News release |
 |
Zi achieves V1.1 qualification for Bluetooth™ headset
Zi receives the Bluetooth v1.1 qualification from an independent qualifying body
HANNOVER, Germany and CALGARY, Alberta (March 13, 2002) - Zi Corporation (NASDAQ: ZICA) (TSE: ZIC), a leading provider of intelligent interface solutions and services, today announced that its Bluetooth headset offered by its Zi Services business unit has achieved the latest standard established by the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG), the Bluetooth v1.1 qualification. To obtain its certification, Zi's headset underwent independent third party testing by TÜV Rheinland Hong Kong Ltd, an unaffiliated certification authority.
The Zi Services Bluetooth headset H-20 is a superior headset design and utilizes the latest Ericsson Microelectronics Bluetooth component. Attributes of the device include a small form factor, excellent sound quality, usability and interoperability with other devices.
"With the newly qualified H-20, our customers are assured of a complete pre-certified headset, speeding the time to market for the Bluetooth terminal devices," said David Yang, general manager, Asia Pacific. "TUV's expert testing and certification services have made us one of the first Asian companies offering Bluetooth headsets qualified with the v1.1 program. We look forward to presenting our headset designs to existing and potential customers at CeBIT and anticipate positive reaction to the design, functionality and quality of these devices."
Zi Services Bluetooth headset H-20 is also offered as a production-ready design which can be customized to fit into different industrial designs. It will become generally available starting as early as April. At CeBIT 2002 in Hannover, Germany, Zi Services will be exhibiting the Bluetooth headsets in an assortment of styles and trendy colors.
"The readiness of Zi Bluetooth headsets for qualification coupled with our experience in Bluetooth qualification have largely accelerated a potentially lengthy process," said Stephan Wald, Bluetooth Qualification Body and Regional Business Field Manager Asia of TÜV Rheinland. "After completing our assessments and tests on the headset, we can confirm that the Zi headset is a well-engineered, quality device that has met all required specifications."
The Bluetooth qualification achievement allows companies to market their products under the Bluetooth trademark. The version 1.1 specifications, with significant interoperability improvements, are anticipated to be the Bluetooth standard for headsets in the foreseeable future. Globally, Zi Services become the fifth company to be v1.1 qualified and is well positioned to leverage their expertise in the development of new and advanced Bluetooth initiatives and provide their customers with leading edge solutions.
For a live demonstration of Zi Services Bluetooth headsets, visit Zi Services at Booth#12, Stand C65 in the Hong Kong Pavilion, Hall 13 from March 13 - 20, 2002 at the 2002 CeBIT.
About Zi
Zi Corporation is a market-driven technology company delivering intelligent interface solutions and services to enhance the user experience of wireless and consumer technologies. The company's telecom engineering division, Zi Services, provides Bluetooth and VoIP terminal devices that are natural and intuitive to use. Zi supports its strategic partners from offices in Calgary, Beijing, Hong Kong, San Francisco, Shenzhen and Stockholm. A publicly traded company, Zi Corporation is listed on the NASDAQ National Market (ZICA) and the Toronto Stock Exchange (ZIC).
-30-
For more information:
|
Media Inquiries: Shawn Kelly Zi Corporation Corporate Communications Manager Phone: 403 537 9770 skelly@zicorp.com Bluetooth™ Inquiries: Noel Tang Zi Corporation (HK) Ltd Marketing Communications Manager Phone: 852 2319 7669 ntang@zicorp.com.hk |
Investor Inquiries: Dale Kearns Zi Corporation Chief Financial Officer Phone: 403 233 8875 investor@zicorp.com www.zicorp.com |