Source: GeoworksALAMEDA , Calif - (BUSINESS WIRE) - Dec. 9, 1997 - Geoworks (NASDAQ:GWRX), a leading provider of smart phone software solutions, today announced that it has licensed its new GEOS(R)-SC(TM) operating system platform to Mitsubishi, a leading consumer products manufacturer.
Under the terms of the agreement, Mitsubishi will integrate GEOS-SC into its new line of affordable mobile communications devices that combine voice and data services for the Japanese domestic market, the world's fastest growing digital cellular market.
By licensing its open operating system platform to Mitsubishi, Geoworks has furthered its position as a leading supplier of highly efficient software solutions for resource-constrained handsets. Its patented flexible user interface will enable Mitsubishi to deliver highly differentiated products in a competitive market.
The GEOS-SC platform evolved from Geoworks' decade of experience in developing highly efficient operating systems and its extensive knowledge of the requirements of the smart phone market. The communications-centric capabilities of the system software makes it extremely well suited to enable a wide range of products that seamlessly combine voice and data services.
"We are pleased to be teaming up with Geoworks because of the company's experience in developing innovative, state-of-the-art operating systems for mobile communications devices. We believe that the GEOS-SC platform is one of the best solutions for our line of products," said Etsuro Irino, Engineering Department Manager of Mitsubishi's Communication Systems Business Division. "With Geoworks' technology, we will be able to develop affordable, multifunction wireless handsets that will help us to create compelling products that meet the needs of our customers."
"At 32 kilobits per second, Japan has the world's fastest commercial wide area wireless data communications throughput. Carriers are using this as a new means of attracting and maintaining business and data users. Wireless subscribers there have already demonstrated a willingness to adopt the most advanced mobile technology available, so Geoworks is smart to focus on the Japanese market," said Phillip Redman, Senior Analyst from the Yankee Group, a Boston based consultancy. "Partnering with Mitsubishi is a very strong indicator of the emerging smart phone market and positions Geoworks well for providing mobile data solutions to hardware manufacturers for end users."
Japan is an important telecommunications market because more than 27 percent of the country's 125 million people subscribe to some type of wireless service, according to figures from Japan's Ministry of Post and Telecommunications. The percentage of wireless subscribers is expected to push upward quickly as the competitive effects of deregulation and privatization take hold. A variety of wireless communications devices already have gained broad acceptance.
"Wireless users in Japan have been quick to realize the benefits of wireless communications because they understand how wireless technology makes sense for a highly mobile work force," said Gordon Mayer, Geoworks chairman and CEO. "We are extremely pleased that Mitsubishi, a well established supplier of handsets in Japan, has selected our operating system platform for its innovative line of products. We look forward to delivering compelling solutions that meet the demands of Japan's mobile workforce and will allow them to take full advantage of Japan's significant data capabilities."
Japan supports some of the world's fastest wireless data communications rates, which provides the infrastructure necessary for innovative information services, such as Geoworks' Wireless Content and Services. Carriers will be able to leverage the innovative handsets being developed by companies like Mitsubishi by offering these services to attract and maintain business and data users.
About Geoworks
Based in Alameda, Calif., Geoworks Corporation is a leading software provider for manufacturers of mobile communicating devices, including smart phones, as well as for the cellular industry. The company has licensed its operating system to leading manufacturers including Mitsubishi, Nokia, Ericsson, NEC, Toshiba Corp., Hewlett-Packard Co., Brother International Corp. and Canon Business Machines. In addition, the company is working with content and services providers and international cellular operators. For additional information on Geoworks and its operating system, contact Geoworks on the World Wide Web at http://www.geoworks.com .Note to Editors: In keeping with U.S. law, Geoworks notes that this press release includes forward-looking statements, including the future development of GEOS-based devices and content and services offerings; the establishment and growth of the smart phone and wireless markets; and the establishment of Geoworks as the market leader. Actual results may vary significantly due to various risks and uncertainties. Those include, but are not limited to, the following: i) the smart phone and wireless markets may not emerge to the degree or in the timing anticipated; ii) new technologies and new services are inherently subject to development, timing and customer acceptance risks; and iii) the Company must consummate definitive agreements with key partners. Additional information is available in the Risk Factors and Business discussions in the Company's Forms 10-K, 10-Q and other filings available from the Company or from the Securities and Exchange Commission.