Commercial launch of Comfone wireless VoIP solution

Selection of Cicero Network's dual-mode client solution completes service functionality of Comfone's wireless Voice over IP solution

Bern, Switzerland, 19 July 2006 - Comfone today announces the commercial launch of its wireless Voice over IP service, Comfone wVoIP. The solution, now available on the market, enables operators to deliver voice and text services using wireless VoIP (wVoIP) technology and existing GSM networks, seamlessly. The functionality of Comfone's innovative service was competed by the choice of Cicero Networks as provider of the dual-mode client software (CiceroPhone) necessary to complete the service.

About Comfone wVoIP

To offer the wVoIP service to their subscribers, operators need only to establish a standard, unilateral GSM roaming relation with Comfone. This requires no up-front investment or network adaptation. As a result, time-to-market for these services is significantly reduced, allowing the potential for substantial ‘first-mover’ advantages. "The unique aspect of Comfone's wVoIP service is it enables mobile operators to maintain their relationship with existing subscribers, and also attract new customers, as the telecoms market moves towards an era of convergence", said Raphael Karlen, Senior Product Manager, Comfone.

GSM Association processes for roaming relations are automatically adhered to through the use of existing techniques for user authentication (based on GSM-SIM cards), signaling and clearing, just as they are with a normal roaming relation.

“Comfone’s wVoIP service offers mobile operators a highly compelling proposition for international roaming. Using this service, subscribers can take advantage of the most cost effective network for calls and messaging ”, said Lorcan Burke, VP Sales, Cicero Networks. “The ability to have one device and one number for all calls – GSM or VoIP - is a clear winner.”

By using a dual-mode, GSM / WLAN handset, end-users can choose their preferred service, i.e. wVoIP when in WLAN coverage or GSM. Regardless of their network choice, users can keep the same number for both services. Full mobility combined with only one handset, a user-friendly solution and one bill addresses customer satisfaction. Comfone’s wVoIP allows operators to take control of the business opportunity presented by wVoIP and will enable them to generate new revenue streams.

About Comfone
Comfone supplies mobile operators with services for the worldwide interconnection of mobile networks, so-called 'roaming'. Founded in 1997 with the goal to provide efficient solutions in the field of international roaming Comfone’s service portfolio is currently unique in the world. Comfone is the first Roaming Broker and the only operator of an international roaming platform. Responding to the new trends towards convergence, the company announced its innovative Comfone wVoIP service at the 3GSM World Congress 2006 in Barcelona, Spain, which combines all the advantages of GSM together with wireless VoIP functionality.
With head offices in Bern, Switzerland, Comfone is 75% owned by four founding members who are actively involved in the company. The company comprises about 70 employees, consisting of 13 nationalities who speak a total of 16 languages. Further services include: Signaling Solutions (SS7), Data, Financial, SMS and MMS Interworking Clearing, Roaming Management, and data services (GRX and MMS Hub) for GPRS and MMS.

About Cicero Networks
Cicero Networks is a leading provider of wireless VoIP solutions enabling telecommunication service providers to deliver fixed-mobile convergence services to their enterprise and residential customers. Cicero Network’s SIP-based solutions optimise the delivery of carrier-grade voice and other media services over alternative wireless networks including Wi-Fi, 3G and WiMAX. Founded in 2002, the company is headquartered in Dublin, Ireland and is privately funded.