Orange
& Microsoft Launch Windows SmartphoneOrange
First with the Powerful and Affordable SPV23 October
2002 Orange
SPV prices Microsoft corp. and Orange SA today
announced the launch of the world’s first Windows® Powered
Smartphone – the Orange SPV – heralding the start of a new
mobile revolution. Customers across Europe will now be able to experience
the vision of a truly wirefree world accessing what they want, when
they want it, wherever they are. The SPV –
which stands for Sound Pictures Video – is a new class of mobile
phone that combines high-resolution colour, speed and exciting applications
such as full web access, easy-to-use wirefree email and instant messaging
– all on a small, stylish mobile handset. It gives customers the
freedom to personalise their phone and add their own applications.
The SPV is the first in a range of phones that will act as a vehicle
through which Orange will deliver its vision of the wirefree future Orange
customers will have access to a range of Orange and Microsoft applications
and services including Photo Messaging, email, calendar, contacts,
personal information services, instant messaging, Pocket Internet Explorer
and Windows Media® Player. Many of the functions can be synchronised
with a Windows-based desktop PC, enabling seamless synchronisation
with services such as Microsoft Outlook® email and calendar software
(Microsoft Outlook for Windows is included with the SPV). An attachable
camera – allowing customers to take and send photos to friends
– will also be included with the phone. The SPV even allows customers
to back-up their contacts and calendar onto the Orange network so they
know their details are safe and can be restored at any time. Customers
can also have new applications and services downloaded or upgraded
over the air. Orange worked with Microsoft and hardware
manufacturer High Tech Corporation (HTC) to create the SPV. Orange
assisted Microsoft in the testing and fine-tuning of the Smartphone
software and worked with HTC to develop the initial hardware builds
to deliver an exclusive Orange phone with a unique look and feel, and
set of services. Every touch point the customer has with Orange has
been considered - not only the navigation experience and services on
the phone, but also the highly-trained customer services in all Orange
retail, dealer outlets, and customer service centres.
The Windows Powered SPV is the first in a range
of devices that will deliver a world of simple and innovative
services to Orange customers. The SPV is due to be available across
the UK in early November with a recommended retail price of £179
(including camera, cradle, charger, SD memory card and subject
to a 12-month Orange contract).
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