Pirelli Broadband Solutions Launches GSM/WI-FI Dual-Mode Phone



Building on its pioneering role as a VoIP over WLAN solutions provider, Pirelli introduces a new line of low-cost, consumer-oriented dual-mode phones targeting Fixed-Mobile Convergence (FMC) applications

Milan -/April 21, 2006 - Wi-Fi Technology News/- Pirelli Broadband Solutions, the broadband access and photonics company within the Pirelli Group, announced the world debut of its first dual-mode handset, targeting the growing FMC trend, at VON Europe in Stockholm on 16-18 May, 2006.

The Pirelli Discus? DualPhone DP-L10, based on 3GPP standards, combines GSM tri-band capabilities with SIP-based VoIP via an integrated WLAN 802.11g interface, integrating cell phone technology with the added advantage of transporting phone calls over the Internet. Designed to switch between GSM and WLAN VoIP networks, automatically or by the individual user, the DualPhone allows users to enjoy the convenience of one handset that acts as both a mobile and a broadband cordless phone. Consumers will be able to make regular cell phone calls using any GSM SIM card or VoIP calls through a Wi-Fi-enabled xDSL subscription. The DualPhone enables mobile phone features, such as Internet browsing, e-mail, SMS, and MMS, which can also be used through a fixed-broadband connection, providing the same mobile services with the added benefits of greater bandwidth and cost savings.

For telecommunications operators, the DualPhone can bring balance to fixed vs. mobile competition by reducing fixed-to-mobile substitution and provide new revenue opportunities through converged-service offerings based on IMS network architectures. The DualPhone is currently undergoing interoperability tests with several leading European telecom operators.

"The Pirelli Discus? DualPhone DP-L10 builds on our innovative broadband access technologies and strong experience as a solutions partner in Wi-Fi VoIP services," said Corrado Rocca, senior vice president, Broadband Access Products, for Pirelli Broadband Solutions. "While built on industry-standard protocols that guarantee interoperability, the Pirelli DualPhone is distinguished by enhanced software that enables carrier-class services, delivering features such as seamless roaming, zero-touch registration and remote manageability. For the consumer, this means no noticeable difference in user experience when transitioning between GSM and Wi-Fi VoIP networks."

Rocca added, "Pirelli's DualPhone provides an incredible market opportunity for telecom operators. For the past several years, fixed-line operators have been losing revenue and subscribers to mobile operators. The DualPhone enables operators to recapture their market share and truly add value to the traditional telephony offering."

Pirelli Broadband Solutions offers a service-oriented home and business networking solution. Complementary products to the DualPhone include a WLAN extender, a self-configuring Wi-Fi repeater that supports indoor coverage and WLAN roaming, access gateways, devices designed to support QoS and configuration needs of dual-mode telephony, and a TR-069 remote management platform, which enables service provisioning, diagnostics and software upgrades for all installed customer premises equipment including the DualPhone.

Pirelli Broadband Solutions specialises in broadband access technology and photonics. The Access division provides a range of broadband CPE, including access gateways, set-top boxes, multiple handsets, and a remote management system. The Photonics division leverages nanotechnology and its use of tunable and pluggable solutions to deliver multi-wavelength components, modules and subsystems, including tunable lasers, GPON triplexers, an integrable tunable laser assembly, radio over fiber and a CWDM metro access system. http://www.pirelli.com