Story Author: Verizon Wireless Press Release
Publish Date: August 2004
Source Publication: Verizon Wireless

The following is a Verizon Press Release.

BEDMINSTER, NJ — Verizon Wireless, the nation’s leading wireless service provider, announced today the availability of Mobile Web 2.0SM which allows customers to more easily access the latest news, tools and information content and read and send e-mail. Available for use on select phones, Verizon Wireless’ Mobile Web 2.0 is packed with new features and enhancements, including new graphics, easier navigation, clickable headlines and premium content.

The Mobile Web 2.0 home screen is VZW Today, which is an up-to-the-minute look at the news and hot stories that Verizon Wireless subscribers need to know. It also features several innovations, including a toolbar that allows customers to easily access the search tool, their favorites and bookmarks, or easily return to the homepage. Updated throughout the day, VZW Headlines stay current, providing the latest news and information that is just clicks away.

From VZW Today, users can enter into various content categories in one click, including: News, Weather, Sports, Entertainment, Business, E-mail and More, which includes, shopping, travel, health, jokes and much more content.

In addition to Verizon Wireless’ content offering, customers can also access content from many branded content providers. Verizon Wireless customers can also access premium content that is available at an additional charge.

“Verizon Wireless is delighted to offer a new, cutting edge suite of information services,” said Jim Straight, vice president of wireless Internet and multimedia for Verizon Wireless. “Since the initial launch of our Mobile Web service, our customers have increasingly turned to their wireless phones to connect with their family and friends and also get latest news and information. Mobile Web 2.0 enhances their experiences by providing that connection in an easier and more efficient way.”

The Mobile Web 2.0 service is provided in conjunction with two key suppliers. InfoSpace Mobile is providing hosting, infrastructure and subscription management capabilities. Vindigo Studios is providing design and custom publishing for the service.

“Our desire to meet customers’ growing need for advanced services, combined with the publishing and design capabilities of Vindigo Studios have resulted in a premier user experience,” said Ray Taylor, executive director of consumer multimedia products for Verizon Wireless. “The critical areas of hosting, subscription management and software tools that are provided by InfoSpace Mobile are the backbone of the service.”

Availability and Pricing
Mobile Web 2.0 is self subscribed, eliminating the need for customers to call customer service or visit a Verizon Wireless store to sign up for the service. Customers can now register for Mobile Web 2.0, including subscription-based premium content, right from their wireless handsets. Mobile Web 2.0 is available for $4.99 monthly access, plus airtime.

Verizon Wireless’ Mobile Web 2.0 is initially available on the LG VX7000 camera phone and the LG VX4500 phone. Customers can purchase the LG VX7000 for $179.99 after a $70 mail-in rebate with a two-year customer agreement; the LG VX4500 retails for $89.99 with a two-year customer agreement after a $30 mail-in rebate. Verizon Wireless products and services are available in more than 1,200 Verizon Wireless Communications Stores, at participating Circuit City and RadioShack locations and on the Web at verizonwireless.com
About Mobile Web

Mobile Web 2.0 gives Verizon Wireless customers access to news, tools and information from the nation’s top content providers. The simple, intuitive format makes it easy to access content from many categories, including News, Sports, Weather, Entertainment, Business, Email and More. Mobile Web 2.0 is self provisioning, eliminating the need for customers to call customer service or visit a Verizon Wireless Communications Store to sign up for the service.