Go Wireless with Sony Magic Link Communicator; Wireless Modem Link Software Allows Users to Maximize Productivity Anytime, Anywhere
SAN JOSE, Calif. — February 20, 1996 — Sony Electronics today announced the availability of its new Wireless Modem Link software, an easy-to-use package that lets users connect a Magic Link communicator to a cellular phone enabling wireless communication.
With Wireless Modem Link software, a cellular-ready PC modem card and a cable, users can now send faxes, send or receive e-mail and access the Internet via their cellular phone. This wireless solution is available for both models of the Magic Link communicator (PIC-1000 and PIC-2000).
"Sony wanted to develop a wireless option that takes advantage of existing cellular phone services," said Alex Gruzen, director of marketing for Sony Electronics' Personal Information Company. "The Wireless Modem Link is an affordable and simple solution that allows customers to use the cellular phone they already own with the Magic Link communicator."
Gruzen said that Sony's Wireless Modem Link software is easy to install and offers an intuitive touch-screen interface. With this software, the Magic Link communicator automatically recognizes when a modem card is inserted, immediately bringing up the appropriate selection menu to initiate a wireless connection. Wireless Modem Link supports two popular industry-standard cellular modem PC cards, the APEX MobilePlus V.32 bis or V.34 and the AT&T KeepInTouch card.
The Wireless Modem Link software is compatible with most popular brands of cellular phones made by AT&T, GE/Ericsson, Mitsubishi/DiamondTel, Motorola, NEC and Nokia/Technophone. The software also supports Metricom's Ricochet, a wireless modem and data service that gives users online access to the Internet or local and wide area networks.
The Wireless Modem Link package is now available directly from Sony for a retail price of $ 49.95. A complete connectivity bundle is also available directly from Sony for $ 299.95, which includes Sony's wireless Modem Link software, a cellular modem PC card and cable.
The PIC-2000 Magic Link product is the latest addition to Sony's line of personal intelligent communicators. This powerful, flexible communications tool includes a backlit screen, an industry-standard 14.4K modem, 2 MB memory, dual PC Card slots, a speakerphone and Magic Cap Version 1.5 operating system.
Third-party software applications that offer access to the Internet and existing e-mail systems are currently available for the PIC-2000 Magic Link communicator.
In addition, the communicator also comes bundled with a wide variety of software packages for online services, including America OnLine, one of the country's fastest-growing online services; AT&T PersonaLink, an advanced e-mail service that connects customers through smart electronic mailboxes; and OAG FlightLine, an airline information service for frequent travelers.
Sony's PIC-2000 Magic Link personal intelligent communicator is now shipping and has a suggested retail price of $ 899.95. The PIC-1000 Magic Link communicator is currently available through major computer retail outlets for a suggested retail price of $ 499.95. To purchase the Magic Link communicators, Wireless Modem Link software, or related products direct from Sony, customers can call 800/571-SONY.
Based in San Jose, Sony Electronics' Personal Information Company develops and markets products for the mobile communications market. Customer service and consumer product information for the family of Magic Link personal communicators are available seven days a week by calling Sony at 800/55-MAGIC. Service and support also are available to PC and Macintosh system users through Sony's Magic Link Information Center on America Online or on the Magic Link home page on the World Wide Web at http://www.sel.Sony.com/SEL/Magic/.
CONTACT:
Sony Electronics Inc., San Jose, Calif.
Manny Vara, 408/955-5142
[email protected]
or
Technology Solutions Inc.
Joshua Weinberg, 408/280-6000, ext. 208
[email protected]