Skype, Thomson Team

INDIANAPOLIS -- Thomson, (Euronext Paris: 18453; NYSE: TMS) the leader of telecoms solutions serving end-user needs and Skype, the global Internet communications company, are teaming up to optimize and deliver an extended family of consumer products. The initial result of the companies’ joint efforts is the GE DECT 6.0™ (Digital Enhanced Cordless Technology) Wireless Handset, Thomson’s first product with integrated Skype™ capabilities. The new device, GE Model 28300EE2, delivers high quality, interference-free signals, enabling both landline and Skype calling, as well as Internet and traditional line conferencing. The Skype Certified™ DECT Wireless Handset for Skype will be available this fall at a suggested retail price of $149.

“Now consumers can seamlessly integrate Skype Internet calling convenience into their daily lifestyle, switching effortlessly between traditional land-line and Internet calls,” said Tom Bratton, Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Thomson Consumer Network Solutions. “And since the system is expandable to up to six handsets, you can now easily have cordless interference-free DECT 6.0 wireless handsets for Skype in every room of the house!”

DECT 6.0 is a powerful technology built into Thomson’s new wireless handset offerings, delivering interference free calling with exceptional voice quality. DECT 6.0 permits delivery of calls without the static, pops, hiss and buzz which severely hinder the performance of most wireless home and small office telephones. Widely used throughout Europe and Asia, DECT 6.0 solves many of the most common consumer complaints in the use of cordless telephones.

Thomson S.A. (NYSE: TMS; Euronext Paris: 18453)