L.M. Ericsson introduced a mobile Internet portal solution developed for wireless networks called the Ericsson WISE Portal. WISE was designed as a single point of access for various Internet-enabled devices, including personal computers, browser-enabled mobile phones and connected personal digital assistants. It supports both short message service, Wireless Application Protocol and other Internet Protocol technologies. Norwegian operator Telenor has agreed to test the portal on its network.
IBM Corp. and AT&T Wireless Services Inc. announced a plan to provide wireless access to corporate data via the Internet, intranet and corporate databases, combining IBM’s software with AT&T’s Cellular Digital Packet Data network and future third-generation voice networks. IBM also said it plans to join AT&T’s Developer Program as a premier member.
IPmobile Inc. said venture capital firms Sevin Rosen Funds and North Bridge Venture Partners have provided a combined $6.5 million for the wireless communications equipment company’s first round of investment funding. IPmobile, which focuses on transforming raw radio capacity into managed and IP service-ready bandwidth, hopes to use the funding to enhance its Airscape technology offering wireless service providers the capability to deliver wireless Internet service that doesn’t depend on Wireless Application Protocol or third-generation protocols.
Telephone and Data Systems Inc.’s board of directors has authorized the repurchase of up to 2 million common shares, or about 3.7 percent of the company’s public float, at its discretion as market conditions warrant. “The stock repurchase program we are announcing underlies our determination at TDS to create value for our shareholders,” explained LeRoy Carlson, president and chief executive officer for TDS.
