New GSM Based Microsoft Smartphone

The handset manufacturer, Voq is launching a new Microsoft based smartphone, and has secured Sierra Wireless as a distributor. New Voq-branded professional phones will be based on Microsoft Windows Mobile software for Smartphones and will feature both a familiar phone keypad and unique flip-open QWERTY thumbpad. The Voq product line also includes other hardware and software innovations for easy information navigation and retrieval, compelling text entry, and email that is automatically updated. The first Voq model will operate over the GSM and GPRS wireless networks and is planned for commercial availability in the first half of 2004.

"Sierra Wireless is in a great position to succeed in the Smartphone market, from their strong background in wireless data to their established relationships with wireless carriers," said Roberta Wiggins, Director, Wireless and Mobile Services, The Yankee Group. "Our research points to an upcoming spike in the adoption of Smartphones and Voq's key features including the flip-open QWERTY thumbpad, make it a formidable offering in this market space."

Sierra Wireless has an active IPR (Intellectual Property Rights) program and has applied for patent protection to cover the unique hardware and software differentiators it has conceived in the Voq product line.

"Sierra Wireless has done a great job creating a family of computing and communications devices with very innovative designs," said Ron Smith, senior vice president and general manager of Intel's Wireless Communications and Computing Group. "With the power and performance of the Intel processor and memory components, the Voq professional phone has delivered convergence and mobility for the business user."

The company has an existing global network of wireless operators and corporate technology channels and expects to take Voq to market under co-branding arrangements with some of these channels. Voq hardware and software products will be in network operator and end user testing programs in Europe and North America through Q1 of 2004.

Sierra Wireless is partnering with Flextronics International to manufacture Voq products."

Posted to the site on 10th October 2003