Ericsson announces the R290 satellite phone

[REMOVED GRAPHICS] Press Release June 22, 1999 Ericsson announces the R290 satellite phone Ericsson today announced the world's smallest and lightest dual mode satellite / GSM 900 mobile phone for global usage, which is specially designed for the Globalstar network and will enable users to make calls virtually anywhere in the world. Ericsson expects to launch the R290 series in limited quantities at the end of 1999 and in volume in the beginning of 2000. The R290 is the most compact satellite phone to be announced, weighing only 350g. This dual mode phone also has a built-in modem for data and fax communication at 9.6 kbps in GSM mode and is prepared for 7.2 kbps in satellite mode. The R290 provides comprehensive coverage in both GSM and satellite mode wherever Globalstar offers its services. Where there is no cellular coverage, limited roaming or capacity limitations, the phone can switch to satellite mode ensuring connectivity. Similar to GSM roaming, the R290 requires only one subscription for both cellular and satellite usage. Users need just one mobile phone, one mobile phone number and will, depending on the service provider, have the possibility to receive one bill to cover both satellite and cellular calls. The phone can be set to operate in four modes: satellite only, satellite preferred, GSM only and GSM preferred. Users can select the most appropriate setting for their needs. The R290 is targeted at users for whom it is essential to stay in touch. For example, those who work and travel in areas that do not have cellular coverage. The majority of users are likely to be people who to a large extent work and travel within their national boarders or territory. Ericsson expects that the first users of satellite phones will be professionals on the move. In addition, the compact size of the phone will attract many other users, for example those who participate in active leisure pastimes such as hiking, adventure travel or sailing. Jan Ahrenbring, Vice President of Marketing and Communications, at Ericsson Mobile Communications says: "This new phone ensures almost global connectivity combining the leading digital technology, GSM, with global satellite technology in one compact, robust, handset. The R290 extends mobile connectivity enabling people to communicate easily and effectively - when and with whom they wish. As users demand more from mobile technologies, we see satellite as the next logical step for anytime, anyplace communication." A range of useful accessories that will simplify and help usage in different situations complements the phone. For example, the R290 has a car kit, including a handsfree option, so that it can work in both modes via a combined car-mounted satellite and GSM antenna. Also, specially developed for the R290 are a portable handsfree and two types of carrying cases. Pictures of the new Ericsson R290 can be downloaded from: http://www.ericsson.se/pressroom/phli_pco.shtml Ericsson is the leading provider in the new telecoms world, with communications solutions that combine telecom and datacom technologies with freedom of mobility for the user. With more than 100,000 employees in 140 countries, Ericsson simplifies communications for its customers - network operators, service providers, enterprises and consumers - the world over. Please visit Ericsson's Press Room at: http://www.ericsson.se/pressroom FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT Jan Ahrenbring, Vice President Marketing and Communications Ericsson Mobile Communications AB Phone: + 46 8 764 1460 or +46 70 590 9900 Peter Bodor, Press Officer Ericsson Mobile Communications AB Phone: + 46 8 404 2423 or + 46 703 28 2423