Nextel Launches the Ruggedized i700plus Internet-Ready Wireless Phone - Product Announcement

Cambridge Telcom Report, Jan 10, 2000

Nextel Communications (Nasdaq: NXTL) Monday announced the introduction of the ruggedized i700plus Internet-ready phone in all its markets nationwide. The i700plus phone is manufactured by Motorola and represents Nextel's third Internet-ready phone to hit the marketplace.

Available in either yellow or black with black rubber grips for added protection, this rugged yet appealing, integrated phone combines the capabilities of digital cellular, text/numeric paging, Nextel Direct Connect (digital two-way radio), and contains a Web browser for future access to Nextel Web Based services. Additionally, the i700plus phone incorporates a wide variety of features including VibraCall silent alert, alternate phone line, 3-way calling, missed call indicator, and Turbo Dial one button dialing. Measuring 6.2 x 2.3 x 1.6 inches, the i700plus weighs 10.2 ounces with a standard nickel metal hydride battery and provides standby times of up to 65 hours or talk times of up to 240 minutes. The suggested retail price of the i700plus phone is $249 with promotional pricing at launch as low as $149 through March 31, 1999.

"Up-to-the-minute communication is critical for all field force workers as well as members of our Nextel Builders Network," said Tom Kelly, executive vice president marketing and strategic planning, Nextel Communications. "The i700plus is the first industrial-strength technology solution designed to help meet the multiple communications needs of builders, developers, contractors and field workers in general."

Members of the Nextel Business Networks utilize Nextel Direct Connect to instantly communicate with other businesses in the building/construction industry within their home market area. Some businesses that are part of the network include contractors and subcontractors such as concrete companies, cabinet makers/installers, heating/air conditioning companies, finance, mortgage and loan companies, electricians, drywallers, plumbers, painters and landscapers. The Builders Network also enables construction workers to instantly connect with employees at the lumber yard, construction site or hardware store to order supplies, locate a delivery site or check status of a project site all at the touch of a button. Market research suggests the durable i700plus will also appeal to business people with active outdoor recreational interests.

Nextel Web Based services will provide Nextel customers access to Internet services allowing them to keep in touch with their time critical information while on the go. Nextel Web Based services will also be able to support popular wireless software applications, including PC-based dispatching to truck fleets, field service technicians, and others. Software developers, system integrators and corporate Information Technology (IT) developers may interface their software or systems with Nextel phones and service by joining the Nextel Developers Program. Through the program, Nextel delivers technical information, software developer tools, and technical support, to facilitate the development of products and applications to be delivered to Nextel customers.

Nextel Communications Inc., headquartered in Reston, Va. is a leading provider of fully integrated wireless communications and has built the largest guaranteed all-digital wireless network in the United States that covers thousands of communities across the United States. Nextel and Nextel Partners Inc. currently serve 92 of the top 100 U.S. markets. The Nextel National Network offers a fully integrated wireless communications tool with digital cellular, text/numeric paging and Nextel Direct Connect -- a digital two-way radio feature. In addition, through Nextel International Inc., Nextel has wireless operations and investments in Canada, Mexico, Argentina, Brazil, the Philippines, Peru, Japan and Shanghai, China. visit Nextel's web page at http://www.nextel.com.