Ericsson Bags 3G Video Deal

STOCKHOLM -- Ericsson and Hutchison Whampoa Limited have signed a global agreement for Ericsson's new Video Gateway System, a unique end-to-end solution supporting video telephony between personal computers and 3G mobile videophones for Hutchison 3G markets worldwide.For end users, video telephony is one of the most interesting and exciting distinguishing features of emerging 3G mobile networks. Consumer surveys consistently indicate strong interest and demand for these premium services. Now with the Video Gateway System solution, live video telephony communication between users of fixed-line and 3G mobile multimedia networks is made possible. Ericsson and Hutchison have been working closely together on Video Gateway System and are currently testing the service in Italy, the UK and Hong Kong.Hutchison's Group Managing Director Canning Fok commented, "We are writing a new chapter of the digital revolution. Like the Internet and mobile telephony before it, 3G will change the way people lead their lives. With our 3 videophones and the new Video Gateway System, you will be able to make video calls with your friends all over the world, even in those countries without 3G services. The Video Gateway System will help to enhance both the usefulness and enjoyment that we espouse in our 3 services."At the heart of the Video Gateway System solution is the gateway that handles the conversion between the Internet Protocol (IP) platform used in fixed-line PC access and the global 3G standard (3GPP) used in third-generation mobile multimedia and communications networks. The Video Gateway System solution is based on open standards and enables the use of advanced voice and video codecs, telephony services, user account management facilities, and built-in quality of service utilities.LM EricssonHutchison Whampoa Ltd.