Nokia introduces the new Nokia 9000i Communicator for GSM Markets

New version with enhanced applications, advanced calendar system and Internet services based on Smart Messaging

(November 05, 1997)

Nokia today introduced the new version of the award-winning Nokia 9000 Communicator. In Europe the new product is called the Nokia 9000i Communicator and in Asia-Pacific the Nokia 9000 Communicator, Enhanced Software. The new product is currently available in volume for the GSM 900 and 1800 markets.

The Nokia 9000i Communicator offers a comprehensive set of new features, advanced usability in all the major functions and it supports Smart Messaging. In addition to the existing languages, the Nokia 9000i Communicator includes language versions for the Danish, Finnish, Norwegian, Spanish and Swedish markets.

- Based on the success of the Nokia 9000 Communicator we believe that with the new version we have an even greater opportunity to serve emerging customer segments, such as corporate clients and vertical markets. They are now able to leverage a number of general and vertical applications, specific Internet/Intranet services and seamless connectivity with PCs. In addition, there has been considerable interest from companies wanting to optimize the unique functionality of the Nokia 9000i Communicator for their specific needs," said Anssi Vanjoki, Senior Vice President, Europe, Nokia Mobile Phones.

All the applications in the Nokia 9000i Communicator, such as telephone, fax, Internet and calendar, have enhanced functionality in order to provide even easier and faster usability. For example, the Nokia 9000i Communicator now supports short messages with up to 2 280 characters, the current standard being 160 characters. With the Text Web service based on Smart Messaging, the end-user is able to obtain information in a simple text format without graphics or logos from the Internet by using the short message service. Text Web information can include flight schedules, weather or traffic reports and stock news.

The operating system platform provides an open development environment so customers will be able to add innovative functionality as it becomes available from service operators, software developers and Nokia. Nokia is actively working with the number of third-party companies to develop connectivity and value-added solutions that will provide customized business tools for vertical market applications.

The Nokia 9000i Communicator is much more than a full-featured digital phone. In addition to voice calls, it enables the user to send and receive faxes, e-mail and short messages, as well as access Internet services and corporate and public databases. Other applications include an electronic calendar, address book, notepad and calculator.

All the applications in the Nokia 9000i Communicator have the same innovative user interface. The applications work together and can be accessed with the push of a button. When the keyboard is closed, the Nokia 9000i Communicator can be used as a digital cellular phone. When the communicator’s keyboard is open, the speakerphone activates, allowing the user to view documents from the LCD screen while speaking.

The Nokia 9000i Communicator provides up to 3,5 hours of talk, fax or data time, or up to 33 hours of standby time. If the phone is switched off, the Nokia 9000i Communicator is able to standby for a week without being recharged. Data will not be lost even if the main battery runs out.

The Nokia 9000 Communicator was originally introduced to the GSM market in 1996. It is currently sold in more than 30 GSM 900/1800/1900 markets worldwide and it has won numerous international awards based on its innovative, revolutionary, but yet user-friendly concept.

Headquartered in Finland, Nokia is a leader in digital technologies including mobile phones, cellular and fixed telecommunications networks, wireless data solutions and multimedia terminals. With sales in approximately 130 countries, net sales totaled $8.5 billion in 1996. Nokia employs more than 36,000 people in 45 countries. Nokia’s shares are listed in Helsinki, New York, London, Stockholm, Frankfurt and Paris.