RECENT NEWS FLASH 2000-14 (May 2000)

(Updated on May 5,  2000)

TECHNOLOGY

Microcell and Research In Motion Announce Joint Trials for Revolutionary High-Speed Wireless Data Applications - GPRS technology initiative to enable advanced wireless data solutions

Microcell Connexions Inc. and Research In Motion Limited announced their intent to proceed with trials to jointly test high-speed mobile data services that are based on GPRS wireless technology.

GPRS is a new wireless technology standard, expected to alter and improve the data services that can be added to Microcell's GSM-based personal communications services network. An over-the-air system for transmitting data on GSM networks, GPRS technology converts wireless data into standard Internet packets, enabling interoperability between the Internet and the GSM network. It is expected to enable data speeds up to ten times as fast as current PCS networks, and three times as fast as wireline telephone networks.

GPRS optimizes network capacity by using bandwidth only when it is needed. In addition, several data transmissions from different users can share the same channel. The GPRS technology standard also supports fast point-to-point communication through wireless handsets with long battery life designed to enable a constant Internet connection. The result is technology that will allow end-users to cost-effectively remain constantly connected and send and receive data much faster.

Microcell Connexions and RIM will conduct live technical trials this year, using specially equipped GSM sites established by Microcell.  The high data speeds of GPRS allow for business-to-business and business-to-consumer Internet applications to go wireless meaning that files, faxes, e-mail, the Internet and other data can be accessed immediately.

For more information, go to http://www.rim.net/go/Press/PDynamic.html?name=pr-04_05_000

Mobileinfo Advisory and Comment:

GPRS is a 2.5 generation implementation allowing current GSM networks to offer higher speed for data applications. It may allow Microcell to move ahead of its competition in terms of wireless data speed in the interim until such time 3G networks are rolled out. 

Note: This news release may contain forward-looking statements. Readers should take appropriate caution in developing plans utilizing these products, services and technology architectures.

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