Axis and Socket Use Bluetooth to Give Pocket PCs Wireless Access to LANs

Business Wire, June 5, 2001

Business Editors, High-Tech Writers

Bluetooth Congress 2001

Grimaldi Forum

Booth No.B9

Booth No.C12

MONTE CARLO, MONACO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 5, 2001

AXIS 9010 Access Point and Socket Bluetooth Card Offer Pocket PC

Owners a Fast, Low-Power Wireless Connection to Local Area Networks

Socket Communications, Inc. (Nasdaq:SCKT)(PSE:SOK) and Axis Communications today demonstrated for the first time how Socket's Bluetooth Card enables a Windows-powered Pocket PC to make a low-power wireless connection to an Ethernet-based LAN via the AXIS 9010 Access Point.

Bluetooth wireless technology allows Pocket PC owners to utilize a campus network for fast, cable-free email, Web browsing and file synchronization within 10 to 100 meters of a 9010 Access Point. The demonstrations will continue throughout Bluetooth Congress 2001 in Booth B9 (Socket) and Booth C12 (Axis).

The Bluetooth Access Point from Axis makes it easy to create wireless "hot spots" in strategic venues. Bluetooth enabled Pocket PCs can use the Bluetooth Access Point to make a broadband connection to the Internet without having to detour through a mobile phone network. In addition to enabling wireless networking in a corporate conference room for email, web browsing and file synchronization, the solution also gives businesses such as hotels, airports and shopping centers the opportunity to become their own mobile Internet service providers, or to deliver location-dependent information to customers.

"We're excited to work with Socket to help Pocket PCs communicate with Bluetooth LAN Access Points," said Patrik von Bergen, director of business development of mobile Internet at Axis Communications. "Socket and Axis are collaborating to bring complete Bluetooth solutions to a variety of mobile computing environments ranging from businesses to the home, including the conference room, hotels, retail establishments, and airports."

"Our cooperation with Axis Communications opens up major opportunities for our developers interested in building solutions that feature location-based data delivery or mobile Internet access for Pocket PCs," said John Doub, director, Socket's Bluetooth program. "We believe LAN Access Points are a key driver in the adoption of Bluetooth technology by the handheld computer market."

Socket's Bluetooth Card is a CompactFlash card that fits in the expansion slot of a Windows-powered Pocket PC or, via an adapter, the PC Card slot of a Windows CE-based handheld PC or Windows notebook. The AXIS 9010 Bluetooth Access Point is a free-standing or wall-mountable device that connects to a campus network via a standard Ethernet cable and features a built-in Web server. Both products are now available to qualified Windows CE application developers. Interested developers should complete the qualification form accessible from Socket's web site at www.socketcom.com/product/bluetooth_eval.htm.> About Axis Communications

Axis Communications is a leader in network connectivity and emerging wireless Internet-based services. The company develops and markets solutions that enhance communications between people and how they interact with information, empowering individuals and improving the overall effectiveness of organizations. Founded in 1984, Axis employs more than 500 people worldwide, including the 50 percent owned subsidiary, Netch Technologies. Axis is headquartered in Lund, Sweden and has a total of 28 offices throughout North America, Asia and Europe. Axis is a publicly traded company on the OM Stockholm Exchange's O-list. For more information about Axis visit www.axis.com.

About Socket Communications, Inc.

Socket Communications, Inc. develops and sells connection products for Windows-powered computers and other devices. Socket's products include the Battery Friendly(R) family of plug-in cards that enhance mobile computers by adding wireless Internet connectivity, networking, bar code scanning, and data communication. Socket's products utilize the Company's low power chip technology, making them ideal for battery-operated mobile computers. Socket is an Associate Member of the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) and is developing products that will add Bluetooth wireless technology to handheld computers, notebooks and other electronic appliances. Information about Socket's complete range of products is available on the Company's web site at www.socketcom.com.

Socket and Battery Friendly are registered trademarks of Socket Communications, Inc. Bluetooth is a trademark owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc. All other product and company names herein may be trademarks of their respective owners.(c)2001, Socket Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.