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by QUALCOMM
Proof-of-Concept
Event Highlights Safe and Reliable Mobile Phone Technology Using CDMA on a
Commercial Aircraft
FORT WORTH, Texas and SAN DIEGO — July 15, 2004 — QUALCOMM Incorporated
(Nasdaq: QCOM), pioneer and world leader of Code Division Multiple Access
(CDMA) digital wireless technology, and American Airlines, the world’s
largest carrier, today successfully demonstrated in-cabin voice
communications using commercially available CDMA mobile phones on a
commercial American Airlines aircraft. Through the use of an in-cabin
third-generation (3G) “picocell” network, passengers on the test flight
were able to place and receive calls as if they were on the ground.
The proof-of-concept demonstration flight originated out of the
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. During the approximate two-hour
flight, passengers were able to place and receive phone calls and text
messages on their mobile phones. Passengers included members of the media
and government representatives.
A small in-cabin CDMA cellular base station on the plane, that uses
standard cellular communications, was connected to the worldwide
terrestrial phone network by an air-to-ground Globalstar satellite link.
The information gathered during this proof-of-concept demonstration flight
will be used to further research into the quality, convenience and safety
of communications with personal CDMA mobile phones carried by passengers
on a commercial aircraft.
“We are pleased to have worked so closely with American Airlines to
complete this proof-of-concept demonstration for the in-flight use of 3G
CDMA technology,” said Dr. Irwin Jacobs, chairman and CEO of QUALCOMM.
“Together, we have anticipated the future needs of wireless subscribers in
the airline industry and are aggressively driving the delivery of
innovative solutions to meet those needs.”
“Today, American Airlines and QUALCOMM showcased their strength as
technology pioneers and market leaders in their respective industries,”
said Dan Garton, executive vice president of marketing for American
Airlines. “American is committed to researching and providing innovative,
cutting-edge products and services that enhance our passengers’ traveling
experience and give our customers what they value. Even though commercial
availability of cell phone use in flight is approximately 24 months away,
American Airlines knows that our customers want to stay connected and this
proof-of-concept event is an important step in bringing in-cabin wireless
services to our customers.”
As a leader in technology, American Airlines continues to explore
communication solutions that include broadband wireless connectivity and
cellular communication.
QUALCOMM is well positioned to lead the research and development of mobile
phone solutions while continuing to work closely with the aviation
industry to ensure the use of safe and reliable communications within
aircraft cabins. The Company brings a deep understanding of and extensive
experience in developing CDMA technology to research and participation
with aviation standards groups, such as the Radio Technical Commission for
Aeronautics (RTCA), and regulatory bodies, including the Federal
Communications Commission (FCC) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
American Airlines is the world’s largest carrier. American, American Eagle
and the AmericanConnection regional carriers serve more than 250 cities in
over 40 countries with almost 4,200 daily flights. The combined network
fleet numbers more than 1,000 aircraft. American’s award-winning Web site,
AA.com, provides users with easy access to check and book fares, plus
personalized news, information and travel offers. American Airlines is a
founding member of the one world Alliance.
QUALCOMM Incorporated (www.qualcomm.com) is a leader in developing and
delivering innovative digital wireless communications products and
services based on the Company’s CDMA digital technology. Headquartered in
San Diego, Calif., QUALCOMM is included in the S&P 500 Index and is a 2003
FORTUNE 500® company traded on The Nasdaq Stock Market® under the ticker
symbol QCOM.
Except for the historical information contained herein, this news release
contains forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and
uncertainties, including the Company’s ability to successfully design,
develop the product discussed, the extent and speed to which such products
are accepted in the market, change in economic conditions of the various
markets the Company serves, as well as the other risks detailed from time
to time in the Company’s SEC reports, including the report on Form 10-K
for the year ended September 28, 2003, and most recent Form 10-Q.
QUALCOMM is a registered trademark of QUALCOMM Incorporated. All other
trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
QUALCOMM Contacts:
Patty Goodwin, Corporate Public Relations
Phone: 1-858- 651-4127
E-mail: [email protected]
Other Contacts:
Billy Sanez, Corporate Public Relations
American Airlines
Phone: 1-817-967-1577
E-mail: [email protected]
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