Ericsson Phone Performs Hand-Over Feat

Ericcson phone hands off between GSM and third-generation WCDMA networks without dropping the call.

Wireless communications giant Ericsson AB on Tuesday announced successful demonstrations of mobile phones that can hand off between GSM (global system for mobility) and third-generation WCDMA (wideband code division multiple access) networks, without dropping the call.

The Stockholm-based company performed the demonstration for two overseas carriers using test units from the Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications wireless phones division.

Power consumption on the test units was equal to that of existing GSM-only handsets, according to officials. They did not say when such phones would be readily available on the market.

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Meanwhile, Sony Ericsson launched two new products aimed primarily at the European youth market. The T100 phone supports animation, Internet browsing and text messaging, but its distinguishing feature is its design—it weighs a mere 75 grams and comes in colors including "icy blue, gentle gold and fresh white."

The phone will be available in Europe by the end of the year and in the United States next year, officials said.

Sony Ericsson also introduced the HBH-60, a headset that communicates with a handset wirelessly using the Bluetooth wireless technology protocol.

The HBH-60 will be on the market before the end of the year, officials said.

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