Motorola (NYSE:MOT) today announced a memorandum of understanding with wireless gaming upstart UIEvolution which calls for UIEvolution to develop multi-player games for Motorola's next- generation mobile handsets, allowing users to play interactive games between multiple wireless handsets for the first time.
UIEvolution is utilizing Sun Microsystems' Java(TM) 2 Platform, Micro Edition (J2ME(TM)) technology to develop wireless applications. As a participant in Motorola's J2ME technology-based developer program, UIEvolution will initially offer favorites such as chess, checkers, hangman, and Space Invaders, but with a major twist - true interactivity.
"As we've seen in other parts of the world, users love simple wireless games that they can play with their friends anywhere, any time," said Satoshi Nakajima, founder, president and CEO of UIEvolution. "Our first-generation gaming applications are about exciting game play and interacting with other people. We consider our games another form of personal communication."
This alliance has been established in anticipation of Motorola's J2ME technology-enabled multiple communication handsets, which are expected to be available in the first half of 2001 through iDEN(R) network operators including Nextel Communications and Southern LINC in the United States and TELUS Mobility/Clearnet in Canada.
"Users can customize their handsets with applications such as entertainment and business programs, depending on their preferences," said Bill Werner, corporate vice president of Motorola and general manager of the company's iDEN Subscriber Group. "UIEvolution's end-to-end gaming experience is a great way for Motorola to showcase the interactive functionality of our next-generation handsets."
The combination of Sun's J2ME technology and the iDEN network's packet data capability enables users to play network-based games without the need to establish a dial-up connection.
"UIEvolution's games are an exciting demonstration of the range and richness of interactive entertainment services that developers can bring to market with J2ME technology in mobile phones," said Curtis Sasaki, director of technology evangelism at Sun Microsystems. "Their vision for the wireless Internet, as evidenced by their innovative games, is a great example of how the Java platform can allow handset manufacturers, operators and content creators to differentiate their offerings and provide new, compelling value to consumers." About Motorola and iDEN
Motorola, Inc. (NYSE: MOT) is a global leader in providing integrated communications solutions and embedded electronic solutions. Sales in 1999 were $33.1 billion. For more information visit www.motorola.com.
iDEN handsets combine the capabilities of an Internet-ready digital wireless phone, text pager, and two-way radio to enable users to instantly communicate with one or hundreds of individuals at the push of a button. For further information on iDEN handsets, visit www.motorola.com/iden.
Motorola's iDEN developer support program provides developers with virtually everything they need to develop applications for Motorola's J2ME-enabled iDEN handsets, including tools, technical support, marketing, and distribution. For more information or to obtain a free CD-ROM, visit www.motorola.com/idendev. (a) About UIEvolution
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