Tegic Communications to Demo T9 Text Input On Clarion's AutoPC powered by Microsoft Windows CE; T9 Enables Quick and Efficient Text Input on the Auto PC Platform.

SEATTLE --(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 7, 1999--Tegic Communications today announced it will demonstrate T9(TM) Text Input on the Windows CE-based Clarion AutoPC(TM)at the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) at the Las Vegas Convention Center in booth number No. 1328.

The Clarion AutoPC is the first available in-car entertainment and information device based on the Microsoft Auto PC platform, which is powered by the Windows CE operating system.

T9 Text Input is a breakthrough technology that enables quick and efficient text input on a variety of consumer electronics devices, including wireless phones, handheld computers, two-way pagers and Web-TV remote controls.

"Even though the Auto PC platform was designed to respond to voice commands to enable hands-free operation while driving, there are still times when an individual will need fast and easy text input capabilities," explains Shannon Maher, senior vice president of engineering with Tegic Communications. "T9 Text Input provides these capabilities, so when an individual is stopped in his car, he or she can actually type notes, enter addresses into the car's navigational system or respond to e-mail messages."

T9 -- which stands for text on nine keys -- groups letters together on a small keyboard similar to the keypad found on most telephones. Although each key can be interpreted in multiple ways -- a single press on the "5" key, for example, could be a "J", "K" or "L" -- the T9 algorithm uses an internal linguistic database to automatically scan possible variations to determine the correct word instantaneously.

"Our goal with Auto PC was to create an information and entertainment system for people on-the-go that is easy to use in the unique environment of a car," said Perry Lee, Auto PC product manager, Microsoft Corp. "Clearly, in this environment there isn't room for a full QWERTY keyboard. T9 Text Input from Tegic Communications literally let's nine keys do the work of 26."

The Auto PC platform powered by Windows CE offers more functionality than standalone navigation and traditional car audio systems. Auto PCs integrate audio control, information access, navigation and wireless communication features with hands-free voice activation. As new technologies emerge from the growing list of partners, users get their choice of affordable features and options to keep pace with the latest innovations for in-car computing.

"Clarion is committed to delivering the highest quality products to its customers," explained Alonzo Cardenas, vice president of marketing and business development with Clarion Advanced Technology Corporation. "As a result, we're always looking at and evaluating the latest technological innovations, such as T9 Text Input. Clearly, Tegic Communications' tremendous expertise in the text input arena will be an added benefit to all AutoPC users."

With an Auto PC, mobile professionals stay connected and on course. Users can transfer data between their Windows CE-based PC companion device via the infrared port. For instance, if users have a map created in Microsoft Expedia Streets, they can send it from their Handheld PC via infrared to the Auto PC for use while on the road. Additionally, individuals can send data from their desktop computer to their Auto PC using the optional wireless services.

About Tegic Communications

Seattle-based Tegic Communications was founded in 1995 to develop and market text input technologies for the telecommunications and computing industries. The company has worldwide patents both issued and pending on T9 Text Input and has licensed the technology to major consumer electronics and communications equipment manufacturers worldwide.

Current licensees of T9 technology include Benefon, Fujitsu, Maxon, Mitsubishi, Motorola, Nokia, Philips Mobile Computing, Samsung and Texas Instruments. Additional licensees have yet to be announced.

Tegic Communications also has formed strategic partnerships or established relationships with Microsoft Corp., Optimay, STNC, Symbian, TTP Communications, Ltd. and Unwired Planet. The company is also a member of the WAP Forum.

For more information about Tegic or T9 Text Input, call 206/343-7001, send e-mail to [e-mail], or visit Tegic's Web site at www.tegic.com

T9 is a trademark of Tegic Communications. AutoPC is a trademark name for the new product from Clarion. Auto PC is the name of platform technology developed by Microsoft. Other product and company names herein may be trademarks of their respective owners.