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March 20, 2001
Lucent Technologies and RIM Announce Broad Agreement to Drive the Internet Closer to Mobile Users
Companies strive to accelerate availability of secure next-generation solutions
Murray Hill, N.J. - Lucent Technologies [NYSE:LU] and Research In Motion Limited (RIM) (Nasdaq: RIMM; TSE: RIM) today announced a broad-based alliance to accelerate commercialization of third generation (3G) mobile solutions using Lucent wireless networks and RIM's products and services.
The companies plan to cooperate in interoperability testing for next-generation wireless networks, and to coordinate trials with mobile network operators around the world. Lucent's global 3G platform provides a means for wireless operators to introduce broadband Mobile Internet applications and services, and the collaboration is intended to provide RIM with additional support so that RIM's BlackBerry solution is compatible with the latest next-generation features available with Lucent networks. The alliance spans three major wireless standards, cdma2000 including 1xRTT and 1xEV, General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) and Universal Mobile Telecommunications Systems (UMTS).
BlackBerry is an end-to-end wireless email solution featuring the industry's most advanced wireless handhelds, desktop utilities, enterprise server software, advanced security and tight integration with advanced wireless networks.
Next-generation Mobile Internet services will evolve from today's text experience on wireless handheld devices and mobile phones to include enriched, graphics-based applications based on Internet protocols (IP). By collaborating with Lucent, Research In Motion plans to take advantage of the latest network capabilities - an important consideration for network operators who depend on compatible user devices and complete solutions for rapid new service launches.
"The Lucent alliance helps us both address operator and customer needs and expand the reach of RIM's unique end-to-end solution," said David Werezak, vice president of marketing for Research In Motion. "With coordinated interoperability testing, operators will benefit sooner from new data services that help accelerate the worldwide rollout of the wireless Internet."
"Lucent's collaboration with Research In Motion ensures our customers will have an array of devices to help deliver the benefits of high-speed mobile Internet applications to consumers," said Jamie Kistler, director - strategic alliances, for Lucent's wireless networks business. "Lucent and our customers regard RIM as a unique and innovative contributor to next-generation wireless solutions."
About Lucent Technologies
Lucent Technologies, headquartered in Murray Hill, N.J., USA, designs and delivers the systems, software, silicon and services for next-generation communications networks for service providers and enterprises. Backed by the research and development of Bell Labs, Lucent focuses on high-growth areas such as broadband and mobile Internet infrastructure; communications software; communications semiconductors and optoelectronics; Web-based enterprise solutions that link private and public networks; and professional network design and consulting services. For more information on Lucent Technologies, visit its Web site at http://www.lucent.com.
About Research In Motion
Research In Motion® Limited is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of innovative wireless solutions for the mobile communications market. Through development and integration of hardware, software and services, RIM® provides solutions for seamless access to time-sensitive information including email, messaging, Internet and intranet-based applications. RIM technology also enables a broad array of third party developers and manufacturers around the world to enhance their products and services with wireless connectivity. RIM's portfolio of award-winning products includes the RIM Wireless Handheld™ product line, the BlackBerry™ wireless email solution, embedded radio-modems and software development tools. Founded in 1984 and based in Waterloo, Ontario, RIM operates offices in Canada, the United States and England. RIM is listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market (Nasdaq: RIMM) and the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSE: RIM). For more information, visit www.rim.net. Investors may contact investor_relations@rim.net. Customers may contact info@rim.net.
Research In Motion, RIM and BlackBerry are trademarks of Research In Motion Limited. Research In Motion and RIM are registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and may be pending or registered in other countries. All other brands, products and company names mentioned herein may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.
Forward-looking statements in this news release are made pursuant to the "safe harbor" provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Investors are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, risks relating to possible product defects and product liability, risks related to international sales and potential foreign currency exchange fluctuations, risks related to the year 2000 issue, continued acceptance of RIM's products, increased levels of competition, technological changes, dependence on intellectual property rights and other risks detailed from time to time in RIM's periodic reports filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission and other regulatory authorities.