BANGKOK, March 31, 2003 — AIS, Thailands largest mobile phone operator, and Microsoft Corp. today announced the launch of Asias first Windows®
Powered GSM Smart Solution called
“SMART.”
This will pave the way, more than any other system, for today’s fast-moving, mobile lifestyle.
SMART stands for System Integration, Multimedia, Always on, Remote Access, and Terminal. It heralds a new mobile revolution with unprecedented features such as Pocket Outlook® , Pocket Internet Explorer, MSN® Messenger and Windows Media®
Player.
This new class of SMART handsets combines high-resolution color, speed and exciting applications such as full access to Web sites and WAP sites, easy-to-use wire-free e-mail, and instant messaging. The phone, which will be available in May 2003, will be packaged with a digital camera — allowing customers to take and send photos to friends via e-mail and MMS.
Speaking at the launch today, Somprasong Boonyachai, CEO of Advanced Info Service Pcl. (AIS), said,
”
Our commitment to our customers is to give them the best mobile experience. We are constantly developing ways to keep our services more accessible, reliable, and efficient to meet todays Always on communication needs of our customers.
“Getting the foundations right for the future success and advancement of mobile services is critical. Through our collaboration with Microsoft, we have developed SMART to help people communicate at a totally different level, allowing faster and more efficient communication whether through voice, text or multimedia to family, friends or colleagues — in line with AISs concept: Anytime, Anywhere, Everyone.”
Somprasong added,
“The technology convergence between Microsoft, the worlds leading software developer, and AIS, Thailands largest cellular network, is an essential synergy that will ensure the highest levels of customer satisfaction. Our Future Lab staff will also create customized functions that are suitable for Thai customers needs.”
With Microsoft®
.NET as its IT infrastructure, AIS is set to fully embrace XML Web services. These services will be applicable to the usage of SMART.
AIS also plans to be the first Asian mobile operator to adopt the next version of Smartphone 2003 in the near future.
Speaking at the launch, Microsofts Regional General Manager for Network Service Providers, Ken Wye Saw, said,
”
We believe this launch will revolutionize the way services in mobile phones are used in Thailand. The Smartphone platform will provide customers with the ability to choose their preferred method of communication, from voice, e-mail, text or instant messaging, and give them the online capability to play digital media and exciting mobile games.
“This is an exciting time for us in Microsoft as we begin to see the momentum for Smartphone in Asia. This is the second launch in the region after the one in the Philippines. We are very excited about the Smartphone launch in Thailand and we expect to see more operators support this platform throughout Asia in the coming months.”
About AIS
Advanced Info Service Pcl., or AIS, is Thailands largest mobile phone operator with a customer base of over 11 million. AIS has a policy to administrate organization, focusing on excellence in four areas: networking, technology, service and human resources. This delivers an extremely personal service. It intends to be a Thai Wireless Communication Company which raises the quality of life for Thai people. For more details about AIS, please visit http://www.ais900.com/.
About Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq
“MSFT”
) is the worldwide leader in software, services and Internet technologies for personal and business computing. The company offers a wide range of products and services designed to empower people through great software — any time, any place and on any device.
Microsoft, Windows, Outlook, MSN and Windows Media are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corp. in the United States and/or other countries.
The names of actual companies and products mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.
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