NEW ORLEANS — March 14, 2005 — Today, Brightpoint, Inc. (NASDAQ:CELL), and Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ: MSFT) announced a Joint Marketing Agreement to market integrated wireless solutions to value-added resellers (VARs). Pursuant to the Agreement, Brightpoint developed a Mobile Activation Service (MAS) that will enable the VAR community to deliver an integrated wireless solution that includes Microsoft® Windows® Small Business Server 2003 and Windows Mobile (TM) software, to their small and medium-sized business (SMB) customers. Brightpoint will initially launch the service with Sprint, via the Sprint nationwide PCS network this year.
For both VARs and mobile operators, the SMB segment offers a large opportunity for growth and new revenue. According to Forrester Research, 52 percent of North American small firms said they would enable wireless e-mail in 2004; and 40 percent wanted to provide employees with access to electronic calendar and contact lists on handheld devices. (Mobile’s SOHO and SME Opportunity, Forrester Research, June 2004.)
Through the MAS Web site, VARs can review a portfolio of Windows Mobile-based devices, related mobile operator plans, and Windows Small Business Server 2003, and select the package that best meets customer requirements. Out-of-the-box seamless synchronization and connectivity between Windows Mobile software and Windows Small Business Server 2003 provide small-business employees with access to familiar productivity applications like Outlook® and Office — enabling mobile access to critical business data and the ability to take advantage of the productivity and efficiencies once enjoyed primarily by large enterprises. Brightpoint will activate, network-provision and distribute the devices, eliminating the burden on VARs to hold inventory or have multiple contractual relationships, while providing VARs with the opportunity to receive commissions from the mobile operators. Mobile operators have a new opportunity to leverage the growing role mobile technology is playing in SMB strategy.
“This program offers VARs the ability to enter the mobility space very efficiently, while providing their SMB customers with a full mobile solution,” said Dave Brown, vice president of Advanced Wireless Services at Brightpoint North America. “With this program, VARs can deliver a solution for their customer enabling the SMB to empower their employees with information while mobile, with the same platform they are accustomed to on their PC or laptop.”
“The combination of Microsoft Windows Small Business Server 2003 and Windows Mobile-based devices gives businesses a powerful platform to untether their employees and increase productivity,” said Bernard Perrine, general manager of the Mobile and Embedded Devices Division at Microsoft. “This agreement with Brightpoint gives mobile operators and VARs new opportunities to strengthen and expand profitable relationships with SMB customers.”
About Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.
About Brightpoint, Inc.
Brightpoint is one of the world’s largest distributors of mobile phones. Brightpoint supports the global wireless telecommunications and data industry, providing quickly deployed, flexible and cost effective solutions. Brightpoint’s innovative services include distribution, channel management, fulfillment, eBusiness solutions and other outsourced services that integrate seamlessly with its customers. Additional information about Brightpoint can be found on its website at www.brightpoint.com or by calling its toll-free Information and Investor Relations line at 877-IIR-CELL (877-447-2355).
Certain information in this press release may contain forward-looking statements regarding future events or the future performance of Brightpoint. These statements are only predictions and actual events or results may differ materially. Please refer to the documents the Company files, from time to time, with the Securities and Exchange Commission; specifically, the Company’s most recent Form 10-K and Form 10-Q and the cautionary statements contained in Exhibit 99.1 thereto. These documents contain and identify important risk factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those contained in or implied by these forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements which speak only as of the date these statements were made. Brightpoint undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this press release
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