Stylish new handset, nicknamed "Shorty", offers polyphonic ring tones, flashlight and integrated speakerphone
NEW ORLEANS, La. (CTIA Wireless 2005) - In New Orleans, arguably America's most fun-loving city, Nokia today announced a preliminary agreement to launch its first handset for Virgin Mobile USA, arguably America's most fun-loving wireless provider. The new handset, dubbed "Shorty," further expands Virgin Mobile's portfolio of affordable, content-rich phones and will debut at retail this summer - just in time for back-to-school.
"The "Shorty" is high on style, function and reliability, and comes with an attractive price tag," said Dan Schulman, CEO of Virgin Mobile USA. "Nokia's unparalleled design and quality combined with Virgin Mobile's custom content and graphics will make this an extremely popular handset within the youth market."
It includes a full suite of features designed for a balance of fun and functionality. Optional user-changeable Xpress-on(TM) color covers allow users to change their phone faceplate when the mood strikes them, downloadable MIDI ring tones let users express themselves through music, and an integrated flashlight illuminates any situation.
A selection of advanced voice features including voice dialing, voice commands, voice memo recording and a built-in handsfree speakerphone truly optimize the power of voice. Data features include a wireless Internet browser, text messaging capability and PC synchronization of contact and organizer information.
"This device offers a great combination of easy-to-use features and attractive design in a compact, yet affordable package. This blend of value and style will appeal to everyone, but makes it an especially good choice for first-time buyers and prepaid users," said Timo Ihamuotila, senior vice president of CDMA for Nokia. "We're excited to be working with Virgin Mobile USA to introduce this new product with the special brand of youthful energy that they bring to the wireless marketplace."
About Nokia
Nokia is a world leader in mobile communications, driving the growth and sustainability of the broader mobility industry. Nokia connects people to each other and the information that matters to them with easy-to-use and innovative products like mobile phones, devices and solutions for imaging, games, media and businesses. Nokia provides equipment, solutions and services for network operators and corporations. www.nokia.com.
About Virgin Mobile USA, LLC:
Launched nationally in July of 2002, Virgin Mobile USA, LLC has redefined and set the pace for the entire prepaid wireless category. More than three million wireless users have chosen Virgin Mobile's Pay As You Go service with no long-term contracts and no hidden fees. In addition, J.D. Power and Associates has recognized Virgin Mobile for providing "An Outstanding Customer Service Experience" under its Certified Call Center Program.SM
The nation's first mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), Virgin Mobile is a joint venture between Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Group and Sprint, which operates one of the largest 100-percent digital, nationwide PCS wireless networks in the United States. It is the first wireless provider to focus exclusively on the needs and desires of the youth. All Virgin Mobile customers have access to VirginXtras - a host of music, entertainment and fun lifestyle features, including exclusive content from strategic partner MTV: Music Television. Customers with 3G-enabled phones also have access to VirginXL - the high-octane version of VirginXtras featuring picture messaging, downloadable games and more.
Virgin Mobile phones and Top-Up cards are available direct on the Web at www.virginmobileusa.com; at 888-322-1122; or, at more than 20,000 locations, including Amazon.com, Best Buy, Coconuts, CompUSA, F.Y.E., Media Play, RadioShack, Rite Aid, Safeway, Sam Goody, Sprint Stores, Strawberries, Target Stores, Wal*Mart, Virgin Megastores and select college bookstores. Top-Up cards are also available at more than 57,000 locations, including Circle K, CVS and 7-Eleven stores.
Media Inquiries:
Nokia Americas
Communications
Tel. +1 972 894 4573
E-mail: communication.corp@nokia.com
Sue D'Agostino
Virgin Mobile USA
Tel. +1 908 607 4105
E-mail: sdagostino@virginmobileusa.com