Samsung to Develop Dualmode CDMA-GSM Handset

Samsung has announced plans to develop handsets based on Qualcomm's GSM1x solution, that allows handsets to support multiband, GSM, GPRS and CDMA2000 1X.

By integrating Qualcomm's MSM6300 Mobile Station Modem (MSM) chipset and system software with the GSM1x solution, Samsung will develop and deliver the world's first multimode, multiband GSM1x handset. The MSM6300, the first product to integrate the GSM and CDMA modems into a single chip solution, enables Samsung to design multimode handsets using previous single-mode form factors.

The multimode, multiband GSM1x handset will allow GSM subscribers to roam across GSM and CDMA2000 networks with one SIM subscription, providing world travelers with a true global roaming phone.

"Today's announcement of the first true world phone marks a milestone in satisfying operator and customer needs for a flexible, global roaming solution that is fully transparent to the user. The multimode, multiband technology supports a rich set of features on both GSM/GPRS and CDMA2000 networks," said Dr. Irwin Mark Jacobs, chairman and CEO of Qualcomm. "Through support of GSM1x, this world phone provides new options for operators to economically provide the best service to their customers."

GSM1x is a CDMA2000 solution for GSM operators in any band, as it combines the features of CDMA2000 1X and GSM-MAP. GSM1x takes full advantage of an operator's investment in its existing GSM-MAP network, maintaining all key features and services inherent in the system. The GSM1x handset accepts a GSM SIM card and communicates with the GSM-MAP core network. GSM1x will increase an operator's voice and data capacity while enabling a cost-effective overlay of CDMA2000 on a GSM network. The GSM1x solution facilitates both GSM and CDMA global roaming."

Posted to the site on 18th March 2003