Option Selected by Qualcomm to Collaborate on Gobi(TM) Wireless Technology


LEUVEN, Belgium, February 18 - Option (OPNVY), the wireless technology company, today announced that it has been selected by Qualcomm to provide complete solutions based on Qualcomm Incorporated's Gobi(TM) global mobile internet platform for laptops to OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) worldwide.

The embedded multi-mode Gobi solution is based on Qualcomm's MDM1000(TM) chipset, includes associated software and API, and a reference design for a software-defined configurable data module that supports both 3G HSPA and EV-DO Rev. A.

By supporting worldwide 3G standards, laptop manufacturers can produce products with global connectivity capabilities while benefiting from greater efficiencies and a simplified user experience. The Gobi solution also includes GPS functionality.

"Providing support for global mobile standards, Gobi-enabled laptop computers unify the most widely-deployed wireless carrier network technologies around the world to deliver global mobile internet," said Mike Concannon, Vice President of Product Management for Qualcomm CDMA Technologies.

"A multi-mode wireless platform is an attractive proposition for OEMs, yet successfully embedding wireless broadband into a sophisticated electronic device remains a significant engineering challenge," said Jan Callewaert, Option's CEO. "With our expertise in RF design, we are uniquely qualified to assist OEMs to integrate the Gobi technology and devise effective antenna systems appropriate to the host devices."

Drawing on experience gained working with more than a hundred customers, mobile operators and OEMs worldwide, Option will support OEMs to satisfy any certification requirements and customise modules to meet specifications agreed between the OEMs and their operator partners in each local market.

"The Gobi platform adds a new dimension to one of our most important technology partnerships and further builds on Option's service and support expertise and experience. Equally important is the fact that our dashboard software, GlobeTrotter Mobility Manager, will be certified on the Gobi platform. Collaborating with Qualcomm on these activities is a natural progression for Option." said Jan Callewaert.

Support for the Gobi platform will also result in embedded modules supplied by Option entering EV-DO markets for the first time. Gobi based solutions provided by Option will be available in the second half of 2008.

About Option

Option, the wireless technology company, is a leading innovator in the design, development and manufacture of 3G HSUPA, HSDPA, UMTS, EDGE, and WLAN technology products for wireless connectivity solutions.

Option has built up an enviable reputation for creating exciting products that enhance the performance and functionality of wireless communications.

Option's headquarters are in Belgium (Leuven). The company has Research & Development in Belgium (Leuven), Germany (Dusseldorf and Adelsried), Sweden (Stockholm), and an ISO 9001 production engineering and logistics facility in Ireland (Cork). Option also has offices in Europe, US, Asia, Japan and Australia. For more information please visit www.option.com.

Source: Option N V

Media Contact:
Jan Pote
Corporate Communication Manager
Tel +32(0)16-317-411
E-mail: j.pote@option.com

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