Qualcomm Inc (QCOM)

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Qualcomm Gets a Foothold in the UK

http://www.cellular-news.com/story/14741.php

Qualcomm has signed an agreement with O2 UK to use uiOne to develop a consistent user interface (UI), initially for two of its own-branded X range devices. With this agreement, O2 becomes the first operator in Europe to announce plans to deploy uiOne. It is expected that O2 devices that use the new platform will be available in late 2006.

The open and flexible uiOne offering will provide the ability for UI updates to be delivered over the air (OTA). This update capability will enable O2 to provision new content into the UI such as branding refreshes, promotions and entertainment content as well as periodic software or feature upgrades.

"This agreement demonstrates O2's commitment to providing its customers with the ability to customize their user interfaces on its own branded devices," said Peggy Johnson, president of Qualcomm Internet Services. "uiOne is a logical step for true differentiation in the wireless marketplace and will provide time-to-market, revenue and branding benefits to give O2's mobile offering further differentiation in one of Europe's most competitive markets."

"Our X range devices are a key part of our business strategy. We see this uiOne implementation on part of our X range as complementary to our existing partnerships in providing a consistent user interface that our customers are able to easily identify with," said Ian Clarke, head of devices for O2 UK. "This agreement will enable O2 to further develop our understanding of customizing customers' mobile phones, allowing them to personalize their mobile experience."