IBM to Enable Mobile e-business for HTC's Handheld Devices

SHANGHAI, CHINA - IBM announced that High Tech Computer Corp., an original design manufacturer (ODM) for smart handheld devices, will enable select wireless devices, smartphones and wireless Pocket PCs with a range of IBM middleware and tools, including WebSphere Micro Environment and IBM Embedded Via Voice. In turn, HTC's customers, such as wireless carriers and PC makers, will be able to offer end-users new offerings and services, potentially unlocking new revenue streams. With IBM's embedded middleware, HTC will be able to develop devices that can connect readily to the enterprise, bringing e-Business on Demand to the mobile world. These devices, combining Java technology, speech, and other embedded technologies, can allow wireless carriers to enable a range of new services including mobile access to applications such as e-mail, corporate databases and games and will also support the ability to conduct transactions. In addition to IBM Embedded ViaVoice, which enables speech technology on devices, and IBM's Java runtime WebSphere Micro Environment, HTC will also deploy WebSphere Studio Device Developer tools for development of wireless applications. Powered by Eclipse technology, WebSphere Studio Device Developer delivers productivity through integration by using the eclipse.org extensible architecture. Tools within WebSphere Studio Device Developer span the development lifecycle for wireless applications deployed to devices and provide the flexibility to manage multiple applications across multiple carriers and service providers. "In today's mobile world, computing is moving beyond PCs into devices. In response to the growing demand for anytime, anyplace access to digital information, IBM has combined the power of WebSphere with the enhanced features and functionality of new HTC devices," said Rodney Adkins, General Manager of IBM's Pervasive Computing Division. "IBM is extending existing enterprise applications out to these devices using open standards, enabling the creation of higher value services." "HTC constantly searches for new technologies that enhance the end user experience. Utilizing IBM software means HTC will offer the most convenient platform to interact and transact with tens of thousands of e-business applications worldwide," said HT Cho, president of HTC. "HTC is not only a ODM player, but also a device total solution provider."