NEC to License T9 Text Input Software for Integration in Wireless Handsets

Seattle-based Tegic Communications has signed a licensing agreement with NEC Corp. The agreement allows NEC to integrate T9 Text Input software into its wireless phones, giving NEC wireless handset users the ability to compose messages, enter information into their phones, and take advantage of an array of new communications services, such as short messaging service (SMS).

NEC introduced a new GSM handset, the DB2100, in China on June 11, 1999. The DB2100 is the first handset to incorporate the Chinese language version of T9 Text Input. T9 Text Input supports simplified and traditional stroke-based Chinese, as well as phonetic Pinyin and BoPoMoFo text input.

Tegic also has raised $10 million in private capital from Oak Investment Partners, Voyager Capital, Northwest Venture Associates, Fluke Venture Capital, and Kirlan Venture Capital. The capital will be used to accelerate the company's new product development programs, as well as support its expanded worldwide sales and marketing activities.