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	<title>Plantronics Press Room &#187; US/Corporate</title>
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	<description>Plantronics Press Room</description>
	<pubDate>Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:25:11 +0000</pubDate>
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		<title>Plantronics Wins Prestigious Best of CES Innovations 2010 Design and Engineering Award</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-wins-prestigious-best-of-ces-innovations-2010-design-and-engineering-award/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-wins-prestigious-best-of-ces-innovations-2010-design-and-engineering-award/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 10 Nov 2009 22:00:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>kauby</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[US/Business]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[US/Corporate]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[11/10/09 at 2pm Pacific]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=2719</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Plantronics Savi Office Recognized for Unifying Voice Communications and Multimedia with Brilliant Audio Quality and One-Touch Simplicity 
 
New York, New York – November 10, 2009 – Plantronics, Inc (NYSE: PLT), the world leader in communication headsets for over 48 years, today announced that the Savi™ Office Wireless Headset System has been named a Best [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="MsoBodyText" style="center;" align="center"><em><span style="windowtext;">Plantronics Savi Office Recognized for Unifying Voice Communications and Multimedia with Brilliant Audio Quality and One-Touch Simplicity<span> </span></span></em></p>
<p class="MsoBodyText" style="center;" align="center"><em><span style="windowtext;"> </span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="Arial;">New York, New York – November 10, 2009 – </span></strong><span style="Arial;">Plantronics, Inc (NYSE: PLT), </span><span style="Arial;">the world leader in communication headsets for over 48 years<span>, today announced that the </span><span class="text1"><span style="windowtext;">Savi™ Office Wireless Headset System</span></span><span> </span>has been named a Best of <span class="text1"><span style="windowtext;">International CES Innovations 2010 Design and Engineering Awards Winner in the Headphones category.<span> </span>Products entered in this prestigious program are judged by an esteemed panel of independent industrial designers, engineers and members of the media to </span></span><span>honor outstanding design and engineering in cutting-edge products across 36 product categories. </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0.5in;"><span style="Arial;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="Arial;">Unified Communications Made Simple</span></strong></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="Arial;">Plantronics Savi Office is a multi-function wireless headset system for Unified Communications that enables calling from both desk phones and computer softphones (VoIP).<span> </span>Savi Office supports softphone applications from leading providers, including Avaya, Cisco, IBM, and Microsoft, and other popular services, such as Google Talk and Skype with high-end wideband audio</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="Arial;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="Arial;">In addition to basic call switching, Savi Office delivers advanced call control that enables the audio from the desk phone and the computer to be put on hold, muted or mixed together for easy conferencing. The system supports leading multimedia players so users can also listen to music and videos without missing a call. Savi Office uses the DECT<span class="text1"><span style="windowtext;">™</span></span> 6.0 voice-dedicated frequency, providing users 350-feet of range from the base.<span> </span>Savi Office features adaptive power, meaning the headset uses less battery power when it is closer to the base system.<span> </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="Arial;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="Arial;">“Nearly 50 years of design and engineering innovations have gone into creating Savi Office,” </span><span style="Arial;">said <span style="black;">Elizabeth Bastiaanse Hamren, vice president of Product Marketing at Plantronics</span></span><span style="Arial;" lang="EN-AU">.</span><span style="Arial;"><span> </span>“The CES Innovations Award further establishes that the distinctions between consumer and enterprise products are becoming increasingly blurred.<span> </span>Today’s workers demand business-class audio quality and reliability combined with the ease-of-use and styling of consumer devices.” </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="Arial;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="text1"><strong><span style="windowtext;">CES Innovations Design and Engineering Awards</span></strong></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="text1"><span style="windowtext;">The prestigious Innovations Design and Engineering Awards have been</span></span><span style="Arial;"> recognizing achievements in product design and engineering since 1976. <span>They are sponsored by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)<sup>®</sup>, the producer of the International CES, the world’s largest consumer technology tradeshow, and endorsed by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA), </span>the voice of industrial design, committed to advancing the profession through education, information, community and advocacy.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0.5in;"><span style="Arial;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="Arial;">Plantronics Savi Office will be displayed at the 2010 International CES, which runs January 7-10, 2010 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Innovations Design and Engineering Showcase will feature honorees by product category in the Grand Lobby of the Las Vegas Convention Center and will also be featured at CES Unveiled: The Official Press Event of the International CES on Tuesday, January 5. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="Arial;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0.5in;"><span style="Arial;">The Innovations entries are judged based on the following criteria:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="-0.25in;"><span style="Arial;">Engineering qualities, based on technical specs and materials used</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="-0.25in;"><span style="Arial;">Aesthetic and design qualities, using photos provided </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="-0.25in;"><span style="Arial;">The product’s intended use/function and user value </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="-0.25in;"><span style="Arial;">Unique/novel features that consumers would find attractive</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="-0.25in;"><span style="Arial;">How the design and innovation of the product compares to other products in the marketplace</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="text1"><span style="windowtext;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="text1"><span style="windowtext;">Products chosen as an Innovations honoree reflect innovative design and engineering of the entries. Examples may include the first time various technologies are combined in a single product or dramatic enhancements to previous product designs. </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="text1"><span style="windowtext;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="text1"><span style="windowtext;">Innovations 2010 Design and Engineering honoree products are featured on </span></span><span style="Arial;"><a href="http://www.cesweb.org/Innovations"><span>www.CESweb.org/Innovations</span></a><span class="text1"><span style="windowtext;">, which lists product categories, as well as each product name, manufacturer information, designer, description, photo and URL. </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><strong><span style="Arial;"> </span></strong></p>
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		<title>Award-Winning Plantronics Headsets Help Philadelphia Drivers Comply with New Hands-Free Law</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/award-winning-plantronics-headsets-help-philadelphia-drivers-comply-with-new-hands-free-law/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/award-winning-plantronics-headsets-help-philadelphia-drivers-comply-with-new-hands-free-law/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 26 Oct 2009 12:00:04 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>drace</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[US/Corporate]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[US/Mobile &amp; Entertainment]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=2675</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Use Your Head, Not Your Hands: Keep Both Hands on the Wheel While Using Mobile Devices
 PHILADELPHIA, PA – October 26, 2009 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT), the world leader in communication headsets for over 48 years, encourages Philadelphia drivers and visitors to prepare for the new hands-free law by educating themselves on the headset [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><em><span style="10pt;">Use Your Head, Not Your Hands: Keep Both Hands on the Wheel While Using Mobile Devices</span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="10pt;"> </span></strong><strong><span style="10pt;">PHILADELPHIA, PA – October 26, 2009 – </span></strong><span style="bold;">Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT), </span><span style="10pt;">the world leader in communication headsets for over 48 years<span style="bold;">, </span>encourages Philadelphia drivers and visitors to prepare for the new hands-free law by educating themselves on the headset options available and following a few simple safety tips. Effective this Saturday, November 1, the city of Philadelphia will ban the use of handheld mobile electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle unless a hands-free device is used. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="10pt;">“Plantronics is pleased to see Philadelphia join the increasing number of municipalities, counties, and states adopting hands-free legislation to help motorists keep both hands on the wheel,” said <span>Elizabeth Bastiaanse Hamren, vice president of Product Marketing at Plantronics</span></span><span style="EN-AU;" lang="EN-AU">.</span><span style="10pt;"><span style="yes;"> </span>“Complying with the law is easy because users have more options than ever before. Plantronics offers a broad portfolio of headsets that fit a wide range of usage patterns, budgets and personal styles while still providing the first-rate audio quality, comfort, and style that consumers expect from us.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="10pt;">Today’s busy commuters often make calls on the road using a mobile phone which can cause physical impairments while driving. With the use of headsets, these drivers can continue to enjoy the convenience of talking in the car while keeping both hands on the wheel. </span><span style="EN-AU;" lang="EN-AU">Drivers in Philadelphia should consider the</span><span style="10pt;"> following safety tips while using a headset and driving:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;">
<ul>
<li><strong>Try it out:</strong> Test your headset with your phone before you drive.  Familiarize yourself with the headset’s controls and adjust the fit and volume. Make sure your headset and phone are connected and store your phone so it is out of your way but still accessible.</li>
<li><strong>Get organized:</strong> Make sure frequently called numbers are programmed into your phone.  Most phones have voice-dialing; be sure to use this feature so you aren’t fumbling with your phone while driving.</li>
<li><strong>Set it up:</strong> Add headset preparation to your pre-driving checklist. Buckle your seatbelt, check your rearview mirror, and put on your headset and make sure it’s connected to your phone before you drive.</li>
<li><strong>Focus on the road:</strong> Always remember that driving safely is your first priority. You should focus on the road and only place and receive calls when it’s absolutely necessary.</li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in;"><strong><span style="EN-AU;" lang="EN-AU">Best-in-Class Bluetooth Headsets</span></strong></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in;"><span style="10pt;">Among the Bluetooth® headsets available to drivers in Philadelphia are the Plantronics Voyager® PRO and the Plantronics Discovery® 975 headsets. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in;"><span style="10pt;">The Plantronics Voyager PRO provides the industry’s most advanced noise-canceling and wind noise reduction technology. Winner of the coveted Editors’ Choice awards from CNET and <em>PC Magazine, </em>the Plantronics Voyager PRO features AudioIQ<sup>2</sup>, next generation digital signal processing (DSP) technology, to deliver superior noise and wind cancellation as well as rich, natural inbound audio so you can hear and be heard clearly. Ideal for drivers, Plantronics Voyager PRO is extremely comfortable and the battery provides up to six hours of talk time before having to recharge.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in;"><span style="10pt;">The Plantronics Discovery 975 headset, also a CNET Editor’s Choice award winner, is the perfect blend of innovative design and advanced audio technology. It provides ingeniously simple one-touch controls to keep drivers focused on the road, not the headset.<span style="yes;"> </span>The sleek, elegant design houses sophisticated technology, including </span><span style="10pt;">AudioIQ<sup>2 </sup><span style="black;">DSP technology with dual-microphones to cancel background noise and three layers of WindSmart® technology to minimize wind noise. It comes with an innovative rechargeable carrying case that </span></span><span style="'Times New Roman';">can triple talk time from 5 hours to up to 15 hours.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in;"><span style="10pt;">Both the Plantronics Voyager PRO and Discovery 975 headsets are available at leading retail and wireless carrier stores nationwide. To learn more about the headsets and see a complete listing of Plantronics’ hands-free products, please visit: </span><span style="10pt;"><a href="http://www.plantronics.com/">www.plantronics.com</a>.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="10pt;">Plantronics recognizes that there are occasions when driving circumstances make talking on a mobile phone – handheld or hands-free – unsafe. In these instances, motorists should pull over or hang up to protect the safety of themselves, their passengers and others on the road.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><strong></strong></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="10pt;">About Plantronics</span></strong></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="10pt;">Plantronics is a world leader in personal audio communications for professionals and consumers. From unified communication solutions to Bluetooth headsets, Plantronics delivers unparalleled audio experiences and quality that reflect our nearly 50 years of innovation and customer commitment. Plantronics is used by every company in the Fortune 100 and is the headset of choice for air traffic control, 911 dispatch and the New York Stock Exchange. For more information, please visit <a title="http://www.plantronics.com/" href="http://www.plantronics.com/">www.plantronics.com</a> or call (800) 544-4660.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="8pt;">AudioIQ2, Plantronics, Plantronics Discovery, Plantronics Voyager and WindSmart are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Plantronics is under license. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="10pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="small;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><span style="small;">###</span></p>
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		<title>Award-Winning Plantronics Headsets Are Ideal Choice for Ontario Residents to Comply with New Hands-free Law</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/award-winning-plantronics-headsets-are-ideal-choice-for-ontario-residents-to-comply-with-new-hands-free-law/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/award-winning-plantronics-headsets-are-ideal-choice-for-ontario-residents-to-comply-with-new-hands-free-law/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 19 Oct 2009 12:00:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>drace</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[US/Corporate]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[US/Mobile &amp; Entertainment]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=2650</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Use Your Head, Not Your Hands: Keep Both Hands on the Wheel While Using Mobile Devices

TORONTO – October 19, 2009 – Effective October 26, Ontario law mandates the use of hands-free devices when using mobile phones on the road. Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT), the world leader in communication headsets for over 48 years, encourages all [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><em><span style="10pt;">Use Your Head, Not Your Hands: Keep Both Hands on the Wheel While Using Mobile Devices</span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><em></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="10pt;">TORONTO</span></strong><strong><span style="10pt;"> – October 19, 2009 –</span></strong><span style="10pt;"> Effective October 26, Ontario law mandates the use of hands-free devices when using mobile phones on the road. Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT), the world leader in communication headsets for over 48 years, encourages all Ontario drivers to prepare for the new law by educating themselves on the hands-free options available and following a few simple safety tips.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="10pt;">Today’s busy commuters often make calls on the road using a handheld phone which can cause physical impairments while driving. With the use of headsets, these drivers can continue to enjoy the convenience of talking on a cell phone in the car while keeping both hands on the wheel. Ontario’s more than eight million licensed drivers should consider the following safety tips while using a headset and driving:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Practice Makes Perfect:</strong> Try using your phone and headset together before you drive. Get to know the controls and adjust the fit. Check the headset settings on your cell phone and store the phone in the car so it’s out of your way but still accessible.</li>
<li><strong>Get Organized:</strong> Program all of your frequently called numbers into your phone. That includes your office, your kids’ school and your favorite takeout restaurant. Don’t forget about voice dialing; most phones have that option, so use it as much as possible to avoid becoming distracted by manual dialing while driving.</li>
<li><strong>Set It Up:</strong> Just as you check your rearview mirror and buckle your seatbelt before driving, put on your headset and make sure it’s properly connected to your phone.</li>
<li><strong>Keep Your Eyes on the Road:</strong> Always remember that your first priority is driving. You should only place and receive calls when it’s absolutely necessary.</li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in;"><span style="10pt;">“Plantronics offers an array of headset models that fit a wide range of usage patterns, budgets and personal styles while still providing the first-rate audio quality, comfort, and style that consumers expect from us,” </span><span style="12.0pt;">said Elizabeth Bastiaanse-Hamren, vice president of Product Marketing at Plantronics. </span><span style="EN-AU;" lang="EN-AU">“No matter the hands-free solution they choose, we are glad to know that the citizens of Ontario will now have both hands on the wheel when talking.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in;"><strong><span style="10pt;">Award-Winning Headset for Ontario Drivers: Plantronics Voyager PRO</span></strong></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in;"><span style="10pt;">Among the headsets available to Ontario drivers is the new Plantronics Voyager® PRO Bluetooth® headset, which provides the industry’s most advanced noise-canceling and wind noise reduction technology. Winner of coveted Editors’ Choice awards from CNET and <em>PC Magazine, </em>the Plantronics Voyager PRO features AudioIQ<sup>2</sup>, the next generation of its digital signal processing (DSP) technology, to deliver superior noise and wind cancellation as well as rich, natural inbound audio so you can hear and be heard clearly. Ideal for drivers, Plantronics Voyager PRO is extremely comfortable and provides six hours of continuous talk time before having to recharge. </span></p>
<p style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="bold;">The Plantronics Voyager PRO headset is available today at Best Buy Canada and Bell retail stores.  The Voyager PRO is coming soon to Telus retail stores. Plantronics headsets are also available at Wal-Mart, Staples, Future Shop, and Rogers Retail stores throughout Ontario. For a complete listing of Plantronics’ products, please visit <a title="http://www.plantronics.com/" href="http://www.plantronics.com/">www.plantronics.com</a>.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="10pt;">Plantronics recognizes that there are occasions when driving circumstances make talking on a mobile phone – handheld or hands-free – unsafe. In these instances, motorists should pull over or hang up to protect the safety of themselves, their passengers and others on the road.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="10pt;">About Plantronics</span></strong></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="10pt;">Plantronics is a world leader in personal audio communications for professionals and consumers. From unified communication solutions to Bluetooth headsets, Plantronics delivers unparalleled audio experiences and quality that reflect our nearly 50 years of innovation and customer commitment. Plantronics is used by every company in the Fortune 100 and is the headset of choice for air traffic control, 911 dispatch and the New York Stock Exchange. For more information, please visit <a title="http://www.plantronics.com/" href="http://www.plantronics.com/">www.plantronics.com</a> or call (800) 544-4660.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="8pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="8pt;">Plantronics, AudioIQ², and Plantronics Voyager are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc.</span><a name="OLE_LINK1"></a><a name="OLE_LINK2"><span style="OLE_LINK1;"><span style="8pt;"><span style="yes;"><span style="Times New Roman;">  </span></span></span></span></a><span style="OLE_LINK2;"><span style="OLE_LINK1;"><span style="8pt;">The Bluetooth trademark is owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of the mark by Plantronics, Inc. is under license. </span></span></span><span style="8pt;">All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="10pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="10pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><span style="10pt;">###</span></p>
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		<title>Plantronics Organizes to Focus on Unified Communications Opportunity, Enters Definitive Agreement to Sell Altec Lansing</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-organizes-to-focus-on-unified-communications-opportunity-enters-definitive-agreement-to-sell-altec-lansing/</link>
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		<pubDate>Fri, 02 Oct 2009 15:42:20 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>inolan</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[US/Corporate]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[US/Press]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=2647</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[SANTA CRUZ, CA - October 2, 2009 - Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell Altec Lansing, the Audio Entertainment Group of Plantronics, to Prophet Equity LP, a Southlake, Texas - based private equity firm, for consideration of approximately $18 million in cash, net of liabilities [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>SANTA CRUZ, CA </strong>- October 2, 2009 - Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell Altec Lansing, the Audio Entertainment Group of Plantronics, to Prophet Equity LP, a Southlake, Texas - based private equity firm, for consideration of approximately $18 million in cash, net of liabilities assumed, and subject to certain adjustments.  The transaction, which was approved by Plantronics&#8217; Board of Directors on October 1, 2009, is expected to close by the end of October.</p>
<p>In concert with the sale of Altec Lansing assets, Plantronics also announced a streamlined functional corporate structure, replacing the matrix it had operated with, to best target the Unified Communications opportunity.</p>
<p>&#8220;Unified Communications represents the greatest revenue and profit opportunity in the Company&#8217;s history.  The reorganization and asset sale represent further steps to focus on our core market, improve the Company&#8217;s return on invested capital and enhance time to market and profitability through a simpler organizational structure,&#8221; stated Ken Kannappan, President &amp; CEO.</p>
<p>Under the terms of the agreement, Plantronics will retain certain Altec Lansing assets and liabilities as of the closing date, including accounts receivable, accounts payable and certain other liabilities.  As a result, the Company expects these net assets to result in additional operating cash flow once the retained working capital assets are monetized in fiscal 2010.  Plantronics will also retain assets and/or use of certain assets with strategic value to Plantronics, including the right to use the Altec Lansing brand for specific music applications for three years.  As a result of the sale of Altec Lansing, we expect all future and historical AEG segment results to be reported as discontinued operations in Plantronics financial statements beginning in the third quarter of fiscal 2009.</p>
<p>In the quarter ended September 26, 2009, Plantronics has determined that it will be required to record an impairment charge related to its AEG long-lived assets which includes the remaining intangible assets from the Altec Lansing acquisition in 2005 along with potential other long-lived assets within the AEG segment.  The impairment analysis is being performed and we currently estimate the non-cash impairment charge, net of the tax benefit, to be in the range of $13 to $16 million.</p>
<p>&#8220;Capital freed up by the sale of Altec Lansing will be redeployed to its highest and best use.  Our philosophy is to use excess cash to drive stockholder value and the primary vehicle we have used to accomplish this is through stock repurchase programs.  Throughout our history, we have bought back over $425 million of stock and are currently executing on our 19<sup>th</sup> stock repurchase program.  We intend to continue to buy back stock on a regular basis with cash beyond domestic requirements,&#8221; stated Barbara Scherer, Senior Vice President of Finance and Administration &amp; CFO.</p>
<p>&#8220;Altec Lansing contributed to our success in the consumer market, where we are today a <em>Bluetooth</em> headset market leader and we will work hard to ensure a smooth transition for Altec Lansing&#8217;s partners and customers.  We are confident that Prophet Equity LP will continue to manage the business effectively,&#8221; Kannappan concluded.</p>
<p>&#8220;Prophet Equity is delighted to be partnering with Altec Lansing at this time in its history, as we believe it is an influential and dynamic company with a bright future in many portable digital audio platforms,&#8221; commented Ross Gatlin, CEO at Prophet Equity. &#8220;This transaction leverages our operational and strategic toolkit as well as underscores our internal capabilities to execute complex carve outs.&#8221; Gatlin added.</p>
<p>George Stelling, COO at Prophet Equity, commented further that &#8220;Our team sees Altec Lansing&#8217;s compelling audio technologies, its global customer and supply base, and its top notch management team as strengths that are unrivaled in the audio market today.  We look forward to helping grow the company, to partnering with Plantronics in the future on new platforms, and to serving Altec&#8217;s enthusiastic and loyal customers for many years to come.&#8221;</p>
<p>Houlihan Lokey is serving as financial advisor, and Wilson Sonsini Goodrich &amp; Rosati is serving as legal advisor to Plantronics in connection with the transaction.</p>
<p><strong>CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS</strong></p>
<p>This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including statements relating to (i) the proposed sale of the Audio Entertainment Group to Prophet Equity, (ii) the opportunities provided by Unified Communications (&#8221;UC&#8221;); (iii) the effects of the reorganization of the Company&#8217;s corporate structure and the sale of the Audio Entertainment Group; (iv) the retained working capital assets and our ability to monetize them; (v) the estimated impairment charge; (vi) our use of the capital from the sale of Altec Lansing, including the stock repurchase program; and (vii) the effects of the sale of Altec Lansing on Altec Lansing, including its effects on Altec Lansing&#8217;s partners and customers.  Plantronics does not assume any obligation to update or revise any such forward-looking statements, whether as the result of new developments or otherwise.</p>
<p>Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by such statements. Among the factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated are:</p>
<ul type="disc">
<li>uncertainty as to whether the      sale of Altec Lansing to Prophet Equity will be completed;</li>
<li>the failure of either party      to meet the closing conditions set forth in the asset purchase agreement      pursuant to which Plantronics will sell Altec Lansing to Prophet Equity;</li>
<li>reaction of Altec Lansing&#8217;s      customers, suppliers and partners to the sale of Altec Lansing;</li>
<li>economic conditions in both      the domestic and international markets;</li>
<li>the bankruptcy or financial      weakness of distributors or key customers, or the bankruptcy of or      reduction in capacity of our key suppliers;</li>
<li>our ability to realize our UC      plans and to achieve the financial results projected to arise from UC      adoption could be adversely affected by the following factors: (i) as UC      becomes more widely adopted, the risk that competitors will offer      solutions that will effectively commoditize our headsets which, in turn,      will reduce the sales prices for our headsets; (ii) our plans are      dependent upon adoption of our UC solution by major platform providers      such as Microsoft, Avaya, IBM and Cisco, and we have a limited ability to      influence such providers with respect to the functionality of their      platforms, their rate of deployment, and their willingness to integrate      their platforms with our solutions; (iii) the development of UC solutions      is technically complex and this may delay or obstruct our ability to      introduce solutions to the market on a timely basis and that are cost      effective, feature rich, stable and attractive to our customers; (iv) as      UC becomes more widely adopted we anticipate that competition for market      share will increase, and some competitors may have superior technical and      economic resources, and (v) UC solutions may not be adopted with the      breadth and speed in the marketplace that we currently anticipate;</li>
</ul>
<ul type="disc">
<li>further impairment losses on      the carrying value of our intangible assets and goodwill could be      recognized if it is determined the value is not recoverable which would      adversely affect our financial results; and</li>
</ul>
<ul type="disc">
<li>additional risk factors      including: interruption in the supply of sole-sourced critical components,      continuity of component supply at costs consistent with our plans, the      inherent risks of our substantial foreign operations, and problems which      might affect our manufacturing facilities in Mexico, and unexpected delays      and uncertainties affecting our ability to realize targeted expense      reductions and annualized savings through implementation of our plan to      outsource the manufacturing of our <em>Bluetooth</em> products in China to      GoerTek, Inc.</li>
</ul>
<p>For more information concerning these and other possible risks, please refer to the Company&#8217;s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed May 26, 2009, quarterly reports filed on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission as well as recent press releases. These filings can be accessed over the Internet at <a href="http://www.sec.gov/edgar/searchedgar/companysearch.html">http://www.sec.gov/edgar/searchedgar/companysearch.html</a>.</p>
<p><a name="OLE_LINK4"></a><a name="OLE_LINK3"><strong>About Plantronics<br />
</strong></a>Plantronics is a world leader in personal audio communications for professionals and consumers. From unified communication solutions to <em>Bluetooth</em> headsets, Plantronics delivers unparalleled audio experiences and quality that reflect our nearly 50 years of innovation and customer commitment. Plantronics is used by every company in the Fortune 100 and is the headset of choice for air traffic control, 911 dispatch and the New York Stock Exchange. For more information, please visit <a title="http://www.plantronics.com/" href="http://www.plantronics.com/">www.plantronics.com</a> or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p><strong>About Prophet Equity</strong></p>
<p>Prophet Equity is a private equity firm that uses proven, data-driven analytical techniques coupled with over 100 years of investment and management experience to invest in, unlock and realize future value today.  Partnering with owners and management teams, Prophet Equity&#8217;s team utilizes a toolkit that is Fortune 500 tested and private equity proven to diagnose and drive dramatic value creation.  Portfolio company management teams are highly motivated with clear, uncapped incentives based on realized business performance.</p>
<p>Over the last decade alone, Prophet&#8217;s Principals have invested and managed approximately $300 million of control equity in entities with over $2.5 billion in revenue. Their control equity investments focus on lower and middle market companies with strategically strong businesses with significant value creation potential, such as those found in partnerships, corporate carve-outs, divestitures and non-strategic businesses of larger companies. Representative business situations include special situations, succession planning, recapitalizations, reorganizations, turnarounds, acquisitions, mergers and bankruptcies.  For more information, please visit <a href="http://www.prophetequity.com/">www.prophetequity.com</a> or call us at +1.817.898.1500.</p>
<p><a name="OLE_LINK19"></a><a name="OLE_LINK18">Altec Lansing and Plantronics are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc.  The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Plantronics is under license. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners</a></p>
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		<title>Ingeniously Simple Plantronics Discovery 975 Bluetooth Earpiece Marries  Innovative Design with AudioIQ2 and WindSmart Noise-Canceling Technologies</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/ingeniously-simple-plantronics-discovery-975-bluetooth-earpiece-marries-innovative-design-with-audioiq2-and-windsmart-noise-canceling-technologies/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/ingeniously-simple-plantronics-discovery-975-bluetooth-earpiece-marries-innovative-design-with-audioiq2-and-windsmart-noise-canceling-technologies/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 20 Aug 2009 12:00:32 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>drace</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[US/Corporate]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[US/Mobile &amp; Entertainment]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[US/Press]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=2541</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[One-of-a-Kind Charging Case Can Triple Talk Time from 5 to Up to 15 Hours 

SANTA CRUZ, CA – August 20, 2009 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT), the leading manufacturer of premium headsets, today announced the new Plantronics Discovery® 975 Bluetooth® earpiece. The Plantronics Discovery 975 is the next generation of the Discovery 925, which was [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><span style="10pt;">One-of-a-Kind Charging Case Can Triple Talk Time from 5 to Up to 15 Hours </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;" align="center">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="10pt;">SANTA CRUZ, CA – August 20, 2009 – </span></strong><span style="bold;">Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT), the leading manufacturer of premium headsets, today announced the new Plantronics Discovery® 975 Bluetooth® earpiece. The Plantronics Discovery 975 is the next generation of the Discovery 925, which was lauded for its superior audio quality and innovative lightweight design. Customers will enjoy an improved audio experience with advanced </span><span style="10pt;">AudioIQ<sup>2 </sup>and WindSmart® technologies, which deliver <span style="bold;">natural sounding voice in harsh noise environments, coupled with Plantronics’ legendary inbound audio quality, comfort, and durability. </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="10pt;">“Consumers expect great outbound noise cancellation in a premium headset, but they are tired of sacrificing usability, comfort, and quality,” said Renee Niemi, vice president and general manager of the Plantronics Mobile and Entertainment Division. “At Plantronics we have spent nearly five decades perfecting all aspects of headset design from inbound audio quality to fit. For customers seeking the perfect blend of innovative design and advanced audio technologies, the Discovery 975 is the ingeniously simple solution.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="10pt;">Industry-Leading Performance</span></strong></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in -0.05in 0pt 0in;"><span style="italic;">The Discovery 975 features AudioIQ<sup>2</sup></span><span style="10pt;">, the next generation of Plantronics’ AudioIQ digital signal processing (DSP) technology, and two microphones to precisely capture the user’s voice and simultaneously cancel background noise. Users don’t have to worry about pressing special buttons or having sensors touch their face to activate the noise-canceling capabilities — </span><span style="italic;">AudioIQ<sup>2</sup> works automatically wherever the user is having a conversation.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in -0.05in 0pt 0in;"><span style="10pt;">Plantronics Discovery 975 addresses wind noise with three layers of </span><span style="'Times New Roman';">WindSmart technology. It features grooved vents on the boom and </span><span style="10pt;">acoustic fabrics that surround the microphones to block wind. In addition, electronic filters within </span><span style="'Times New Roman';">AudioIQ<sup><span style="italic;">2</span></sup><span style="italic;"> remove wind noise during conversations and help deliver your clear, natural voice to the listener. </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in -0.05in 0pt 0in;"><span style="10pt;">The Plantronics Discovery 975 also provides the great inbound audio quality for which Plantronics is known. The earpiece includes an</span><span style="italic;"> adaptive 20-band equalizer that delivers rich, full voice and works with AudioIQ<sup>2</sup> to automatically adjust incoming calls to comfortable listening levels based on the noise level around you.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="italic;">One-Of-A-Kind Charging Case </span></strong></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in -0.05in 0pt 0in;"><a name="OLE_LINK2"></a><a name="OLE_LINK1"><span style="OLE_LINK2;"><span style="italic;">The Discovery 975 comes with an improved rechargeable carrying case that can triple talk time from 5 hours to up to 15 hours while protecting and storing the earpiece. </span></span></a><span style="italic;">The new case includes an LCD screen that displays the battery and earpiece charge levels, as well as Bluetooth connectivity. With the rechargeable case, users don’t have to worry about constantly finding a wall outlet and can finally see the charge level in their headset, so they won’t run out of battery life in the middle of a call. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in -0.05in 0pt 0in;"><strong><span style="'Times New Roman';">Intuitive User Experience &amp; Simple Design </span></strong></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="'Times New Roman';">At only 8 grams, the Plantronics Discovery 975 is a lightweight headset featuring Plantronics’ signature boom, which captures speech close to the mouth to ensure your voice sounds natural. Perfect for quick on/off wearing, the earpiece uses the same patented soft gel ear tips customers loved on the Discovery 925 for a stable, comfortable fit that doesn’t invade the ear canal. The Discovery 975 includes two buttons for ease of use: one button for powering on/off and call answer/end and another button for volume control and mute. The Discovery 975</span><span style="10pt;"> features voice prompts for low battery warnings, mute status and Bluetooth connectivity. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><a name="OLE_LINK3"></a><a name="OLE_LINK7"></a><span style="OLE_LINK3;"><strong><span style="10pt;">Pricing and Availability</span></strong></span><strong></strong></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="10pt;">The Plantronics Discovery 975 has a retail price of $129.99 and is available at <a title="http://www.plantronics.com/" href="http://www.plantronics.com/">www.plantronics.com</a> and for pre-order at BestBuy.com and Amazon.com today. The Discovery 975 will be available in Best Buy and Apple stores in late August. Availability in AT&amp;T, Radio Shack and Sprint stores follows in September/October. For more information about the Plantronics Discovery 975, please visit: <a title="http://www.plantronics.com/discovery975" href="http://www.plantronics.com/discovery975">www.plantronics.com/discovery975</a><span style="navy;">.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><strong></strong></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="10pt;">About Plantronics</span></strong></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="10pt;">In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of innovation is the basis for every audio product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing and Clarity. For more information, go to <a href="http://www.plantronics.com/">www.plantronics.com</a> or call (800) 544-4660.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="10pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="10pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><span style="10pt;"># # #</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><span style="10pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="8pt;">Altec</span><span style="8pt;"> Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics, AudioIQ<sup>2 </sup>, Plantronics Discovery, and WindSmart are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Plantronics is under license. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.</span></p>
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		<title>Plantronics to Oahu Drivers: Keep Both Hands on the Wheel When Talking!</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-to-oahu-drivers-keep-both-hands-on-the-wheel-when-talking/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-to-oahu-drivers-keep-both-hands-on-the-wheel-when-talking/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2009 15:00:34 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>drace</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[US/Corporate]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[US/Mobile &amp; Entertainment]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=2522</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
Headsets Can Help Oahu Residents and Visitors
Comply with New Hands-free Law

Santa Cruz, CA – July 1, 2009 – Headset manufacturer Plantronics (NYSE: PLT) is encouraging all residents of and visitors to Oahu, Hawaii to keep both hands on the wheel by following Honolulu’s new hands-free law that bans the use of handheld mobile electronic devices while [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><em></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><em><span style="10pt;">Headsets Can Help Oahu Residents and Visitors<br />
Comply with New Hands-free Law</span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><em><span style="10pt;"></span></em></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="10pt;">Santa Cruz, CA – July 1, 2009 – </span></strong><span style="10pt;">Headset manufacturer Plantronics (NYSE: PLT) is encouraging all residents of and visitors to Oahu, Hawaii to keep both hands on the wheel by following Honolulu’s new hands-free law that bans the use of handheld mobile electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle. The new legislation, which goes into effect on Wednesday, July 1, 2009, is a Honolulu city law that will be enforced across Oahu.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="10pt;"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="10pt;">Talking on a cell phone in the car is routine for many of today’s busy drivers. With the use of hands-free devices like wireless headsets, these drivers can continue to enjoy the convenience of making calls on the road while keeping both hands on the wheel. Residents and those planning to vacation in Oahu this summer should consider the following safety tips while using a headset and driving:</span><span style="10pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="l0 level1 lfo1;"><span><span style="Symbol;">- </span><strong>Have a Trial Run:</strong> Practice using your phone and headset together before you drive. Familiarize yourself with the headset controls. Adjust the fit and the microphone on your headset, check the headset settings on your cell phone and stow the phone so it’s out of your way but still accessible. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="l0 level1 lfo1;"><span><span style="Symbol;">- </span><strong>Be Prepared:</strong> Program all of your frequently called numbers into your phone. That includes your boss, your kids’ babysitter and your favorite neighborhood pizza place. And don’t forget about voice dialing; most phones have that option, so use it as much as possible. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="l0 level1 lfo1;"><span><span style="Symbol;">- </span><strong>Set Up for Success:</strong> Just as you check your rearview mirror and secure your seatbelt before driving, be sure to put your headset on and ensure it’s connected properly to your phone. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="l0 level1 lfo1;"><span><span style="Symbol;">- </span><strong>Remember That Driving Comes First:</strong> Always keep in mind that your first priority is driving. You should only place and receive calls when it’s absolutely necessary. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style=".25in;"><span style="10pt;"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in;"><span style="10pt;">“Plantronics understands that different drivers have different needs, so we offer an array of headset models that fit various lifestyle requirements and personal preferences while consistently delivering excellent audio quality, comfort and convenience,” said Renee Niemi, </span><span style="EN-AU;" lang="EN-AU">general manager and vice president of Mobile &amp; Entertainment for Plantronics.</span><span style="10pt;" lang="EN-AU"> </span><span style="10pt;">“Regardless of the type of the headset they choose, we are happy to know that drivers across Oahu will be keeping both hands on the wheel with this new legislation.”</span><span style="10pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in;"><span style="10pt;">Among the headsets available to Oahu drivers is the new Plantronics Voyager® PRO Bluetooth® headset, which provides the most advanced noise-canceling and wind noise reduction technology on the market. Awarded coveted Editor’s Choice awards by <em>CNET</em> and <em>PC Magazine</em>, the Plantronics Voyager PRO features two noise-canceling mics, AudioIQ² technology with an adaptive 20-band equalizer, and three layers of WindSmart® technology to ensure that <span style="black;">Oahu</span><span style="black;"> commuters and visitors hear</span> every word on a call and little background noise. This extremely comfortable, behind-the-ear headset reflects Plantronics’ 40-plus years of commitment to headset engineering excellence.<span style="black;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in;"><span style="10pt;"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in;"><span style="10pt;">The Voyager PRO is available at Best Buy and Sprint stores today in Hawaii. For a complete listing of Plantronics’ products, please</span><span style="10pt;"> visit <a href="http://www.plantronics.com">www.plantronics.com</a>.</span><span style="10pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="10pt;">Plantronics recognizes that there are occasions when driving circumstances make talking on a mobile phone – handheld or hands-free – unsafe. In these instances, motorists should pull over or hang up to protect the safety of themselves, their passengers and others on the road.</span></p>
<p style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="10pt;"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="10pt;">About Plantronics</span></strong><span style="10pt;"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="10pt;">In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of innovation is the basis for every audio product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing and Clarity. For more information, go to <a href="http://www.plantronics.com/">www.plantronics.com</a> or call (800) 544-4660.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="8pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="8pt;">Altec</span><span style="8pt;"> Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics, AudioIQ², Plantronics Voyager, and WindSmart are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc.</span><a name="OLE_LINK1"></a><a name="OLE_LINK2"><span style="OLE_LINK1;"><span style="8pt;"><span style="yes;"><span style="Times New Roman;">  </span></span></span></span></a><span style="OLE_LINK2;"><span style="OLE_LINK1;"><span style="8pt;">The Bluetooth trademark is owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of the mark by Plantronics, Inc. is under license. </span></span></span><span style="8pt;"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="10pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="10pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="0in 0in 0pt;" align="center"><span style="10pt;">###</span></p>
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		<title>Mike Perkins Joins Plantronics as Vice President of Product Development and Technology</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/mike-perkins-joins-plantronics-as-vice-president-of-product-development-and-technology/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/mike-perkins-joins-plantronics-as-vice-president-of-product-development-and-technology/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 01 Dec 2008 23:51:32 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>jshanks</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[US/Corporate]]></category>

		<category><![CDATA[Post Monday Dec. 1 @ 8am PT]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=1818</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[23-Year HP Veteran Brings Proven Leadership in Hardware and Software Solution Development
SANTA CRUZ, CA – December 1, 2008 – Plantronics (NYSE: PLT) today announced that Mike Perkins has joined the company as vice president of Product Development and Technology, responsible for leading the company’s global product development and engineering teams and programs.
“Mike will play an [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>23-Year HP Veteran Brings Proven Leadership in Hardware and Software Solution Development</p>
<p>SANTA CRUZ, CA – December 1, 2008 – Plantronics (NYSE: PLT) today announced that Mike Perkins has joined the company as vice president of Product Development and Technology, responsible for leading the company’s global product development and engineering teams and programs.</p>
<p>“Mike will play an instrumental role in bringing innovation to Plantronics’ product portfolio and aligning it with key growth opportunities, including Unified Communications in the enterprise and mobile and audio convergence for consumers,” said Ken Kannappan, president and CEO of Plantronics. “His expertise in developing differentiated solutions that integrate hardware and software will be most valuable as the role of digital audio expands for all audiences.”</p>
<p>Mr. Perkins spent 23 years at HP. He was most recently the general manager and vice president of HP’s Voodoo Business Unit, a luxury brand including Envy notebooks and Omen desktops, and the Blackbird family of PC gaming products. In this role, Mr. Perkins managed a global team and had end-to-end responsibility for product development, manufacturing, marcom, sales, and support. Prior to this position, Mr. Perkins was the vice president of Research and Development for HP’s Global Consumer PC Business Unit, responsible for all development of the HP Pavilion and Compaq Presario consumer desktop PCs, including the HP Touchsmart. Mr. Perkins held several other research and development titles at HP and managed the “integration office” that coordinated the HP-Compaq merger cost savings activities for the combined PC-client business.</p>
<p>Mr. Perkins also spent three years as senior vice president of Research and Development at LeapFrog Enterprises, an educational electronic toy company known for developing innovative consumer products. At LeapFrog, Mr. Perkins was responsible for leading global software and hardware teams towards developing, in parallel, a wide variety and large number of products across multiple price points and target audiences.</p>
<p>“Mike’s rich background of consumer and business product innovation combined with his skill in navigating competitive time-to-market and cost pressures matches well to our business needs,” added Kannappan.</p>
<p>Mr. Perkins holds Bachelor of Science degrees in Applied Mechanics and Biomedical Engineering from the University of California, San Diego.</p>
<p>About Plantronics<br />
In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of innovation is the basis for every audio product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing and Clarity. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p>Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics, and Sound Innovation are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc.  All other trademarks are the property of the respective owners.</p>
<p>###</p>
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		<title>Plantronics Expands Its Optimized for Microsoft Office Communicator Headset Portfolio</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-expands-its-optimized-for-microsoft-office-communicator-headset-portfolio/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-expands-its-optimized-for-microsoft-office-communicator-headset-portfolio/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 23 Sep 2008 21:06:45 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>chithra</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[US/Corporate]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=1369</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
New Wideband Headsets Provide Professional Grade Audio Clarity and  Reliability for PC-Based Conversations

Santa Cruz, Calif.— September 23, 2008 — Plantronics, Inc.  (NYSE: PLT) today expanded its growing portfolio of Unified Communications  headsets Optimized for Microsoft Office Communicator with the new  wideband .Audio™ 630M USB binaural headset and the .Audio™ 615M USB [...]]]></description>
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<h4>New Wideband Headsets Provide Professional Grade Audio Clarity and  Reliability for PC-Based Conversations</h4>
</div>
<p><strong>Santa Cruz</strong><strong>, Calif.</strong>— September 23, 2008 — Plantronics, Inc.  (NYSE: PLT) today expanded its growing portfolio of Unified Communications  headsets <em>Optimized for Microsoft Office Communicator</em> with the new  wideband .Audio™ 630M USB binaural headset and the .Audio™ 615M USB monaural  headset. The qualification process ensures business users will benefit from a  superior end-user experience for calls initiated through Microsoft Office  Communicator 2007.</p>
<p>Wideband utilizes more than twice the audio bandwidth of conventional  telephony to greatly enhance intelligibility. The new .Audio wideband headsets  provide users with the feeling of true “face-to-face” conversations, resulting  in improved business communication during PC-based audio and video conference  calls, and person-to-person calls.</p>
<p>“As unified communication voice applications become mainstream, business  users and IT decision makers require the highest quality headsets to ensure a  positive experience,” said Amy Huson, director of UC Product Marketing at  Plantronics. “Developing products that are qualified by Microsoft adds value for  our customers who want to experience improved communication and more effective  collaboration.”</p>
<p>Both headsets are lightweight and comfortable with a flexible headband. Users  connect to their PCs via USB, which provides enhanced digital audio for  consistent sound quality. In addition to providing wideband audio, the .Audio  630M headset enables users to listen to music in stereo. The .Audio 615M is an  easy-to-use wideband headset for users of Microsoft Office Communicator  2007.</p>
<p>“Office Communicator 2007 is transforming business communications by  providing the most advanced and seamless unified communications experience,”  said Moz Hussain, director of Product Management, Microsoft Corp. “Because  Plantronics’ wideband .Audio 615M and .Audio 630M headsets are <em>Optimized for  Microsoft Office Communicator,</em> businesses have confidence their employees  may use these products for clear voice communications and optimal  productivity.”</p>
<p>The products are now available and may be purchased through authorized  Plantronics resellers.  The .Audio 630M, a multi-purpose binaural headset  featuring stereo, has an MSRP of $49.95.  The .Audio 615M, a monaural headset,  has an MSRP of $44.95.</p>
<p><a name="OLE_LINK3"></a><a name="OLE_LINK4"></a><strong>Plantronics – The Voice of  Unified Communications</strong></p>
<p>Plantronics offers one of the industry’s most complete family of corded and  wireless products for unified communications.  Widely recognized for their sound  quality, reliability and comfort, Plantronics’ audio solutions help companies  extend the benefits of IP communications throughout the enterprise, fostering  better business communication and efficiency.</p>
<p>For more information about Plantronics’ UC-ready products, visit:  <a href="http://www.plantronics.com/uc">http://www.plantronics.com/uc</a></p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics<br />
</strong>In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the  historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant  leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for  mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch and the  New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of innovation is the basis for  every audio product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile,  entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes  Plantronics, Altec Lansing and Clarity. For more information, go to  <span style="text-decoration: underline;">www.plantronics.com</span> or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p><a name="OLE_LINK18"></a><a name="OLE_LINK19"></a>Altec Lansing, .Audio, Clarity,  Plantronics, and Sound Innovation are trademarks or registered trademarks of  Plantronics, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective  owners.</p>
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		<title>Plantronics Introduces New Dual-Mic Voyager 835 Bluetooth Headset</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-introduces-new-dual-mic-voyager-835-bluetooth-headset/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-introduces-new-dual-mic-voyager-835-bluetooth-headset/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 18 Sep 2008 21:09:23 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>chithra</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[US/Corporate]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=1371</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
Plantronics Combines Dual-Mic AudioIQ with WindSmart for Unrivaled Headset  Experience

New York – September 18, 2008 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today  unveiled the new Voyager 835 Bluetooth® Headset featuring three  advanced noise cancelling technologies that together provide superior clarity  and natural voice on both sides of a conversation.
The new Voyager 835 [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="pr_subtitle">
<h4>Plantronics Combines Dual-Mic AudioIQ with WindSmart for Unrivaled Headset  Experience</h4>
</div>
<p><strong>New York – September 18, 2008 –</strong> Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today  unveiled the new Voyager 835 Bluetooth<sup>®</sup> Headset featuring three  advanced noise cancelling technologies that together provide superior clarity  and natural voice on both sides of a conversation.</p>
<p>The new Voyager 835 offers Plantronics Dual-Mic AudioIQ<sup>®</sup>, a  combination of its proprietary DSP algorithm which intelligently optimizes audio  levels and fidelity on both sides of a conversation, with precisely configured  dual microphones to significantly reduce background noise. The inclusion of  dual-microphones allows the Voyager 835 to accurately isolate voice signals: one  microphone captures voice as the second microphone identifies background noise  and removes it.</p>
<p>Combined with Plantronics’ WindSmart<sup>®</sup> technology, which filters  and reduces wind distortion, the Voyager 835 delivers comprehensive  noise-cancelation benefits without over-processing audio, so voices sound  natural during conversations.</p>
<p>“The Voyager 835 is designed to defeat wind and other background noise in a  variety of real-world environments, such as a busy city street, crowded  restaurant or car with the air conditioning blowing,” said Renee Niemi, general  manager and vice president, Mobile &amp; Entertainment for Plantronics, Inc. “By  focusing on everyday call scenarios, Plantronics developed a headset that  provides exactly what consumers want: brilliant, true-to-life audio on both  sides of a conversation that doesn’t succumb to noisy environments and never  sounds unnatural.”</p>
<p class="Default"><strong>Ultimate Comfort and Ease-of-Use</strong></p>
<p class="Default">The new Voyager 835 weighs in at less than 12 grams and meets  Plantronics’ strict acoustic fit criteria with contoured, universal-fit eartips  that rest gently on the wearer and channel sound directly into the ear canal for  improved receive clarity. A slim yet highly durable ear loop secures the headset  without discomfort and does not interfere with eyewear.</p>
<p>The Voyager 835 headset is designed with simple-to-use volume and call answer  / end controls. Another benefit of the Voyager 835 is the inclusion of  multipoint technology, which permits users to take calls from any two Bluetooth  phones – like a business and a personal phone – from a single headset. Talk time  is up to five hours, stand-by time up to five days and multiple charging options  are available, including an in-car kit.</p>
<p>“Plantronics has a 46-year history of innovation across all facets of sound  performance – from noise-canceling microphones to DSP algorithms and wind  technologies. The Voyager 835 is a reflection of our commitment to surpassing  customer expectation with products the deliver superior sound, quality and  comfort,” added Niemi.</p>
<p><strong><span lang="EN">Pricing and Availability</span></strong><strong><br />
</strong>The new  Plantronics Voyager 835 Bluetooth Headset will be available October 2008 at  select CE retailers and <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.plantronics.com/">www.plantronics.com</a></span> for $119.95 (U.S.  MSRP). For more information visit: <a title="http://www.plantronics.com/north_america/en_US/products/mobile/bluetooth-headsets/voyager-835" href="http://www.plantronics.com/north_america/en_US/products/mobile/bluetooth-headsets/voyager-835">http://www.plantronics.com/north_america/en_US/products/mobile/bluetooth-headsets/voyager-835</a>.
</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics</strong></p>
<p>In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the  moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then,  Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications  such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch and the New York Stock Exchange.  Today, this history of innovation is the basis for every audio product we build  for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential  markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing  and Clarity. For more information, go to <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.plantronics.com/">www.plantronics.com</a></span> or call (800)  544-4660.</p>
<p>Plantronics, Plantronics Voyager, AudioIQ<sup>®,</sup> WindSmart<sup>®</sup> and Sound Innovation are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics,  Inc. The <em>Bluetooth</em>® word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG,  Inc. and any use of such marks by Plantronics, Inc. is under license. All other  trademarks are the property of their respective owners.</p>
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		<title>Plantronics Teams with Dolby to Deliver Enhanced PC Game Play</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-teams-with-dolby-to-deliver-enhanced-pc-game-play/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-teams-with-dolby-to-deliver-enhanced-pc-game-play/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 28 Aug 2008 16:22:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[US/Corporate]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=8</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
New GameCom 777 Surround Sound PC Headset Unleashes Surround Sound In Games

Santa Cruz, Calif.– August 29, 2008 – Plantronics (NYSE: PLT) today announced the new GameCom 777® Surround Sound Gaming Headset featuring Dolby® Headphone technology, which allows users to play PC games, listen to music and watch movies with dramatic virtual 5.1 surround sound effects.
The [...]]]></description>
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<h4>New GameCom 777 Surround Sound PC Headset Unleashes Surround Sound In Games</h4>
</div>
<p><strong>Santa Cruz</strong><strong>, Calif.</strong><strong>– August 29, 2008 –</strong> Plantronics (NYSE: PLT) today announced the new GameCom 777<sup>®</sup> Surround Sound Gaming Headset featuring Dolby<sup>®</sup> Headphone technology, which allows users to play PC games, listen to music and watch movies with dramatic virtual 5.1 surround sound effects.</p>
<p>The Plantronics GameCom 777 features Dolby Headphone and Dolby Pro Logic<sup>®</sup> II technologies in a plug-and-play USB sound card that digitally processes sound for immersive audio. Similar to its application in high-performance home theater systems, Dolby Pro Logic II, processes high-quality stereo (two-channel) (redundant with above) audio into five channels of full-bandwidth surround sound.</p>
<p>In addition to its surround sound capabilities, the GameCom 777 was engineered with numerous functional and ergonomic wearing benefits. Features include a unique ‘hide-away’ boom designed to tuck into the headband and turn the headset into a pair of high-quality headphones for music and multimedia use. A telescoping, noise-canceling microphone provides more accurate positioning for voice clarity. And in-line volume and microphone mute controls provide gamers fingertip audio and voice direction.</p>
<p>“Over the past 18 months, we have immersed ourselves in the gaming community to understand their unique headset needs,” said Renee Niemi, general manager and vice president, Mobile &amp; Entertainment for Plantronics. “We observed that they want a rugged, comfortable headset with the best sound available to improve competitive game play. The GameCom 777 delivers on these requirements by uniting Dolby digital surround sound with a durable, unique headset design that has been tuned for gamers.”</p>
<p>“Dolby surround sound is a great way to bring more excitement and realism to gaming sessions,” said Matt Tullis, Senior Manager, Games Market Segment, Dolby Laboratories.  “And for gamers who play into the night, Dolby Headphone technology is designed to relieve the discomfort and fatigue that comes with extended headphone use.”</p>
<p>In additional to multi-directional Dolby virtual surround sound, the GameCom 777 delivers rich bass for a truly immersive gaming experience. A one-step USB 2.0/1.1 makes connection truly plug and play, versus competitive products requiring lengthy software downloads and bulky control boxes.</p>
<p><strong>A Complete Lineup of PC Headsets </strong></p>
<p>Alongside the GameCom 777, Plantronics is introducing two analog PC headsets – the GameCom 367® and GameCom 377® PC headsets.   All three GameCom headsets are built of lightweight materials and feature specialized earpods to redistribute pressure for maximum comfort. Each headset offers the ‘hide-away’ boom, a telescoping, noise-canceling microphone and in-line volume and microphone mute controls. Cables are made of durable reinforced materials to withstand frequent wear and tear and abuse by gamers.</p>
<p>The complete line of new Plantronics’ PC gaming headsets includes the GameCom 777 Surround Sound Gaming Headset with Dolby technology (ESP $99.99), the GameCom 377 Open Ear Gaming Headset (ESP $49.99), and the GameCom 367 Closed-Ear Gaming Headset (ESP $39.99).</p>
<p>Each GameCom headset is compatible for VoIP internet programs such as Skype, Windows Live, and Yahoo! Messenger.</p>
<p>Gamers can check out the GameCom line of headsets at the Penny Arcade Expo in Seattle, WA on August 29 – 31. For more info on the Penny Arcade Expo visit <a href="http://www.pennyarcadeexpo.com/">www.pennyarcadeexpo.com</a></p>
<p>The GameCom 777, GameCom 367 and GameCom 377 headsets will be available in September at <a href="http://www.plantronics.com/">www.plantronics.com</a> and at select retailers.</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics</strong></p>
<p>In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of innovation is the basis for every audio product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing and Clarity. For more information, go to <a href="http://www.plantronics.com/">www.plantronics.com</a> or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p>Altec Lansing, Clarity, GameCom, Plantronics, and Sound Innovation are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. Dolby and Pro Logic are registered trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.</p>
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		<title>Plantronics City: New Interactive Website Helps Drivers Prepare for Hands-free Laws</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-city-new-interactive-website-helps-drivers-prepare-for-hands-free-laws/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-city-new-interactive-website-helps-drivers-prepare-for-hands-free-laws/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 05 May 2008 23:39:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[US/Corporate]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=20</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
California and Washington Drivers Can “Cruise” New Site to Gather Hands-free Information, Explore Headset Options and Win a New Bluetooth Headset

Santa Cruz, Calif. – May 5, 2008 – To help California and Washington drivers prepare for the upcoming hands-free laws in their states, Plantronics (NYSE: PLT) today launched a new interactive Web site called Plantronics [...]]]></description>
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<h4>California and Washington Drivers Can “Cruise” New Site to Gather Hands-free Information, Explore Headset Options and Win a New Bluetooth Headset</h4>
</div>
<p><strong>Santa Cruz</strong><strong>, Calif. – May 5, 2008 –</strong> To help California and Washington drivers prepare for the upcoming hands-free laws in their states, <a href="http://www.plantronics.com/north_america/en_US/index.jhtml">Plantronics</a> (NYSE: PLT) today launched a new interactive Web site called <a href="http://www.plantronics.com/handsfree">Plantronics City</a>. The Web site provides a one-stop resource for people who want to better understand the headset options available to them, and it includes resources for learning more about laws being adopted across the U.S. and tips for using hands-free devices while driving.</p>
<p>Following hands-free laws in Connecticut, New Jersey, New York and the District of Columbia, California and Washington will enact new legislation on July 1, 2008 that will make it mandatory to use hands-free devices such as headsets when using a cell phone while driving. According to results gathered from a 2008 survey conducted by Plantronics in <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.plantronics.com/north_america/en_US/press/releases/index.jhtml?id=pr_20080409_0103_en_US">California</a></span> and <a href="http://www.plantronics.com/north_america/en_US/press/releases/index.jhtml?id=pr_20080409_0207_en_US">Washington</a>, awareness and the implications of not following the law are widely unknown.</p>
<p>“Plantronics City is a great resource for drivers in California and Washington, as well as drivers in other states across the nation who might soon be affected by hands-free laws,” said Clay Hausmann, vice president of corporate marketing, Plantronics. “The goal of the site is to provide a fun, interactive destination where visitors can educate themselves about the laws, select a headset that fits their individual needs, and learn tips and tricks for using hands-free devices while driving.”</p>
<p><strong>Web Site Features Information, Music and Store</strong></p>
<p>Plantronics City has a simple, intuitive map topology to make it easy for visitors to access various resource centers.</p>
<p><br class="spacer_" /></p>
<p>More than an informational resource, Plantronics City includes interactive sound, “cruising” music and a retail store. Some of the features and resources visitors will find include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Hands-free Info: Information and resource links focused on hands-free legislation.</li>
<li>Shop Plantronics: Plantronics’ hands-free driving product portfolio that accommodates a variety of lifestyles and individual preferences. The site also includes in-car charging adapters for convenient charging and stowage while driving. Some of the products showcased include:</li>
</ul>
<p>-         <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Plantronics <a href="http://www.plantronics.com/north_america/en_US/products/mobile/bluetooth-headsets/discovery-925-black">Discovery<sup>®</sup> 925</a> Bluetooth Headset</span></p>
<p>-         <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Plantronics <a href="http://www.plantronics.com/north_america/en_US/products/mobile/bluetooth-headsets/voyager-520">Voyager<sup>®</sup> 520</a> Bluetooth Headset</span></p>
<p>-         <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Plantronics <a href="http://www.plantronics.com/north_america/en_US/products/mobile/bluetooth-headsets/explorer-360">Explorer<sup>®</sup> 360</a><a name="OLE_LINK1"></a><a name="OLE_LINK2"></a> Bluetooth Headset</span></p>
<p>·         Bluetooth 101: A “how-to” Bluetooth guide for those trying to find the perfect headset.</p>
<p>·         Plantronics Radio: Jam out while exploring Plantronics City.</p>
<p>The site also includes a real-time countdown to the July 1 enactment date, a tour guide feature to help visitors navigate the site, and headset suggestions based on environments (e.g., click on a café to learn what headset works best in a noisy, crowded location).</p>
<p><strong>Win a Bluetooth Headset When You Take a Driving Tour of Plantronics City*</strong></p>
<p>Site visitors have a chance to win an award-winning Plantronics Discovery 925 Bluetooth headset. There are 20 “Easter egg” secret locations throughout the site that visitors can try to find as they tour different environments, structures and other elements within the city. The first 20 visitors who click on these hidden locations will each win a headset.</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics</strong></p>
<p>In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of Sound Innovation<sup>®</sup> is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing and Clarity. For more information, go to <span style="text-decoration: underline;">www.plantronics.com</span> or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p>Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics, Plantronics Discovery, Plantronics Explorer, Plantronics Voyager, and Sound Innovation are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. The Bluetooth<sup>®</sup> word mark is owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of the mark by Plantronics, Inc. is under license.</p>
<p><strong>*</strong><strong>Hands-free 925 “Easter Egg” Promotion Terms and Conditions:</strong></p>
<p>Winner must provide their contact information, including shipping address, to receive the free product. Plantronics will ship to shipping addresses within the United States, most U.S. territories, and APO/FPO addresses. Plantronics will not ship to P.O. boxes. Neither resellers of Plantronics products nor Plantronics associates are eligible to participate in this promotion. Winners will be disqualified if the program has malfunctioned or the program has been altered by anyone other than Plantronics. Plantronics reserves the right to end this promotion at its discretion without notice.</p>
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		<title>Plantronics Survey Reveals 44 Percent of Polled California Drivers Don’t Know When State’s Hands-free Legislation Goes Into Effect</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-survey-reveals-44-percent-of-polled-california-drivers-don%e2%80%99t-know-when-state%e2%80%99s-hands-free-legislation-goes-into-effect/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-survey-reveals-44-percent-of-polled-california-drivers-don%e2%80%99t-know-when-state%e2%80%99s-hands-free-legislation-goes-into-effect/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 09 Apr 2008 23:46:13 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[US/Corporate]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=28</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
New Law Will Impact More Than 23 Million Licensed Drivers in California

Santa Cruz, Calif. – April 9, 2008 – Despite the imminent nature of California’s new legislation requiring all drivers to use hands-free devices while talking on cell phones, many are unfamiliar with the details of the law, including when it goes into effect and [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="pr_subtitle">
<h4>New Law Will Impact More Than 23 Million Licensed Drivers in California</h4>
</div>
<p><strong>Santa Cruz</strong><strong>, Calif. – April 9, 2008 –</strong> Despite the imminent nature of California’s new legislation requiring all drivers to use hands-free devices while talking on cell phones, many are unfamiliar with the details of the law, including when it goes into effect and the consequences for non-compliance. According to a new survey by TNS and Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT), the largest headset manufacturer in California, 44 percent of California drivers don’t know when the new law goes into effect and 72 percent don’t have a strong familiarity with what it encompasses.</p>
<p>California’s new hands-free legislation, which goes into effect July 1, 2008, will impact more than 23 million licensed drivers.<sup>1</sup> The Plantronics survey, which polled 400 California licensed drivers, also found that 47 percent of respondents aren’t familiar with the consequences for not complying with the law. Other findings include:</p>
<ul>
<li class="arrow">Sixty-five percent of California drivers admitted to regularly talking on their cell phones while driving; their primary reasons were:
<ul>
<li class="arrow">To keep in touch with family members (57 percent)</li>
<li class="arrow">To take care of work-related issues (22 percent)</li>
<li class="arrow">To catch up with friends (12 percent)</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li class="arrow">Sixty-two percent of California drivers believe that headsets help eliminate physical distractions when performing driving tasks</li>
<li class="arrow">Eighty-four percent of California drivers would recommend that their friends and loved ones use a headset</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Details of California’s Hands-free Legislation</strong></p>
<p>Under the new law, drivers cannot hold cell phones to their head while on the road. Hands-free devices such as headsets and speakerphones are mandatory when using a cell phone while driving. Drivers under the age of 18 cannot use cell phones while driving at all, even if used in conjunction with a hands-free device.</p>
<p>Not abiding by the hands-free law is a primary offense. Drivers will be stopped and fined – there will be no grace period and no warning tickets issued. Fines will be $20 for the first offense (up to $70 after penalties are added); subsequent violations will be $50 (up to $175 after penalties are added).</p>
<p><strong>Safety Tips for Hands-free Devices</strong></p>
<p><span lang="EN">Plantronics offers the following</span> <span lang="EN">tips for keeping both hands on the wheel and both eyes on the road when using your cell phone and hands-free device while driving:</span></p>
<ul>
<li class="arrow">
<div><strong><span lang="EN">Trial Run:</span></strong> <span lang="EN">Practice using your phone and headset together before you drive. Familiarize yourself with the headset controls. Adjust the fit and the microphone on your headset, check the headset settings on your cell phone and stow the phone so it’s out of your way but still accessible.</span></div>
</li>
<li class="arrow">
<div><strong><span lang="EN">Be Prepared:</span></strong> <span lang="EN">Program all your frequently called numbers into your phone. This includes your boss, your kids’ babysitter and your favorite neighborhood pizza place. And don’t forget about voice dialing; most phones have that option, so use it as much as possible.</span></div>
</li>
<li class="arrow">
<div><strong><span lang="EN">Set Up for Success:</span></strong> <span lang="EN">Just as you check your rearview mirror and secure your seatbelt before driving, be sure to put your headset on and ensure it’s connected properly to your phone.</span></div>
</li>
<li class="arrow">
<div><strong><span lang="EN">Driving Comes First:</span></strong> <span lang="EN">Remember your first priority is driving. You should only place and receive calls when it’s absolutely necessary.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<p>“It’s important for California drivers to not only familiarize themselves with the hands-free law, but also the options available to them to ensure compliance before the law goes into effect,” said Clay Hausmann, vice president of Corporate Marketing, Plantronics. “We recognize that California drivers have many different needs, so we offer a wide variety of headsets that fit individual preferences and style. Regardless of the model, all Plantronics headsets deliver the audio performance, ease-of-use and comfort that customers have come to expect for the past 47 years.”</p>
<p>Visit <a href="http://www.plantronics.com/driversafety">www.plantronics.com/driversafety</a> to learn more about the law, find the hands-free solution that’s best for you, and read up on more driving safety tips.</p>
<p>Plantronics recognizes that there are occasions when driving circumstances make talking on a mobile phone – handheld or hands-free – unsafe. In these instances, motorists should pull over or hang up to protect the safety of themselves, their passengers and others on the road.</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics</strong></p>
<p>In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of Sound Innovation® is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing and Clarity. For more information, go to <span style="text-decoration: underline;">www.plantronics.com</span> or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p>Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics and Sound Innovation are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc.</p>
<p>According to the Public Inquiry office at the Department of Motor Vehicles, the total number of licensed drivers in the state of California is 23,237,087 (December 31, 2007).</p>
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		<title>Plantronics Survey Reveals 60 Percent of Polled Washington Drivers Don’t Know When State’s Hands-free Legislation Goes Into Effect</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-survey-reveals-60-percent-of-polled-washington-drivers-don%e2%80%99t-know-when-state%e2%80%99s-hands-free-legislation-goes-into-effect/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-survey-reveals-60-percent-of-polled-washington-drivers-don%e2%80%99t-know-when-state%e2%80%99s-hands-free-legislation-goes-into-effect/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 09 Apr 2008 23:22:40 +0000</pubDate>
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		<description><![CDATA[
New Law Will Impact 4.6 Million Licensed Drivers in Washington

Santa Cruz, Calif. – April 9, 2008 – Despite the imminent nature of Washington’s new legislation requiring all drivers to use hands-free devices while talking on cell phones, many are unfamiliar with the details of the law, including when it goes into effect and the consequences [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="pr_subtitle">
<h4>New Law Will Impact 4.6 Million Licensed Drivers in Washington</h4>
</div>
<p><strong>Santa Cruz</strong><strong>, Calif. – April 9, 2008 –</strong> Despite the imminent nature of Washington’s new legislation requiring all drivers to use hands-free devices while talking on cell phones, many are unfamiliar with the details of the law, including when it goes into effect and the consequences for non-compliance. According to a new survey by TNS and Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT), the worldwide leader in communication headsets, 60 percent of Washington drivers don’t know when the new law goes into effect and 78 percent don’t have a strong familiarity with what it encompasses.</p>
<p>On July 1, 2008, Washington will introduce its new hands-free legislation affecting 4.6 million drivers.<sup>1</sup> The Plantronics survey, which polled 400 licensed drivers in Washington, also found that 40 percent of respondents weren’t familiar with the consequences for not complying with the law. Other findings include:</p>
<ul>
<li class="arrow">Sixty percent of Washington drivers admitted to regularly talking on their cell phones while driving; their primary reasons were:
<ul>
<li class="arrow">To keep in touch with family members (63 percent)</li>
<li class="arrow">To take care of work-related issues (19 percent)</li>
<li class="arrow">To catch up with friends (8 percent)</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li class="arrow">Sixty percent of Washington drivers believe that headsets help eliminate physical distractions when performing driving tasks</li>
<li class="arrow">Seventy-five percent of Washington drivers would recommend that their friends and loved ones use a headset</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Details of Washington’s Hands-free Legislation</strong></p>
<p>Under the new law, drivers cannot hold cell phones to their head while on the road. Hands-free devices such as headsets and speakerphones are mandatory when using a cell phone while driving.</p>
<p>Not abiding by the hands-free law is a secondary offense. Drivers will be stopped if they are found to be driving unsafely or if they are in violation of other laws. There will be no grace period and no warning tickets issued. Fines will be $124 for the first and subsequent violations.</p>
<p><strong>Safety Tips for Hands-free Devices</strong></p>
<p><span lang="EN">Plantronics offers the following</span> <span lang="EN">tips for keeping both hands on the wheel and both eyes on the road when using your cell phone and hands-free device while driving:</span></p>
<ul>
<li class="arrow">
<div><strong><span lang="EN">Trial Run:</span></strong> <span lang="EN">Practice using your phone and headset together before you drive. Familiarize yourself with the headset controls. Adjust the fit and the microphone on your headset, check the headset settings on your cell phone and stow the phone so it’s out of your way but still accessible.</span></div>
</li>
<li class="arrow">
<div><strong><span lang="EN">Be Prepared:</span></strong> <span lang="EN">Program all your frequently called numbers into your phone. This includes your boss, your kids’ babysitter and your favorite neighborhood pizza place. And don’t forget about voice dialing; most phones have that option, so use it as much as possible.</span></div>
</li>
<li class="arrow">
<div><strong><span lang="EN">Set Up for Success:</span></strong> <span lang="EN">Just as you check your rearview mirror and secure your seatbelt before driving, be sure to put your headset on and ensure it’s connected properly to your phone.</span></div>
</li>
<li class="arrow">
<div><strong><span lang="EN">Driving Comes First:</span></strong> <span lang="EN">Remember your first priority is driving. You should only place and receive calls when it’s absolutely necessary.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<p>“It’s important for Washington drivers to not only familiarize themselves with the hands-free law, but also the options available to them to ensure compliance before the law goes into effect,” said Clay Hausmann, vice president of Corporate Marketing, Plantronics. “We recognize that Washington drivers have many different needs, so we offer a wide variety of headsets that fit individual preferences and style. Regardless of the model, all Plantronics headsets deliver the audio performance, ease-of-use and comfort that customers have come to expect for the past 47 years.”</p>
<p>Visit <a href="http://www.plantronics.com/driversafety">www.plantronics.com/driversafety</a> to learn more about the law, find the hands-free solution that’s best for you, and read up on more driving safety tips.</p>
<p>Plantronics recognizes that there are occasions when driving circumstances make talking on a mobile phone – handheld or hands-free – unsafe. In these instances, motorists should pull over or hang up to protect the safety of themselves, their passengers and others on the road.</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics</strong></p>
<p>In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of Sound Innovation® is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing and Clarity. For more information, go to <span style="text-decoration: underline;">www.plantronics.com</span> or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p>Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics and Sound Innovation are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc.</p>
<p><sup>1</sup> Washington State Department of Transportation, 2005.</p>
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		<title>Brian Dexheimer Joins Plantronics Board of Directors</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/brian-dexheimer-joins-plantronics-board-of-directors/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/brian-dexheimer-joins-plantronics-board-of-directors/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 01 Apr 2008 23:51:15 +0000</pubDate>
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		<description><![CDATA[
Seagate Chief Sales and Marketing Officer Brings Mix of Enterprise and Consumer Expertise to Plantronics’ Board

SANTA CRUZ, CA – April 1, 2008 – Plantronics (NYSE:PLT) today strengthened its Board of Directors with the addition of Brian Dexheimer, chief sales and marketing officer at Seagate.
“Brian has a strong balance of enterprise and consumer expertise and a [...]]]></description>
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<h4>Seagate Chief Sales and Marketing Officer Brings Mix of Enterprise and Consumer Expertise to Plantronics’ Board</h4>
</div>
<p><strong>SANTA CRUZ, CA</strong> – April 1, 2008 – Plantronics (NYSE:PLT) today strengthened its Board of Directors with the addition of Brian Dexheimer, chief sales and marketing officer at Seagate.</p>
<p>“Brian has a strong balance of enterprise and consumer expertise and a proven track record in helping companies grow their customer bases by anticipating future needs,” said Ken Kannappan, president and CEO of Plantronics. “His guidance and judgment in these areas will be very valuable to Plantronics.”</p>
<p>Promoted to chief marketing and sales officer in 2006, Dexheimer is responsible for the direction and management of Seagate’s five market-facing business units: Enterprise Storage, Personal Storage, Consumer Electronics Storage, Branded Solutions and New Business Initiatives. Prior to his current role, Dexheimer was the executive vice president of Sales, Marketing and Customer Service, where he helped Seagate grow its business in core markets and also expand to new markets with significant revenue opportunities.</p>
<p>A 22-year veteran of Seagate, Dexheimer has held a variety of leadership positions, including vice president and general manager of Seagate Removable Storage Solutions; senior vice president, Marketing and Product Line Management for Desktop disk drives; and senior vice president, Worldwide Sales and Marketing.</p>
<p>“Plantronics is at a very exciting stage in its 47-year history as trends in both the enterprise and consumer markets are increasing the value of the company’s offerings for the customer,” said Dexheimer. “I’m very pleased to join the Board of Directors and look forward to helping the company achieve its long-term business goals.”</p>
<p>Dexheimer holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from The University of Portland and a Masters of Science degree in Business Administration from Pepperdine University.</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics<br />
 </strong>In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”  Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange.  Today, this history of Sound Innovation™ is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing and Clarity, For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p>Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics, and Sound Innovation are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc.</p>
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		<title>Plantronics Remembers Long-Time Board Member Trude Taylor</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-remembers-long-time-board-member-trude-taylor/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-remembers-long-time-board-member-trude-taylor/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 25 Feb 2008 23:52:29 +0000</pubDate>
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		<description><![CDATA[Santa Cruz, Calif. – February 25, 2008 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today paid tribute to the life of Trude Taylor, a technology pioneer and member of Plantronics’ Board of Directors for 39 years, who died unexpectedly on Friday, February 22.
“We are deeply saddened by Trude’s passing and extend our sincere condolences to his family,” [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Santa Cruz, Calif. – February 25, 2008</strong> <strong>–</strong> Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today paid tribute to the life of Trude Taylor, a technology pioneer and member of Plantronics’ Board of Directors for 39 years, who died unexpectedly on Friday, February 22.</p>
<p>“We are deeply saddened by Trude’s passing and extend our sincere condolences to his family,” said Ken Kannappan, president and CEO of Plantronics. “Trude was a consummate professional who contributed heavily to Plantronics’ success over the past four decades. He was a great role model, a very trusted advisor with excellent judgment, and a friend to all that met him.”</p>
<p>Other members of the Plantronics Board of Directors remarked on Trude’s legacy:</p>
<blockquote><p>“Trude always carried himself with great dignity and grace, and I’m very grateful that we became colleagues and friends,” said Marv Tseu, director and chairman of the Board of Plantronics. “His technology insights and financial acumen were instrumental in helping shape Plantronics and preparing the company for broad growth. We’ll miss his bigger-than-life presence and ageless spirit.”</p>
<p>“I remember meeting Trude when I first started work on the Plantronics account in 1987 and being impressed with his knowledge and wisdom,” said Marshall Mohr.  “My respect for those traits only grew over time.  His contributions were immense and he will be missed.”</p>
<p>“Trude has been a true role model, providing great judgment and a unique balance of directness and tactfulness,” remarked Roger Wery.  “He was an inspiration for all of us.”</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Mr. Taylor has been a member of the Board of Directors since 1969, helping guide the company from a small start-up to the worldwide leader in communication headsets.   Earlier in his career, Mr. Taylor was chairman of the Board of Directors, president and CEO of Electronic Memories and Magnetics Corporation, a manufacturer of computer peripherals.</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics</strong></p>
<p>In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of Sound Innovation<sup>®</sup> is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing and Clarity. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p>Plantronics, Sound Innovation, Altec Lansing and Clarity are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc.</p>
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		<title>Plantronics to Consolidate Manufacturing Operations</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-to-consolidate-manufacturing-operations/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-to-consolidate-manufacturing-operations/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 28 Nov 2007 16:20:20 +0000</pubDate>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=57</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
Cost Structure to Improve in Audio Entertainment Group (Altec Lansing)

SANTA CRUZ,  CA- November 28, 2007 – Plantronics, Inc., (NYSE: PLT) today announced that its Board of Directors and executive management approved a plan to close and/or consolidate a number of facilities that perform functions for its Audio Entertainment Group (AEG) as part of a strategic [...]]]></description>
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<h4>Cost Structure to Improve in Audio Entertainment Group (Altec Lansing)</h4>
</div>
<p><strong>SANTA CRUZ,  CA</strong>- November 28, 2007 – Plantronics, Inc., (NYSE: PLT) today announced that its Board of Directors and executive management approved a plan to close and/or consolidate a number of facilities that perform functions for its Audio Entertainment Group (AEG) as part of a strategic initiative to lower costs.  AEG designs, makes and sells computer and home entertainment sound systems, and a line of headphones and microphones for personal digital media under the Altec Lansing and inMotion brands.</p>
<p>Specifically, Plantronics plans to close AEG’s manufacturing facility in Dongguan, China; shut down a related Hong Kong research and development, sales and procurement office; and consolidate procurement, research and development activities for AEG in a new Shenzhen, China site.  The selling, general and administrative functions of AEG will also be consolidated with those of Plantronics Audio Communication Group through-out the Asia-Pacific region.  These steps are part of a strategic initiative designed to reduce fixed costs by outsourcing AEG manufacturing to the network of qualified contract manufacturers it already has in place.</p>
<p>These actions will eventually result in the elimination of all manufacturing operations positions in Dongguan, China and certain related support functions.  The plan will proceed in phases and is expected to be complete by March 2008.  As a result, we currently expect cost savings of approximately $3 million in FY09 and $4 million in FY10.</p>
<p>We currently estimate that we will incur total costs and charges of approximately $4 to $4.5 million in connection with this consolidation plan.  Of this total, we currently estimate that approximately $3.7 million, or $0.07 per share, will be incurred over the balance of the current fiscal year which ends in March 2008.  For the quarter ending December 31, 2007, we currently estimate that we will incur approximately $2.8 million.   No tax benefit is currently expected to be associated with these charges and they are expected to reduce GAAP EPS by $0.06 per share in the third quarter in comparison to the previously provided guidance in our press release dated October 23, 2007.</p>
<p>The preliminary estimates of the total costs and charges of $4 to $4.5 million in connection with this consolidation plan consist of approximately $2.2 million in non-cash charges for accelerated depreciation and fixed asset write-offs, and the balance in cash charges for severance and other non-recurring costs associated with the plan.</p>
<p>We believe we will recover the costs associated with this plan through reduced future expenses within two calendar years, and that the net present value of the cash flows associated with the plan is positive in comparison to the alternative of continuing with the current cost structure.</p>
<p><strong>SAFE</strong><strong>HARBOR</strong></p>
<p>This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Specific forward-looking statements include the Company’s expectations regarding the occurrence or timing and amount of completion of any of the restructuring and other actions and activities described in this press release and the financial impact that such actions may have. There is a risk that restructuring may cost more than we currently expect. There is also a risk that the savings that we currently predict may not materialize and that the timing of costs and benefits may be different than what we currently expect. If the cost of restructuring is more than we currently anticipate or the savings that we currently anticipate from these consolidation activities do not materialize, this may adversely affect our future financial results.</p>
<p>For more information concerning these and other possible risks, please refer to the Company&#8217;s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed May 29, 2007, quarterly reports filed on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission as well as recent press releases. These filings can be accessed over the Internet at <a title="http://www.sec.gov/edgar/searchedgar/companysearch.html" href="http://www.sec.gov/edgar/searchedgar/companysearch.html">http://www.sec.gov/edgar/searchedgar/companysearch.html</a></p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics</strong></p>
<p><strong><br />
 </strong>In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”  Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange.  Today, this history of Sound Innovation<sup>®</sup> is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing, Clarity, and Volume Logic. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p>Altec Lansing, Clarity, inMotion, Plantronics, and Sound Innovation, are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc.</p>
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		<title>Plantronics Honored with Five Innovation Awards from Consumer Electronics Association</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-honored-with-five-innovation-awards-from-consumer-electronics-association/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-honored-with-five-innovation-awards-from-consumer-electronics-association/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 14 Nov 2007 16:51:34 +0000</pubDate>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=59</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
Winning Products will be Displayed in First Unified Plantronics and Altec Lansing Booth at CES 2008

SANTA CRUZ, Calif. – November 14, 2007 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced that it has won five 2008 Innovations Design and Engineering Honoree Awards from the Consumer Electronics Association. The awards highlight Plantronics’ leadership in developing innovative communication [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="pr_subtitle">
<h4>Winning Products will be Displayed in First Unified Plantronics and Altec Lansing Booth at CES 2008</h4>
</div>
<p><strong>SANTA CRUZ, Calif. – November 14, 2007 –</strong> Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced that it has won five 2008 Innovations Design and Engineering Honoree Awards from the Consumer Electronics Association. The awards highlight Plantronics’ leadership in developing innovative communication and entertainment solutions across numerous categories, including headsets, telephony and mobile and computer accessories.</p>
<p>The winning products will be showcased under the banner theme “The Fusion of Voice, Music and Life” at the first joint Plantronics and Altec Lansing booth (#20913) at the 2008 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, January 7-10, 2008. Plantronics acquired Altec Lansing in 2005 to combine its expertise in voice communication with Altec Lansing&#8217;s in music entertainment to better meet the full audio needs of consumers.</p>
<p>“Consumers expect more from their devices today as the lines between voice and music, home and work continue to blur,” said Clay Hausmann, vice president of Corporate Marketing, Plantronics, Inc. “Breakthroughs like the Plantronics Voyager™ 855 and Calisto™ Pro demonstrate our ability to translate consumer need into inspirational products that combine brilliant sound, ease of use and elegant design.”</p>
<p><strong>Sound Innovation® for all Lifestyles</strong></p>
<p>The five Innovations awards demonstrate the relevance of Plantronics and Altec Lansing expertise across a range of consumer applications and locations, from immersive music listening at a coffee shop to hands-free communications in the home. Following is the list of award-winning Plantronics products and categories in which they were recognized.</p>
<ul type="disc">
<li><em>Plantronics Voyager™ 855 Bluetooth® headset –</em><em>Headphones</em></li>
<li><em>Plantronics Voyager™ 855 Bluetooth® headset – Wireless Handset Accessories</em></li>
</ul>
<p>The Plantronics Voyager 855 is the industry’s first convertible stereo Bluetooth headset for use with music-enabled mobile phones: <a href="http://www.plantronics.com/north_america/en_US/products/cat1150057/cat5420035/prod5880001">http://www.plantronics.com/Voyager855</a></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li><em>Plantronics Calisto Pro Series – Telephones</em></li>
</ul>
<p>The Plantronics Calisto Pro Series is a revolutionary home phone system with multi-function Bluetooth® headset that lets consumers stay connected hands-free on landline, VoIP or mobile calls: <a href="http://www.plantronics.com/north_america/en_US/products/cat1210152/cat5440035/prod5900002">http://www.plantronics.com/CalistoProSeries</a></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li><em>Plantronics .Audio™ 480 USB Virtual Phone Booth™ – Computer Accessories</em></li>
</ul>
<p>The Plantronics .Audio 480 USB Virtual Phone Booth offers users a stylish, portable sound-isolating corded headset and microphone that provides excellent stereo sound and superb voice quality: <a href="http://www.plantronics.com/north_america/en_US/products/cat640035/cat1430032/prod5870002">http://www.plantronics.com/VirtualPhoneBooth</a></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li><em>Plantronics MiX™ 20z</em> <em>corded headset – Portable Media Accessories</em></li>
</ul>
<p>The Plantronics MiX 20z corded headset is great for road trips or just hanging out with friends, enabling users to share calls and songs through an intuitive dual-connector: <a href="http://www.plantronics.com/north_america/en_US/products/cat1150057/cat1150057/prod5920002">http://www.plantronics.com/MiX20ZHeadphones</a></p>
<p><strong>About the Innovations Design and Engineering Award</strong></p>
<p>The Innovations Design and Engineering Awards is an annual competition which honors consumer technology manufacturers’ and developers’ outstanding design and engineering in CE products. It is sponsored by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA), the producer of the International CES, the world’s largest consumer technology tradeshow, and endorsed by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA), the voice of industrial design, committed to advancing the profession through education, information, community and advocacy. A full list of the 2008 Innovation Design and Engineering Award winners can be seen here: <a href="http://www.cesweb.org/Innovations" target="_balnk">www.CESweb.org/Innovations</a>.</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics<br />
 </strong>Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) is a worldwide leader in audio communications and entertainment products. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing and Clarity. For more information, go to <a href="http://www.plantronics.com/">www.plantronics.com</a> or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p>.Audio, Altec Lansing, Calisto Pro, Clarity, MiX, Plantronics, Plantronics Voyager, Sound Innovation, and Virtual Phone Booth are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.</p>
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		<title>Vicki Marion Joins Plantronics to Lead the Audio Entertainment Group</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/vicki-marion-joins-plantronics-to-lead-the-audio-entertainment-group/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/vicki-marion-joins-plantronics-to-lead-the-audio-entertainment-group/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 08 Oct 2007 18:01:08 +0000</pubDate>
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		<category><![CDATA[US/Corporate]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[SANTA CRUZ, CA– October 8, 2007 – Plantronics (NYSE:PLT) today announced that Vicki Marion has joined the company as president of the Audio Entertainment Group.  In that role, she will be responsible for driving sales and profitable growth for the Altec Lansing brand of products.  Ms. Marion brings to Plantronics extensive management experience [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>SANTA CRUZ, CA– October 8, 2007 – Plantronics (NYSE:PLT) today announced that Vicki Marion has joined the company as president of the Audio Entertainment Group.  In that role, she will be responsible for driving sales and profitable growth for the Altec Lansing brand of products.  Ms. Marion brings to Plantronics extensive management experience across a range of industries including telecommunications and consumer electronics.   She has held CEO positions twice previously, most notably at Jabra Corporation.  Ms. Marion was president and CEO of Jabra Corporation from 1996-2001, where she led the company through a dramatic turnaround resulting in its period of strongest growth and greatest profitability.   During her tenure, Ms. Marion oversaw development of products for the US cellular marketplace, obtained product placement in retail and carrier stores, and established and scaled offshore manufacturing from 15,000 units per month to more than 1 million per month.   Under Ms. Marion’s leadership, the company’s annual revenues grew from $200,000 to $42 million in four years.  “Vicki’s deep understanding of the consumer electronics industry and strong senior management experience fit well with the needs of our Audio Entertainment Group,” said Ken Kannappan, president and CEO, Plantronics, Inc.   “Throughout her career, she has proven her talent at building strong foundations that enable rapid growth.  That skill set will be invaluable as we grow our presence within the ever-evolving audio entertainment market.”  Also in her career, Ms. Marion served as president and CEO of Viadux, Inc., a developer of broadband access equipment, where she repositioned the company to focus on new growth opportunities in emerging cable and wireless enterprise markets.   While at Viadux, Ms. Marion also oversaw the company’s equipment redesign to meet new customer and application requirements, and developed strategic partnerships with Motorola and Scientific Atlanta.   Ms. Marion also held senior management positions at IRT Corporation, a publicly held manufacturer of automated x-ray equipment, during the period of its financial turnaround.  Most recently, Ms. Marion was an angel investor, director and advisor for Rivet International, a developer of carrying solutions and headsets for mobile phones, music players and other digital devices.   Ms. Marion holds a BA in Economics from Stanford University.  About Plantronics In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”  Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange.  Today, this history of Sound Innovation™ is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing, Clarity, and Volume Logic. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.  Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics, Sound Innovation, and Volume Logic are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc.   ###</p>
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		<title>Larry Wuerz Joins Plantronics as Senior Vice President of Worldwide Operations</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/larry-wuerz-joins-plantronics-as-senior-vice-president-of-worldwide-operations/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/larry-wuerz-joins-plantronics-as-senior-vice-president-of-worldwide-operations/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 11 Jun 2007 18:35:19 +0000</pubDate>
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New Executive Team Member Brings 28 Years of Experience from HP

SANTA CRUZ, CA – June 11, 2007 – Plantronics (NYSE:PLT) today announced that Larry Wuerz has joined the company as senior vice president of Worldwide Operations, responsible for leading Plantronics’ global operations and supply chain.
&#8220;Larry&#8217;s 28 years of experience at HP include high volume, low [...]]]></description>
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<h4>New Executive Team Member Brings 28 Years of Experience from HP</h4>
</div>
<p><strong>SANTA CRUZ, CA</strong> – June 11, 2007 – Plantronics (NYSE:PLT) today announced that Larry Wuerz has joined the company as senior vice president of Worldwide Operations, responsible for leading Plantronics’ global operations and supply chain.</p>
<p>&#8220;Larry&#8217;s 28 years of experience at HP include high volume, low cost businesses which are important to Plantronics’ growth in retail and mobile sectors,&#8221; said Ken Kannappan, president and CEO of Plantronics.&#8221;His proven excellence in leading teams to manage rapid change at HP will help Plantronics achieve the necessary cost structures and responsiveness for these emerging markets, and help us complement our already outstanding commercial infrastructure.&#8221;</p>
<p>At HP, Mr. Wuerz was most recently the worldwide vice president of Operations and Supply Chain for the Desktop Personal Computer organization, including consumer, commercial and workstation PCs. Prior to this role, Mr. Wuerz held the same title for HP’s Consumer Desktop Personal Computer organization, where he helped grow the business from inception to the global market share leader. Mr. Wuerz was instrumental in dramatically simplifying HP’s supply chain to improve margins, customer satisfaction, quality, and overall operational excellence. His extensive supply chain experience within the retail sector helped HP speed product cycles, reduce operational costs, and adapt to competitive pressures. In addition to Mr. Wuerz’s operations roles at HP, he also held senior positions in other functional areas, including Research and Development, and Human Resources.</p>
<p>Mr. Wuerz holds an MSEE from Stanford University and a BSEE from the University of Missouri – Rolla.</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics<br />
 </strong>In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”  Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange.  Today, this history of Sound Innovation™ is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing, Clarity, and Volume Logic. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p>Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics, Sound Innovation, and Volume Logic are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc.</p>
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		<title>Plantronics Hits the Road on&#8221;Sound Innovation&#8221; Tour</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-hits-the-road-on-%e2%80%9csound-innovation%e2%80%9d-tour/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-hits-the-road-on-%e2%80%9csound-innovation%e2%80%9d-tour/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 05 Mar 2007 21:06:52 +0000</pubDate>
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New Sound Coach Vehicle Provides Channel Partner Education and Training Across the U.S.

ORLANDO, FL and SANTA CRUZ, CA — March 5, 2007 — Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE:PLT) today put the pedal to the metal with the launch of the Sound Coach, a 44-foot long mobile marketing unit designed to educate and train Plantronics’ valued channel partners [...]]]></description>
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<h4>New Sound Coach Vehicle Provides Channel Partner Education and Training Across the U.S.</h4>
</div>
<p>ORLANDO, FL and SANTA CRUZ, CA — March 5, 2007 — Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE:PLT) today put the pedal to the metal with the launch of the Sound Coach, a 44-foot long mobile marketing unit designed to educate and train Plantronics’ valued channel partners and end-users on the benefits of wireless headset solutions in the office, at home and on the go.</p>
<p>“The Sound Coach is a unique educational resource designed to provide a myriad of benefits to our channel partners all over the U.S.,” said Kelly Myers-Santos, director of Business Solutions Channel Marketing at Plantronics. “It provides a truly immersive experience, where partners receive highly interactive, hands-on training and demonstrations with Plantronics’ latest products. When partners leave, they’ll have a much better understanding of how our solutions fit within all aspects of their customers’ lives, and be better equipped to capitalize on the rapidly growing wireless communications market.”</p>
<p>As part of Plantronics’ Connect Partner Program, the Sound Coach will travel across the U.S. and make stops at major industry events, channel partner sales offices and stores of select retail and carrier partners. Visitors of the Sound Coach take part in unique “Sound Innovation Experience” tours, comprised of several interactive modules that illustrate how Plantronics headsets can enhance communication and entertainment experiences. The Plantronics “Sound Innovation Experience” tour includes:</p>
<ul type="disc">
<li>self-guided iPod audio tours that highlight Plantronics’ legacy of sound innovation, headset technology fundamentals and emerging trends driving headset usage for both businesses and consumers,</li>
<li>product demonstrations that feature Plantronics’ newest corded and wireless solutions for use with office, home and mobile phones, and for popular applications such as, Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), Unified Communications and PC and console gaming,</li>
<li>an immersive presentation focused on current headset market opportunities with tips on identifying the ideal Plantronics headset, and</li>
<li>a brief Q&amp;A session with a Plantronics specialist to receive a certificate of completion confirming their education on Plantronics’ award-winning offerings.</li>
</ul>
<p>Launched in November 2005, Plantronics Connect is a comprehensive partner program designed to energize channel partners’ business with training, certifications, sales, marketing, and technical support tailored to their specific needs. Connect provides partners with the framework needed to expand product knowledge, enhance technical capabilities, energize relationships with existing customers, and grow their overall customer base. Today, more than 3,000 partners are members of the Connect program.</p>
<p>The Plantronics Sound Coach’s first stop is at the VoiceCon Spring tradeshow, March 5–8, 2007 in Orlando, Florida. The Sound Coach will then visit numerous cities in Florida before driving across the U.S. For more information about The Plantronics Sound Coach, please e-mail: <a href="mailto:soundcoach@plantronics.com">soundcoach@plantronics.com</a>.</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics</strong></p>
<p>In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of Sound Innovation™ is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing, Clarity, and Volume Logic. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p>Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics, Sound Innovation, and Volume Logic are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc.</p>
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		<title>Plantronics Wireless Headset System Awarded Nortel Compatible Product Designation</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-wireless-headset-system-awarded-nortel-compatible-product-designation/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-wireless-headset-system-awarded-nortel-compatible-product-designation/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 05 Feb 2007 21:58:55 +0000</pubDate>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=122</guid>
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Plantronics Headsets and Nortel Desktop Portfolio Provide Advanced Communication Capabilities for Improved Business Efficiency

Santa Cruz, Calif. – February 5, 2007 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced that the Plantronics Voyager™ 510 Bluetooth®  Headset and Plantronics Voyager 510 Bluetooth Headset System (both S and SL models) were awarded Nortel Compatible Product designation through interoperability [...]]]></description>
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<h4>Plantronics Headsets and Nortel Desktop Portfolio Provide Advanced Communication Capabilities for Improved Business Efficiency</h4>
</div>
<p><strong><span lang="PT-BR">Santa Cruz, Calif. – February 5, 2007</span></strong> <span lang="PT-BR">– Plantronics, Inc.</span> (NYSE: PLT) today announced that the Plantronics <a name="OLE_LINK1">Voyager™ 510 <em>Bluetooth</em></a><a name="OLE_LINK2">®<strong> </strong></a> Headset and Plantronics Voyager 510 <em>Bluetooth</em> Headset System (both S and SL models) were awarded Nortel Compatible Product designation through interoperability testing on various models of Nortel desktop digital or IP phones. The products are the first wireless headsets in the industry to gain such status.</p>
<p>The Plantronics SupraPlus® P251N and P261N corded headsets were also awarded Nortel Compatible Product designation.   In addition, Plantronics is now recognized as a Nortel Developer Partner.</p>
<p>Combining Plantronics wireless and wired headsets with Nortel’s desktop portfolio provides professionals with a complete solution for smarter, more efficient business communications. Nortel and Plantronics customers can now use a single wireless headset to seamlessly switch between Nortel IP phones and mobile phones with <em>Bluetooth</em> technology — empowering professionals to multi-task, collaborate more effectively, and extend the virtual workplace whether they are in the office, at home or on the go.</p>
<p>“Nortel’s open interface strategy enables innovative companies like Plantronics to create compelling applications that complement Nortel systems,” said Steve Horowitz, Leader, IP Clients, Nortel. “Today’s highly mobile workforce can now easily utilize the same wireless headset for use with their mobile phone and their Nortel IP business phone, creating economic and productivity efficiencies.”</p>
<p>“Both Nortel and Plantronics share great legacies of developing advanced communication solutions that improve business efficiency and exceed the expectation of our customers,” said Chuck Yort, vice president and general manger of Business Solutions at Plantronics.  “Together, Nortel and Plantronics help businesses redefine how they communicate and better service their customers, partners and other constituents.”</p>
<p><strong>Plantronics Voyager 510 Bluetooth Headset System</strong></p>
<p>The Plantronics Voyager 510<sup>1</sup> is the first headset with <em>Bluetooth</em> wireless technology to include both a noise-canceling microphone and wind-reduction technology for brilliant sound in windy environments.  The headset features multipoint technology for easily switching between multiple devices, and can automatically detect which device a person is using, allowing them to take calls from either device with the touch of a button. The Plantronics Voyager 510 can connect directly to Nortel IP Phones that feature an integrated <em>Bluetooth</em> audio gateway, or the Plantronics Voyager 510 Headset System includes a <em>Bluetooth</em> desktop adapter for other Nortel phone models. Specific details about the Nortel phone models that are compatible with the Plantronics wireless or wired headsets can be found at <a href="http://www.nortel.com/developer">http://www.nortel.com/developer</a>. The Plantronics Voyager 510 headset features include:</p>
<ul type="disc">
<li>Noise-canceling microphone and wind-reduction technology for brilliant sound in indoor and outdoor environments,</li>
<li>Lightweight, foldable design for all-day wearing comfort and easy storage,</li>
<li>One-touch call answer/end, last number redial and voice activated dialing with mobile phones,</li>
<li>Boom swivels for use on either ear for optional wearing preference,</li>
<li>Up to six hours talk time and up to 100 hours standby time, and</li>
<li>Freedom to roam up to 33 feet away from voice-enabled devices with <em>Bluetooth</em> wireless technology.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Nortel Desktop Portfolio</strong></p>
<p>Nortel has one of the most complete desktop portfolios in the industry, with both digital and IP client solutions available to customers. The award winning Nortel IP Phone 1100 Series portfolio offers a sleek and cutting-edge ergonomic design with selected models that feature fully-integrated USB, Gigabit Ethernet and <em>Bluetooth</em> wireless technology, helping to provide a superior user experience for both today’s and tomorrow’s communications needs.</p>
<p>The Plantronics headsets with the Nortel Compatible Product designation are immediately orderable through the Nortel Select Product Program.  Nortel selects innovative products from its Developer Partners that strategically complement Nortel communication platforms and create significant value for Nortel customers.</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics<br />
 </strong>In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”  Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange.  Today, this history of Sound Innovation™ is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing, Clarity, and Volume Logic. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p>Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics, Plantronics Voyager, Sound Innovation, and Volume Logic are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. The <em>Bluetooth</em>® word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Plantronics, Inc. is under license. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.</p>
<p align="center">###</p>
<p>1 Testing of the Plantronics Voyager 510 headset by the National Analysis Center, a leading independent testing lab for the wireless phone industry, found that “<em>the Plantronics Voyager 510 Bluetooth headset supports an innovative boom microphone design to greatly minimize the effects of wind noise.  A high level of customer satisfaction should be realized due to the exceptional audio quality along with the ability to use the headset in outdoor windy conditions</em>.”  For its superior wind noise performance, the National Analysis Center awarded Plantronics Voyager 510 with its “Innovation” award.</p>
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		<title>Quiksilver and Plantronics Announce Partnership and New Limited Edition Sports Collection</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/quiksilver-and-plantronics-announce-partnership-and-new-limited-edition-sports-collection/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/quiksilver-and-plantronics-announce-partnership-and-new-limited-edition-sports-collection/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 22 Jan 2007 22:19:34 +0000</pubDate>
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		<description><![CDATA[
Alliance Fuses Industry Trailblazers to Develop Premium Bluetooth Enabled Snow Wear and Accessories

(Huntington Beach, CA and Santa Cruz, CA) — January 22, 2007 — Quiksilver (NYSE:ZQK) and Plantronics (NYSE: PLT) today kicked off a new strategic partnership to outfit outdoor sports enthusiasts with a unique array of Bluetooth® enabled sports apparel and accessories. Quiksilver and [...]]]></description>
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<h4>Alliance Fuses Industry Trailblazers to Develop Premium Bluetooth Enabled Snow Wear and Accessories</h4>
</div>
<p><strong>(Huntington Beach, CA and Santa Cruz, CA)</strong> — January 22, 2007 — Quiksilver (NYSE:ZQK) and Plantronics (NYSE: PLT) today kicked off a new strategic partnership to outfit outdoor sports enthusiasts with a unique array of Bluetooth<sup>®</sup> enabled sports apparel and accessories. Quiksilver and Plantronics also previewed a new collection of premium snow apparel and accessories providing wireless, high-performance stereo music and mobile phone communications today at the SIA conference in Las Vegas, Nevada.</p>
<p>The alliance represents an exciting fusion of industry trailblazers – Quiksilver, which includes the Quiksilver and Roxy brands, is known as a leader in the outdoor sports lifestyle industry. Plantronics is recognized as a leader of Bluetooth voice and stereo technology.</p>
<p>“We’re thrilled to be working with Plantronics, a brand that has long been recognized as an industry leader in communications and entertainment,” said Quiksilver CEO, Bob McKnight.  “Our company has always sought new and innovative ways to enhance the outdoor lifestyle, and integrating Plantronics technology into our products is a great way to do that.”</p>
<p>“This new premium line of Bluetooth equipped apparel and accessories creates a pure and seamless experience for sports enthusiasts – they can go from one environment to the next while staying continuously connected to their music and friends,” said Renee Niemi, general manager and vice president of Mobile and Entertainment for Plantronics.   “This new line also reflects Quiksilver and Plantronics’ commitment to combining style, comfort and technology with great ease of use.”</p>
<p>The new collection integrates Quiksilver’s high-quality outdoor sports apparel with Bluetooth equipped mobile phones, iPods and MP3 players, allowing users to effortlessly access their favorite tunes and mobile calls without the worry of snagging a cord while blazing the slopes. Plantronics’ technology, embedded within the Quiksilver apparel and accessories, enables stereo sound to stream wirelessly from compatible products so that users can play and control music as well as answer incoming calls – all at the touch of a button.</p>
<p>Designed for both men and women under the Quiksilver and Roxy brands, the inaugural collection of apparel and accessories will include:</p>
<ul type="disc">
<li><strong>Quiksilver Double Daffy Snow Jacket</strong> featuring Plantronics stereo sound and voice technology with Bluetooth<sup>®</sup>: The jacket is part of Quiksilver’s Limited Edition Outerwear Collection and is both iPod and cell phone ready. The Double Daffy will be available in the 2007/2008 Outerwear season and will retail for $370.00 at Quiksilver Stores and better retailers nationwide. </li>
</ul>
<ul type="disc">
<li><strong>Quiksilver Pulse Helmet</strong> featuring Plantronics stereo sound and voice technology with Bluetooth<sup>®</sup>: The lightweight helmet, constructed from injected ABS, has adjustable side vents and comes in a black camo print. The Pulse will be available in the 2007/2008 Outerwear season and will retail for $249.95 at Quiksilver Stores and better retailers nationwide. </li>
</ul>
<ul type="disc">
<li><strong>Roxy Teen Angel Snow Jacket</strong> featuring Plantronics stereo sound and voice technology with Bluetooth<sup>®</sup>: iPod and cell phone ready, this jacket will be available in the 2007/2008 Outerwear season and will retail for $340.00 at Quiksilver Stores and Roxy retailers nationwide.</li>
</ul>
<ul type="disc">
<li><strong>Roxy Shiver Helmet</strong> featuring Plantronics stereo sound and voice technology with Bluetooth<sup>®</sup>: The Shiver Roxy Women’s Ski/Snow Safety Helmet will be available in the 2007/2008 Outerwear season and will retail for $249.95 at Quiksilver Stores and Roxy retailers nationwide.</li>
</ul>
<p>Quiksilver will provide a sneak peek of the first co-developed products at the SIA conference in Las Vegas, Nevada (January 22-25, 2007), booths #C700 and #C800.</p>
<p><strong>About Quiksilver and Roxy :<br />
 </strong>Quiksilver and Roxy are brands of Quiksilver, Inc., the world&#8217;s leading outdoor sports lifestyle company, which designs, produces and distributes a diversified mix of branded apparel, wintersports and golf equipment, footwear, accessories and related products. The Company&#8217;s apparel and footwear brands represent a casual lifestyle for young-minded people that connect with its boardriding culture and heritage, while its wintersports and golf brands symbolize a long standing commitment to technical expertise and competitive success on the mountains and on the links.</p>
<p>The reputation of Quiksilver Inc.’s brands is based on different outdoor sports. The Company&#8217;s Quiksilver, Roxy, DC Shoes and Hawk brands are synonymous with the heritage and culture of surfing, skateboarding and snowboarding, and its beach and water oriented swimwear brands include Raisins, Radio Fiji and Leilani. The Rossignol, Dynastar, Lange, Look and Kerma brands are leaders in the alpine ski market, and the Company makes snowboarding equipment under its Rossignol, Dynastar, DC Shoes, Roxy, Lib Technologies, Gnu and Bent Metal labels. The Company&#8217;s golf business includes Cleveland Golf, as well as Never Compromise putters and Fidra apparel. Gotcha is the Company&#8217;s surf-based European brand addressing street fashion. The Company&#8217;s products are sold in over 90 countries in a wide range of distribution, including surf shops, ski shops, skateboard shops, snowboard shops, proprietary Boardriders Club shops, other specialty stores and select department stores. Quiksilver&#8217;s corporate and Americas&#8217; headquarters are in Huntington Beach, California, while its European headquarters are in St. Jean de Luz and St. Jean de Moirans, France, and its Asia/Pacific headquarters are in Torquay, Australia.</p>
<p align="center">* * * * *</p>
<p align="center"><em>NOTE: For further information about Quiksilver, Inc., you are invited to take a look at our world at</em> <a href="http://www.quiksilver.com/">www.quiksilver.com</a><em>,</em></p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://www.roxy.com/">www.roxy.com</a><em>,</em> <a href="http://www.dcshoecousa.com/">www.dcshoecousa.com</a><em>,</em> <a href="http://www.quiksilveredition.com/">www.quiksilveredition.com</a><em>,</em> <a href="http://www.hawkclothing.com/">www.hawkclothing.com</a><em>,</em></p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://www.rossignol.com/">www.rossignol.com</a><em>,</em> <a href="http://www.dynastar.com/">www.dynastar.com</a><em>,</em></p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://www.clevelandgolf.com/">www.clevelandgolf.com</a><em>, and</em> <a href="http://www.fidragolf.com/">www.fidragolf.com</a><em>.</em></p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics<br />
 </strong>In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”  Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, emergency dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange.  Today, this history of Sound Innovation™ is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing, Clarity, and Volume Logic. For more information, go to <a href="http://www.plantronics.com/">www.plantronics.com</a>.</p>
<p>Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics, and Volume Logic are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc.  The <em>Bluetooth</em>® word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Plantronics, Inc. is under license.</p>
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		<title>Plantronics Honored with Five CES Innovation Awards</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-honored-with-five-ces-innovation-awards/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-honored-with-five-ces-innovation-awards/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 12 Dec 2006 22:37:44 +0000</pubDate>
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Award-Winning Mobile, Office and Gaming Headsets Set Stage for Plantronics’ Product Showcase at CES 2007

SANTA CRUZ, Calif. –– December 12, 2006 –– Extending its leadership position in delivering award-winning Bluetooth, wireless and corded headset innovation, Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) has been honored with five International CES Innovations 2007 Design and Engineering Showcase Awards.
All of Plantronics’ [...]]]></description>
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<h4>Award-Winning Mobile, Office and Gaming Headsets Set Stage for Plantronics’ Product Showcase at CES 2007</h4>
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<p><strong>SANTA CRUZ, Calif. –– December 12, 2006 ––</strong> Extending its leadership position in delivering award-winning <em>Bluetooth</em>, wireless and corded headset innovation, Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) has been honored with five <strong>International CES Innovations 2007 Design and Engineering Showcase Awards.</strong></p>
<p>All of Plantronics’ Innovations Awards-winning products will be on display during the 2007 International CES, January 8-11, in the Plantronics<strong>Booth #30333</strong> in the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. Plantronics’ recognized products include a chic, inventive <em>Bluetooth</em> headset; a pioneering plug-and-play <em>Bluetooth</em> VoIP system; two corded multimedia headsets; and a wireless office headset system.</p>
<p>“This recognition shows the world that our headsets play an invaluable role in enhancing personal mobility and communication,” said Renee Niemi, vice president and general manager of Mobile and Entertainment for Plantronics. “These honored products represent our commitment to combining the highest quality sound with unmatched simplicity and remarkable design – and clearly differentiate us from the competition.”</p>
<p>Plantronics’ award-winning products for 2007 include:</p>
<p><strong>Plantronics Discovery™ 655:</strong> Honored in the Wireless Peripherals category, the Plantronics Discovery 655 expands on the innovative design of previous Discovery headsets, featuring a modern sculpted look to complement the contours of the face, a snug ergonomic fit and cutting-edge technology. With Digital Signal Processing (DSP) the Plantronics Discovery 655 reduces noise levels to provide enhanced sound for clear conversations. It weighs only 9 grams and comes with an innovative charging system that provides up to 10 hours of talk time and includes a unique vibrate ring indicator.</p>
<p><strong>Plantronics .Audio™ 910:</strong> Honored in the Computer Accessories category, the Plantronics .Audio 910 <em>Bluetooth</em> headset system is the first of its kind to offer true plug-and-play connectivity for Internet and mobile phone calls. The .Audio 910 includes a <em>Bluetooth</em> USB adapter that eliminates cumbersome software setup processes and enables users to instantly place hands-free softphone calls. Additionally, the .Audio 910 features Plantronics’ unique multipoint technology that allows users to pair with multiple <em>Bluetooth</em> enabled devices and seamlessly switch between softphone and mobile conversations with the touch of a button.</p>
<p><strong>Plantronics .Audio™ 550 DSP:</strong> Honored in the Electronic Gaming category, the Plantronics .Audio™ 550 DSP features a comfortable, lightweight design and 40mm speakers for dynamic base response. A noise-canceling microphone cuts out background distractions and enhances speech recognition accuracy for chatting and recordings. The .Audio 550 DSP includes a digital signal processing chip for optimizing audio levels, and PerSono® Audio Control Center Software, which provides music lovers with full control over microphone and audio characteristics like volume, bass and treble for balancing between hip hop, rock and classical.</p>
<p><strong>Plantronics GameCom™ X30:</strong> Honored in the Electronic Gaming category, Plantronics’ GameCom X30 reflects the colors of Microsoft’s Xbox 360 system and incorporates a single-ear design to deliver total precision sound. The GameCom X30 headset is lightweight and discreet, and boasts a flexible, ear-melding design to provide all-day gaming comfort. The GameCom X30 also features a noise-canceling mic to reduce background noise as well as inline volume and mute controls for easy audio control.</p>
<p><strong>Plantronics CS70 Wireless Office System:</strong> Honored in the Mobile/Home Office category, the wireless Plantronics CS70 combines lightweight, all-day comfort and discreet, executive style – without compromising sound quality. The headset is built on digitally encrypted, voice-dedicated DECT™ 6.0 technology to provide exceptional audio quality and lower interference with other wireless devices, and offers up to 300 feet of range for multi-tasking around the office.</p>
<p>To learn more about Plantronics headsets, please visit: <a href="http://www.plantronics.com/">www.plantronics.com</a>.</p>
<p><strong>About the International CES Innovations Design and Engineering Awards</strong></p>
<p>The prestigious Innovations Design and Engineering Awards recognize achievements in product design and engineering. It is sponsored by CEA, the producer of the International CES, the world’s largest consumer technology tradeshow, and endorsed by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA), the voice of industrial design, committed to advancing the profession through education, information, community and advocacy.</p>
<p>Innovations honoree products are featured on <a href="http://www.cesweb.org/Innovations" target="_balnk">www.CESweb.org/Innovations</a>, where you can see a list of product categories, as well as each product name, manufacturer information, designer, description, photo and URL.</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics</strong></p>
<p>In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, emergency dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of Sound Innovation™ is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing, Clarity, and Volume Logic. For more information, go to <a href="http://www.plantronics.com/">www.plantronics.com</a>.</p>
<p>Altec Lansing, Clarity, Clearline, Plantronics, Sound Innovation, SupraPlus, Vista, and Volume Logic are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc.</p>
<p>All product and company names mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.</p>
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		<title>Plantronics Manufacturing Complex in Suzhou Becomes First-Ever to Earn Prestigious Environmental Certification in China</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-manufacturing-complex-in-suzhou-becomes-first-ever-to-earn-prestigious-environmental-certification-in-china/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-manufacturing-complex-in-suzhou-becomes-first-ever-to-earn-prestigious-environmental-certification-in-china/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 24 Apr 2006 23:47:05 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
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Achievement Underscores Plantronics&#8217; Long-Term Commitment in China

Suzhou, China – April 25, 2006 – At a grand opening ceremony today, Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) announced that its new manufacturing and design center in Suzhou, China, has earned the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) gold certification for environmental sustainability.  Plantronics Suzhou is now the only [...]]]></description>
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<h4>Achievement Underscores Plantronics&#8217; Long-Term Commitment in China</h4>
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<p><strong>Suzhou, China – April 25, 2006</strong> – At a grand opening ceremony today, Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) announced that its new manufacturing and design center in Suzhou, China, has earned the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) gold certification for environmental sustainability.  Plantronics Suzhou is now the only manufacturing facility in all of China to achieve LEED certification.</p>
<p>The United States Green Building Council (USGBC), which has developed the world’s only common standard of measurement for a “green” building and is recognized as the leading accrediting body for the industry, certified the Plantronics Suzhou manufacturing facility at gold status under its rigorous LEED rating system.  The USGBC recognized Plantronics Suzhou’s best practices for sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality.</p>
<p>“It is of great importance to us that Plantronics Suzhou feel like a world-class Chinese operation and not an American company operating in China,” said Ken Kannappan, president and CEO of Plantronics.  “One of the best ways we know how to accomplish that is to combine respect for the local community and its culture with our vigorous commitment to environmentally sound practices.”</p>
<p>Plantronics partnered with Bechtel on the construction of the new Suzhou facility.  Together, the companies developed innovative building and landscape designs aimed towards energy conservation, environmental sustainability and employee wellness.  Plantronics Suzhou environmental benefits include:</p>
<ul type="disc">
<li><em>Increased Energy Efficiency</em>: All buildings feature insulated roof systems, natural light, energy-rated roof coating, and insulated block walls. The main office building is designed with a slight angle to take advantage of sunlight, without causing over-consumption of energy for heating during the winter and cooling during the summer.</li>
<li><em>Reduced Water Consumption</em>: Plantronics Suzhou uses rain water collection ponds, storm water irrigation, recycled condensation water from air conditioning units, and an innovative reverse-osmosis system to make city water drinkable.</li>
<li><em>Reduced Air Pollution</em>: The Suzhou manufacturing complex promotes alternative transportation by providing covered ports with battery chargers for electric scooters, coordinated bus transportation, and bike air pumps and storage.   Plantronics estimates that more than 90 percent of employees will use alternative transportation.</li>
<li><em>Indoor Air Quality</em>:   Non-toxic interior finishes, a fume extraction system, and natural lighting are used throughout the Suzhou facility to ensure a quality work environment. </li>
</ul>
<p>“The opening of the first LEED-certified manufacturing facility in China marks a significant milestone in the global shift to green buildings,” said S. Richard Fedrizzi, president, CEO and founding chairman of the U.S. Green Building Council.  “Committing to building green, as Plantronics has done, as China has done, is the hallmark of a resource-saving, environment-friendly society, and we applaud their vision and leadership in this important area.”</p>
<p><strong>Supply Chain Agility and Cost Efficiencies</strong></p>
<p>The Suzhou facility enables Plantronics to develop and produce product in the same facility, expedite part delivery from neighboring regions and improve quality control.   Suzhou also allows Plantronics to optimize product builds for the local supply chain to speed time to market, while reducing development and product costs.  In conjunction with Plantronics’ world-class manufacturing facility in Mexico (Plamex), the Suzhou facility will improve global supply chain efficiencies and maximize cost efficiencies through local materials procurement.</p>
<p>In addition to manufacturing, the Plantronics Suzhou facility houses other core business functions, including product development and industrial design.  By expanding Suzhou’s capabilities beyond manufacturing, Plantronics will react faster to global customer needs and market fluctuations.  Suzhou plant production will initially focus on Plantronics’ growing mobile Bluetooth and wireless office product portfolios.</p>
<p>Plantronics&#8217; presence in Asia Pacific continues to grow.  The company now has offices in Shanghai, Beijing, Hong Kong, Seoul, Tokyo, Manila, Singapore, Taiwan and Melbourne.</p>
<p><strong>A Legacy of Manufacturing Excellence</strong></p>
<p>Plantronics has a long history of manufacturing excellence.  Plantronics opened Plamex in Tijuana, Mexico, 34 years ago and since then the facility has been recognized worldwide for its commitment to quality and progressive employee programs.  Plamex has won nine international manufacturing awards over the past two years, and last month was recognized twice by Mexico president Vicente Fox Quesada for its technology and quality leadership.   Plamex is also the only manufacturing facility in the world to win both the Ibero American Quality Award and Asia-Pacific Quality Award for large manufacturing organizations.</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics<br />
 </strong>In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”  Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange.  Today, this history of Sound Innovation™ is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing, Clarity, and Volume Logic. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p>Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics, Sound Innovation, and Volume Logic are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.</p>
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		<title>John Hart Joins Plantronics Board of Directors</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/john-hart-joins-plantronics-board-of-directors/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/john-hart-joins-plantronics-board-of-directors/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 10 Mar 2006 04:59:47 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>chithra</dc:creator>
		
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Wireless Pioneer and Former Chief Technology Officer of 3Com to Strengthen Plantronics&#8217; Board Technical Expertise

SANTA CRUZ, CA – March 9, 2006 – Plantronics (NYSE:PLT) is enhancing its Board of Directors with the addition of John Hart, wireless technology pioneer and former senior vice president and Chief Technology Officer of 3Com.
“John’s expertise in networking and advanced [...]]]></description>
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<h4>Wireless Pioneer and Former Chief Technology Officer of 3Com to Strengthen Plantronics&#8217; Board Technical Expertise</h4>
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<p><strong>SANTA CRUZ, CA</strong> – March 9, 2006 – Plantronics (NYSE:PLT) is enhancing its Board of Directors with the addition of John Hart, wireless technology pioneer and former senior vice president and Chief Technology Officer of 3Com.</p>
<p>“John’s expertise in networking and advanced wireless technologies will be extremely useful as Plantronics expands its offerings to help people realize the benefits of mobile, hands-free communications,” said Ken Kannappan, president and CEO of Plantronics.</p>
<p>At 3Com, Hart was responsible for the overall strategic direction of the company during the 10 year period (September 1990-September 2000) in which it grew annual revenue from $400 million to almost $6 billion.  Hart architected and led 3Com’s “Fast, Cheap and Simple” (FCS) first/last mile networking strategy at a time when networking was anything but fast, cheap or simple.  Hart was also responsible for 3Com’s Advanced Development Lab which pioneered Ethernet adapter and switch solutions, 802.11 solutions, and cable model/low cost routers.  Prior to 3Com, Hart was vice president of engineering at Vitalink Communications Corporation where he led the group that invented, patented and shipped the industry’s first Ethernet switching products.  Mr. Hart holds a BS in Mathematics from the University of Georgia.</p>
<p>&#8220;Plantronics’ communication and entertainment products are at the epicenter of wireless technologies for consumers and business users,” said Hart.   “I’m honored to join the Plantronics Board of Directors, and look forward to helping the company further its commitment to sound innovation through new wireless products that enable true mobile freedom.”</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics<br />
 </strong>In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”  Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange.  Today, this history of Sound Innovation™ is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing, Clarity, and Volume Logic. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p>Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics, Sound Innovation, and Volume Logic are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc.</p>
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		<title>President Vicente Fox Quesada Presents Mexico National Technology Award to Plantronics</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/president-vicente-fox-quesada-presents-mexico-national-technology-award-to-plantronics/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/president-vicente-fox-quesada-presents-mexico-national-technology-award-to-plantronics/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 10 Feb 2006 05:03:02 +0000</pubDate>
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Plantronics Mexico Becomes First Organization Ever to Win Prestigious Mexico National Technology and Quality Awards

Santa Cruz, Calif. – February 9, 2006 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced that its Plantronics Mexico (PLAMEX) manufacturing plant won Mexico’s National Technology award for Big Industrial Organizations.   After receiving Mexico’s National Quality award in 2004, PLAMEX is [...]]]></description>
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<h4>Plantronics Mexico Becomes First Organization Ever to Win Prestigious Mexico National Technology and Quality Awards</h4>
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<p><strong>Santa Cruz, Calif. – February 9, 2006 –</strong> Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced that its Plantronics Mexico (PLAMEX) manufacturing plant won Mexico’s National Technology award for Big Industrial Organizations.   After receiving Mexico’s National Quality award in 2004, PLAMEX is now the only organization ever to win both esteemed awards.</p>
<p>Presented to Plantronics yesterday by Mexico President Vicente Fox Quesada, Mexico’s National Technology award honors companies that exemplify outstanding technology development and management, and continually develop new process innovations.</p>
<p>&#8220;When PLAMEX opened in 1972, Plantronics understood the importance of embracing the Mexican culture, giving back to local communities and, creating a work environment that fosters the highest levels of employee involvement, innovation and creativity,&#8221; said Alejandro Bustamante, president of PLAMEX. &#8220;PLAMEX is truly honored to be the first organization to win both of these prestigious awards and we look forward to achieving new levels of success in the future.”</p>
<p>Following an extensive evaluation and site visit, PLAMEX was awarded Mexico’s National Technology award after receiving high scores in each of the categories in which companies are judged: strategic knowledge and market and customer integration; product, process and service competitiveness; technology and strategic planning; legacy and technology capacity; and value created through technology management.</p>
<p>PLAMEX has now received seven prestigious awards for manufacturing and quality excellence in the last 12 months.  Other awards received include the International Asia Pacific Quality Award, the 2005 Ibero American Quality Award and International Gold Crown.</p>
<p><strong>PLAMEX — A Legacy of Quality</strong></p>
<p>Plantronics Mexico associates enjoy an environment that promotes process innovation and are trained to prevent problems by proposing solutions to any potential risks they identify.   Everyone contributes to quality processes to increase customer satisfaction, minimize rework, reduce cost, maintain production output and uphold product excellence.  PLAMEX enjoys one of the industry’s lowest turnover rates because of its extensive employee benefits, including career development, family programs, child care, educational programs, medical care and housing assistance.   PLAMEX&#8217;s 3,700 associates contribute to Plantronics&#8217; worldwide success by manufacturing more than 8,000 different models of headset products.</p>
<p>The facility is ISO 9002-2000 certified and has received numerous awards and commendations for its excellence in environmental matters, community work, customer satisfaction and work safety.  Previous awards include the Federal Ministry of Labor&#8217;s Safe Industry Certificate, Baja California Quality Award 2001 (&#8221;Best Maquiladora Company&#8221;) and the PROFEPA/CNIME Environmental Award (EPA/National Maquiladora Council).</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics<br />
 </strong>In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”  Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange.  Today, this history of Sound Innovation™ is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing, Clarity, and Volume Logic. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p>Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics, Sound Innovation and Volume Logic are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc.  All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.</p>
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		<title>Plantronics Discovery 640 wins International Industry Forum Design Award</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-discovery-640-wins-international-industry-forum-design-award/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-discovery-640-wins-international-industry-forum-design-award/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 31 Jan 2006 22:43:53 +0000</pubDate>
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Recognition is a Testament to Plantronics Investment in Style and Design

Santa Cruz, Calif. – January 31, 2006 –Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced that the Plantronics Discovery™ 640 Bluetooth® headset won the prestigious Industry Forum (iF) Product Design Award in the Consumer Electronics/Telecommunication category.
iF jury members judged nearly 2,000 products from 37 countries to select [...]]]></description>
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<h4>Recognition is a Testament to Plantronics Investment in Style and Design</h4>
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<p><strong><span lang="NL">Santa Cruz, Calif. – January 31, 2006 –</span></strong><span lang="NL">Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced that</span> the Plantronics Discovery™ 640 Bluetooth® headset won the prestigious Industry Forum (iF) Product Design Award in the Consumer Electronics/Telecommunication category.</p>
<p>iF jury members judged nearly 2,000 products from 37 countries to select the winners.    With ‘Back to Design’ the theme for the 2006 iF Design Award, Plantronics Discovery 640 won by combining elegant design with sound quality to provide style-conscious users with the ultimate headset for their needs.</p>
<p>“The iF design competition is one of the most prestigious and well-regarded in the world,” <span lang="NL">said Darrin Caddes, vice president of Corporate Design at Plantronics.  “This recognition reinforces our commitment to innovation and confirms we’re on the right path with our design initiative.”</span></p>
<p>The Plantronics Discovery 640 <span lang="NL">headset is extremely discreet and lightweight — about the weight of two nickels — and designed with high-end materials and finishes.   The Discovery 640 employs an innovative AAA battery charging system that continuously recharges the headset while not in use, providing 15 hours of talk time.  In addition to the iF Design award, the Discovery 640 is highlighted in the <em>BusinessWeek</em> “Best Products of 2005” and <em>GQ</em> “Best Stuff of the Year” lists, and received editors’ choice awards from <em>Cnet</em> and <em>Wired</em> magazine.</span></p>
<p>Plantronics’ new strategic design initiative began in 2004 with the hiring of Caddes.   Previously having worked for companies including <span lang="NL">BMW/Designworks USA</span>, Fiat Automotive and Indian Motorcycle, Caddes is reinforcing Plantronics’ commitment to sound innovation through headset designs that blend fashion, comfort and cutting-edge technology.  Plantronics’ new industrial design center in Santa Cruz, Calif., will be completed in 2006.</p>
<p><strong>About the iF Design Awards<br />
 </strong>Since the introduction of the iF product design award in 1953, iF design awards have developed into prestigious trademarks for outstanding achievements in the field of design.   Enterprises and design studios use the award to make their customers and additional target groups aware of the potentially decisive difference in product and service quality expressed by this distinction.</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics<br />
 </strong>In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”  Since then, we’ve become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange.  Today, this history of Sound Innovation™ is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing, Clarity, and Volume Logic. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p><span lang="NL">Altec Lansing, Clarity, GameCom, Plantronics, the logo design, Plantronics Discovery, Sound Innovation and Volume Logic are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc.  The Bluetooth name and the Bluetooth trademarks are owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and are used by Plantronics, Inc. under license.  All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.</span></p>
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		<title>Smith Optics and Plantronics Team on Action Sports Gear</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/smith-optics-and-plantronics-team-on-action-sports-gear/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/smith-optics-and-plantronics-team-on-action-sports-gear/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 21 Jan 2006 05:08:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>chithra</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[US/Corporate]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=206</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
New Products to Pioneer Integration of Style, Comfort and Sound Innovation

Santa Cruz, Calif. and Ketchum, Idaho — January 20, 2006 — Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) and Smith Optics today announced that they will collaborate to develop new Smith-branded action sports gear that incorporate wireless audio communication and entertainment technology.  The new venture combines over 80 [...]]]></description>
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<h4>New Products to Pioneer Integration of Style, Comfort and Sound Innovation</h4>
</div>
<p><strong>Santa Cruz</strong><strong>, Calif. and Ketchum, Idaho — January 20, 2006 —</strong> Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) and Smith Optics today announced that they will collaborate to develop new Smith-branded action sports gear that incorporate wireless audio communication and entertainment technology.  The new venture combines over 80 years of product excellence and leadership in the action sports, mobile and communications markets.</p>
<p>“We have created an ideal collaboration between Smith and Plantronics”, said Blair Clark, Smith Optics senior vice president of Marketing and Sales.   “The product development teams dedicated to this effort have tremendous experience and ideas in marrying fashion and technology.   Our plan is to combine the same performance, style and innovation for this program that we provide in the goggle and sunglass businesses, while revolutionizing the integration of fashion and technology,” Clark said.</p>
<p>“Plantronics is an established leader in Bluetooth® communication devices and has proven that audio technology can easily fit into active lifestyles, and can do so with a sense of fashion,” said Renee Niemi, vice president of Mobile and Entertainment at Plantronics.  “Collaborating with Smith will accelerate this evolution and deliver action sports gear that combine style, comfort and great wireless sound.”</p>
<p>Smith and Plantronics will jointly develop helmets, goggles, eyewear and other products that incorporate wireless technology.   The helmets will include audio systems compatible with MP3 players, such as Apple iPods, and MP3-enabled cell phones, advanced ventilation systems, a crash replacement program, and an unprecedented lifetime warranty.</p>
<p>“We are the market leader in goggles in the snow sports business and we have been innovating the product category for over 40 years,” said Eric Carlson, director of Product and Merchandising.  “The resources, focus, and market knowledge that Plantronics has will allow us to evolve that heritage into the expanding wearable technology market.  What we’re seeing now is that wearable technology is advanced enough to provide unrestricted design opportunities while being cost-effective. We can provide hands-free connection for all of our athletes and weekend warriors alike,” Carlson continued.</p>
<p><strong>About Smith Optics<br />
 </strong>Based in Sun Valley, Idaho, with a Southern California office located in San Clemente, Smith Optics, Inc. was founded in 1965 with the creation of the first goggle featuring a sealed thermal lens and breathable vent foam. Today, Smith is as well known for its diverse line of fashion and performance sunglasses as it is for its goggles. From Smith’s distortion-free Tapered Lens Technology to the versatility of the Slider Series, with its patented, interchangeable lens system, the devotion to excellence, innovation and style is what has made Smith goggles and sunglasses the choice of action-sport athletes worldwide. Smith products are sold in more than 50 countries through sporting goods and specialty stores. For more information visit <a href="http://www.smithoptics.com/">www.smithoptics.com</a>.</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics<br />
 </strong>In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”  Since then, we’ve become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange.  Today, this history of Sound Innovation™ is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing, Clarity, and Volume Logic. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p>Altec Lansing, Clarity, GameCom, Plantronics, the logo design, Sound Innovation and Volume Logic are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc.  The Bluetooth name and the Bluetooth trademarks are owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and are used by Plantronics, Inc. under license.  All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.</p>
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		<title>Plantronics Manufacturing Facility Achieves Unprecedented Worldwide Recognition</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-manufacturing-facility-achieves-unprecedented-worldwide-recognition/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-manufacturing-facility-achieves-unprecedented-worldwide-recognition/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 25 Oct 2005 05:18:59 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>chithra</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[US/Corporate]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=218</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
PLAMEX Becomes the Only Facility Ever to Win Both the Ibero American and Asia Pacific Quality Awards

Santa Cruz, Calif. – October 24, 2005 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced that its manufacturing facility in Mexico, PLAMEX, has won the 2005 Ibero American Quality Award for Big Manufacturing Organizations.  After receiving top honors at the [...]]]></description>
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<h4>PLAMEX Becomes the Only Facility Ever to Win Both the Ibero American and Asia Pacific Quality Awards</h4>
</div>
<p><strong>Santa Cruz, Calif. – October 24, 2005 –</strong> Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced that its manufacturing facility in Mexico, PLAMEX, has won the 2005 Ibero American Quality Award for Big Manufacturing Organizations.  After receiving top honors at the Asia-Pacific Quality Award last month, PLAMEX is now the only manufacturing facility in the world to win both of the prestigious international awards for Big Organizations.  PLAMEX also won Mexico’s National Quality Award in December 2004.</p>
<p>“Quality has been a driving force within Plantronics’ culture since the company was founded more than 40 years ago,” said Ken Kannappan, president and CEO of Plantronics.  “Regardless of the application, whether it be products, customer service or employee development, Plantronics will continue to lead total quality management innovation because it translates into delighted customers, partners and employees and business success.”</p>
<p>Following an extensive evaluation process and site visit by several international experts, PLAMEX was awarded the Ibero American Quality Award for receiving high marks in leadership, strategic planning, personnel development, resource management (financials, information and knowledge, technology, and procurement), customer and market focus, environmental impact, and business results.  PLAMEX was also recognized for creating value for its customers, personnel and the community.</p>
<p>PLAMEX was considered among various types of manufacturing companies in countries around the world, including Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, <span lang="ES">Chile,</span> Colombia, <span lang="ES">Costa Rica, Cuba,</span> Dominican Republic<span lang="ES">, Ecuador, El Salvador,</span> <span lang="ES">Guatemala, Honduras, México, Nicaragua, Panamá, Paraguay, Perú, Portugal,</span> Spain<span lang="ES">, Uruguay</span> and <span lang="ES">Venezuela. </span> Together with the Asia-Pacific Quality Award, PLAMEX was evaluated with companies from more than 40 countries.</p>
<p>“PLAMEX is very proud to receive the honor of the Ibero American Quality Award on behalf of its associates, who have joined together to create and nurture a culture of excellence and empowerment that sets us apart,” said Alejandro Bustamante, president of PLAMEX. “This award truly reinforces the outstanding accomplishments and commitment to total quality management of our 3,600 team members.”</p>
<p>The Ibero American Quality Award is given by FUNDIBEQ (Ibero American Foundation for Quality Management), a non-profit organization whose mission is “to promote the overall management of quality as a safe path towards sustainable progress and social welfare and as an instrument which generates the necessary trust that allows the mutual acknowledgement and free movement of products and services.”</p>
<p><strong>PLAMEX — A Legacy of Quality<br />
 </strong>Plantronics’ associates in Mexico are trained to prevent problems by proposing solutions to any potential risks they identify.   Everyone contributes to quality processes to increase customer satisfaction, minimize rework, reduce cost, maintain production output and uphold product excellence.  PLAMEX enjoys one of the industry’s lowest turnover rates because of its extensive employee benefits, including career development, family programs, child care, educational programs, medical care and housing assistance. PLAMEX&#8217;s 3,600 associates contribute to Plantronics&#8217; worldwide success by manufacturing more than 8,000 different models of headset products.</p>
<p>The facility is ISO 9002-2000 certified and has received numerous awards and commendations for its excellence in environmental matters, community work, customer satisfaction and work safety.  Previous awards include the Federal Ministry of Labor&#8217;s Safe Industry Certificate, Baja California Quality Award 2001 (&#8221;Best Maquiladora Company&#8221;) and the PROFEPA/CNIME Environmental Award (EPA/National Maquiladora Council).</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics<br />
 </strong>In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”  Since then, we’ve become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange.  Today, this history of Sound Innovation™ is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing, Clarity, and Volume Logic. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
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		<title>Plantronics Reminds Connecticut Drivers to Keep Both Hands on the Wheel</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-reminds-connecticut-drivers-to-keep-both-hands-on-the-wheel/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-reminds-connecticut-drivers-to-keep-both-hands-on-the-wheel/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 27 Sep 2005 05:25:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>chithra</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[US/Corporate]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=222</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
Headsets Help Connecticut Residents Comply with New State Law

Connecticut  - September 26, 2005 - On October 1, Connecticut police will begin ticketing motorists who use hand-held mobile phones without headsets while driving.  For many, cell phone conversations while driving have become very common, but safety should always remain top priority.  Plantronics (NYSE:PLT), maker of [...]]]></description>
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<h4>Headsets Help Connecticut Residents Comply with New State Law</h4>
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<p><strong>Connecticut </strong> - September 26, 2005 - On October 1, Connecticut police will begin ticketing motorists who use hand-held mobile phones without headsets while driving.  For many, cell phone conversations while driving have become very common, but safety should always remain top priority.  Plantronics (NYSE:PLT), maker of mobile headset devices, wants to help ensure that motorists who drive in Connecticut and the tri-state area are correctly and safely using headsets as the new law takes effect.</p>
<p>With hands-free legislation passed in New York in 2001 and New Jersey in 2004, the entire tri-state area is now a hands-free zone.  Connecticut will have one of the most severe penalties of the three states, with any person who violates the law subject to a $100 fine.</p>
<p>Plantronics offers these tips intended to keep Connecticut drivers safer while on the road:</p>
<ul>
<li>Choose a headset that is comfortable for you.  Before you use it in the car, familiarize yourself with using your mobile phone and headset together. </li>
<li>Utilize your phone’s voice dialing or one-touch dialing features or dial the number in advance.  If possible, place the call while stopped in traffic. </li>
<li>Position your headset before starting the car and keep your cell phone stored in an easily accessible location.</li>
</ul>
<p>“There is a wide variety of headsets consumers can select from in order to comply with the new law,” said Libby Walikis, director of Mobile Products, Plantronics, Inc. “Whether the headset is corded or wireless, fits over-the-ear or under-the-ear, people can select a model that suits their specific wearing preference and lifestyle.”</p>
<p>Bluetooth-enabled headsets, such as the award-winning Plantronics Explorer™ 320, are appropriate for commuters who want to have clear conversations without wires. The new Plantronics MX505 headset with WindSmart™ technology provides commuters with reduced wind noise while talking on the phone. The bendable boom provides optimal fit and superior call clarity in nearly every environment.</p>
<p>For more information about hands-free legislation and to find the right headset for their needs, consumers may visit www.plantronics.com/findit.   Connecticut residents can also visit their local electronics retailer and cell phone carrier to purchase a Plantronics headset.</p>
<p>Plantronics recognizes that there are occasions when driving circumstances make talking on a mobile phone – handheld or hands-free – unsafe. In these instances, motorists should pull over or hang up to protect the safety of themselves, their passengers and others on the road.</p>
<h4>About Plantronics</h4>
<p>In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”  Since then, we’ve become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange.  Today, this history of Sound Innovation™ is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing, Clarity, and Volume Logic. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p align="center"># # #</p>
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		<title>Plantronics Manufacturing Facility Wins International Asia Pacific Quality Award</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-manufacturing-facility-wins-international-asia-pacific-quality-award/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-manufacturing-facility-wins-international-asia-pacific-quality-award/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 08 Sep 2005 05:27:36 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>chithra</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[US/Corporate]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=224</guid>
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PLAMEX Honored with Second Regional Quality Award During Past Ten Months

Santa Cruz, Calif. – September 7, 2005 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced that its Plantronics Mexico (PLAMEX) manufacturing plant has won the International Asia Pacific Quality Award for Big Manufacturing Organizations.  The award recognizes PLAMEX’s long-standing commitment to total quality management (TQM) through [...]]]></description>
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<h4>PLAMEX Honored with Second Regional Quality Award During Past Ten Months</h4>
</div>
<p><strong>Santa Cruz, Calif. – September 7, 2005 –</strong> Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced that its Plantronics Mexico (PLAMEX) manufacturing plant has won the International Asia Pacific Quality Award for Big Manufacturing Organizations.  The award recognizes PLAMEX’s long-standing commitment to total quality management (TQM) through planning and programs that encourage customer satisfaction, employee empowerment, and social and environmental responsibility.</p>
<p>Following an extensive evaluation, PLAMEX was awarded the Asia Pacific Quality Award after receiving high scores in each of the categories in which companies are judged: leadership, strategic planning, customer and market focus, measurement and analysis, knowledge management, human resource focus, process management, and business results. Only companies that have won Quality Awards at a national level are eligible to apply for the International Asia Pacific Awards. In 2004, PLAMEX won Mexico’s National Quality Award for its achievements in quality and business results.</p>
<p>“Since PLAMEX opened in 1972, we’ve continually sought to create a work environment that fosters the highest levels of quality, employee involvement and social responsibility,” said Alejandro Bustamante, president of PLAMEX.  “To be recognized with this award in such a highly competitive field truly reinforces the outstanding accomplishments and commitment of all 3,600 associates at PLAMEX.”</p>
<p>The International Asia Pacific Quality Award is given by the Asia Pacific Quality Organization (APQO), a non-profit organization dedicated to achieving continuous quality improvement of goods and services, and quality of life for people, around the world.  The governing body of APQO includes representatives from Australia, China, India, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Philippines, Sri Lanka, United States, Singapore, Canada, Egypt, Italy, Japan, Peru, South Africa, Switzerland, Chile, Argentina, England, Taiwan and Vietnam.</p>
<p><strong>PLAMEX — A Legacy of Quality<br />
 </strong>Plantronics Mexico associates are trained to prevent problems by proposing solutions to any potential risks they identify. Everyone contributes to quality processes to increase customer satisfaction, minimize rework, reduce cost, maintain production output and uphold product excellence.  PLAMEX enjoys one of the industry’s lowest turnover rates because of its extensive employee benefits, including career development, family programs, child care, educational programs, medical care and housing assistance. PLAMEX&#8217;s 3,600 associates contribute to Plantronics&#8217; worldwide success by manufacturing more than 8,000 different models of headset products.</p>
<p>The facility is ISO 9002-2000 certified and has received numerous awards and commendations for its excellence in environmental matters, community work, customer satisfaction and work safety.  Previous awards include the Federal Ministry of Labor&#8217;s Safe Industry Certificate, Baja California Quality Award 2001 (&#8221;Best Maquiladora Company&#8221;) and the PROFEPA/CNIME Environmental Award (EPA/National Maquiladora Council).</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics<br />
 </strong>In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”  Since then, we’ve become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange.  Today, this history of Sound Innovation™ is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing, Clarity, and Volume Logic. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
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		<title>Plantronics Completes Acquisition of Altec Lansing</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-completes-acquisition-of-altec-lansing/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-completes-acquisition-of-altec-lansing/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 20 Aug 2005 05:29:41 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>chithra</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[US/Corporate]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=226</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[SANTA CRUZ, Calif., August 18, 2005– Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced it has completed the acquisition of Altec Lansing Technologies, Inc.
On July 11, 2005, Plantronics announced a definitive agreement to acquire Altec Lansing Technologies, Inc., a market leader in portable and powered audio systems.  Altec Lansing designs, manufactures and markets a wide range of [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>SANTA CRUZ</strong><strong>, Calif.</strong><strong>, August 18, 2005</strong>– Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced it has completed the acquisition of Altec Lansing Technologies, Inc.</p>
<p>On July 11, 2005, Plantronics announced a definitive agreement to acquire Altec Lansing Technologies, Inc., a market leader in portable and powered audio systems.  Altec Lansing designs, manufactures and markets a wide range of computer and home entertainment sound systems and a line of headsets and headphones, allowing Plantronics to provide a more complete product portfolio to its combined retail and OEM channels worldwide.  The acquisition will enable Plantronics to combine its expertise in voice communication and Altec Lansing’s in music entertainment to meet the full audio needs of the consumer, in their personal and professional lives.</p>
<p>As a material inducement for certain employees of Altec Lansing to accept employment with Plantronics, the Board of Directors approved inducement grants of stock options in the aggregate amount of up to 140,000 shares and restricted stock in the aggregate amount of 5,000 shares that are outside of those approved under the Plantronics 2003 Stock Plan. These options and restricted stock awards will be made to approximately 23 Altec Lansing employees promptly after the closing.</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics</strong></p>
<p>Plantronics introduced the first lightweight headset in 1962 and is recognized as the world leader in communications headsets. A Plantronics headset was used for Neil Armstrong&#8217;s historic &#8220;One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind&#8221; transmission from the moon in 1969. A publicly held company headquartered in Santa Cruz, California, with more than 4,500 employees, Plantronics maintains offices in 20 countries. For more information go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p><strong>About Altec Lansing Technologies, Inc.</strong></p>
<p>Altec Lansing Technologies, Inc. has a rich legacy of blending art and science to stir the soul with high quality consumer and professional speaker systems. The market leader in portable and powered audio systems, Altec Lansing designs, manufactures and markets a wide range of computer and home entertainment sound systems and a line of headsets and headphones.  Headquartered in Milford, PA, USA, Altec Lansing has offices in Austin, TX; Oklahoma City, OK; Luxembourg, and Hong Kong.  The company employs approximately 1,350 people worldwide.</p>
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		<title>Plantronics Launches New Brand Identity, Delivers “Sound Innovation” From the Moon to the Masses</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-launches-new-brand-identity-delivers-%e2%80%9csound-innovation%e2%80%9d-from-the-moon-to-the-masses/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-launches-new-brand-identity-delivers-%e2%80%9csound-innovation%e2%80%9d-from-the-moon-to-the-masses/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 21 Jul 2005 05:41:33 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>chithra</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[US/Corporate]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=233</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
Plantronics Introduces New Logo, Ad Campaign and Space Trip Promotion

New York, NY and Santa Cruz, Calif. - July 20, 2005 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) unveiled today, on the 36-year anniversary of the moon landing, the company&#8217;s new brand identity and national advertising campaign. Plantronics&#8217; new corporate logo and tagline, sound innovation, highlight its role [...]]]></description>
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<h4>Plantronics Introduces New Logo, Ad Campaign and Space Trip Promotion</h4>
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<p><strong>New York, NY and Santa Cruz, Calif. -</strong> July 20, 2005 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) unveiled today, on the 36-year anniversary of the moon landing, the company&#8217;s new brand identity and national advertising campaign. Plantronics&#8217; new corporate logo and tagline, sound innovation, highlight its role as the headset used by Neil Armstrong in the historic, &#8220;That&#8217;s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind&#8221; transmission from the moon in 1969, and reinforces its leadership position in developing headsets for home, mobile, and office use.</p>
<p>&#8220;Thirty-six years ago our company focused on creating the most reliable, highest quality headsets for NASA and other mission critical organizations to use,&#8221; said Mark Breier, chief marketing officer, Plantronics. &#8220;Today, we retain that same focus on reliability and quality, but apply it to a much broader audience seeking greater productivity, ease of use and a sense of style as well. Our line of wireless headsets delivers on all three.&#8221;</p>
<p><strong>We&#8217;ve Been to Space, Now You Can Too!</strong><br />
 Plantronics also launched today the &#8220;Plantronics to Space and Beyond&#8221; promotion that offers consumers a chance to win a seat on board one of the first commercial flights to space. In addition, hundreds of prizes, including a zero-gravity flight, will be given out through weekly, monthly and annual drawings. To learn more and enter the &#8220;Plantronics to Space and Beyond&#8221; promotion, people can visit: www.plantronics.com or text &#8220;headset&#8221; to SPACE (77223) to enter. Please see the promotion rules for full details.</p>
<p>Plantronics&#8217; new advertising campaign highlights the company&#8217;s role during NASA&#8217;s moon landing program and its leadership in other mission-critical applications, such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange. The campaign also demonstrates Plantronics&#8217; commitment to sound innovation for every product it builds for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets.</p>
<p>The advertising campaign, developed by McCann Erickson Advertising, will have wide exposure, including spots on national television and in print and Internet outlets. TV ads will first appear in late summer on major cable networks. Print ads will appear in magazines such as Business2.0 and Fast Company.</p>
<p>Media: for more information about all of today&#8217;s news announcements, please visit www.plantronics.com/NYliftoff.</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics</strong><br />
 In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: &#8220;That&#8217;s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.&#8221; Since then, we&#8217;ve become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of sound innovation is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
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		<title>Plantronics to Acquire Altec Lansing</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-to-acquire-altec-lansing/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-to-acquire-altec-lansing/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 20 Jul 2005 05:47:31 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>chithra</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[US/Corporate]]></category>

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Acquisition of Leading Audio Entertainment Brand Strengthens Plantronics&#8217; Ability to Provide Complete Audio Solutions for Both Consumers and Retailers

Santa Cruz, Calif. - July 11, 2005 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Altec Lansing Technologies, Inc., a market leader in portable and powered audio systems. The agreement [...]]]></description>
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<h4>Acquisition of Leading Audio Entertainment Brand Strengthens Plantronics&#8217; Ability to Provide Complete Audio Solutions for Both Consumers and Retailers</h4>
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<p><strong>Santa Cruz, Calif. -</strong> July 11, 2005 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Altec Lansing Technologies, Inc., a market leader in portable and powered audio systems. The agreement will unite two leading audio brands with rich heritages and complementary strengths.</p>
<p>Under the terms of the agreement, Plantronics will acquire all of the capital stock of Altec Lansing for a cash purchase price in total of approximately $166 million. Following the close of the transaction, the resulting wholly-owned subsidiary of Plantronics will be called Altec Lansing Technologies, Inc.</p>
<p>&#8220;The combination of our expertise in voice communication and Altec Lansing&#8217;s in music entertainment enables us to meet the full audio needs of the consumer, in their personal and professional lives,&#8221; said Ken Kannappan, president and CEO, Plantronics, Inc. &#8220;We&#8217;ve been exploring audio entertainment possibilities for some time. The acquisition of Altec Lansing, with its product portfolio strength and brand reputation, dramatically accelerates those plans at a time when the technology and momentum in convergence is there for us to leverage.&#8221;</p>
<p>Altec Lansing will remain in Milford, Pennsylvania, functioning as a division of Plantronics. Gary Savadove, former GE Consumer Electronics executive and CEO of Labtec, joined Plantronics six months ago and is president and CEO of the Plantronics Audio Entertainment Business Group which will now incorporate Altec Lansing. Bob Garthwaite, who has served as senior vice president of marketing and sales for Altec Lansing, will become president and CEO of Altec Lansing after closing of the agreement.</p>
<p>Altec Lansing, with more than $100 million in revenue in calendar 2004, brings to Plantronics a comprehensive range of products and an established market presence in portable and powered audio. Its award-winning inMotion portable speaker systems have become one of the biggest successes of the iPod economy. Just last month, CNET said the following about the new inMotion iM7 iPod speaker system: &#8220;Altec Lansing has emerged as a heavyweight in [the iPod speaker] department, anchored by its inMotion series of portable speakers, and its latest innovation, the inMotion iM7, takes the iPod to new heights. It should set the bar for future truly portable speakers. Sound quality is powerful and rich, the device is portable and flexible, and it just looks good.&#8221;</p>
<p>In addition, Altec Lansing offers a wide range of computer and home entertainment sound systems and a line of headphones and headsets, allowing Plantronics to provide a more complete product portfolio to its combined retail and OEM channels worldwide.</p>
<p>&#8220;From the beginning, we recognized that we complemented Plantronics extremely well, from both corporate and product perspectives,&#8221; said Bob Garthwaite, senior vice president of marketing and sales, Altec Lansing. &#8220;Both companies go back forty years or more in their focus on audio quality. Between us, we understand the technical needs of the professional market and the lifestyle demands of the consumer market. And when you look at the growth potential for devices like music-enabled handsets and cellular music decks, the synergies and opportunities become crystal clear.&#8221;</p>
<p>&#8220;Ultimately it was evident that we shared a common vision with Altec Lansing,&#8221; Mr. Kannappan concluded. &#8220;Both companies were moving toward the immense opportunity for long-cycle growth and innovation created by the unison of digital voice and music technology. Together we&#8217;re much stronger and better positioned to achieve that vision.&#8221;</p>
<p>We expect that, excluding non-cash acquisition-related and amortization charges, the acquisition will be accretive to Plantronics earnings in FY06. Including non-cash acquisition related and amortization charges, interest expense and lost interest income, we do not currently expect the transaction to be significantly dilutive or accretive to EPS for FY06 as a whole. Finally, including non-cash acquisition related and amortization charges, interest expense if any and lost interest income, we expect the acquisition to be accretive to EPS in FY07.</p>
<p>Houlihan Lokey Howard &amp; Zukin served as exclusive financial advisor to Altec Lansing.</p>
<p>Plantronics stockholders are invited to participate in a conference call that will begin at 2pm PDT. To listen please dial in five to ten minutes prior to the scheduled starting time and refer to the &#8220;Plantronics Conference Call.&#8221; Participants from North America should call (888) 301-8736 and other participants should call (706) 634-7260.</p>
<p>A replay of the call with the conference ID #7739057 will be available for 1 week at (800) 642-1687 for callers from North America and at (706) 645-9291 for all other callers. The conference call will also be simultaneously web cast at www.plantronics.com under Investor Relations; the web cast of the conference call will be available at the Plantronics website along with the slide presentation for the conference.</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics</strong><br />
 Plantronics introduced the first lightweight headset in 1962 and is recognized as the world leader in communications headsets. A Plantronics headset was used for Neil Armstrong&#8217;s historic &#8220;One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind&#8221; transmission from the moon in 1969. A publicly held company headquartered in Santa Cruz, California, with more than 4,500 employees, Plantronics maintains offices in 20 countries. For more information go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p><strong>About Altec Lansing Technologies, Inc.</strong><br />
 Altec Lansing Technologies, Inc. has a rich legacy of blending art and science to stir the soul with high quality consumer and professional speaker systems. A market leader in portable and powered audio systems, Altec Lansing designs, manufactures and markets a wide range of computer and home entertainment sound systems and a line of headsets and headphones. Headquartered in Milford, PA, USA and privately held, Altec Lansing has offices in Oklahoma City, OK; Luxembourg, and Hong Kong. The company employs approximately 1,350 people worldwide.</p>
<p><strong>Safe Harbor Statement</strong><br />
 This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Specific forward-looking statements relate to the intended acquisition and our expectation that, excluding non-cash acquisition-related and amortization charges, the acquisition will be accretive to Plantronics&#8217; earnings beginning in Fiscal 2006 and that it will be accretive to EPS in FY07 including non-cash acquisition related and amortization charges, lost interest income and any interest expense. These forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties, and are based on current expectations, forecasts and assumptions. In particular, while the companies have executed a definitive agreement, there is no assurance they will complete the transaction. If the companies do not receive the necessary government or stockholder approvals or fail to satisfy conditions for closing, the transaction will terminate. Forward-looking statements relating to expectations about future events or results are based upon information available to Plantronics as of today&#8217;s date. Plantronics does not assume any obligation to update any of these statements, and these statements are not guarantees of Plantronics. In addition to the foregoing, Plantronics&#8217; financial results could differ materially from current expectations. The factors that may affect Plantronics&#8217; ability to achieve its planned business objectives include, but are not limited to, the following: 1) the company&#8217;s revenues and earnings are subject to a number of factors that make estimation of operating results extremely uncertain; 2) competition for the company&#8217;s products is intense; 3) the uncertainties of whether new products, product extensions or product strategies will be successful; 4) risks associated with the acquisition, including (a) the failure to achieve expected synergies and efficiencies of operations, (b) the ability to manage business integration, and (c) operations and environmental regulations; 5) loss of key personnel; 6) litigation, including litigation over intellectual property rights; and 7) general technological and economic factors. For more information concerning these and other possible risks, please refer to the Company&#8217;s Form 10-K filed on May 31, 2005, filings on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission as well as recent press releases. These filings can be accessed over the Internet at http://www.sec.gov/edgar/searchedgar/companysearch.html.</p>
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		<title>Marshall Mohr Joins Plantronics Board of Directors</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/marshall-mohr-joins-plantronics-board-of-directors/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/marshall-mohr-joins-plantronics-board-of-directors/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 09 Jul 2005 05:58:07 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>chithra</dc:creator>
		
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=249</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
CFO of Adaptec and Former Managing Director at PricewaterhouseCoopers to Strengthen Plantronics&#8217; Board Expertise

Santa Cruz, CA - June 7, 2005 – Plantronics (NYSE:PLT) is enhancing its Board of Directors with the addition of Marshall Mohr, vice president and Chief Financial Officer of Adaptec, Inc., a leading provider of storage solutions that reliably move, manage and [...]]]></description>
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<h4>CFO of Adaptec and Former Managing Director at PricewaterhouseCoopers to Strengthen Plantronics&#8217; Board Expertise</h4>
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<p><strong>Santa Cruz, CA -</strong> June 7, 2005 – Plantronics (NYSE:PLT) is enhancing its Board of Directors with the addition of Marshall Mohr, vice president and Chief Financial Officer of Adaptec, Inc., a leading provider of storage solutions that reliably move, manage and protect critical data and digital content.</p>
<p>&#8220;Marshall&#8217;s extensive background in accounting and technology business acumen will be great assets to the Plantronics team,&#8221; said Ken Kannappan, president and CEO of Plantronics. &#8220;Plantronics has long held itself to the highest financial management standards, reflecting the integrity of our management team, corporate culture and the way we conduct business. Marshall&#8217;s guidance in this area will prove invaluable as we grow our global operations.&#8221;</p>
<p>Mohr has served as vice president and CFO for Adaptec since July 2003. Prior to joining Adaptec, Mohr was managing partner of PricewaterhouseCoopers&#8217; West Region Technology Industry Group and was responsible for the firm&#8217;s more than 400-person Silicon Valley accounting and audit advisory practice. He also held a variety of positions at PricewaterhouseCoopers during his 22 years of service and served as the engagement partner on numerous technology companies in the networking and communications sectors. Mohr is a CPA and holds a Bachelors of Business Administration degree from Western Michigan University. Mohr also serves as a Director on the Board of Atheros Communications, Inc.</p>
<p>&#8220;I&#8217;m very pleased to join the Plantronics Board of Directors,&#8221; said Mohr, vice president and CFO of Adaptec. &#8220;Plantronics has great growth potential as wireless communication becomes ubiquitous with consumers and in the office. The company&#8217;s strong financial practices have built considerable confidence with shareholders, investors and customers, and provide a very solid framework for the company moving forward.&#8221;</p>
<p>Mohr replaces David Wegmann who retired after seventeen years of service on the Plantronics Board of Directors. Mohr will serve as chair of the audit committee.</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics</strong><br />
 Plantronics introduced the first lightweight headset in 1962 and is recognized as the world leader in communications headsets. A Plantronics headset was used for Neil Armstrong&#8217;s historic &#8220;One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind&#8221; transmission from the moon in 1969. A publicly held company headquartered in Santa Cruz, California, with approximately 3,600 employees, Plantronics maintains offices in 20 countries. For more information go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
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		<title>Plantronics Announces Agreement To Acquire Octiv, Inc.</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-announces-agreement-to-acquire-octiv-inc/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-announces-agreement-to-acquire-octiv-inc/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 06 Apr 2005 06:09:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>chithra</dc:creator>
		
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		<description><![CDATA[SANTA CRUZ, CA. - April 5, 2005 - Plantronics, Inc., (NYSE:PLT) today announced the closure of an agreement to acquire privately held Octiv, Inc., (&#8221;Octiv&#8221;) of Berkeley, CA, a provider of audio signal processing technology.
Ken Kannappan, president and CEO of Plantronics stated, &#8220;Octiv is an innovator in digital audio, and will strengthen Plantronics&#8217; expertise in [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>SANTA CRUZ, CA. -</strong> April 5, 2005 - Plantronics, Inc., (NYSE:PLT) today announced the closure of an agreement to acquire privately held Octiv, Inc., (&#8221;Octiv&#8221;) of Berkeley, CA, a provider of audio signal processing technology.</p>
<p>Ken Kannappan, president and CEO of Plantronics stated, &#8220;Octiv is an innovator in digital audio, and will strengthen Plantronics&#8217; expertise in personal communication. The acquisition of Octiv is particularly attractive given the future convergence of wireless voice communication and entertainment. We believe this acquisition will strengthen our product portfolio and long-term earnings growth outlook.&#8221;</p>
<p>Octiv (www.octiv.com) was founded in 1999 by a group of audio professionals who developed a core audio technology – Volume Logic™ – to solve the problem of inconsistent volume levels and sound quality common to many forms of audio delivery. A variety of markets currently use Octiv&#8217;s Volume Logic technology, including home entertainment, digital music libraries, professional broadcast and the hearing impaired.</p>
<p>Keith McMillen, president and CEO of Octiv, said, &#8220;Plantronics is the ideal partner for Octiv&#8217;s audio technology. I&#8217;m delighted that the next generation of Volume Logic audio quality enhancements will be deployed widely in the telephony and consumer markets.&#8221;</p>
<p>The transaction closed on April 4, 2005. Although specific terms of the transaction were not disclosed, the company stated that the purchase price was not material to Plantronics. In comparison to Plantronics internal plans, the transaction is expected to be approximately $0.05 per share dilutive to EPS for Fiscal Year 2006 as a whole, and it is further expected to be accretive to EPS in Fiscal 2008.</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics</strong></p>
<p>Plantronics introduced the first lightweight headset in 1962 and is recognized as the world leader in communications headsets. A Plantronics headset was used for Neil Armstrong&#8217;s historic &#8220;One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind&#8221; transmission from the moon in 1969. A publicly held company headquartered in Santa Cruz, California, with approximately 3,900 employees, Plantronics maintains offices in 20 countries. For more information go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p>Plantronics, the logo design, and Plantronics and the logo design combined, are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics Inc. Octiv and Volume Logic are registered trademarks of Octiv, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of the respective owners.</p>
<p>This press release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. These include the statements that the transaction will: strengthen our product portfolio and long-term earnings growth outlook; have a $0.05 dilutive effect on the reported earning per share of Plantronics during the 2006 fiscal year; and be accretive to EPS in Fiscal 2008. There are important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by any such statements. These risks include that new product development is uncertain and the technologies that we choose to implement may not be as commercially successful as we envision. For a more complete and detailed listing of this and additional risk factors that may cause actual results to vary materially from the results projected in this release, please refer to the Company&#8217;s filings with the Securities Exchange Commission, including its filings on Form 10-K for Fiscal 2004 filed on May 26, 2004 and on Form 10-Q for the first, second and third quarters of Fiscal 2005. Plantronics, Inc. disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements as a result of developments occurring after the date of this release.</p>
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		<title>Plantronics CS50-USB Wireless Headset System Awarded &#8216;Product of the Year&#8217; by Customer Inter@ction Solutions</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-cs50-usb-wireless-headset-system-awarded-product-of-the-year-by-customer-interction-solutions/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-cs50-usb-wireless-headset-system-awarded-product-of-the-year-by-customer-interction-solutions/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 24 Feb 2005 06:13:19 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>chithra</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[US/Corporate]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=269</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[SANTA CRUZ, CA. - February 23, 2005 - Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced that Customer Inter@ction Solutions, a Technology Marketing Corporation (TMC™) magazine, honored the Plantronics CS50-USB Wireless Office Headset System with a 2004 Product of the Year award. The award is the publication&#8217;s highest honor, recognizing exemplary contributions and innovative products that enhance [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>SANTA CRUZ, CA. -</strong> February 23, 2005 - Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced that Customer Inter@ction Solutions, a Technology Marketing Corporation (TMC™) magazine, honored the Plantronics CS50-USB Wireless Office Headset System with a 2004 Product of the Year award. The award is the publication&#8217;s highest honor, recognizing exemplary contributions and innovative products that enhance the CRM industry.</p>
<p>The CS50-USB is the industry&#8217;s first wireless VoIP headset system to deliver remote call answer/end capability and ring detection for unprecedented wireless freedom. Leveraging Plantronics&#8217; highly successful CS50 wireless headset system for the office, the CS50-USB lets you take and end calls while roaming up to 200 feet from your PC softphone.</p>
<p>&#8220;The CS50-USB, with its unique features for improved mobility and productivity, is an excellent example of Plantronics commitment to product innovation and customer satisfaction,&#8221; said Joe McGrogan, director of marketing for Plantronics. &#8220;We&#8217;re delighted that our efforts are recognized by Customer Inter@ction Solutions and the CRM industry overall.&#8221;</p>
<p>&#8220;Customer Inter@ction Solutions magazine presents Product of the Year awards to companies that demonstrate excellence in technological advancement and application refinements. Plantronics consistently delivers products that go the extra mile to improve both their customer&#8217;s experience and the company&#8217;s ROI,&#8221; said Nadji Tehrani, the executive group publisher and editor-in-chief for Customer Inter@ction Solutions.</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics</strong></p>
<p>Plantronics introduced the first lightweight headset in 1962 and is recognized as the world leader in communications headsets. Plantronics headsets have been featured in numerous motion pictures and high-profile events, including Neil Armstrong&#8217;s historic &#8220;One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind&#8221; transmission from the moon in 1969. A publicly held company headquartered in Santa Cruz, California, with approximately 3,900 employees, Plantronics maintains offices in 20 countries. For more information go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p>Plantronics, the logo design, Plantronics and the logo design combined are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics Inc. All other trademarks are the property of the respective owners.</p>
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		<title>Gregg Hammann Joins Plantronics Board of Directors</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/gregg-hammann-joins-plantronics-board-of-directors/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/gregg-hammann-joins-plantronics-board-of-directors/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 15 Jan 2005 06:20:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>chithra</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[US/Corporate]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=279</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
CEO of Nautilus and Former Levi Strauss and Coca-Cola Executive to Strengthen Plantronics&#8217; Consumer Marketing Expertise

SANTA CRUZ, CA. - January 14, 2005 – Plantronics (NYSE:PLT) is enhancing its Board of Directors with the addition of Greggory Hammann, Chairman, President and CEO of The Nautilus Group, Inc., a leading marketer, developer, and manufacturer of health and [...]]]></description>
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<h4>CEO of Nautilus and Former Levi Strauss and Coca-Cola Executive to Strengthen Plantronics&#8217; Consumer Marketing Expertise</h4>
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<p><strong>SANTA CRUZ, CA. -</strong> January 14, 2005 – Plantronics (NYSE:PLT) is enhancing its Board of Directors with the addition of Greggory Hammann, Chairman, President and CEO of The Nautilus Group, Inc., a leading marketer, developer, and manufacturer of health and fitness products sold under such well-known brands as Bowflex®, Nautilus®, Schwinn® Fitness, StairMaster® and Trimline®.</p>
<p>&#8220;We are very pleased to add Gregg to our team,&#8221; says Ken Kannappan, Plantronics&#8217; President and CEO. &#8220;Our consumer business continues to increase and many promising opportunities are being presented to us. In response, we&#8217;ve strengthened our consumer marketing expertise. Last July we hired Mark Breier as Chief Marketing Officer. Now, adding Gregg to our Board of Directors, with his extraordinary track record of success with a variety of consumer brands, will provide us with helpful guidance to realize our potential.&#8221;</p>
<p>Hammann&#8217;s experience forging Levi&#8217;s entry into mass merchandising, significantly improving Coca-Cola&#8217;s fountain business, and creating significant growth with several brands at Procter and Gamble including Crest toothpaste, will give Plantronics access to a combination of product development, marketing, advertising, merchandising and brand positioning expertise.</p>
<p>&#8220;I have the highest admiration for Plantronics,&#8221; says Greggory Hammann, Chairman, President and CEO of the Nautilus Group. &#8220;As a believer in equipment excellence, I love the ergonomic benefits provided by Plantronics hands-free wireless mobility systems. They&#8217;re practical too…customer service departments can field calls without ever having to put valuable customers on hold.&#8221;</p>
<p>Hammann joined the Nautilus Group since 2003 where he has repositioned the company to compete in multiple channels of commerce. Previously, he held leadership positions at Levis Strauss &amp; Company, including Chief Customer Officer and President of Latin America and Canada, and at Coca-Cola Company where he was Vice President, Fountain CMG, and Officer and Director of Strategic Issues. He also has held management positions at Famous Footwear, The Rayovac Corporation, and Procter &amp; Gamble. Hammann&#8217;s election to the Board is effective immediately. He graduated from the University of Iowa and has an MBA from the University of Wisconsin.</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics</strong><br />
 Plantronics (NYSE:PLT) introduced the first lightweight headset in 1962 and is recognized as the world leader in communications headsets. Plantronics headsets have been featured in numerous motion pictures and high-profile events, including Neil Armstrong&#8217;s historic &#8220;One small step for man&#8221; transmission from the moon in 1969. A publicly held company headquartered in Santa Cruz, California, with approximately 4,400 employees, Plantronics maintains offices in 20 countries. For more information go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
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		<title>Plantronics Showcases Award-Winning Headsets at Consumer Electronics Show</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-showcases-award-winning-headsets-at-consumer-electronics-show/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-showcases-award-winning-headsets-at-consumer-electronics-show/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 07 Jan 2005 06:21:23 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>chithra</dc:creator>
		
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=281</guid>
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Innovative Bluetooth?? Headset System and Unique Mobile, VoIP, Gaming and Music Products to be Demonstrated

Las Vegas –– Consumer Electronics Show 2005 - - January 6, 2005 - Plantronics (NYSE:PLT) elevates headset design with two new products &#8212; the new wireless headset system for use with both Bluetooth mobile devices and office phones, and a unique [...]]]></description>
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<h4>Innovative Bluetooth?? Headset System and Unique Mobile, VoIP, Gaming and Music Products to be Demonstrated</h4>
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<p><strong>Las Vegas –– Consumer Electronics Show 2005 -</strong> - January 6, 2005 - Plantronics (NYSE:PLT) elevates headset design with two new products &#8212; the new wireless headset system for use with both Bluetooth mobile devices and office phones, and a unique mobile headset with superior sound quality and unsurpassed comfortable fit. These products have received Innovation awards from the CES Design and Engineering organization for their designs and technological advances.</p>
<p>Plantronics multipoint Bluetooth headset system, model L510S, simplifies communication with one wireless headset that seamlessly switches between office phones and voice-enabled Bluetooth mobile phones, laptops and PDAs. The new system won the &#8220;Best of Innovations&#8221; title in the SOHO category.</p>
<p>The new MX500 mobile headset, an Innovations honoree in the accessories category, features patent-pending WindSmart™ technology for crisp, clear conversations in noisy environments and under-the-ear design for exceptional comfort and stability.</p>
<p>&#8220;Plantronics transfers its expertise in mission-critical applications for NASA, the FAA, and the U.S. military into our new consumer products,&#8221; said Mark Breier, Chief Marketing Officer of Plantronics. &#8220;We offer high-quality sound in stylish, comfortable headsets for mobile and office professionals, VoIP users, console and PC gamers, and music listeners.&#8221;</p>
<p>Plantronics GameCom™ Halo 2 Edition headset, designed to deliver superior voice communication for intense Xbox Live™ gameplay, received honors in the gaming category for the &#8220;Technology is a Girl&#8217;s Best Friend&#8221; showcase.</p>
<p>Plantronics will demonstrate these award-winning solutions, and new VoIP and music products in the Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall 3, booth #31134.</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics</strong><br />
 Plantronics introduced the first lightweight headset in 1962 and is recognized as the world leader in communications headsets. Plantronics headsets have been featured in numerous motion pictures and high-profile events, including Neil Armstrong&#8217;s historic &#8220;One small step for man&#8221; transmission from the moon in 1969. A publicly held company headquartered in Santa Cruz, California, with approximately 4,400 employees, Plantronics maintains offices in 20 countries. For more information go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
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		<title>Plantronics Breaks Ground For Manufacturing Facility In China</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-breaks-ground-for-manufacturing-facility-in-china/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-breaks-ground-for-manufacturing-facility-in-china/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 09 Dec 2004 16:34:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[US/Corporate]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=285</guid>
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Plant Helps Company Improve Product Time to Market in Asia, Enhances Local Manufacturing Quality Control

SANTA CRUZ, CA. - December 9, 2004 – Plantronics (NYSE:PLT), a worldwide leader in communications headsets, today broke ground for its new Suzhou manufacturing complex. The company&#8217;s worldwide manufacturing is currently in Mexico, with several suppliers in China. The Suzhou facility [...]]]></description>
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<h4>Plant Helps Company Improve Product Time to Market in Asia, Enhances Local Manufacturing Quality Control</h4>
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<p><strong>SANTA CRUZ, CA. -</strong> December 9, 2004 – Plantronics (NYSE:PLT), a worldwide leader in communications headsets, today broke ground for its new Suzhou manufacturing complex. The company&#8217;s worldwide manufacturing is currently in Mexico, with several suppliers in China. The Suzhou facility will allow Plantronics to develop and produce product locally, expedite product delivery to neighboring regions and improve quality control. The plant &#8212; expected to open in the fourth quarter of 2005 &#8212; adds to Plantronics&#8217; presence in the Pacific Rim, where the company has offices in Shanghai, Beijing, Hong Kong, Seoul, Tokyo, Manila, Singapore, Taiwan and Melbourne.</p>
<p>&#8220;The creation of this facility demonstrates Plantronics&#8217; commitment to our employees and the Suzhou citizens as well as to our customers,&#8221; says Terry Walters, senior vice president of operations for Plantronics. &#8220;As a part of our global strategy, this plant is both complementary and synergistic with our manufacturing in Mexico. It will provide components to our plant in Mexico and will also manufacture some products for export to local markets…the best of both worlds.&#8221;</p>
<p>The complex, located 50 miles west of Shanghai, is being built by Bechtel and includes a three-story office building and manufacturing facility totaling nearly 200,000 square feet. The design reflects Plantronics&#8217; commitment to the local community and its residents, incorporating environmentally friendly building materials and elements such as battery chargers for electric scooters and a storm water management system.</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics</strong><br />
 Plantronics (NYSE:PLT) introduced the first lightweight headset in 1962 and is recognized as the world leader in communications headsets. For decades Plantronics has applied its expertise to the mission-critical communications of agencies such as the FAA, U.S. military and NASA. In fact, a Plantronics headset transmitted Neil Armstrong&#8217;s historic &#8220;One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind&#8221; from the moon in 1969. A publicly held company headquartered in Santa Cruz, California, Plantronics has approximately 4,400 employees and maintains offices in 20 countries. For more information go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p>Plantronics, the logo design, and Plantronics and the logo design combined, are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics Inc.</p>
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		<title>Mexico Presents Plantronics Manufacturing Facility with Nation’s Highest Quality Award</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/mexico-presents-plantronics-manufacturing-facility-with-nation%e2%80%99s-highest-quality-award/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/mexico-presents-plantronics-manufacturing-facility-with-nation%e2%80%99s-highest-quality-award/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 09 Dec 2004 16:33:34 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[US/Corporate]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=283</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
President Vicente Fox Honors PLAMEX for Excellence in Total Quality Management

SANTA CRUZ, CA. - December 9, 2004 – Plantronics has won Mexico&#8217;s prestigious National Quality Award 2004, the equivalent to the United States&#8217; Malcolm Baldrige Award, for its Plantronics Mexico (PLAMEX) plant. The National Quality Award is for achievements in quality and business performance. One [...]]]></description>
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<h4>President Vicente Fox Honors PLAMEX for Excellence in Total Quality Management</h4>
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<p><strong>SANTA CRUZ, CA. -</strong> December 9, 2004 – Plantronics has won Mexico&#8217;s prestigious National Quality Award 2004, the equivalent to the United States&#8217; Malcolm Baldrige Award, for its Plantronics Mexico (PLAMEX) plant. The National Quality Award is for achievements in quality and business performance. One of the largest manufacturing companies in Baja California, PLAMEX continually strives to enhance its comprehensive total quality management (TQM) program, recognizing that it engenders best business practices and competitive advantage.</p>
<p>During the rigorous evaluation process, which begins in early spring, companies are judged on eight key elements: customer satisfaction, leadership, organizational planning, information and analysis, personnel development, process administration, social responsibility, and results. The process includes extensive written submissions as well as an on-site assessment by a team of expert evaluators.</p>
<p>President Vicente Fox presented the award for the &#8220;Large Industry&#8221; category to PLAMEX executives and associates during a ceremony today at Los Pinos, the presidential residence in Mexico City, Mexico.</p>
<p>&#8220;Plantronics Mexico is proud to receive the National Quality Award on behalf of its associates, who have joined together to create and nurture a culture of excellence and empowerment,&#8221; said Alejandro Bustamante, president of PLAMEX. &#8220;The award is really a recognition of the people behind the products and the many ways that our company strives to best serve our customers, stockholders and the community.&#8221;</p>
<p>PLAMEX associates are trained to prevent problems by proposing solutions to any potential risks they identify. Everyone contributes to quality processes to increase customer satisfaction, minimize rework, reduce cost, maintain production output and uphold product excellence. Many associates have been working at Plamex for decades, thanks to the facility&#8217;s variety of benefits, including career development, family programs, child care, educational programs, medical care and housing assistance. PLAMEX&#8217;s 3,600 associates contribute to Plantronics&#8217; worldwide success by manufacturing more than 5,000 different models of headset products.</p>
<p>The facility is ISO 9002-2000 certified and has received numerous awards and commendations for its excellence in environmental matters, community work, customer satisfaction and work safety. Previous awards include the Federal Ministry of Labor&#8217;s Safe Industry Certificate, Baja California Quality Award 2001 (&#8221;Best Maquiladora Company&#8221;) and the PROFEPA/CNIME Environmental Award (EPA/National Maquiladora Council).</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics</strong><br />
 Plantronics (NYSE:PLT) introduced the first lightweight headset in 1962 and is recognized as the world leader in communications headsets. For decades Plantronics has applied its expertise to the mission-critical communications of agencies such as the FAA, U.S. military and NASA. In fact, a Plantronics headset transmitted Neil Armstrong&#8217;s historic &#8220;One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind&#8221; from the moon in 1969. A publicly held company headquartered in Santa Cruz, California, Plantronics has approximately 4,400 employees and maintains offices in 20 countries. For more information go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p>Plantronics, the logo design and Plantronics and the logo design combined are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.</p>
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		<title>Fast Company Magazine Names Plantronics Top Innovator</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/fast-company-magazine-names-plantronics-top-innovator/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/fast-company-magazine-names-plantronics-top-innovator/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 02 Dec 2004 16:35:59 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=287</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
Business Journal Honors Plantronics for Pioneering Headset Design and Ability to Bring Consumers&#8217; Desires to Market

SANTA CRUZ, CA. - December 2, 2004 – Plantronics (NYSE:PLT), a global leader in communications headsets, is one of the nation&#8217;s most innovative businesses according to Fast Company magazine and global professional-services firm Monitor Group. Plantronics beat the competition for [...]]]></description>
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<h4>Business Journal Honors Plantronics for Pioneering Headset Design and Ability to Bring Consumers&#8217; Desires to Market</h4>
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<p><strong>SANTA CRUZ, CA. -</strong> December 2, 2004 – Plantronics (NYSE:PLT), a global leader in communications headsets, is one of the nation&#8217;s most innovative businesses according to Fast Company magazine and global professional-services firm Monitor Group. Plantronics beat the competition for a place in the inaugural Innovation Scorecard based on factors such as the processes, tools and culture it creates to support innovation, patents granted, R&amp;D spending and return on investment (ROI).</p>
<p>Out of more than one hundred companies surveyed for the scorecard, Plantronics is distinguished as one of the top five companies in the telecommunications and networking industry. According to the magazine, Plantronics&#8217; ability to deliver on consumers&#8217; wishes is integral to its innovations success and competitive advantage, &#8220;Plantronics asks consumers what they want….then works backward….&#8221; The report, published in the December 2004 issue, also highlights Plantronics&#8217; approach to design where &#8220;designers, unfettered by mundane limitations of technology, create prototypes that connect with consumer desires.&#8221;</p>
<p>Ken Kannappan, CEO of Plantronics, says the company views innovation as an essential element in all of its business processes. &#8220;Creativity is truly meaningful when it improves the customer experience. Our recently released GameCom Halo 2 Edition headset is a great example of this,&#8221; said Kannappan. &#8220;Xbox Live™ gamers look for a superior piece of equipment to help them win, deepen their game experience, and remain comfortable during hours of use. We mapped these requirements against our extensive headset platforms to deliver the best solution and the headset became a gamer favorite overnight.&#8221;</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics</strong></p>
<p>Plantronics (NYSE:PLT) introduced the first lightweight headset in 1962 and is recognized as the world leader in communications headsets. Plantronics headsets have been featured in numerous motion pictures and high-profile events, including Neil Armstrong&#8217;s historic &#8220;One small step for man&#8221; transmission from the moon in 1969. A publicly held company headquartered in Santa Cruz, California, with approximately 4,000 employees, Plantronics maintains offices in 19 countries. For more information go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p>Plantronics, the logo design and Plantronics and the logo design combined are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics Inc. Xbox Live and Xbox are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corp. in the United States and/or other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.</p>
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		<title>Plantronics’ Bluetooth Headset System Captures CES “Best of Innovations” Award</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics%e2%80%99-bluetooth-headset-system-captures-ces-%e2%80%9cbest-of-innovations%e2%80%9d-award/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics%e2%80%99-bluetooth-headset-system-captures-ces-%e2%80%9cbest-of-innovations%e2%80%9d-award/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 11 Nov 2004 16:36:38 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=289</guid>
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Technology that Powers Single Headset for Multiple Uses is Lauded by Industry Experts for Design and Engineering Excellence

SANTA CRUZ, CA. - November 11, 2004 - Plantronics&#8217; (NYSE:PLT) next-generation Bluetooth Headset System has earned a coveted &#8220;Best of Innovations 2005&#8243; title in the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) Innovations Design and Engineering Awards. The company has [...]]]></description>
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<h4>Technology that Powers Single Headset for Multiple Uses is Lauded by Industry Experts for Design and Engineering Excellence</h4>
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<p><strong>SANTA CRUZ, CA. -</strong> November 11, 2004 - Plantronics&#8217; (NYSE:PLT) next-generation Bluetooth Headset System has earned a coveted &#8220;Best of Innovations 2005&#8243; title in the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) Innovations Design and Engineering Awards. The company has developed a wireless solution that enables people, particularly mobile professionals, to seamlessly switch between their mobile phones, office phones, laptops and other Bluetooth audio devices using the same headset. The new system received the program&#8217;s highest award in the small office/home office category and is expected to be publicly announced and displayed in the Grand Lobby of the Las Vegas Convention Center during CES, January 6-9, 2005.</p>
<p>A second headset from Plantronics for mobile phones achieved honoree status in the accessories category and is also expected to be publicly announced at CES, 2005.</p>
<p>&#8220;Savvy modern consumers expect headsets to not only provide superior sound and performance, but to also enhance personal style,&#8221; said Mark Breier, chief marketing officer for Plantronics. &#8220;This award is a testament to Plantronics&#8217; success in creating products that perfectly blend innovative technologies and cutting-edge designs.&#8221;</p>
<p>The CES Innovations Design and Engineering Awards recognize the newest consumer electronics products that exhibit excellence in form and function. A panel, comprised of an engineer, an industrial designer and a member of the trade press, judge products based on their user value, aesthetics design qualities, contributions to the quality of life, and innovative design. The Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) endorses and acts as advisor to the awards.</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics</strong></p>
<p>Plantronics introduced the first lightweight headset in 1962 and is recognized as the world leader in communications headsets. A publicly held company headquartered in Santa Cruz, California, with approximately 4,400 employees, Plantronics maintains offices in 20 countries. For more information go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p>Plantronics, the logo design, and Plantronics and the logo design combined, are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics Inc. Bluetooth is a trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and is used by Plantronics under license. All other trademarks are the property of the respective owners.</p>
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		<title>Plantronics Expands Pacific Rim Presence to Meet Growing Demand for Headsets</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-expands-pacific-rim-presence-to-meet-growing-demand-for-headsets/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-expands-pacific-rim-presence-to-meet-growing-demand-for-headsets/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 27 Oct 2004 16:38:03 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[US/Corporate]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=291</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[SANTA CRUZ, CA. - October 27, 2004 - To satisfy the increasing demand for headsets in the Pacific Rim, Plantronics (NYSE:PLT) announced that it has strengthened its regional presence with new offices in the People&#8217;s Republic of China, South Korea and the Philippines and expanded its existing offices in Australia and Japan. Plantronics is the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>SANTA CRUZ, CA. -</strong> October 27, 2004 - To satisfy the increasing demand for headsets in the Pacific Rim, Plantronics (NYSE:PLT) announced that it has strengthened its regional presence with new offices in the People&#8217;s Republic of China, South Korea and the Philippines and expanded its existing offices in Australia and Japan. Plantronics is the globally recognized leader in communications headsets, offering a complete line of products for customers around the world.</p>
<p>Two of the forces driving headset demand in the Pacific Rim include the increasing popularity of mobile phones as well as &#8220;hands-free&#8221; driving legislation now in effect in Shanghai and scheduled to begin in November in Japan. According to a Strategy Analytics report, the Asia-Pacific region will account for a significant amount of all new global (cellular) user growth between 2003 and 2009.</p>
<p>&#8220;Global headset adoption is growing at an impressive rate, and more customers are demanding brand-name products that deliver excellent audio quality and stylish design,&#8221; said José Gonzalez, director, Asia-Pacific, Japan and Latin America for Plantronics. &#8220;Our new and expanded offices give us the ability to deliver a variety of such products while providing superior service to our Pacific Rim customers.&#8221;</p>
<p>Plantronics&#8217; new offices will be led by: Qi Jian in Beijing; Davis Hai-Dong Tao in Shanghai; Roberto Blanco in Manila; and Hyo Keun Cho in Seoul. The company already has a significant Pacific Rim presence with sales offices in Australia, Japan, Hong Kong and Singapore.</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics</strong></p>
<p>Plantronics introduced the first lightweight headset in 1962 and is recognized as the world leader in communications headsets. A publicly held company headquartered in Santa Cruz, California, with approximately 4,400 employees, Plantronics maintains offices in 20 countries. For more information go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p>Plantronics, the logo design, and Plantronics and the logo design combined, are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics Inc.</p>
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		<title>Worker Productivity Increases Nearly 25 Percent with Plantronics Headset Use</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/worker-productivity-increases-nearly-25-percent-with-plantronics-headset-use/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/worker-productivity-increases-nearly-25-percent-with-plantronics-headset-use/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Sep 2004 01:47:50 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>chithra</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[US/Corporate]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=2032</guid>
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Independent Study Shows How Headsets Can Help Organizations Quickly and Cost-Effectively Increase Contribution to the Bottom Line

SANTA CRUZ, CA. - September 2, 2004 – Knowledge workers that used Plantronics communications headsets experienced a 23.5 percent average increase in productivity and a 25 percent reduction in discomfort, as measured in an independent study conducted by E3 [...]]]></description>
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<h4>Independent Study Shows How Headsets Can Help Organizations Quickly and Cost-Effectively Increase Contribution to the Bottom Line</h4>
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<p><strong>SANTA CRUZ, CA. -</strong> September 2, 2004 – Knowledge workers that used Plantronics communications headsets experienced a 23.5 percent average increase in productivity and a 25 percent reduction in discomfort, as measured in an independent study conducted by E3 Consulting. The results of the study underscore the important role headsets can play in organizations by giving employees tools to help them communicate more comfortably and naturally, which in turn helps boost their efficiency, productivity and contribution to the bottom line.</p>
<p>The study, commissioned by Plantronics, Inc., provided quantitative evidence that headsets can help knowledge workers gain and sustain productivity over time. It observed loan processors at Irwin Mortgage Corporation as they conducted normal business over a 90-day period . A test group wore headsets and a control group did not. After wearing the headsets for 90 days, the test group increased the number of loans it closed by an average of 23.5 percent compared to the control group in the same 90-day period.</p>
<p>&#8220;The results of this study provide hard data to support what we all intuitively believe &#8212; headsets are good for business,&#8221; said Stephen Denny, vice president of channel marketing for Plantronics. &#8220;Headsets benefit businesses and employees because they provide a more natural and comfortable way to communicate, and that helps workers get more done.&#8221;</p>
<p>The study also demonstrated that headsets significantly contribute to a decline in back, neck and shoulder discomfort, which can translate into a reduction in sick days. In fact, 67 percent of the members in the test group reported at least some decrease in the severity of neck, back and shoulder discomfort from what they had previously experienced while using the phone. On average, the group reported a 25 percent decrease in discomfort while wearing a headset.</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics</strong></p>
<p>Plantronics introduced the first lightweight communications headset in 1962 and is recognized as the world leader in communications headsets. A publicly held company with approximately 4,000 employees, Plantronics is the leading provider of headsets to telephone companies and the business community worldwide. Plantronics headsets are also used widely in many Fortune 500 corporations and have been featured in numerous motion pictures and high-profile events, including Neil Armstrong&#8217;s historic &#8220;One small step for man&#8221; transmission from the moon in 1969. Plantronics, Inc., headquartered in Santa Cruz, California, was founded in 1961 and maintains offices in 19 countries. Plantronics products are sold and supported through a worldwide network of authorized Plantronics marketing partners. Information about the company and its products can be found at www.plantronics.com or by calling (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p>Any product testimonials herein reflect only the actual experience of the individuals studied, are anecdotal only, and are not a guarantee of anyone else&#8217;s results or success. The productivity gains presented herein are not necessarily representative of productivity gains that users can or will experience using headsets. These figures should not be considered as guarantees or projections of your actual benefits. Any such representation or guarantee would be misleading.</p>
<p>Plantronics, and Plantronics and the logo design combined, are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics Inc. All other products or service names mentioned herein are trademarks of their respective owners.</p>
<p>Knowledge Networks, a marketing research company headquartered in Menlo Park, CA, audited the statistical validity of the completed study.</p>
<p>Irwin Mortgage is a national company with 3,500 employees and 150 offices. It services more than ten billion dollars worth of residential loans per year.</p>
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		<title>Plantronics Launches Design and Style Initiative</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-launches-design-and-style-initiative/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-launches-design-and-style-initiative/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 12 Aug 2004 16:54:54 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://press.plantronics.com/?p=310</guid>
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Plantronics Launches Design and Style Initiative

SANTA CRUZ, CA - August 12, 2004 – Plantronics (NYSE:PLT) today announced a new strategic initiative that will focus on further increasing the design and style appeal of its new headsets. The company said that the emphasis on design and style is part of an overall strategy to gain a [...]]]></description>
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<h4>Plantronics Launches Design and Style Initiative</h4>
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<p><strong>SANTA CRUZ, CA -</strong> August 12, 2004 – Plantronics (NYSE:PLT) today announced a new strategic initiative that will focus on further increasing the design and style appeal of its new headsets. The company said that the emphasis on design and style is part of an overall strategy to gain a deeper understanding of how customers use headsets, and how they feel when they&#8217;re wearing them. The ultimate goal is to create headsets that are attractive to wear, intuitive to use and fit comfortably and naturally into a broad range of workstyles and lifestyles.</p>
<p>&#8220;As headsets become more of a mainstream consumer offering, users are demanding products that are fashionable, with innovative designs,&#8221; said Ken Kannappan, president and CEO of Plantronics. &#8220;The company that successfully captures this opportunity will be a technology leader AND a design innovator. Plantronics is responding to this demand by significantly expanding its design efforts to create the next generation of headsets that incorporates new styles, colors and materials, and offers improved controls to create greater freedom in communications.&#8221;</p>
<p>Key components in the strategy include an increased emphasis on innovation in technology and customer-centric research. &#8220;Because people wear our products and depend on them for clear communication, it&#8217;s essential that we fully understand the connection between the product and the person. The better we can understand that connection, the better our products will be,&#8221; Kannappan added.</p>
<p><strong>New Hires Bring Consumer Market Expertise</strong></p>
<p>A key element of the Plantronics style initiative is the appointment of globally recognized designer Darrin Caddes as vice president of corporate design. Joining Caddes is a new extended team of design professionals with expertise in human factors, color and materials, industrial design and mechanical engineering. In addition to product design, the expanded team will also create design concepts that will drive technology innovation.</p>
<p>The company is also undertaking a full-scale transformation of its design facilities to create an environment that will foster interaction and creativity. The efforts will also include increased use of stereo lithography, and investment in rapid prototyping and laser scanning tools to enhance and accelerate the product development process.</p>
<p>As leader of the design department, Caddes brings a great deal of experience in the design of lifestyle-oriented products to the Plantronics&#8217; style initiative. Caddes gained his experience from design roles at Fiat®, BMW® and Indian Motorcycle®, where he worked on a variety of projects ranging from concept and production vehicles, clothing and lifestyle accessories to corporate identity programs and strategic brand management. He is perhaps best known as the designer of the BMW R1150GS Adventure motorcycle, an innovative product design that has been on display at the Art of the Motorcycle exhibit in Las Vegas, Nevada, and in the Pinakothek Der Moderne, Germany&#8217;s largest museum dedicated to 20th and 21st century art and design.</p>
<p>&#8220;I&#8217;m excited about the potential we have at Plantronics to change how the world views this type of technology,&#8221; said Caddes. &#8220;Twenty years ago wearing glasses wasn&#8217;t ‘cool&#8217; and now they&#8217;re serious fashion accessories. Headsets, too, are destined for that level of cultural and aesthetic transformation. We are in the business of wearable communications and our customers need to feel as good about themselves when wearing our products as they do their own clothing or eyewear.&#8221;</p>
<p>Caddes will be supported by a staff that includes Diane Elabidi, a recent hire who will fill the newly created position of human factors designer, and Kevin Rausch, as design director. Elabidi, who was previously a human factors specialist at IDEO® and who most recently served as the lead human factors designer for LeapFrog®, will focus not only on the fit and comfort issues that relate to ergonomics but also on the emotional, psychological and cultural aspects of Plantronics&#8217; products as they relate to customers. Rausch brings experience in product design, design management and branding from Circuit City® where he developed consumer products for the Circuit City brand. He also brings additional product development experience from both Rubbermaid® and Motorola®.</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics</strong></p>
<p>Plantronics introduced the first lightweight communications headset in 1962 and is recognized as the world leader in communications headsets. A publicly held company with approximately 4,000 employees, Plantronics is the leading provider of headsets to telephone companies and the business community worldwide. Plantronics headsets are also used widely in many Fortune 500 corporations and have been featured in numerous motion pictures and high-profile events, including Neil Armstrong&#8217;s historic &#8220;One small step for man&#8221; transmission from the moon in 1969. Plantronics, Inc., headquartered in Santa Cruz, California, was founded in 1961 and maintains offices in 18 countries. Plantronics products are sold and supported through a worldwide network of authorized Plantronics marketing partners. Information about the company and its products can be found at www.plantronics.com or by calling (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p><em>Plantronics, the logo design, and Plantronics and the logo design combined, are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics Inc. All other products or service names mentioned herein are trademarks of their respective owners in the United States and/or other countries.</em></p>
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		<title>Plantronics Announces New Chief Marketing Officer to Help Drive Mainstream Adoption of Headsets</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-announces-new-chief-marketing-officer-to-help-drive-mainstream-adoption-of-headsets/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-announces-new-chief-marketing-officer-to-help-drive-mainstream-adoption-of-headsets/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 19 Jul 2004 17:01:03 +0000</pubDate>
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CMO&#8217;s Extensive Consumer Expertise, Recently Launched Design and Research Initiatives All Aimed at Cultivating New Market Opportunities

SANTA CRUZ, CA. - Plantronics, Inc., (NYSE:PLT), the world leader in lightweight communications headsets, today announced that as part of its initiative to broaden and increase headset adoption among consumers, it has named Mark Breier to the newly created [...]]]></description>
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<h4>CMO&#8217;s Extensive Consumer Expertise, Recently Launched Design and Research Initiatives All Aimed at Cultivating New Market Opportunities</h4>
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<p><strong>SANTA CRUZ, CA. -</strong> Plantronics, Inc., (NYSE:PLT), the world leader in lightweight communications headsets, today announced that as part of its initiative to broaden and increase headset adoption among consumers, it has named Mark Breier to the newly created position of Chief Marketing Officer. Breier brings a wealth of consumer marketing experience to his role as the leader of Plantronics&#8217; worldwide marketing programs.</p>
<p>Breier&#8217;s appointment is a key element in recent Plantronics efforts aimed at bringing the benefits of wireless freedom to people who haven&#8217;t tried a headset yet. As part of the initiative, the company also has significantly expanded its product design and style team, increased its focus on consumer market research and placed greater emphasis on technology innovation. It expects that these moves will help it take advantage of bringing innovative personal communication solutions to new consumer segments.</p>
<p>&#8220;We believe that the market today offers an unprecedented opportunity to drive headset adoption among a broader, more diverse consumer group than ever before,&#8221; said Ken Kannappan, president and CEO of Plantronics. &#8220;Mark&#8217;s wealth of consumer expertise, combined with other resources we&#8217;ve recently added, gives us unmatched tools to create innovative, stylish products that will be widely sought after among users who are new to the headset category.&#8221;</p>
<p>Breier&#8217;s former positions include VP of Marketing at Amazon.com, President/CEO of Beyond.com, and executive marketing positions at Dreyer&#8217;s Ice Cream, Cinnabon and Kraft Foods. Most recently Breier served as Managing Partner at Fast Angels Ventures, which provided seed funding for technology start-ups. He is also a successful author and public speaker (based on his book &#8220;10-Second Internet Manager&#8221;).</p>
<p>&#8220;In my experience during the past couple of years, the most successful venture investments are related to anything that makes human communication easier, whether it&#8217;s e-mail, the Internet or mobile phones,&#8221; said Mark Breier. &#8220;I am convinced that Plantronics&#8217; new wireless headsets, by giving users the unmatched freedom to roam about their offices and homes, put us on the threshold of an entirely new market opportunity.&#8221;</p>
<p>Breier holds an M.B.A. from Stanford University, where he also received his B.A. in Economics.</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics</strong><br />
Plantronics introduced the first lightweight communications headset in 1962 and is recognized as the world leader in communications headsets. A publicly held company with approximately 3,350 employees, Plantronics is the leading provider of headsets to telephone companies and the business community worldwide. Plantronics headsets are also used widely in many Fortune 500 corporations and have been featured in numerous motion pictures and high-profile events, including Neil Armstrong&#8217;s historic &#8220;One small step for man&#8221; transmission from the moon in 1969. Plantronics, Inc., headquartered in Santa Cruz, California, was founded in 1961 and maintains offices in 20 countries. Plantronics products are sold and supported through a worldwide network of authorized Plantronics marketing partners. Information about the company and its products can be found at www.plantronics.com or by calling (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p><em>Plantronics, the logo design, and Plantronics and the logo design combined, are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics Inc. All other products or service names mentioned herein are trademarks of their respective owners.</em></p>
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		<title>Plantronics and Skype form Strategic Partnership</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-and-skype-form-strategic-partnership/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-and-skype-form-strategic-partnership/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 18 Mar 2004 17:06:17 +0000</pubDate>
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Global headset and peer-to-peer telephony leaders sign worldwide agreement

HANOVER, GERMANY - CeBIT – March 18, 2004 – Plantronics, Inc., the world leader in communications headsets, and Skype Technologies S.A., the global P2P (peer-to-peer) telephony company, today announced a worldwide strategic partnership to provide voice communications solutions for users of Skype&#8217;s online telephony services. The companies [...]]]></description>
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<h4>Global headset and peer-to-peer telephony leaders sign worldwide agreement</h4>
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<p><strong>HANOVER, GERMANY -</strong> CeBIT – March 18, 2004 – Plantronics, Inc., the world leader in communications headsets, and Skype Technologies S.A., the global P2P (peer-to-peer) telephony company, today announced a worldwide strategic partnership to provide voice communications solutions for users of Skype&#8217;s online telephony services. The companies signed a strategic agreement detailing their shared vision for the advancement of modern telephony solutions. As part of the agreement, Plantronics will be the globally preferred headset provider for Skype, and in the future, a range of Plantronics headsets will be made available bundled with a free trial of Skype&#8217;s premium services.</p>
<p>&#8220;Plantronics&#8217; global presence and extensive suite of headsets for every market make them a strong partner,&#8221; said Niklas Zennström, Skype&#8217;s CEO and Co-Founder. &#8220;Our software expertise and Plantronics&#8217; audio communications heritage are a powerful combination, enabling users to have superior audio quality while using Skype services. Together we are well-positioned to take advantage of broadband proliferation to deliver free, high-quality Internet telephony to a rapidly expanding worldwide market.&#8221;</p>
<p>For more than 40 years, Plantronics has developed lightweight headsets that enhance personal communications and deliver crystal clear audio performance. From the consumer to the mobile professional and the office user, Plantronics has a solution and price point to match their needs. Plantronics brings a large portfolio of advanced voice technologies to the partnership, so Skype users can get the best audio performance from leading edge P2P technology. Plantronics&#8217; DSP and .Audio lines of PC headsets, for example, are ideal for Internet telephony and Voice over IP applications. With its suite of Bluetooth headsets, Plantronics also offers a new dimension of unmatched mobility for any IP access device, such as a PC, PDA or mobile phone that could potentially host converged mobile Skype services.</p>
<p>&#8220;PC-based VoIP is really just the beginning for Skype, and the partnership with Plantronics is a big step towards the next level,&#8221; said Jon Arnold, VoIP Program Leader for marketing consultancy Frost &amp; Sullivan. &#8220;Skype has quickly built a critical mass of users globally around its peer-to-peer free model. Plantronics brings a global distribution channel, a broad offering of mobile communication solutions and the ability to enhance audio quality that will help Skype reach a broader audience. Perhaps more importantly, their headsets enable mobility, dramatically enhancing Skype&#8217;s appeal, especially in the enterprise space,&#8221; Arnold adds.</p>
<p>Skype technology enables free, superior quality, unlimited worldwide voice calls via broadband, LAN and hot spot wireless IP connections. Skype is the global leader in offering free worldwide calling, a robust user-propagated directory, multi-language selection and expanding services such as global conference calling. Using a Plantronics headset, users can achieve Internet audio performance that rivals or exceeds traditional landline quality. The significant market impact of both companies illustrates the success of their technological innovations. Skype software has been downloaded more than 8 million times by users from more than 165 countries, and last year Plantronics shipped more than 14 million headsets for the mobile, computer, residential, enterprise and contact center markets.</p>
<p>&#8220;Skype is changing the communications landscape and is bringing forward a new level of personal connectivity,&#8221; stated Ken Kannappan, President and CEO of Plantronics. &#8220;Headsets play an important part in this shift, affording new standards of sound quality and mobility that offer tremendous value to Internet telephony users.&#8221;</p>
<p><strong>About Skype</strong></p>
<p>Skype, the Global P2P Telephony CompanyTM, allows people everywhere to make free, unlimited, superior quality voice calls via its innovative peer-to-peer software. Skype is available in fifteen languages and is the fastest growing voice communications offering worldwide. Since its launch in August 2003, Skype has been downloaded more than 8.2 million times. Skype Technologies S.A. is headquartered in Luxembourg and is growing with personnel in Copenhagen, London, Stockholm, and Tallinn. Skype Technologies is privately held and backed by top-tier international venture capital firms, including Bessemer Venture Partners. www.skype.com</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics</strong></p>
<p>Plantronics introduced the first lightweight communications headset in 1962 and is recognized as the world leader in communications headsets. A publicly held company with approximately 2,700 employees, Plantronics is the leading provider of headsets to telephone companies and the business community worldwide. Plantronics headsets are also used widely in many Fortune 500 corporations and have been featured in numerous motion pictures and high-profile events, including Neil Armstrong&#8217;s historic &#8220;One small step for man&#8221; transmission from the moon in 1969. Plantronics, Inc., headquartered in Santa Cruz, California, was founded in 1961 and maintains offices in 20 countries. Plantronics products are sold and supported through a worldwide network of authorized Plantronics marketing partners. Information about the company and its products can be found at www.plantronics.com or by calling (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p>This news release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. All statements other than statements of historical fact are statements that could be deemed as forward-looking statements. Risks, uncertainties and assumptions include the possibility that: Skype&#8217;s software will perform as anticipated, broadband services may not be available or affordable to all consumers, Plantronics headset solution may not be available or affordable to consumers in all markets, Plantronics and Skype combined offerings do not perform as anticipated, and other risks that are described from time to time in Plantronics Securities and Exchange Commission reports, including but not limited to Plantronics report on Form 10-Q filed on February 6, 2004, and Plantronics&#8217; annual report on Form 10-K filed on June 2, 2003. These filings can be accessed over the Internet at www.sec.gov. If any of these risks or uncertainties materialize or any of these assumptions prove incorrect, Plantronics&#8217; results could differ materially from Plantronics&#8217; expectations. Plantronics assumes no obligation and does not intend to update these forward-looking statements.</p>
<p>Plantronics, the logo design, Plantronics and the logo design combined, and .Audio are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. The Bluetooth name and the Bluetooth trademarks are owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc, and are used by Plantronics, Inc. under license.</p>
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		<title>New Plantronics Products Recognized for Technology and Design Excellence</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/new-plantronics-products-recognized-for-technology-and-design-excellence/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/new-plantronics-products-recognized-for-technology-and-design-excellence/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2004 17:07:51 +0000</pubDate>
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New Bluetooth, Wireless and VoIP Solutions Receive Industry Awards

SANTA CRUZ, CA. - February 10, 2004 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE:PLT), the world leader in lightweight communications headsets, continues to raise the bar with its advanced technology development and product design. Several of Plantronics&#8217; new products have recently received awards and recognition from a wide range of [...]]]></description>
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<h4>New Bluetooth, Wireless and VoIP Solutions Receive Industry Awards</h4>
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<p><strong>SANTA CRUZ, CA. -</strong> February 10, 2004 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE:PLT), the world leader in lightweight communications headsets, continues to raise the bar with its advanced technology development and product design. Several of Plantronics&#8217; new products have recently received awards and recognition from a wide range of sources, including the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) Innovations Awards committee, The Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design, CNET, Customer Inter@ction Solutions and Popular Science.</p>
<p><strong>The CS50 Wireless Headset System</strong></p>
<p>In January, at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), the Plantronics CS50 wireless headset system was named an Innovations 2004 Design and Engineering Awards Showcase honoree in the &#8220;Wireless Communications&#8221; category. Each year, the CEA Innovations Awards committee, advised by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA), honors the most technologically advanced products in a variety of consumer electronics categories. Plantronics was recognized for the ultra-compact, completely wireless design of the CS50.</p>
<p><strong>M3000 and M3500 Bluetooth Headsets</strong></p>
<p>The M3500, Plantronics&#8217; third-generation Bluetooth headset, was recently launched at CES and selected by CNET as a &#8220;Pick of the Day.&#8221; CNET editors select one &#8220;stand-out&#8221; product per day based on the &#8220;cool factor&#8221; and technical prowess. In addition to the CNET honor, Plantronics&#8217; M3500 was highlighted for its noise-canceling ability in Popular Science&#8217;s &#8220;What&#8217;s New: PopSci&#8217;s Haikus of High Tech&#8221; feature in the February 2004 issue.</p>
<p>Plantronics&#8217; second-generation Bluetooth headset, the M3000, received a 2003 GOOD DESIGN™ award from the Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design. Established in 1950, the world-renowned GOOD DESIGN competition evaluates products on aesthetic criteria that measure innovation, form, materials, construction, concept, function, utility and product appearance. After the GOOD DESIGN exhibition, the M3000 will be added to the museum&#8217;s permanent design collection.</p>
<p><strong>DA60 Digital Headset Adapter</strong></p>
<p>In addition to its mobile and wireless office innovations, Plantronics has been recognized for its Voice over IP (VoIP) solutions. Customer Inter@ction Solutions magazine recently named Plantronics&#8217; DA60, a digital USB-to-headset adapter with PerSono Pro 2.0 software, a 2003 &#8220;Product of the Year.&#8221; DA60 was selected because it improves the customer experience and enables new levels of productivity, particularly for contact centers implementing VoIP softphone applications. The product enhances ROI for companies by increasing agent productivity and improving customer satisfaction.</p>
<p>&#8220;Plantronics has always been a pioneer in technology and design, and these recent awards affirm our commitment to bringing the most innovative, high-quality products to the market,&#8221; said Beth Johnson, senior director of product marketing for Plantronics. &#8220;Our customers&#8217; satisfaction, combined with recognition from such well-respected industry experts, shows that our technology development is paying off in terms of useful product solutions that improve the workstyles and lifestyles of our customers.&#8221;</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics</strong></p>
<p>Plantronics introduced the first lightweight communications headset in 1962 and is recognized as the world leader in communications headsets. A publicly held company with approximately 2,700 employees, Plantronics is the leading provider of headsets to telephone companies and the business community worldwide. Plantronics headsets are also used widely in many Fortune 500 corporations and have been featured in numerous motion pictures and high-profile events, including Neil Armstrong&#8217;s historic &#8220;One small step for man&#8221; transmission from the moon in 1969. Plantronics, Inc., headquartered in Santa Cruz, California, was founded in 1961 and maintains offices in 20 countries. Plantronics products are sold and supported through a worldwide network of authorized Plantronics marketing partners. Information about the company and its products can be found at www.plantronics.com or by calling (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p>Plantronics, the logo design, Plantronics and the logo design combined and PerSono Pro are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics Inc. Bluetooth is a trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG Inc., and is used by Plantronics under license. All other trademarks mentioned herein are the property of their respective owners.</p>
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		<title>Plantronics Celebrates Tenth Anniversary of NYSE Listing - Highlights Technology Leadership and Operational Excellence</title>
		<link>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-celebrates-tenth-anniversary-of-nyse-listing-highlights-technology-leadership-and-operational-excellence/</link>
		<comments>http://press.plantronics.com/corporate/plantronics-celebrates-tenth-anniversary-of-nyse-listing-highlights-technology-leadership-and-operational-excellence/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 27 Jan 2004 17:10:02 +0000</pubDate>
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Company Marks Occasion by Ringing New York Stock Exchange Closing Bell

NEW YORK, NY - January 27, 2004 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE-Listed PLT) today celebrates its tenth anniversary on the New York Stock Exchange, marking a decade of continued growth and technological innovation for the market leader in lightweight communications headsets. The Santa Cruz, Calif.-based company [...]]]></description>
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<h4>Company Marks Occasion by Ringing New York Stock Exchange Closing Bell</h4>
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<p><strong>NEW YORK, NY -</strong> January 27, 2004 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE-Listed PLT) today celebrates its tenth anniversary on the New York Stock Exchange, marking a decade of continued growth and technological innovation for the market leader in lightweight communications headsets. The Santa Cruz, Calif.-based company observed the occasion by ringing the Closing Bell at the Exchange.</p>
<p>During its ten years on the Exchange, Plantronics has become widely recognized as the global headset leader. Since that time, headset adoption has increased dramatically, expanding from the contact center into new markets, including office, mobile, computing and the home. Plantronics has increased its product breadth to address these new markets, shipping nearly 14 million headsets worldwide last year, up 40% from 2002.</p>
<p>Plantronics has been successful because it has developed innovative technologies to address emerging market trends and created an operational model to bring the right products to market at the right time. The company&#8217;s emphasis on technology is evidenced by its investment in R&amp;D, which rose from $22 million in 2000 to $34 million last year. Most recently, Plantronics delivered new technologies and products to address market trends that include:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Bluetooth® enabled and wireless devices</strong> With the introduction of wireless headsets, people now enjoy untethered freedom to communicate in the office, at home or on the go. Plantronics was one of the earliest members of the Bluetooth consortium, at number 20, and was the first headset company to join the Bluetooth initiative. Plantronics recently launched its newest Bluetooth headset, the M3500, which it previewed as a technology concept at NYSE just six months ago. The M3500 addresses one of the most common issues experienced by mobile professionals—noisy environments that can compromise the ability to clearly communicate on a call. The new headset features Plantronics&#8217; proprietary Audio IQ™ technology with digital signal processing that provides breakthrough sound quality on both ends of the conversation.</li>
<li><strong>Increased professional productivity</strong> In its 2003 poll on the ideas and issues that most interest America&#8217;s top managers, Accenture&#8217;s Institute for Strategic Change found that &#8220;improving knowledge worker productivity&#8221; was considered to be the most critical issue of the year. Plantronics recently introduced the award-winning CS50 Wireless Headset System that enhances productivity by enabling professionals to communicate up to 300 feet away from their desk phone, for up to eight hours. The system gives users the mobility and comfort needed to multitask much more effectively, and greatly reduces the chance of missing a phone call.</li>
<li><strong>Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)</strong> Frost &amp; Sullivan predicts that VoIP will account for approximately 75% of world voice services by 2007. Further, it is expected that within the next five years, half of all contact centers will standardize on VoIP, with the majority opting for &#8220;softphones.&#8221; Plantronics has long provided leading edge products for contact centers, and most recently introduced the DA60 digital USB headset adapter, a powerful digital voice platform designed specifically for VoIP softphones. The product employs innovative digital signal processing (DSP) and Call Clarity™ technology to enhance audio quality and suppress echo.</li>
</ul>
<p>To bring these new products to market, Plantronics has created an operational model that focuses on customer response, shipping most orders within 48 hours. This approach has been particularly important over the last five years as the volume of mobile headsets sales has increased dramatically. Mobile headsets are purchased primarily through retail, where Plantronics has achieved a 95% on-time delivery to customer request.</p>
<p>&#8220;Plantronics&#8217; extensive knowledge of lightweight communications headsets and commitment to operational excellence has been a huge benefit to us as adoption of headsets has increased,&#8221; said Ken Kannappan, Plantronics&#8217; president and Chief Executive Officer. &#8220;As we look toward the future, we will continue to explore new technologies and develop new operational efficiencies to deliver the very best products to the market and to our customers.&#8221;</p>
<p><strong>About Plantronics</strong></p>
<p>Plantronics introduced the first lightweight communications headset in 1962 and is recognized as the world leader in communications headsets. A publicly held company with approximately 2,700 employees, Plantronics is the leading provider of headsets to telephone companies and the business community worldwide. Plantronics headsets are also used widely in many Fortune 500 corporations and have been featured in numerous motion pictures and high-profile events, including Neil Armstrong&#8217;s historic &#8220;One small step for man&#8221; transmission from the moon in 1969. Plantronics, Inc., headquartered in Santa Cruz, California, was founded in 1961 and maintains offices in 20 countries. Plantronics products are sold and supported through a worldwide network of authorized Plantronics marketing partners. Information about the company and its products can be found at www.plantronics.com or by calling (800) 544-4660.</p>
<p>This news release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. All statements other than statements of historical fact are statements that could be deemed as forward-looking statements. Risks, uncertainties and assumptions include the possibility that: Plantronics&#8217; shipment of headsets will not grow in the same pace as it had in 2003, our business approach does not meet the demands of a changing marketplace, we do not meet the on-time delivery requirements of our customers, we are not able to develop technologies desired by consumers, we are not able to develop operational efficiencies for our business, our products will not adequately perform all the functionalities in accordance with their specifications, and other risks that are described from time to time in Plantronics Securities and Exchange Commission reports, including but not limited to Plantronics report on Form 10-K filed on June 2, 2003. These filings can be accessed over the Internet at www.sec.gov. If any of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or any of these assumptions prove incorrect, Plantronics&#8217; results could differ materially from Plantronics&#8217; expectations. Plantronics assumes no obligation and does not intend to update these forward-looking statements.</p>
<p>Plantronics, Audio IQ and Call Clarity are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics Inc. Bluetooth is a trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG Inc., and is used by Plantronics under license. All other products or service names mentioned herein are trademarks of their respective owners.</p>
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