One phone to accommodate several wireless standards
Why have one wireless standard when you can have a phone that will accommodate several? As well as multiple frequency bands? This phone will allow AT&T to transition from their IS-136 wireless network to GSM. One note, many writers now refer to IS-136 as simply TDMA which causes much confusion. GSM and IS-136 actually both use TDMA as their operating method or access technology.
IRVING, Texas -- (January 7, 2002) - Today, Nokia announced the new Nokia 6340 (GSM 1900MHz/TDMA 800/1900MHz/AMPS) wireless phone, the world's first GAIT (GSM ANSI Interoperability Team) compliant handset, allowing users to roam between GSM, TDMA and analog networks. Along with the multiple network compatibility afforded by the Nokia 6340 phone, other new features include a wallet that enables quick wireless transactions. Shipments are expected to begin during the first half of 2002.
"As TDMA carriers prepare for the future by building and integrating GSM technology into their systems, the Nokia 6340 wireless phone will give operators the flexibility to allow for roaming between their current and future networks," said Pekka Vartiainen, senior vice president of sales for Nokia. "Additionally, since roaming is seamless and automatic, consumers will have the ability to use all of their digital services in both TDMA and GSM service areas without having to worry about what kind of technology is being used in a particular area."