Motorola on April 24 announced an alliance with MapInfo(R) Corporation to provide MapInfo'smiGuide(TM), a location-based application that delivers maps and driving directions, on Java(TM) technology-enabled handsets by Motorola. MapInfo's driving directions and map application will run on the new Motorola i85s and i50sx handsets which incorporate Java 2 Platform, Micro Edition (J2ME(TM)) technology. According to Motorola, these new phones will be available beginning this month through iDEN(R) network operators including Nextel Communications, Southern LINC and Pacific Wireless Technologies in the United States. TELUS Mobility in Canada will offer the i85s model in the coming months. MapInfo's miGuide application is expected to become available in the second half of the year. miGuide, a J2ME technology-based application designed for business travelers, enables users to access helpful location-aware information including yellow pages, retail business locations, maps and driving directions. The use of J2ME technology enables a seamless integration between the subscriber's application and the servers that provide the content while offering a feature-rich user experience, according to Bill Werner, corporate vice president of Motorola and general manager of the company's iDEN Subscriber Group. "Motorola is making an important, everyday task easier by offering iDEN handset users valuable location-based content from MapInfo," Werner said. "With these applications, users can conveniently view maps and driving directions on their iDEN mobile handsets." "The wireless world is about knowing where mobile customers are, what is around them and how to get them there," said Mark Cattini, president and CEO of MapInfo. "Success in the mobile location marketplace dictates the need for independent development platforms, which is one reason MapInfo is developing mobile applications for Motorola's Java-enabled handsets." About Motorola and iDEN Motorola, Inc. is a provider of integrated communications and embedded electronic solutions. Sales in 2000 were $37.6 billion. For more information visit www.motorola.com. iDEN handsets combine the capabilities of digital wireless phone with "always on" Internet access, 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 more information on iDEN handsets, visit www.motorola.com/iden. About MapInfo MapInfo Corporation, headquartered in Troy, N.Y., provides business intelligence solutions that are deployed across organizations to help them better understand their markets and customers. MapInfo solutions are available in 21 languages through a network of strategic partners and distribution channels in 60 countries. For more information visit www.mapinfo.com.
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