “Being able to check your email whenever you like or surf the web when on-the-move should not just be the preserve of professionals. The Z780 and the G502 will appeal to anyone juggling a busy life”.

The Z780, a sister product to the recently announced Z770, is set to broaden the range of web-enabled phones into more markets across the globe. It packs tri-band 3G and HSDPA into its stylish clamshell frame, letting you receive email or browse the web at high speed in countries across the world. It also introduces built-in aGPS, giving users the opportunity to carry their navigation solution with them on their phone.

The new G502 is the latest in an established line of classic Sony Ericsson phones that cram a wealth of time-saving features into an affordable, pocket-sized phone.

The G502 is the first such model, however, to feature high-speed HSDPA capability. This means that more users can now benefit from faster browsing and downloading capabilities in a phone that has a feature-set that is impressive and incredibly easy to use - perfect for those who want to stay in control of their lives.

In touch, on the move

Both the Z780 and the G502 come with the latest version of Google(TM) Maps for Mobile. This application allows you to view high quality maps that give you a satellite view of the local area and view listings of the restaurants and hotels, complete with any reviews or ratings available. The built-in aGPS functionality of the Z780 means that wherever you are, you’ll always be able to find what you need - whether locating the address of your friend’s party or finding the quickest route to your next meeting. Google(TM) Maps for Mobile then enables you to receive turn-by-turn directions that help you to find your way without complication.

With the G502, you just enter start and finish locations, and receive point-by-point directions of how to get to your destination. Plugging the GPS Enabler HGE-100 accessory into the phone adds GPS capability here as well, making sure that you need never get lost again.

Easy email, simple setup

Accessing your emails on the Z780 and the G502 couldn’t be more straightforward. An easy-to-follow ’set-up wizard’ guides you through a series of very easy steps so that your existing webmail account can be directed to your phone. Or if it is push email that you need, then the G502 and Z780 also support Exchange ActiveSync for your security and complete mobility.

What you want, when you want it

Accessing your favourite websites is now four times faster than with standard 3G (UMTS), thanks to the HSDPA speeds of the Z780 and the G502. If you use one particular website more than others, you can select an RSS (Really Simple Syndication) feed that will give you 1-click access directly to this page from your phone’s desktop. What’s more, the pre-loaded weather forecast application on both of these phones allows you to check the weather before you head out, so you’re sure to be prepared for any unexpected rainstorms.

The Z780 is a UMTS/HSDPA 850/1900/2100 and GSM/GPRS/EDGE 850/900/1800/1900 phone that will be available in Grand Onyx and Amethyst Silver in selected markets from Q2 2008.

The G502 is a UMTS/HSDPA 2100 and GSM/GPRS/EDGE 900/1800/1900 phone that will be available in Champagne Black and Brilliant Hazel in selected markets from Q2 2008.

The Samsung Soul(TM) is the completion of the Samsung’s renowned Ultra Edition line of handsets, demonstrating Samsung’s leadership in both technology and design. Continuing in the line of the Ultra Edition’s minimalistic, slim design, the Soul has a full metal body with a premium finish and 12.9mm-thin form factor. Beautiful and functional, the Soul enhances usability for the user with features that adapt to the user depending on the application. With Magical Touch by DaCP, navigation indicators on the keypad of the phone change according to the user’s needs, making navigation of the menus simple and intuitive. The Soul is also equipped with a 5-megapixel camera with face detection, image stabilizer and Wide Dynamic Range (WDR), as well as a new series of graphic interfaces that provide three different options for users.Samsung and German sportswear giant adidas have teamed up to launch the miCoach phone, the world’s first true sports music mobile phone. Designed for people with an active lifestyle, the miCoach allows users to enjoy music and other multimedia functions while they work out. The miCoach provides a comprehensive on-the-go personal training system fully equipped with a stride sensor and heart rate monitor, as well as training tips and time updates. The personal coach advises the user and provides instant updates during the workout, including time, heart rate, distance, speed and calories burned. The miCoach combines cutting-edge technology and an advanced interactive sport training system with multimedia features for the active mobile user.

Among Samsung’s line up of global handsets on display at CTIA, the F480 is a slim, sleek handset featuring a full touch screen. The F480 is equipped with a 5-megapixel camera with auto-focus, power LED image and video stabilization, multi-format audio and video, FM radio with RDS, video messaging, e-mail, mobile tracker and mobile blog.

The Samsung F400 is a music-centric handset that offers premium sound quality and features an ICEpower amplifier developed by Bang & Olufsen, as well as a specially designed music navigation key. The F400 slider also features impressive hi-fi loud speakers located beneath the dual slide design.

G810 is the perfect device for users that desire multimedia services without compromising mobility and portability. The G810 is a Symbian v9.2 edition handset with WiFi connectivity, multi-format audio and video support, GPS navigation, geo-tagging support and 5-megapixel camera with auto focus, optical 3x inner zoom and Xenon flash.

AOL today announced the availability of a beta version of AOL MyMobile, a new application designed to give users easy access to popular AOL services through their mobile devices. The company also announced today enhancements to AOL Mobile Search that now enable easy access to the service for BlackBerry device users, as well as the extension of the AIM TXT shortcode service across all major carriers in the U.S. These and other AOL services for mobile devices will be demonstrated at this week’s CTIA Wireless show in Las Vegas.”As we work to expand our global audience and provide consumers with easy access to our products no matter where they are, we’ve significantly improved the performance of our core consumer mobile products, we’re introducing new, more modular products, and we’re very focused on the importance of our new open mobile initiative,” said Kevin Conroy, Executive Vice President of AOL.

“Whether you’re looking for a more feature-rich application that you can download to your phone, an easy-to-navigate WAP experience or quick and easy SMS-based features, AOL Mobile offers consumers greater choice,” said Steve Murphy, Senior Vice President of AOL. “The products we’re announcing today continue our drive to deliver best-of-breed wireless services for consumers.”

AOL MyMobile Now Available

Beginning today, Windows Mobile users in the U.S. can download AOL MyMobile, a new interactive suite of services designed specifically for mobile devices. AOL MyMobile provides personalized access to AOL’s most popular services including AIM, AOL Mail, AOL CityGuide, Moviefone, MapQuest, AOL Local Search, AOL News, Weather, AOL Sports and AOL Pictures. More than just stand-alone services, these applications also work together, enabling users to find information and take action without having to leave AOL MyMobile.

AOL MyMobile’s easy-to-use carousel navigation, along with drop-down lists and intuitive menus, enables users to easily scroll through the applications and content most important to them for access to key mobile services. The software learns and remembers user favorites and recent requests to enhance the experience with each use. The application even allows users to access saved directions, search results, restaurant details and more when they are offline or outside their coverage area.

Built using Action Engine’s on-device portal technology, a beta version of AOL MyMobile is available now to Windows Mobile users across all major networks in the U.S. The application can be downloaded by entering http://wap.aol.com/mymobile into their phone’s browser, then selecting ‘Get AOL MyMobile BETA.’ AOL MyMobile will be available for other popular mobile operating systems in the coming months.

AOL Mobile Search

AOL Mobile Search delivers comprehensive and more relevant search results by bringing together content from across the Web and mobile Web, as well as from Moviefone, MapQuest, AOL CityGuide and other AOL services.

At this week’s CTIA Wireless show, AOL will preview a version of AOL Mobile Search designed specifically for the Apple iPhone and the phone’s Safari browser. By combining AJAX technology and the iPhone’s easy to use multi-touch surface, AOL has created a user interface that allows the richness of the Web to be delivered on a phone. A beta version of AOL Mobile Search for the iPhone will be available at http://search.aol.com/ beginning in mid-April.

In addition, starting today, BlackBerry users can now easily install a new AOL Mobile Search icon to their device’s Home Screen. The icon can be obtained by going to AOL Search on the Web (http://search.aol.com) and typing ‘BlackBerry’ into the search box. The link to download the search icon will be sent to the user’s BlackBerry device via an SMS message. Clicking on the icon will automatically launch AOL Mobile Search, making it easy and more convenient for users to find exactly what they’re looking for while on-the-go.

AIM TXT: Expanded Availability Across All Major Networks

AOL’s new AIM TXT service, which delivers AIM instant messaging functionality through text messaging on a user’s cell phone, is now available to users across all major networks in the U.S. including Alltell, AT&T Wireless, Sprint, T-Mobile, U.S. Cellular and Verizon Wireless. By sending a text to the AIMAIM shortcode (246246) and using simple commands, users on these networks can perform key AIM functions including logging in and logging out of AIM; sending instant messages; updating their AIM Status Message; setting their availability; viewing their Buddy List; and more.

Microvision invites attendees of CTIA Wireless 2008 to test-drive its palm-sized, ultra-thin mobile laser projector prototype, code named SHOW, at Booth 4411, from April 1-3 in Las Vegas.Based on the company’s PicoP display engine technology, SHOW has already attracted the interest and joint development initiatives of mobile handset device manufactures, carriers and content providers. As either a mobile device accessory - or embedded module in a handset - mobile devices that integrate Microvision’s PicoP display engine into their products will be able to project any kind of digital content in a large, full-color, high-resolution format onto any surface.

“No more squinting at images and text on small mobile device screens. Consumers want a great big display that lets them project and share TV, digital photos, movies, and games - as well as browse the web - directly from their cell phones and other mobile devices. We invite CTIA attendees to experience the difference that a pocket-sized projector can make,” says Alexander Tokman, president and CEO of Microvision.

Microvision will also demo at CTIA another laser-based product - its pocket scanner called ROV. An affordable Bluetooth-enabled barcode scanner for mobile workers, the ROV scanner delivers data directly into business applications on users’ laptops, mobile phones, and PDAs.

“Japanese handset supplier Kyocera Corp said on Friday it planned to stop using NEC Tokin Corp batteries in the future after some ruptured or caught fire, injuring three people.”

AT&T Inc. and MediaFLO USA Inc, a wholly owned subsidiary of Qualcomm Incorporated announced the launch of AT&T Mobile TV with FLO, a mobile television service featuring high quality live programming. The mobile TV service will launch in May 2008 on two new exclusive handsets, the LG Vu(TM) and the Samsung Access(TM). AT&T Mobile TV will also feature two exclusive channels, which will be announced soon.AT&T Mobile TV will deliver full-length television content and sporting events from top networks, including programming from leading entertainment brands CBS Mobile, Comedy Central, ESPN Mobile TV, FOX Mobile, MTV, NBC 2GO, NBC News2Go and Nickelodeon.

“AT&T Mobile TV is a powerful new mobile entertainment offering, which will give our customers a formidable lineup of sports, news and primetime shows, including two channels exclusive available to AT&T customers,” said Mark Collins, vice president of Consumer Data for AT&T’s wireless unit. “We are thrilled to team with MediaFLO USA to offer our customers an unmatched mobile entertainment experience that is changing the way we all look at TV.”

“By making the FLO TV service available to AT&T customers, the nation’s largest wireless carrier, MediaFLO USA continues to expand our award winning FLO TV service to consumers across the country,” said Gina Lombardi, president of MediaFLO USA. “We look forward to working closely with AT&T to continue the momentum of making mobile TV a staple for more consumers.”

The AT&T Mobile TV service will be launched on two stylish devices: the Vu from LG Electronics MobileComm U.S.A. Inc. (LG), and the Access from and Samsung Telecommunications America (Samsung).

– LG Vu: A sleek and stunning device, the Vu gives you a clear view of TV, Web, pictures or videos on its large interactive touch screen. It also lets you get the utmost in mobile entertainment with a music player, 2.0 megapixel camera and Bluetooth capabilities. — Samsung Access: This stylish handset features a large landscape display, ideal for delivering a rich viewing experience and an internal antenna for exceptional reception. It’s a great device for customers who are looking for advanced multimedia capabilities such as a camera, external stereo speakers, stereo Bluetooth, AT&T Music, CV, of course, AT&T Mobile TV.

More details on AT&T’s soon-to-be-launched mobile TV service from MediaFLO USA and the company’s exclusive handsets from LG and Samsung will be available soon.

Mobile Linux is well poised to take on the surging smartphone market according to “Mobile Linux: Google and Motorola Hold the Short-Term Keys to Success,” from the Strategy Analytics Handset Component Technologies Service.Mobile Linux offers an attractive package in terms of customization, cost, developer community, time to market, security and multi-chipset support to handset manufacturers and mobile operators, according to industry analysts Strategy Analytics. This report evaluates the current status of the mobile Linux market and assesses the impact of recent initiatives by industry players in the mobile Linux arena.

“Unlike the desktop PC industry there are more than 30 operating systems existing today in the mobile phone industry, over 20 of which are Linux-based,” comments Sravan Kundojjala, Analyst at Strategy Analytics. “This has been a concern for the industry, but recent moves suggest consolidation is in the cards.”

Stuart Robinson, Director of the Handset Component Technologies service, adds, “Strategy Analytics believes recent initiatives by Google and Motorola could solve problems like consistency of APIs, slow adoption of mobile Linux in developed markets and fragmentation. We also believe that interest in Linux is at an all-time high and that it will emerge as a worthy competitor to market leaders Symbian and Windows Mobile.”

Cricket Communications today announced two new CDMA AWS handsets from Samsung, the MyShotTM and SpexTM. Starting tomorrow, the Samsung MyShot, the world’s first CDMA AWS camera phone, and the Samsung Spex mobile phone will be commercially available at Cricket retail stores in Tulsa, Okla., and will be available soon in all Cricket markets nationwide. Cricket launched its first CDMA AWS handset March 7, 2008 and these Samsung handsets further enhance the Cricket portfolio in support of upcoming AWS market launches.Designed to operate on the new AWS spectrum band, the tri-band Samsung MyShot and Samsung Spex also operate on the PCS and cellular bands, enabling them to work in all existing Cricket wireless markets stretching from California to New York. These new phones will also work in new Cricket markets slated to begin launching this year including Oklahoma City, Okla. and Las Vegas, Nev.

“As we prepare to launch the first of our AWS markets, we want to ensure that consumers have a choice of mobile devices when they sign up for Cricket’s unlimited wireless services. We are pleased to be the first operator to bring CDMA AWS devices to market including the Samsung MyShot and Spex,” said Al Moschner, Cricket’s Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer. “With today’s introduction, both new and existing Cricket subscribers have access to two new wireless phones that incorporate the latest AWS capability, while having the ability to operate on the PCS and cellular bands.”

The Samsung MyShot’s built-in 1.3 mega pixel camera features a self-timer, multi-shot capabilities and more. Using the phones integrated Bluetooth wireless technology, users can easily share photos and contacts with others, and coupled with its voice recognition capability, easily place calls from their contact list. In addition, the Web-enabled Samsung MyShot supports web access for browsing and downloading of ringtones and graphics, Cricket Games & Apps, text and picture messaging capabilities, speakerphone, and personal tools such as calendar, clock and calculator. The Samsung MyShot will have a retail price of $149.99.

The slim Samsung Spex features a sleek, modern design with an easy-to-use interface. This Bluetooth-capable handset includes a color display, speakerphone, personal tools such as calendar, memo pad and more. Additionally, the Spex supports Cricket services such as text messaging, Mobile Web for browsing and downloading favorite ringtones and graphics, and Cricket Games & Apps. The Samsung Spex will have a retail price of $119.99.

With plans starting as low as $35 per month, Cricket provides unlimited wireless calling all day and every day — without the need for contracts or credit checks. Cricket’s highest value plan — Cricket Nation 200 — is priced at only $60 per month and includes unlimited anytime minutes, unlimited U.S. domestic long distance, unlimited coverage in all Cricket markets, free text and picture messaging, voicemail, caller ID, call waiting, three-way calling and 200 nationwide roaming minutes per month.

The global handset market is forecast to see slowing growth for 2008, with year-on-year growth only achieving 5.7% according to the IMS Research Online Cellular Database. This is significantly lower than previous years, which enjoyed double digit growth. Shipments for new handsets are forecast to hit 1.19 billion for 2008, up from 1.12 billion in 2007.The region that will experience the least impact is Asia, with China and India continuing to perform strongly, resulting in 10.7 percent growth from 2007 to 2008. The Americas will only experience 7% growth, largely as a result of economic challenges being faced in the US. Europe is forecast to experience negative growth at -1.2%, largely due to challenges being faced by the large number of highly penetrated markets.

The slowdown in growth can be attributed to several factors. A general softening of the global economy is expected to have an impact on worldwide handset sales. The average consumer will have less disposable income available, which will restrict their ability to either upgrade their existing handset, or to add a second handset. This is coupled with the fact that many post-paid customers are being encouraged to sign 18-24 month contracts with their carriers, extending the replacement cycle and slowing growth. These factors will be especially relevant in mature markets such as Western Europe, which has a number of countries that are at or above 100% penetration. Growth in these areas is entirely dependant on consumers not only replacing existing handsets, but also purchasing additional handsets on the basis of specific features or aesthetics.

According to Bill Morelli, Mobile Technologies analyst at IMS Research, there are already signs of this slowdown occurring in the market. “Recent announcements from Texas Instruments and Sony Ericsson have highlighted the fact that demand is not as strong for high-end handsets, especially in mature markets” states Morelli. “While this is a cause for concern, the overall handset market is still expected to grow in 2008, just at a more conservative pace than initially expected.” The global penetration rate for mobile handsets stands at 50%, leaving room in the market for continued growth, much of which is expected to come from Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.

Nokia has been ranked at the top of the latest Vendor Matrix released by ABI Research.Research in Motion (RIM) and Samsung claimed the second and third spots in the company’s most recent evaluation of worldwide smartphone vendors.

Vice president and research director Stuart Carlaw comments, “Nokia’s commitment to driving smart OS into a wider range of devices, and the success of its N series devices, especially the N95, gives it a huge market presence. Looking to the future, this segment will become increasingly crowded as Linux-based new entrants try to erode Nokia’s position.”

The Vendor Matrix is an analytical tool developed by ABI Research to provide a clear understanding of vendors’ positions in specific markets.

Vendors are assessed by ABI Research on the important parameters of “innovation” and “implementation” across several criteria unique to each vendor matrix, such as customer wins, contract awards, global reach, market share, patents, R&D spending, time to market, and first movers, among others.

For this particular matrix, under “innovation,” ABI Research examined user interface customization, handset differentiation, patent portfolio, battery life, handset size, support for third party application developers, the presence of a common and concise API, and operating system source code licenses.

Under “implementation,” ABI Research scrutinized the following criteria: smartphone shipments, brand equity, the number of smartphone models in the range, choice of OS, the company’s first-to-market status, its smartphone market share, its smartphone average selling prices (ASP), its distribution network, operator relationships, manufacturing facilities, ODM partnerships, overall handset ASP, and overall handset market share.

“NTT DoCoMo Inc, Japan’s biggest mobile phone carrier, filed for an injunction to halt sale of a handset using No. 3 Softbank Corp’s network, marking the latest move in a bitter fight for market share.”

“Kangxi Live Show — 2008 Thankful Heart in Loving House — Shanghai Concert” was held at Shanghai Stadium on Mar. 15, 2008. This concert was hosted by Taiwan’s popular TV hosts Dee Hsu (aka “Little S”) and Kevin Tsai, and features performances by up-and- coming young artists, such as Jolin Tsai, Alan Luo and Rainie Yang. Sponsored by Spreadtrum Communications (Nasdaq: SPRD - News), Amoi Electronics (stock code: 600057), and Kuro, the concert attracted numerous fans not only for the hot program “Kangxi Live Show” and the performing artists from Taiwan, but also for the new experience of “Mobile Music Everywhere.”Commemorative cards were presented at the “Kangxi Live Show” event and were special gifts that Kuro prepared for the Concert, which give people free membership to Kuro’s website and allow them to download 250 copyrighted songs from its huge database. People may then download these copyrighted songs to Amoi’s mobile phones, equipped with Spreadtrum’s chips, and enjoy them “anywhere, anytime.”

Dr. Ping Wu, President and CEO of Spreadtrum said, “This concert is another promotion focused on our theme of enabling ‘Mobile Music Everywhere’ and follows the joint launch in January by Spreadtrum, Amoi and Kuro of China’s first solution for music phones offering copyrighted music downloaded to the handset. By leveraging our advanced technology and innovation thinking in wireless communication, multi-media mobile chips, and customized software Spreadtrum was able to build a stable hardware platform for digital mobile music service in China and pioneer the concept of ‘Mobile Music Everywhere’.”

As a major manufacturer of mobile phones in China, Amoi is committed to bringing consumers a richer product experience. For many years, its music phones, GPS phones, and smart phone series have taken consumer requirements into account, with an added focus on differentiated experience and interactive marketing. Consequently, Amoi has succeeded in several segments of the market and gained much praise for its innovations. Now, Amoi continues that differentiated product roadmap by joining with Spreadtrum and Kuro, to integrate the whole food chain of chipsets, terminals and service, into 2008’s first key mobile terminal product — the karaoke music phone series. Besides the new music experience, Amoi will reinforce this interactive music experience with consumers through participating in more entertainment activities such as live show.

“Mobile Music Everywhere” is an integrated music service concept created by Spreadtrum and is designed for the growing number of music mobile phones used by consumers in China. Different from the other current modes of music service in China, “Mobile Music Everywhere” utilizes the convergence of the ‘4Cs’ — Communication, Chip, Content and Copyright to promote China’s music phones and copyright protected music. In January of this year, Amoi unveiled its new portable karaoke music phones, the A616 and A636, as China’s first solution for music phones offering copyrighted music, with Spreadtrum chips enabling both models. The concert highlights a new music service mode for handsets, which are based on Spreadtrum’s chips, carried by Amoi’s portable karaoke music handsets and embedded with Kuro’s service. In this service mode, the powerful chip developed by Spreadtrum enables decoding digital music, displaying photographs of celebrities and synchronizing lyrics. We can say with proud that Spreadtrum’s chip is the key to “Mobile Music Everywhere.” And Amoi’s portable karaoke music phones equipped with Spreadtrum’s chip bestow unique musical experience on users.

Spreadtrum believes that people will be able to enjoy mobile music anytime, anywhere in the near future. Spreadtrum, Amoi and Kuro will commit themselves to this project to help bring handset consumers richer musical experiences in China.

“Nokia has paid Qualcomm around $1 billion over 15 years for full access to the U.S. chip maker’s early mobile technology patents, the world’s top handset maker said in court documents.”

Sprint announced that it is offering the industry’s first EV-DO Rev. A-capable handset as part of a software upgrade available for the Mogul by HTC. Introduced in June 2007, the Mogul is a Windows Mobile device operating on the Sprint Mobile Broadband Network and is packed with advanced wireless capabilities to keep users productive and connected for personal and professional reasons — all at SprintSpeed. The new software ROM and downloading instructions are available at www.america.htc.com/mogulupdate.EV-DO Rev. A technology supports faster data rates and higher system capacity enabling users to send and receive large amounts of data at broadband speeds (speeds comparable to basic DSL). Wherever EV-DO Rev. A coverage is available, average download speeds will increase from 400-700 Kbps to 600 Kbps-1.4 Mbps and average upload speeds will increase from 50-70 Kbps to 350-500 Kbps. These increased data speeds provide customers the instant gratification of quickly downloading large e-mail files on their phone while in a taxi cab, finishing and sending the sales report before their plane takes off and wirelessly downloading music to listen to directly from a Sprint handset. Because Sprint embraces an open approach to mobile Web access, customers may access the Web sites of their choice and download third party applications to enjoy anytime, anywhere. The Sprint Mobile Broadband Network (inclusive of data roaming) reaches more than 234 million people, 13,453 cities and 1,321 airports, with the vast majority upgraded to the faster EV-DO Rev. A technology.

Besides enabling increased data speeds for e-mail, Web, document management and other tasks, the free software download also provides advanced GPS functionality allowing support of popular applications such as Sprint Navigation. Sprint Navigation provides audio and visual turn-by-turn directions, more than 10 million local listings, and one-click traffic rerouting on compatible phones, similar to an in-vehicle GPS system.

“The Mogul by HTC now delivers the full power of the Sprint Mobile Broadband Network from the convenience of a handset, giving our customers a speed and capacity advantage unavailable anywhere else in the marketplace,” said Danny Bowman, vice president of customer equipment for Sprint. “Besides accessing core capabilities like calendar management, contact lists, personal and corporate email, and viewing documents, customers can use the benefits of SprintSpeed to stay connected, informed and entertained at anytime.”

The enhanced capabilities of the Mogul combined with Sprint’s recently launched $99.99 Simply Everything pricing plan delivers undeniable value to Sprint customers. The $99.99 Simply Everything plan offers customers unlimited voice and data and is available for any Sprint or Nextel Direct Connect handset. Pricing complexity and concerns about overage charges are virtually eliminated letting customers think more about how they can use their wireless device for work and play and less about their bill. For families, Simply Everything includes an incremental $5 discount for each incremental line, up to five lines on the same bill. For example, two lines would amount to $194.98 ($99.99 + $94.99); a third line would cost an additional $89.99. This is in sharp contrast to the multi-line savings offered by some other carriers. Existing Sprint customers can switch to the “Simply Everything” plan without extending their current contract. New line activations require a two-year agreement.

The Mogul continues to be a premium Windows Mobile device in the Sprint device portfolio replicating the familiar Windows PC-based experience and utilizing the Microsoft Windows Mobile 6 Professional Edition to deliver key benefits including increased security and added support for HTML email and Microsoft Office Mobile. Other key features include:

* Innovative design with slide-out QWERTY keyboard, large touch screen, a thumbwheel and five-way navigation button.

* Support for Sprint applications including Sprint Music Store and OnDemand.

* ActiveSync software allowing fast and accurate synching of Outlook Mobile applications included on the device such as e-mail, calendar, task lists and contacts.

* Phone as Modem capabilities to use the phone as a wireless modem with a laptop.

* A 2-megapixel camera with flash, auto-focus and camcorder capabilities.

* Stereo Bluetooth wireless technology.

The Mogul by HTC is available in Sprint Stores, online at www.sprint.com and in Sprint business sales channels for $199.99 with a two-year service agreement and a $100 mail-in-rebate.