With the acquisition of NomadIQ, OmniSky plans to accelerate its delivery of next generation services to its subscribers, including location-sensitive m-commerce and user-to-user communications, all in an effort to strengthen its position in the market.

The Chairman and CEO of OmniSky Patrick McVeigh, said, "We expect NomadIQ’s platform to enhance our revenue opportunities, to further differentiate our service in the market, and importantly, to help us continue to grow a loyal and active community of subscribers."

NomadIQ’s unified communications platform enables the delivery of location-based services that leverages both on-line and cached data on handheld devices. The wireless service provider will integrate NomadIQ’s technology into its product offering, enabling subscribers equipped with wireless devices to perform the following:

• Access a variety of location-based services, including the location of neighborhood shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
• View maps and receive directions to businesses of interest, which can be saved on their device.
• Contact merchants in person or on-line to finalize transactions for movie or theater tickets.
• Communicate with other subscribers via instant messaging.
• Forward information such as directions to other users.

OmniSky expects to roll out an integrated service by the end of the first half of 2001. Similar services will be offered in Europe via OmniSky’s International Joint Venture with News Corp., the company said.

For more information: www.omnisky.com/company/press_releases/press_20010104_0079.jhtml