Autodesk and Fiat Deliver New Wireless Data Services Solution to Operator Telecom Italia Mobile; First Operator to Launch Autodesk MobileConnect on Wireless Devices

Business Wire, Dec 11, 2001

Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

SAN RAFAEL, Calif. & MILAN, Italy--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 11, 2001

Autodesk(R) Location Services, a division of Autodesk, Inc. (Nasdaq:ADSK), today announced that wireless operator, Telecom Italia Mobile (TIM) has chosen Autodesk(R) MobileConnect for Connect TIM, a new wireless data services solution it plans to rollout to subscribers beginning in December 2001. Connect TIM delivers navigation, concierge and mobile commerce services to wireless subscribers. Connect TIM uses Autodesk MobileConnect which extends to mobile devices the Connect telematics solution, developed jointly with TargaSys, a division of Fiat Auto S.p.A. TIM supports 23.3 million subscribers in Italy and represents the majority of corporate wireless customers.

"The reason over seventy percent of corporate customers in Italy choose to do business with TIM is that we consistently provide innovative services with the highest quality in terms of value and reliability," said Roberto Pellegrini, TIM Business Division Director. "Connect TIM will help us bring even greater convenience into the lives of our customers by addressing their need for information -- whenever and wherever they want. We expect to see rapid adoption of this compelling service by our business customers."

Autodesk MobileConnect enables TIM to offer a wide variety of location-based services to subscribers. These services include navigation and real-time traffic information; point-of-interest information such as nearby museums and restaurants; and concierge services such as making airline, hotel and restaurant reservations. Using a GSM or GPRS-enabled mobile device, Connect TIM is activated by an SMS message generated by a personalized SIM ToolKit application developed by TIM. The SMS, containing the subscriber's location details based on TIM Cell location based technology, is sent to the TargaSys contact center. The SMS triggers a personalized database that helps the operator respond to the individual's need. The TargaSys contact center is staffed by 800 operators, supporting 14 languages.

The Autodesk(R) LocationLogic platform is a key component of the overall solution. LocationLogic provides a stable, commercial-grade environment for the deployment of location-sensitive applications. Using enhanced Cell-Sector ID, LocationLogic integrates with wireless network information that pinpoints the user's location. MobileConnect builds upon the LocationLogic platform by offering a unique wireless application framework. This framework allows for rapid development of location-sensitive applications by providing the flexibility of multiple channel support (i.e., voice, SMS, WAP, HTML, operator assisted), an easy-to-use application programming interface, and intuitive menu-driven applications. MobileConnect also simplifies the task of aggregating and managing content (base maps, point-of-interest information, real-time traffic feeds) derived from TargaSys' extensive group of content partners.

About TargaSys (a company fully owned by FIAT S.p.A.)

TargaSys is a holding company founded in 1996, in order to answer the need of mobility of companies and private consumers, entirely dedicated to the world of services of the automobile intended as assistance, infomobility, insurance, and renting services. Thanks to its deep knowledge of the car and driver world, Targasys projects, develops, sales and manages a wide range of high technological value, contents tailor-made and integrated services, directly or through strategic partnerships, in a timely and efficient way. All of this supported by committed and motivated people, engaged in developing and applying quality principles in every sector of activity dedicating their attention on

the full satisfaction of the client's needs.

About Telecom Italia Mobile

TIM operates in the Italian market, in Europe and Latin America and is one of the leading European operators. As of September 30, 2001 TIM counted 23.3 million lines in Italy alone. Taking into account the European and Latin American lines, TIM Group, reached a total target of 52.8 million mobile lines in September 2001 including Telecom Italia stakes. The high number of customers on one network in Europe, a firm consolidating international presence, a leading name for innovation and testing new technology, an extensive distribution network, an acclaimed and solid brand name, the ability to support heavy investments: these are all factors that contribute to the competitive force and bargaining power that TIM currently enjoys and that will play a key role in the new environment.

About Autodesk Location Services

Autodesk Location Services http://www.autodesk.com/locationservices, a division of Autodesk, Inc., provides infomobility solutions to carriers and enterprises worldwide. The Autodesk LocationLogic platform and applications bring personalized, localized and actionable wireless data services to wired, mobile and wireless environments. Founded in 1982, Autodesk is the world's leading design and digital media creation, management, and distribution company. The company serves a diverse portfolio of industries, including building design, manufacturing, geographical information systems and digital film and video industries. Autodesk is one of the largest global software companies with annual revenues of $936 million. For more information about the company, see www.autodesk.com.