MobileSoft Announces New Electronic Distribution Channel for Windows CE Software
SUNNYVALE, Calif. — May 12, 1997 — MobileSoft today announced a new electronic software distribution (ESD) channel for Windows CE software to support the new Handheld PCs entering the market. The new MobileSoft channel features both an Internet offering at www.mobilesoft.com and a range of titles available via a CD-ROM. The CD will be on sale at selected retailers and also included with Handheld PCs from many of the leading hardware manufacturers.
"On-the-go professionals are seeking ways to become more productive when they are away from the office," said Glyn O'Connell, MobileSoft director of sales and marketing. "The first half of the solution is the powerful new Handheld PCs running Windows CE. The second is the provision of a wide range of software titles that can be obtained easily and securely via the convenience of our new electronic software distribution channel. Our mission is to satisfy the growing consumer demand for enhanced productivity by providing the very best in Windows CE software solutions."
The new channel provides a comprehensive and diverse portfolio of quality Windows CE software titles covering productivity, communication, information management, travel aids, finance, desktop connectivity, entertainment and utilities. In many cases, MobileSoft is the exclusive source for these titles.
"We applaud MobileSoft in its efforts to help build the new H/PC market," said John Magill, director of marketing, Consumer Appliance Group at Microsoft. "The new MobileSoft electronic distribution channel embodies what Windows CE and the H/PC stands for — convenience, accessibility and breakthrough technology."
How It Works
As MobileSoft's ESD clearinghouse, Release Software provides the technology and service to enable MobileSoft users to download software directly from the MobileSoft Web site or purchase titles off the CD-ROM. Through the Release SalesAgent technology, many of the software titles can be tried before they are purchased. Once a user decides to make a purchase, he or she can pay electronically, unlocking the software at the touch of a key via the Internet or direct modem. Alternatively, they can negotiate payment through fax, phone or mail.
"Traditionally, software developers have had a difficult time selling products designed for new hardware platforms, and Windows CE developers are no exception," said Agnes Imregh, Release Software CEO. "That's why Release Software worked closely with MobileSoft to create a new distribution channel for Windows CE software. Using Release Software's SalesAgent technology, MobileSoft can create a channel where none previously existed."
What Market Analysts Say
"With Windows CE devices expected to capture 38% of the PC Companion segment in the United States for 1997, it's important that new distribution channels and marketing programs for applications are established," said Diana Hwang, senior industry analyst, International Data Corp.
"MobileSoft is uniquely addressing the needs of all participants — hardware OEMs, ISVs, and customers — in this newly emerging Handheld PC market," said Chris Shipley, editor and publisher, DEMOLetter. "Their new electronic software distribution channel will help hardware manufacturers establish the H/PC market. ISVs can support the new platform with the assurance they will have access to the market. And H/PC owners have a convenient source of always-available software titles to maximize and enrich the experience."
MobileSoft founded in Fall of 1996 and headquartered in Sunnyvale, Calif., is an independent division of Philips Electronics North America. The company's mission is to be the premier distributor of software for the new range of Handheld PCs featuring the Windows CE operating system through electronic software distribution.
SOURCE: MobileSoft
CONTACT:
Glyn O'Connell of MobileSoft, 408-481-1906, or [email protected];
or
Barbara Kohn, 408-324-4848, or [email protected],
or
Marnee Clement, 408-324-4848, or [email protected], both of Brodeur Porter Novelli, for MobileSoft