LEUVEN MINDGATE

O2 offers new Option ExpressCard with retractable antenna


Traveler Antenna makes GlobeTrotter Express 441 the first 'install & forget' ExpressCard

LEUVEN, Belgium and BARCELONA, Spain - February 16, 2009 - Telefónica O2 Germany will be one of the first operators to offer the GlobeTrotter Express 441, the latest ExpressCard from wireless technology company Option (EURONEXT Brussels: OPTI; OTC: OPNVY). The operator will market the GlobeTrotter Express 441 under its own brand as the O2 Surfcard Speed. It joins Option's entry-level iCON 210 USB modem which has been part of the O2 prepaid portfolio since January 2009.

Supporting quad-band HSPA as well as quad-band EDGE and GPRS, the GlobeTrotter Express 441 has been designed to deliver worldwide coverage for busy international business travellers. This device breaks new ground as the world's first ExpressCard to incorporate a retractable antenna allowing the user to 'install and forget'. The robust all-metal sliding Traveller Antenna design combines the convenience of a built-in solution with the upgradability of an ExpressCard. An Airsafe mode allows the user to leave the device installed and continue using their PC when flying.

Depending on the network being accessed, the GlobeTrotter Express 441 can deliver super-fast ADSL speeds with uploads at up to 5.76Mbps and downloads at up to 7.2Mbps.

Ease-of-use has also been designed in. Option's plug 'n' play Zero-CD technology automatically installs all necessary software the first time the ExpressCard is inserted. When the Traveller Antenna is pulled-out, the device powers up and connects to the Internet automatically. When the antenna is stowed, the connection stops. A front access SIM holder has been incorporated for added convenience.

Option is demonstrating the GlobeTrotter Express 441 in Hall 1, stand 1C 43 at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona (February 16-19).

Media Contact

Jan Poté, PR & Media Relations
Tel +32 (0)475 92 55 82, E-mail: j.pote@option.com

About Option
Option, the wireless technology company, is a leading innovator in the design, development and manufacture of 3G HSUPA, HSDPA, UMTS, EDGE, and WLAN technology products for wireless connectivity solutions. Option has built up an enviable reputation for creating exciting products that enhance the performance and functionality of wireless communications. Option's headquarters are in Belgium (Leuven). The company has Research & Development in Belgium (Leuven) and Germany (Düsseldorf and Augsburg), and an ISO 9001 production engineering and logistics facility in Ireland (Cork). Option also has offices in Europe, US, Asia, Japan and Australia. For more information please visit our brand new website www.option.com.

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