Business Services Industry

Ericsson and SeaMobile Bring Wireless Communication Services to the Seas

Business Wire, Sept 29, 2005

STOCKHOLM, Sweden -- Ericsson (NASDAQ:ERICY) and SeaMobile Inc. have signed a three-year contract under which the companies will work together to provide wireless voice and data services at sea. Ericsson will supply a complete wireless network, including hosted core infrastructure, GSM radio equipment, and network monitoring and rollout services. The arrangement will allow SeaMobile to provide services to cruise lines, ferries, yachts, container ships and the offshore oil and gas industry.

SeaMobile will use Ericsson technology to offer global wireless communications at sea through leading suppliers of maritime satellite services. Radio base stations placed onboard ships, and communication will be secured through satellite links to the hosted core network on shore. Integration activities to Ericsson's hosted core network and Network Operations Center will begin immediately.

Angel Ruiz, Head of Ericsson North America, says, "Consumers are used to taking their mobile phones wherever they go, and they want the option of being in touch at all times. Ericsson will help SeaMobile deliver that freedom to its customers, even at sea."

"The combined expertise of Ericsson and SeaMobile creates an unbeatable team in delivering advanced wireless services at sea," SeaMobile President and Chief Executive Officer William Marks said. "Ericsson's position as the largest infrastructure provider for 3G and GSM technology is an excellent fit with SeaMobile. We're immediately providing a better wireless user experience at sea that will continue to evolve as we introduce services not currently available to the maritime industry."

As another example of how Ericsson is taking wireless communication forward, regardless of where people are, the company introduced GSM on Aircraft in June (see http://www.ericsson.com/press/20050613-093122.html). That system will allow airline passengers to use wireless services while aboard commercial aircraft.

Ericsson is shaping the future of Mobile and Broadband Internet communications through its continuous technology leadership. Providing innovative solutions in more than 140 countries, Ericsson is helping to create the most powerful communication companies in the world.