Sprint Joins the Strength of its two Networks to Offer Customers Industry-First Phones, Power to Do More

Sprint Joins the Strength of its two Networks to Offer Customers Industry-First Phones, Power to Do More

Sprint (NYSE: S) and Motorola, Inc. (NYSE: MOT) today announced nationwide availability of its PowerSource™ phones and the first-in-the-category, the Motorola BuzzTM ic502 and the Motorola BlendTM ic402. An industry first, these phones represent a new category of handsets that utilize the Nextel National Network (iDEN) for walkie-talkie services and the Sprint Nationwide Network (CDMA) for voice and data services. Bringing together the best of both networks, Sprint customers now have the power to make voice calls; communicate instantly with Nextel Walkie-Talkie services; and stay connected with Sprint Text Messaging, GPS and other advanced applications, all with one single phone.

“The launch of Sprint’s PowerSource™ phones represents the power of two strong companies coming together to deliver Nextel’s industry-leading walkie-talkie services and powerful Sprint voice and data services to customers on a single device,” said Oliver Valente, senior vice president of product development for Sprint. “By combining the strength of our two networks into one phone, Sprint gives customers the power to get more done.”

Handset Features and Functionality: The Buzz and Blend will utilize both of Sprint’s networks depending upon the service being used. For walkie-talkie services, the handset will operate on the Nextel National Network (iDEN) giving customers the ability to instantly connect with more than 20 million other Nextel walkie-talkie users coast to coast. Customers can also use walkie-talkie service in and between up to five countries (Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Mexico and Peru) on the world’s largest walkie-talkie network.* The Buzz and Blend also support Direct Talk for short-range off-network walkie-talkie conversations between users with other Direct Talk-capable Nextel phones. Sprint is the pioneer with over 13 years experience in the walkie-talkie market and continues to provide customers with sub-second latency, innovative features and international coverage for the power to get things done instantly with Nextel Walkie-Talkie service.

Voice and data services will be delivered via the Sprint Nationwide Network. Sprint plans offer the largest wireless voice calling area reaching 259 million people in the U.S., Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Guam. Sprint also offers a comprehensive suite of unmatched data services and capabilities. Sprint Vision includes services on these handsets that allow customers to browse the Internet; check email; and download voice ringers, graphically rich games and screen savers, all on the enhanced Sprint Nationwide Network.*

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