Sprint announced today that it is launching new Java-download instant messaging (IM) applications for the AOL Instant Messenger AIM and MSN Messenger services from Microsoft Corp. Sprint is launching these easy-to-use applications as a way to better serve the growing population of customers wanting to take their instant messaging experience mobile. The new instant messaging applications from Sprint will make it easier for Sprint PCS Vision customers to stay in touch with family and friends by offering a mobile option for sending and receiving instant messages from their preferred instant messaging service, including those from America Online, Inc. and MSN.

The applications will allow customers to have the same look and feel of their existing desktop experience, including being able to access their AIM Buddy List feature and MSN Contact List to see who is online and to use enhanced graphics and emoticons. With the new IM applications, customers can get unlimited instant messaging on select handsets for $2.99 per month with a Sprint PCS Vision plan. The application is located in Downloads/Applications/Get New/Messaging.

"Sprint recognizes the increasing need of customers who want to be able to continue the IM experience while away from their desktop," said John Styers, director - Wireless Messaging Services, Sprint. "The new AOL Instant Messenger and MSN Messenger applications will allow our customers to experience many of the same IM features they have at home or work now in the palm of their hand."

Other enhancements to mobile instant messaging from Sprint include:

- Access and download the instant messaging applications from familiar sources directly to a handset and begin using it within minutes;
- Send, receive, and reply to messages instantly;
- Receive notifications of incoming messages;
- View and manage buddy/contact/friend lists and always know who is online; and
- Set IM status directly from the handset and now appear as "mobile" when accessing IM account from a handset.

According to market research firm IDC, wireless instant messaging is poised for dramatic growth, especially in the youth and business segments. The U.S. wireless IM subscriber market is forecast to increase at a CAGR of nearly 32% to more than 37 million users by the end of 2008, with resulting messaging growth reaching a whopping 77.7 billion total messages sent and received annually by 2008.

"IM is one of the few areas in which the U.S. is clearly leading the rest of the world from both a wireline and wireless perspective," said Lewis Ward, senior research analyst, wireless and mobile communications, IDC. "This announcement is further proof that Sprint recognizes the value - and perhaps obsession in some cases - of IM to youths, adults and business professionals alike, and opens the door to even greater IM adoption that will help keep America at the forefront of this real-time form of text communication."

The launch of the new mobile applications for the AIM and MSN Messenger services will give subscribers an easier and more real-time experience. Sprint already offers enhanced instant messaging for mobile Yahoo! Messenger clients. The mobile application for the AIM service is available immediately. The mobile application for the MSN Messenger service is anticipated to launch within the month.

Powering Sprint PCS mobile instant messaging is the OZ Mobile IM Gateway and Client solution. The OZ Mobile IM Client connects to the branded IM services via the OZ Mobile IM Gateway - furnishing Sprint with an end-to-end solution. This standards-based, highly customizable application delivers to Sprint PCS Vision customers a branded and recognizable IM experience that mirrors existing desktop IM services.

Sprint recently announced 6.2 million Sprint PCS Vision customers through the end of the fourth quarter 2004, leading the industry in the use of advanced data services. Sprint PCS Vision includes services that allow customers to take and receive pictures; browse the Internet; check personal and corporate email; view streaming audio and video clips of news, sports and entertainment; and download voice ringers, graphically rich games and screen savers, all on the enhanced Sprint Nationwide PCS Network.

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