Plantronics and TDK Systems announce partnership to deliver enhanced Bluetooth voice solutions
Giving Wireless Freedom For Voice PC Communication
Swindon, UK. - HANOVER, GERMANY – CeBIT – March 18, 2004 – Plantronics Inc., the world leader in communications headsets, and TDK Systems, manufacturer of award-winning Bluetooth adaptors and software for PC’s and Apple computers, today announced a partnership to enhance the end-user experience for PC-based Bluetooth enabled voice communications.
Today, thousands of users are adding Bluetooth wireless technology to their home and business computers to take advantage of developing wireless applications available between PCs and wireless peripherals such as mobile phones, headsets, printers, keyboards and pointing devices.
Voice communication via PCs is a rapid growth area with VoIP applications increasing as more consumers and businesses take advantage of its convenience, quality, productivity increases and cost efficiencies. By 2009, VOIP could account for 40 percent of the consumer telephone market and on the enterprise side, the Synergy Research Group estimates that sales of Internet-enabled phone systems to businesses will grow to reach $5.3 billion in 2007.
TDK Systems, a major player in mobile connectivity and Plantronics are delighted to combine forces to take Bluetooth PC audio communications to the next level of integration and increased quality. “Communication needs are rapidly evolving. The PC has shown its potential in business, multimedia and internet/data communications. With the increase in adoption of VOIP for businesses and consumers there is a real need for Bluetooth solutions to enhance the PC providing the freedom to talk wirelessly via the PC over the internet.” Comments Philip Vanhoutte Plantronics EMEA MD, he continues “TDK Systems’ track record makes them the ideal partner to optimize the user’s PC Voice experience and will undoubtly increase the uptake of this technology and popularity of Voice over IP”.
Plantronics’ expertise in developing lightweight headsets that enhance personal communications and deliver crystal clear audio performance spans over 40 years and they bring an award winning portfolio of Bluetooth headsets to the partnership.
TDK Systems’ easy to use Bluetooth adaptors allow users to quickly take advantage of new applications powered by their computer. All TDK Systems’ adaptors support Bluetooth’s audio functions and make them easy to set-up and operate. By utilising a Bluetooth headset with their PC users can exploit low-cost PC based telephony and VOIP services.
“Unlike other Bluetooth developers who concentrate only on data, TDK Systems has concentrated on incorporating robust audio support into all its products,” said Nick Hunn, Managing Director at TDK Systems. “That uniquely positions us to serve this new tranche of VOIP applications which Skype is bringing to the mass market.”
“The recent legislation across Europe concerning use of mobile phones whilst driving has seen millions of users purchasing headsets. By combining these with TDK Systems’ Bluetooth adaptors that same investment can save pounds in telephone bills. For the business traveller, the cost of enabling Bluetooth VOIP telephony can pay back within half an hour. Those who have already tried VOIP will welcome the mobility that Bluetooth headsets provide.”
1. New Millennium Research Council, 2004
Notes to Editors:
About TDK Systems Europe
An established division of TDK Corporation, TDK Systems specialises in the design and development of products for the wired and wireless markets. Founded in 1997, it employs 45 people at its London office, and has additional facilities in Sweden and Germany.
As one of the first companies to develop LAN and Modem PC Cards, the company is a recognised leader in GSM and GPRS connectivity and is currently supplying components to most of the major handset manufacturers.
TDK Systems’ strong understanding of both PC and telecoms places it in a unique position to develop solutions for the wireless market. The company is a founding member of the Bluetooth Consortium and is actively researching and developing a wide range of Bluetooth hardware and software solutions. All of TDK Systems’ designs are aimed at turning wireless into a practical end-user solution, providing the ultimate in compatibility and interoperability.
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For further information on TDK Systems Europe contact
Dave Curl at TDK Systems Europe:
Tel: +44 (0) 20 8938 1000
Fax: +44 (0) 20 8905 8608
Email: dave.curl@tdksys.com
www.tdksystems.com
About Plantronics
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 have been featured in numerous motion pictures and high-profile events, including Neil Armstrong’s historic “One small step for man” 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 0800 410014.
For further information, please contact:
Ed Fleming or Mark Ward
Republic PR
020 7379 5000
edwardf@republicpr.com or mark@republicpr.com
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 their respective owners. The Bluetooth name and the Bluetooth trademarks are owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc, and are used by Plantronics, Inc. under license.
