HP FIRST TO MARKET WITH WAP-ENABLED PC SERVER SOLUTION

HP NetServers with Nokia WAP Server Software Deliver Mainstream Wireless Services

GENEVA, Dec. 7, 1999 - Hewlett-Packard Company today launched its first Wireless Application Protocol (WAP)-enabled, Microsoft� Windows� NT-based HP NetServer featuring Nokia WAP Server software. The solution brings business-critical, mobile Internet services within easy reach of enterprise customers and their mobile workforces enabling on-the-move access to services such as email, newswires, airline schedules, local weather reports, making hotel bookings, and playing the stock market.

Today's news follows HP and Nokia's September announcement of their intent to co-develop and promote WAP-based mobile Internet service solutions on both the HP/UX and NT Operating System platforms. It is also an important step in HP's implementation of its Mobile E-services strategy announced at Telecom 99.

Armed with an HP NetServer featuring Nokia WAP Server software, corporate customers can now empower their mobile workforce with access to applications that previously required a notebook or personal computer and a fixed telephone line. These mobile users will now be able to access Internet- or Intranet-based, business-critical information and services and conduct secure transactions simply by using a WAP-enabled handheld device, such as the new Nokia 7110 WAP mobile telephone.

"With innovative designs, conceived to pack power and scalability, plus an attractive price tag, HP's NetServers are an excellent gateway to a world of mobile e-services," said Alberto Bozzo, European marketing manager for HP NetServers.

"HP's WAP-enabled NetServer is a critical piece of the WAP solution that together we are building to enable businesses to exploit the advantages of mobile applications," said Gerhard Romen, V.P. sales and marketing, Nokia Wireless Software Solutions. "With more than 10,000 copies of Nokia WAP Server software being used by developers to build WAP applications, we are creating a new generation of business-enhancing, mobile Internet services."

HP NetServers with Nokia WAP Server 1.0 will be available through HP's European reseller network from December 15, 1999 with estimated street prices starting at 14,523 Euros (U.S. $13,767).

Barclays Stockbrokers to Pilot WAP

HP's WAP NetServer solution will be piloted by Barclays Stockbrokers, the stockbroking division of the Barclays Group and the U.K.'s largest retail execution-only stockbroker. The company will be piloting WAP technology in order to proactively deliver personalised market information to over 300,000 clients, enabling them to make real-time decisions on deals.

"WAP technology will enable information to find the client, as opposed to other way round, and will make transactions possible while on the move," said Phillip Bungey, e-commerce director at Barclays Stockbrokers. "These advantages open up a new dimension in financial services."

About WAP

The Wireless Application Protocol (WAP) is an open, global specification that empowers mobile users with wireless devices to easily access and interact with information and services instantly. For more information about WAP see: http://www.wapforum.org/.

About HP

Hewlett-Packard Company -- a leading global provider of computing and imaging solutions and services for business and home -- is focused on capitalizing on the opportunities of the Internet and the proliferation of electronic services.

HP plans to launch Agilent Technologies as an independent company by mid-calendar 2000. Agilent consists of HP's test and measurement, semiconductor products, chemical analysis and healthcare solutions businesses, and has leading positions in multiple market segments.

HP has 83,200 employees worldwide and had total revenue from continuing operations of $42.4 billion in its 1999 fiscal year. Information about HP, its products and the company's Year 2000 program can be found on the World Wide Web at http://www.hp.com.

EDITORIAL CONTACT:

Fiona Jackson, HP
(33) 4 76 14 6405
[email protected]