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MIT and Nokia setup joint laboratory for research

Finland – The Massachusetts Institute of Technology Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL) and Nokia Research Center today announced a research collaboration to advance the state of the art in mobile computing and communications technologies.

NOKIA PRESS RELEASE October 27, 2005

Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Nokia establish joint laboratory for high-impact research

Cambridge, MA, USA and Espoo, Finland – The Massachusetts Institute of Technology Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL) and Nokia Research Center today announced a research collaboration to advance the state of the art in mobile computing and communications technologies.

CSAIL and Nokia will establish a new research facility – the Nokia Research Center Cambridge – near the MIT campus, where researchers from MIT and Nokia will work closely together on a new vision for mobile computing.

"Information and communication technologies are becoming ever more critical in all aspects of our personal and professional lives," said MIT President Susan Hockfield. "By carrying out long-term research in these fields, including novel uses of hand-held devices, MIT and Nokia will make new communication opportunities and services available for people around the globe."

"For Nokia, this is a fresh approach to our research collaboration with universities," said Dr. Bob Iannucci, head of Nokia Research Center. "Bringing together the collective expertise of MIT and Nokia in mobile computing and communications provides a vehicle for rapidly generating new concepts and bringing innovations to the marketplace on a large scale."

The collaborative work of the Nokia Research Center Cambridge will center on a view of the future where small handheld devices such as mobile phones will become parts of an "ecosystem" of information, services, peripherals, sensors and other devices. Research will address new user interfaces that incorporate speech and other modalities, new mobile computing platforms – including low power hardware platforms and wireless communication, as well as new software architectures. Researchers will also address new ways of managing information: The use of Semantic Web technologies – an extension of the current Web developed in part at CSAIL and at the Nokia Research Center – will enable devices to more intuitively and automatically understand interconnected terms, information and services.

Approximately twenty researchers from MIT and twenty researchers from Nokia will participate in joint projects under the direction of a joint steering committee. Dr. James Hicks from Nokia Research Center has been named director of the Nokia Research Center Cambridge. Professor Arvind, Johnson Professor of Computer Science and Engineering, will be the program manager.

"This is a totally unique kind of collaboration for both MIT and Nokia," said Professor Rodney Brooks, director of CSAIL. "Unlike most university-industry alliances, where researchers work at their own pace – often at opposite ends of the globe – the joint laboratory with Nokia will bring a dynamic group of scientists into close physical proximity in an open, creative and dynamic environment."

This new collaboration builds on the foundation of a strong relationship formed during past collaborations between MIT and Nokia. Most recently, Nokia was a founding partner in the MIT Oxygen Alliance, a major research project involving more than 150 researchers at CSAIL with the goal of creating a new breed computers devoted to serving people’s needs.

The Nokia Research Center Cambridge will be located in the Kendall Square area of Cambridge, Massachusetts, a five-minute walk from CSAIL’s main headquarters. It will begin operations on January 1, 2006. Five initial research projects have already been planned.

About MIT/CSAIL

The MIT Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL) was formed on July 1st, 2003 by the merger of the Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (AI Lab) and the Laboratory for Computer Science (LCS). It is an interdepartmental laboratory that includes faculty from Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Mathematics, Brain and Cognitive Science, Aeronautics and Astronautics, Ocean Engineering, Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences, the Biological Engineering Division and the Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology. CSAIL is also the home of the World Wide Web Consortium. With more than 90 Principal Investigators and 800 members, CSAIL is the largest laboratory on the MIT campus.

The primary mission of CSAIL is research in many aspects of computation and artificial intelligence. It is organized into four broad research directorates: 1) Architecture, systems, and networks, 2) Theory, 3) Language, learning, vision, and graphics, and 4) Physical, biological, and computational systems.

Over the past four decades, members of CSAIL and its predecessors have been responsible for many of the innovations in computer science and information technology, including time sharing, public key encryption, bit-mapped displays, TCP/IP, personal workstations, Web standards, computer vision, speech, and robotics. CSAIL members have distinguished themselves as members of the U.S. Academy of Sciences and Engineering (17), recipients of the MacArthur Foundation Genius Award (6), Turing Award (4), Japan Prize (2), and Millennium Technology Award. Technology transfer from CSAIL is often accomplished through startups; some of them include Akamai, Cognex, iRobot, OpenMarket, RSA Data Security, Silicon Spice and SpeechWorks.

For more information about CSAIL, please visit http://www.csail.mit.edu

About Nokia Research Center

Interacting closely with all Nokia business groups, Nokia Research Center is responsible for the strategic and long-term research in Nokia. Nokia Research Center participates in the standardization work and various international R&D projects in cooperation with universities and research institutes. Looking beyond current product development, the Research Center drives Nokia’s renewal through long-term technology exploration. Nokia Research Center employs 1,200 people and has activities in Finland, USA, Germany, Hungary, China and Japan.

About Nokia

Nokia is a world leader in mobile communications, driving the growth and sustainability of the broader mobility industry. Nokia connects people to each other and the information that matters to them with easy-to-use and innovative products like mobile phones, devices and solutions for imaging, games, media and businesses. Nokia provides equipment, solutions and services for network operators and corporations. www.nokia.com

Rifts promise of power-news RPG for NGage

Nokia today announced that it has shipped Rifts Promise of Power, heralding a new era in tactical role playing as this renowned pen-and-paper RPG meets video gamers for the first time.

Rifts®: Promise of Power(TM) enters a brave new world as the pen-and-paper RPG ships on the N-Gage platform

Espoo, Finland – Nokia today announced that it has shipped Rifts®: Promise of Power (TM), heralding a new era in tactical role playing as this renowned pen-and-paper RPG meets video gamers for the first time.

Developed exclusively for the N-Gage platform, this adaptation of the Palladium Books® franchise combines the detail and imagination of the original with the accessibility of the video game world and is set to deliver Rifts: Promise of Power straight to the pockets of a brand new audience.

Rifts: Promise of Power allows players to explore the Rifts universe in real time as they venture through the post apocalyptic remains of Germany, North America, Scotland, China and Quebec. During their quests gamers will have the chance to engage in turn based combat against 50 + fearsome enemies using over 100 weapons, spells and psionics.

Fans of the pen and paper version will find their current RIFTS® Megaverse® has expanded with the introduction of a new character class. The Elemental Fusionist a group of rugged individuals who possess the elemental forces of earth, fire, air and water within their bodies’ leaving them perfectly placed to unleash these elemental forces against their foes.

Enjoy over 40 hours of gameplay on the single player version or for marathon playtime take on up to three players from anywhere in the world using Turn Notification over N-Gage Arena or for a more intimate challenge battle three of your friends over Bluetooth instead.

If you want to try before you buy – go to www.rifts-promiseofpower.com where the 6-hour demo featuring character creation, adventuring and party based combat is ready for download.

"We are privileged to be the first video game platform to feature Rifts: Promise of Power as part of our game catalogue." says Gregg Sauter, Director of Games Publishing, Nokia. "The Rifts pen-and-paper franchise has already brought pleasure to millions of RPG fans and its presence on the N-Gage platform with its endless hours of multiplayer action can only serve to make the Rift brand even more popular."

About N-Gage

The N-Gage game deck is an innovative mobile device that is creating an entirely new market for the games industry. Built for active gamers, the N-Gage platform is the first mobile and connected game deck to feature online high-quality 3D multiplayer game play over Bluetooth wireless technology and GPRS. The N-Gage device also offers unique online games services as well as a comprehensive and growing games catalogue from the leading game publishers. Nokia is the world leader in mobile communications.

FoneArena featured on ChennaiOnline

Today FoneArena was featured on Chennai Online- the no.1 website for residents for chennai

We at FoneArena.com would like to thank all at ChennaiOnline www.chennaionline.com for featuring FoneArena is the Technology section of their website.

Website on mobile phones A website dedicated to Indian mobile phones has been launched.

The number of mobile users in India and Chennai is increasing at a rapid pace. The price of mobile phones keep changing and there is no way a customer can to know of the brands, features and prices other than through mobile dealers.

At such a point, FoneArena.com comes to your rescue. The site offers mobile buyers the latest information about mobile phones with an eye on the Indian subcontinent.

Nokia Mile High Pinball coming soon for N-Gage

ow did you spend International Pinball Week? Well, the Mile High Pinball team here at Nokia was super busy putting the finishing touches on a brand new trailer, snatching some brand new exclusive screenshots, and working furiously on a demo you can download from the N-Gage Arena the week of November 7th

NOKIA PRESS RELEASE October 26, 2005

How Did You Celebrate International Pinball Week?

Mile High Pinball Takes the Classic Game Above and Beyond with New Trailer, Screenshots, and an Upcoming Demo

Espoo, Finland – How did you spend International Pinball Week? Well, the Mile High Pinball team here at Nokia was super busy putting the finishing touches on a brand new trailer, snatching some brand new exclusive screenshots, and working furiously on a demo you can download from the N-Gage Arena the week of November 7th.

Here’s your chancel to watch the brand new trailer with a sneak peek at fiendish robots and demonic gargoyles determined to flush your pinball down the drain. Terrified yet? The brand new screens for this exciting title feature many power-ups available in the game, including the never-before-seen wing ball, ghost ball, and feather ball.

Players can soon get a taste of Mile High Pinball with the release of a five-level demo of the game. Users can head over to Arena.n-gage.com the week of November 7th and once they log on, users can download the demo to play on their game deck.

Mile High Pinball takes the game far above its humble origins, with N-Gage Arena connectivity, customizable maps and multiplayer tournaments. Players soar above the traditional arcade experience with more than 80 stages, new power-up items and boss levels. The release of Mile High Pinball this fall will give players more of what they have been enjoying for the past 70 years, and put the fun in the palm of their hands!

Fans can find out more details about the development of Mile High Pinball by taking part in an interactive N-Gage Arena chat session with Mile High Pinball producer Steven Patterson and the game developers on Thursday, November 3, 2005 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am (Pacific Standard Time). Log onto http://forums.arena.n-gage.com and jump into the discussion!

More information about Mile High Pinball is available on the official website at www.MileHighPinball.com.

About N-Gage

The N-Gage game deck is an innovative mobile device that is creating an entirely new market for the games industry. Built for active gamers, the N-Gage platform is the first mobile and connected game deck to feature online high-quality 3D multiplayer gameplay over Bluetooth wireless technology and GPRS. The N-Gage device also offers unique online games services as well as a comprehensive and growing games catalogue from the leading game publishers. Nokia is the world leader in mobile communications. Nokia and N-Gage are trademarks or registered trademarks of Nokia Corporation

Nokia launches OMA-compliant PoC and Presence at the Nokia Mobility Conference

At the Nokia Mobility Conference in Barcelona, Nokia will be highlighting its range of innovative Unified Core Network solutions for fixed-mobile convergence (FMC), as well as launching its OMA-compliant Push to talk over Cellular (PoC) and Presence solutions.

NOKIA PRESS RELEASE October 26, 2005

Nokia launches OMA-compliant PoC and Presence at the Nokia Mobility Conference

Also demonstrates its Unified Core Network portfolio for fixed-mobile convergence

Espoo, Finland – At the Nokia Mobility Conference in Barcelona, Nokia will be highlighting its range of innovative Unified Core Network solutions for fixed-mobile convergence (FMC), as well as launching its OMA-compliant Push to talk over Cellular (PoC) and Presence solutions.

"Nokia is advancing strongly in the convergence space," says Mika Vehviläinen, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Networks, Nokia. "Nokia’s portfolio of core network products and solutions offers operators one of the best fixed-mobile convergence propositions in the business. With a firm foundation in mobility and IP-based solutions as well as new offerings for Voice over IP and Unlicensed Mobile Access, our Unified Core Network is an ideal enabler for FMC."

"Our track record in providing innovative core solutions such as push to talk and mobile softswitches is outstanding," continues Vehviläinen. "We are Number One in the 3GPP Release 4 mobile softswitch market with over 70 customers for our MSC Server system, which is already in live use in over 20 commercial networks. Likewise, we have the largest share of the PoC market in GSM, supplying commercial PoC systems to 43 networks and trialling in more than 30 more. We have an excellent range of products to build on, and the solutions we are introducing at Barcelona reinforce this commitment to give our customers the solutions that make the most of convergence."

The new release 2.0 of Nokia’s PoC solution is available in Q1 2006. It provides compliance with the OMA standard, which enables full interoperability with OMA-compliant terminals and networks from other vendors. Release 2.0 also supports the Nokia List Management Server release 1.0, which allows subscribers to use a single list of contacts for multiple applications, such as PoC, Presence and Instant Messaging.

Likewise, the new version of the Nokia Presence Solution that Nokia is unveiling brings new functionality, such as greater interoperability and support for OMA-compliant PoC and the SIP/SIMPLE protocol. The Nokia Presence Solution is a "horizontal enabler" for all IMS-based applications, making PoC and many other SIP-based services easier and more intuitive to use. Support for PoC means that before making a PoC call, users can check whether the person they are calling is available and willing to communicate.

Nokia will also launch "Mobilizing Wireless Data", which introduces data service continuity between cellular, wireless and wireline networks. The heart of this solution is the Nokia Flexi Intelligent Service Node (ISN), enabling operators to manage and add value to the data traffic they transport. For instance, it allows end-users to easily access and enjoy the same data services independent of the access method used.

Nokia is a leader in Fixed-Mobile Convergence (FMC) with trials ongoing with 10 operators, including Telecom Italia, France Telecom, TeliaSonera, Elisa, Saunalahti, and Telemar Oi. The Nokia Unified Core Network, a key enabler of FMC, is being delivered and deployed in networks worldwide. The Nokia IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) has been bought or is being trialed by over 30 operators, including TIM, Wataniya, Saunalahti, and Eurotel, and is in commercial use in TMN’s 3G network in Portugal.

Nokia is Number One in the 3GPP Release 4 mobile softswitch market. There are over 70 customers for the Nokia MSC Server, over 20 of which are already in live commercial use. Nokia is also leading the market in push to talk over cellular (PoC), with commercial contracts for 43 service offerings, as well as commercial PoC service in 19 networks and trials with well over 30 trials ongoing. Since its launch at 3GSM this year, Nokia already has 9 references for its Flexi ISN. Deployments of Nokia’s IP traffic analysis solution for online charging are also growing rapidly with over 40 deployments to date.

About Nokia

A new way to build 3G Nokia launches new WCDMA base station

Nokia today launched the Nokia Flexi WCDMA Base Station. Based on a completely new platform, the high capacity Nokia Flexi WCDMA Base Station is an innovation enabling operators to make more efficient use of their base station sites than ever before, leading to site cost savings of up to 70 percent through reduced site construction work, quick base station installation and decreased power consumption.

A new way to build 3G – Nokia launches new WCDMA base station

Site costs dramatically cut with the modular Nokia Flexi WCDMA Base Station

Espoo, Finland – In anticipation of the Nokia Mobility Conference 2005, Nokia today launched the Nokia Flexi WCDMA Base Station. Based on a completely new platform, the high capacity Nokia Flexi WCDMA Base Station is an innovation enabling operators to make more efficient use of their base station sites than ever before, leading to site cost savings of up to 70 percent through reduced site construction work, quick base station installation and decreased power consumption.

The small and modular Nokia Flexi WCDMA Base Station makes site selection more flexible than before. Not only can it be installed both indoors and outdoors, but the Nokia Flexi WCDMA Base Station also supports a distributed base station architecture.

Nokia Flexi WCDMA Base Station allows for an easy technology evolution to multiradio networks, as its modules can also be fitted inside existing Nokia UltraSite EDGE Base Station cabinets. Currently, according to the Global mobile Suppliers Association (GSA), 55 operators are deploying both WCDMA and EDGE. Nokia supplies either or both technologies to over half of the commercially launched WCDMA/EDGE networks.

The Nokia Flexi WCDMA Base Station is also an investment for the future. It supports WCDMA and High Speed Packet Access (HSPA) technologies, and its modular architecture, compatible with Open Base Station Architecture Initiative (OBSAI) specifications, will later also allow operators to rapidly deploy new technologies, including WiMAX. Further flexibility comes from the easy capacity upgrades that Nokia Flexi WCDMA Base Station allows as traffic increases. The Nokia Flexi WCDMA Base Station will be available in the latter half of 2006.

"We believe that this open, modular base station offers all our customers a new and easier way to build 3G networks, now and in the future," said Robin Lindahl, Vice President, Radio Networks, Nokia. "The small size and flexibility of the Nokia Flexi WCDMA Base Station will make a real difference to our customers’ operating and capital expenditure since existing and new sites can be used in a very efficient way. In addition, this new platform will make it easy for operators to deploy new radio technologies."

Nokia bolsters its Services portfolio with 3 new solutions

Nokia today unveiled three new solutions as part of its ongoing drive to help operators enhance their service offerings, win and retain customers, and check costs in ever-toughening markets

Nokia bolsters its Services portfolio with 3 new solutions

Trio of tools for operators underlines Nokia’s commitment to its growing Services business

Espoo, Finland – Nokia today unveiled three new solutions as part of its ongoing drive to help operators enhance their service offerings, win and retain customers, and check costs in ever-toughening markets.

Nokia’s Service Level Management, Integrated Provisioning and Unified Device Management solution launches come ahead of the November 2-3 Nokia Mobility Conference in Barcelona, where top management from across the company will give Nokia’s view on convergence and how consumers and operators can tap into the growing trend.

"Operators increasingly need to differentiate their service offerings to keep customer satisfaction high and subscriber turnover low. These solutions allow them to do just that," says Bosco Novak, Senior Vice President for Services, Networks, Nokia. He adds: "Convergence will mean greater technological challenges for operators, and here also our new solutions will make life easier for our customers."

The Nokia Service Level Management Solution allows operators to set and monitor service levels with key customers to ensure that the agreed service quality will be met or exceeded. The solution gives operators visibility to their most important clients so that service quality remains high, increasing customer satisfaction and loyalty. Churn can be reduced and revenues increased.

The Nokia Integrated Provisioning Solution enables holistic service, subscription and device management, and also provides tools and processes ranging from product planning to fulfillment and customer service deployment. The solution enables cost-effective integration and co-operation in an increasingly complex IT environment for operators.

The Nokia Unified Device Management Solution lets operators serve their clients easily and cost-effectively, enabling over-the-air SIM card management as well as providing the tools to manage PDAs and smartphones for corporate clients. It allows operators to quickly deploy the latest services to their customers, a crucial advantage in today’s cutthroat business environment.

Nokia provides a full range of support and services to help operators differentiate and innovate their mobile offerings, with over 15 years of experience in working with customers to get the most out of their networks.

Nokia established its Services business unit in Networks at the start of 2005, and has since taken big strides that underline its commitment to this growing business. In August alone it announced a $125 million managed services and GSM/EDGE network expansion deal with India’s Bharti Tele-Ventures, and said it would establish a Global Networks Operation Center in India by the end of the year.

"Services is a growth area for the Networks business group, representing already today more than 30% of its revenues (including support software), and we expect to see important developments especially in the areas of Managed Services, Systems Integration and Service Management," Bosco Novak adds.

About Nokia

Nokia brings Bluetooth technology to a pair of new CDMA handsets 2855 and 6165

NOKIA PRESS RELEASE October 26, 2005

Nokia brings Bluetooth technology to a pair of new fold-style CDMA handsets

New mid-tier Nokia 2855 and 6165 phones combine today’s most wanted features with a stylish fold design

Florianopolis, Brazil – Addressing the needs of customers seeking a compact, stylish CDMA handset with Bluetooth technology, Nokia today introduced the mid-range Nokia 2855 and 6165 phones. Each weighing under 4 ounces, both the Nokia 2855 and Nokia 6165 phones are compatible with a wide range of popular Bluetooth technology enabled accessories such as wireless headsets and car kits as well as other Bluetooth technology enabled devices including laptop PC’s and even new automobiles. Besides Bluetooth technology, both the Nokia 2855 and 6165 phones feature support for downloadable Java or BREW applications, streaming audio and video content and customizable MIDI ringtones. Both the Nokia 2855 and 6165 phones are expected to be available during the first half of 2006.

"With the Nokia 2855 and 6165 phones, Nokia is filling a gap for Bluetooth technology enabled CDMA handsets at a mid range price point," said Larry Paulson, vice president of product marketing for Nokia’s CDMA business group. "Along with the Bluetooth technology, consumers will be attracted by the hallmark Nokia design and will appreciate the ease of use delivered by the signature Nokia user interface, while operators will be drawn by the ability to deliver value-added services like applications, messaging and ringtones."

Nokia 2855 phone

Featuring a bold color palette including metallic-finish indigo or cabernet, the Nokia 2855 phone is Nokia’s most affordable Bluetooth technology enabled CDMA handset. The large 128 x 160 pixel 262K color main display is perfect for viewing MMS messages and enjoying the customizable themes that make the Nokia 2855 phone unique for each owner. For maximum productivity on the go, the Nokia 2855 phone features an extensive phonebook with room for up to 500 entries – each allowing for 5 phone numbers, e-mail address, web address and a notes field per entry. Additional features of the Nokia 2855 phone include:

– Integrated handsfree speakerphone

– Voice memo recorder and voice dialing

– High-fidelity MP3/AAC ringtone support

Nokia 6165 phone

The Nokia 6165 phone shares the strong feature set of the Nokia 2855 phone, and builds upon it by adding a full one-megapixel camera with flash and built-in infrared technology to provide support for all major types of connectivity – Bluetooth, USB cable, and infrared. Support for location-based services allow the Nokia 6165 phone to take advantage of mobile applications that take advantage of positioning information for accessing information on nearby points of interest, directions and more. Other unique features of the Nokia 6165 phone include:

– Support for capturing, sending and viewing video

– Classic design with bright chrome accents

– Streaming video

About Nokia

Nokia introduces two CDMA handsets designed for new growth markets

Reaffirming its commitment to providing high-quality devices for new growth markets, Nokia today introduced a pair of CDMA handsets designed expressly for these fast-growing regions. Both the classically styled monoblock Nokia 1255 phone and the expressively designed fold-style Nokia 2355 phone

Nokia introduces two CDMA handsets designed for new growth markets

Nokia 1255 monoblock and Nokia 2355 fold-style phones combine a modern, compact design with an attractive price point

Florianopolis, Brazil – Reaffirming its commitment to providing high-quality devices for new growth markets, Nokia today introduced a pair of CDMA handsets designed expressly for these fast-growing regions. Both the classically styled monoblock Nokia 1255 phone and the expressively designed fold-style Nokia 2355 phone boast strong feature sets not usually found at their entry-level price point. Both the Nokia 1255 and Nokia 2355 phones are expected to be available during the 1st quarter of 2006.

"Nokia has built a strong relationship with CDMA operators in new growth markets around the world, and we are pleased to be adding two more handsets to our lineup that will meet the unique needs of their customer bases," said Timo Ihamuotila, senior vice president of Nokia’s CDMA business unit. "Even while meeting the value needs of consumers in these new growth markets, the Nokia 2355 and Nokia 1255 phones still deliver a wide range of features designed to enhance the mobile experience."

Nokia 1255 phone: A classic value

The value-priced Nokia 1255 phone packs an extra-large feature set into an extra-small package. The 80-gram phone offers productivity tools such as a two-way handsfree speakerphone, voice recorder and a calendar with an alarm clock. Other fun features include two built-in games, 20 ringtones and a selection of user-selectable screen savers. In recognition of the need to stay in touch while minimizing downtime, the Nokia 1225 phone delivers up to four hours of talk time and up to 10 days of standby time. A partial list of additional features includes:

– 250 contact phonebook

– Text messaging

– Stopwatch and countdown timer

– Internal vibrating alert

– Easy-to-use Nokia user interface

Nokia 2355 phone: Low cost, high impact

Following the Nokia tradition of delivering high-impact products to all market segments, the new Nokia 2355 phone delivers an ultra-compact, color screen 78-gram fold-style phone to the entry-level market. The 128 x 128 pixel 65K color screen, built-in FM radio and integrated flashlight allow the Nokia 2355 phone to deliver a unique set of features to owners, while the ability to download BREW 1.2 or Java MIDP 1.0 content, such as ringtones, games and screensavers, offers value-added services that meet the needs of both consumers and operators. Other selected features of the Nokia 2355 phone include:

– Text and multimedia messaging

– Integrated speakerphone

– WAP 2.0 compliant browser

– 16-chord polyphonic ringtones

– Calendar with alarm clock

About Nokia

Airtel to invest Rs.1.8 billion in Chhattisgarh

Airtel will invest Rs.1.8 billion in Chhattisgarh during the next two years to challenge the dominance of government-owned Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL)

Raipur: Airtel will invest Rs.1.8 billion in Chhattisgarh during the next two years to challenge the dominance of government-owned Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL).

The company has given a presentation last week before Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh and informed him that it wanted to boost networking all over the state, including the Maoist-dominated remote Bastar and Surguja regions where the BSNL has monopoly.

"Currently, Airtel has presence in just 12 cities in Chhattisgarh and it wants to be the leading telecom service provider in the state by expanding its services in the Moist-dominated Bastar and Surguja regions," company sources said.

"The chief minister has appreciated company’s plan, especially boosting services in remote belt of Surguja region sharing border with Jharkhand and in Bastar bordering Andhra Pradesh," sources added.

A government press release informed Singh has assured Airtel of providing no-objection certificates within a week from local bodies, village panchayats and energy department in a bid to help it to boost services in the poverty-stricken and scheduled caste and scheduled tribe dominated belts.

As many as four companies – Airtel, Reliance, Tata Indicom and BSNL – are currently providing services in Chhattisgarh. However, only BSNL has presence in all the 16 districts in the state.

via [NewsKerala]

Nokia announces three new fashion phones 7380 7370 7360

Continuing to push the boundaries of mobile phone design, Nokia has introduced a collection of three trend-inspired mobile phones, the Nokia 7360, Nokia 7370 and Nokia 7380

Oh L’Amour! Cultural contrasts, craft and ethnic influences inspire Nokia’s latest fashion collection
October 19, 2005

Natural materials, fusion of colors and patterns define the L’Amour Collection

Hong Kong, China / Florence, Italy / New York, NY, USA – Continuing to push the boundaries of mobile phone design, Nokia has introduced a collection of three trend-inspired mobile phones, the Nokia 7360, Nokia 7370 and Nokia 7380. Each model in the L’Amour Collection offers a beautiful mix of contrasts – infusing cultural and ethnic influences with luxurious touches of the unexpected. Hints of vintage and craftsmanship, are fused with natural materials, colors and patterns, all carefully crafted and layered with a passion for detail.

"For many consumers, the mobile phone has truly become an extension of their personal style – it is a fashion statement as well as an advanced communications device," says Alastair Curtis, Vice President of Design at Nokia’s Mobile Phones division. "Every detail of these products, from the nature-inspired graphics to the velvet-lined pouches, has been carefully considered with the style-conscious individual in mind. We are very confident that consumers who appreciate design and attention to detail will fall in love with the L’Amour Collection."

In the design and development of the L’Amour Collection, Nokia’s Design team looked to materials such as amber, ceramic, turquoise, silk and enamel for inspiration. Craft techniques, such as enamelling and etching, added a creative spark to the graphics, materials, finishes and colors selected for each model in the collection.

Nokia 7380: A reflection of discerning taste

Sleek and seductive, the etched mirrored surface and discreet keyless dial of the

Nokia 7380 invites glances, even stares. A leather cover and a mirrored display subtly mask the sophisticated technology, which includes a 2-megapixel camera and intuitive voice dialing. The centrepiece of the L’Amour Collection, the Nokia 7380 is aimed at trend-setting men and women who enjoy being the centre of attention – and are willing to spend a little extra on the finer things in life.

Key features:

– Keyless dial

– 2-megapixel camera, 4x zoom

– Enhanced Voice Commands

– MP3 player

The estimated retail price of the Nokia 7380 is expected to be approximately €500, excluding taxes and subsidies. The Nokia 7380 is expected to be available in Q1, 2006.

Nokia 7370: Designed to make heads ‘turn’

Offering a touch of the unexpected, the Nokia 7370 "swivels" open to reveal its elegantly hidden keypad. Beautiful patterns, etched into the elegant metal trims, are contrasted by leather-inspired faceplates, adding a romantic appeal and an element of the exotic. But it’s not just about looks – advanced features, like a 1.3-megapixel camera and 3D sound effects, ensure the Nokia 7370 matches current technology with the latest design trends.

The Nokia 7370 is available in two color schemes, coffee brown and warm amber, with each model offering a distinct set of graphics, screensavers and even dedicated camera keys.

Key features:

– 1.3 megapixel camera, 8x zoom

– 2-inch QVGA color screen (320 x 240 pixels)

– Stereo speakers with 3D sound effects

– Video ring tones

The estimated retail price of the Nokia 7370 is expected to be approximately €300, excluding taxes and subsidies. The Nokia 7370 is expected to be available in Q1, 2006.

Nokia 7360: Charming, graceful and compact

Materials, graphics and color palette ensure this charming mobile phone stands out in a crowd. Trend-conscious men and women will appreciate the Nokia 7360’s mixture of patterns and textures, which are perfectly complemented by elegant accessories, including straps and carrying pouches.

The Nokia 7360 is also available in the two signature L’Amour Collection color schemes, coffee brown and warm amber. Each model has a distinct set of graphics, screensavers and accessories.

Key features:

– Integrated VGA camera

– Stereo FM radio

– MP3 ring tones

The estimated retail price of the Nokia 7360 is expected to be approximately €200, excluding taxes and subsidies. The Nokia 7360 is expected to be available in Q1, 2006.

The Nokia 7360, Nokia 7370 and Nokia 7380 will meet the requirements of the upcoming EU environmental legislation (RoHS, 2002/95/EC). The legislation will take effect in July 2006.

About Nokia

Nokia WiMAX plans move forward with successful data call

Nokia announced today that its Networks business group has completed a data call as part of its WiMAX (802.16e) development program.

NOKIA PRESS RELEASE October 18, 2005

Nokia WiMAX plans move forward with successful data call

Important step taken for mobile WiMAX development work

Espoo, Finland – Nokia announced today that its Networks business group has completed a data call as part of its WiMAX (802.16e) development program.

The error free call was made between computing and baseband modules at Nokia’s research and development facility in Germany according to Nokia’s WiMAX development timetable, and was conducted on a high-speed pre-product test platform. Nokia will be expanding to WiMAX trials during 2006.

"This is an important step in our WiMAX development work, and we are very encouraged by the results," said Markku Hollström, General Manager, Broadband Wireless business program, Networks, Nokia.

The WiMAX e-version will offer nomadic and portable mobility, providing fast data connections for consumers and business users. Nokia sees the WiMAX e-version as a complement to 3GPP technology, or deployed as a stand-alone data network.

Nokia is a member of the WiMAX forum, an industry-led non-profit corporation formed to promote and certify the compatibility and interoperability of broadband wireless products. WiMAX, which stands for Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access, is a standards-based wireless technology that provides high-throughput broadband connections over long distances. WiMAX can be used for a number of applications, including "last mile" broadband connections, hotspots and high-speed enterprise connectivity for business. The WiMAX IEEE 802.16e version is expected to be standardized later this year.

About Nokia

Number portability issue to be resolved soon

Communication Minister Dayanidhi Maran has suggested that call forwarding facility should be considered as a viable alternative to number portability on mobile phones.

Number portability has been opposed by various service providers citing huge costs involved to make their networks compatible. The issue however is more complex that. The biggest lockin an operator has today is the customer’s number which doesn’t migrate even if he switches service providers. Once number portability is in place the operators cannot afford to concentrate only on customer acquistion but will have to spend time on customer satisfaction and retention too.

The government is planning to set up a joint working group this month comprising representatives of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and both CDMA and GSM operators. Issues to be resolved are number portability, uniform ‘’One India’’ tariff, inter-connectivity between operators and allocation of 3G spectrum. The issues are expected to be resolved by the year end.

via mobilepundit

Tata Indicom Non Stop Mobile

Tata Indicom has launched a new scheme, Non Stop Mobile, under which the validity of a pre-paid connection is extended for two years upon a single recharge, thus freeing mobile subscribers from monthly recharges.

There is no monthly commitment to recharge. Above all, the recharge coupons are available from Rs.50 with 100 percent talk time.

Some noteworthy figures from the article.

At present Tata Indicom ‘True Paid’ launched in January this year has two million subscribers. However, they are targeting around 10 million subscriber base by March 2006…

As on September 30, the company’s subscriber base stood at 5.6 million spread across 1500 towns.

Shadow-Born for the N-Gage announced

Nokia today announced Shadow-Born for the N-Gage platform. Developed by Backbone Entertainment, Shadow-Born is set to change the way gamers use their mobile phones for gaming by integrating smartphone functionalities into the game

NOKIA PRESS RELEASE October 13, 2005

Shadow-Born Poised To Push The Boundaries Of Mobile Gaming On The N-Gage platform

Barcelona, Spain – Nokia today announced Shadow-Born for the N-Gage platform. Developed by Backbone Entertainment, Shadow-Born is set to change the way gamers use their mobile phones for gaming by integrating smartphone functionalities into the game. Imagine a game where characters leave text messages, schedule calendar appointments or set alarms in your smartphone. Shadow-Born promises a genuinely immersive and interactive experience, taking game play to a new level of involvement.

"We are really pushing the envelope with this game," says Gregg Sauter, Director, Games Publishing, Nokia. "Whether it’s the smartphone functions such as text messaging or your to-do list, or the very fact that your mobile phone is with you wherever you go. No other platform could offer this type of gaming experience."

As a Shadow-Born, you are gifted with the rare ability to see the dark truth of the world. It is a world where supernatural beings from your dreams and nightmares surround you, and where vampires control corporations and werewolf gangs roam the streets at night. Shadow-Born offers a rich storyline and is set in the hidden realms within the urban cityscape.

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