Qualcomm Unveils World's Smallest CDMA Satellite Portable Phone to Operate on the Globalstar Satellite Communications System
Qualcomm Incorporated (NASDAQ:QCOM) today announced that it has designed and will manufacture the world's smallest Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) satellite portable phone to operate on the Globalstar Low-Earth-Orbit (LEO) Satellite Communications System. This first tri-mode portable phone which provides access to the Globalstar network (satellite mode) as well as access to cellular networks uses Qualcomm's cdmaOne (IS-95 CDMA) technology or analog technology. The Qualcomm Globalstar portable phone was unveiled today at the Cellular Telecommunications Industry Association's Wireless '98.
"As a cofounder and partner of Globalstar L.P., Qualcomm contributes cost-effective, state-of-the-art products and services for the Globalstar Communications System," said Jerry Beckwith, president of Qualcomm's Communication Systems Division. "The unveiling of our Globalstar phone represents a new generation of worldwide communication products and services, expanding Qualcomm's product offerings to the worldwide market for global, wireless satellite communications via Globalstar."
The Qualcomm Globalstar Tri-Mode portable phone will allow the user to enjoy high-quality, reliable and affordable satellite communications from virtually anywhere on the earth, at anytime. The services will include voice, facsimile, data, position location, voice mail services and short messaging service.
"Additionally, this represents a significant step forward as the Qualcomm Globalstar phone offers state-of-the-art features and functions, and is also the smallest and lightest CDMA satellite phone in the world," said Beckwith.
Target markets for Qualcomm's Globalstar phones include developing regions of the world where cellular or wireline coverage is poor or non-existent.
Potential users include international business travelers, geologists, field scientists and civil engineers.
As one of the founding partners of Globalstar, Qualcomm is also responsible for the development of the ground segment which includes the Globalstar Gateways and the Ground Operation Control Centers (GOCC). The Globalstar Gateways interconnect the Globalstar satellite-based wireless network to IS-41 and Global Systems for Mobile Communications (GSM) Public Land Mobile Network (PLMNs) or directly into the local Public Switching Telephone Network (PSTN). The Globalstar Gateway is a termination point for network transmission and network signaling.
The Globalstar network will consist of a constellation of 48 Low-Earth-Orbit satellites, which will provide seamless communications services worldwide. Continuous multiple satellite coverage and path diversity will enable the Globalstar Communications System to provide uninterrupted service in remote areas of the world or in areas where service is currently not available. The first Globalstar satellites were launched on February 14, 1998 from Cape Canaveral Air Station, Cape Canaveral, Florida.
Headquartered in San Diego, Qualcomm develops, manufactures, markets, licenses and operates advanced communications systems and products based on its proprietary digital wireless technologies. The Company's primary product areas are the OmniTRACS® system (a geostationary satellite-based, mobile communications system providing two-way data and position reporting services), CDMA wireless communications systems and products and, in conjunction with others, the development of the Globalstar™ Low-Earth-Orbit (LEO) satellite communications system. Other Company products include the Eudora Pro™ electronic mail software, ASIC products, and communications equipment and systems for government and commercial customers worldwide. For more information on Qualcomm products and technologies, please visit the Company's web site at http://www.qualcomm.com/.
Except for the historical information contained herein, this news release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties, including timely product development, change in economic conditions of the various markets the Company serves, as well as the other risks detailed from time to time in the Company's SEC reports, including the report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 28, 1997 and most recent Form 10-Q.
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