SAN FRANCISCO -- Option N.V. (EURONEXT Brussels: OPTI; OTC: OPNVY), the wireless technology company, today announced that its embedded wireless modules and Linux-based connection management software have been selected by Compal Electronics (Taiwan: 2324.tw) to provide HSPA 3G connectivity to a new range of Mobile Internet Devices (MIDs). The Compal Group is the world's second largest original device manufacturer (ODM) - a specialist manufacturer of products on behalf of major brands. The company has a market capitalization of 4 billion US dollar.
"The multi-year agreement represents a key milestone in our initiative to become the leading supplier of 3G wireless broadband connectivity in the emerging market for MIDs," said Jan Callewaert, CEO Option. "In less than a year, our acquisition of part of the former BenQ/Siemens Mobile R&D resources and our collaboration with Intel have made Option an important partner for ODMs and OEMs within the MID ecosystem."
Independent analysts forecast that demand for always-connected Mobile Internet Devices could reach 90 million units a year by 2012.
The first Compal product is an MID with integrated multimedia player and retractable keyboard which offers anywhere, anytime access to the internet and popular web-based services such as email, instant messaging and social networks. The device incorporates GPS to enable it to take advantage of innovative location based services and applications. The new MID also includes GlobeTrotter Connect for Linux: connection management software specially developed by Option for Mobile Internet Devices based on the Intel® Centrino® Atom(TM) processor technology. Option is currently working with Compal to secure certification and operator validation for this device in multiple markets.
Based on Option's ultra-compact GTM501 wireless module, a Developers Kit has been assembled to enable ODMs to develop 3G connectivity solutions for their mobile internet devices and other portable consumer electronic devices. The Developers Kit is already shipping to ODMs and OEMs. With the GTM501, the GlobeTrotter Connect for Linux and the Developers Kit, Option clearly demonstrates that it is ready to contribute to the success of the new MID category.
Compal's new MID will feature on the Option booth (N° 412) at IDF, the Intel Developer Forum, in San Francisco (August 19-21) where Option will also be demonstrating GlobeTrotter Connect for Linux and its new GTM501 Developers Kit.
Option NV (Euronext: OPTI; Nasdaq Europe: OPIN)