D-Link, the end-to-end networking solutions provider for consumers and business, announced a new line of "V-CLICK" dual-mode phones that allow users to switch between cellular and Wi-Fi networks with the click of a button.

When it begins shipping during the first quarter of 2007, the new D-Link V-CLICK line of phones will feature tri-band GSM (900/1800/1900 Mhz) and 802.11 Wi-Fi (2.4Ghz) access. By sliding a cellular service provider's SIM Smartcard or chip into the V-CLICK phone, the user automatically gains GSM access. Stored phone numbers and address books are also automatically taken into the phone via the SIM Smartcard or chip.

With a simple press of the V-CLICK button, the phone activates or deactivates the Wi-Fi connection that allows users to access websites or an Internet phone service, and enjoy the convenience of reduced communication costs, faster transfer speeds and increased productivity resulting from dual-mode phone access.

D-Link V-CLICK phones boast a sleek, polished black compact form factor (h 4.17", w 1.73", d .75"), with additional colors planned to fit any lifestyle. The V-CLICK phones support Opera Mobile, a mobile browser for logging into Wi-Fi hot spots, web surfing and email functionality on the V-CLICK's two-inch (176x220 pixels) bright color screen.

In addition to operating like regular cell phones that communicate within a nationwide wireless network, D-Link V-CLICK phones will significantly reduce cell phone service costs by switching to the 802.11 wireless mode and connecting to lower-cost Internet telephone services. These services are available by way of well-advertised affordable consumer plans or from a cellular service provider network.

"D-Link's involvement in dual-mode technology is the next step to evolving wireless phone communication," said Steven Joe, president and CEO of D-Link Systems, Inc. "Similar to our popular flip-style Wi-Fi phone, the V-CLICK phones are open and unlocked.

"We view the V-CLICK phone model as the ideal way for us to meet the ever-increasing demand from both consumers and business for a mobile device that allows for easy transition from wide-reaching cellular services to the much faster Wi-Fi and more affordable VoIP technologies," Joe added. "The market for dual-mode phones looks very promising, and the more than 10 years we've had in researching and developing 802.11 wireless and VoIP technologies make this a natural extension of our product offerings."

For regular cell phone coverage, the D-Link V-CLICK phones will be "unlocked," allowing users to use their existing SIMs and pre-paid SIMs from traditional GSM cellular service providers anywhere in the world. By pressing the V-CLICK button, users activate a configurable wireless and SIP profile. Multiple profiles are available that make usage between home and office automatic.

The V-CLICK feature is increasingly valuable as many cities continue to invest in metro 802.11 wireless technology designed to turn entire communities into Wi-Fi zones.

As wireless phones become more complex, they also have become more power-hungry. The V-CLICK phone lets users return to normal cell phone operation for increased battery life and increased standby and talk time.

Standards-based wireless encryption (WEP, WPA and WPA2) built into the V-CLICK phone enables enhanced security of transmission.

Key features of the D-Link V-CLICK phone include:

• Wi-Fi profile roaming for uninterrupted service between wireless zones
• Opera Mobile browser for hot spot log-in and Web surfing
• Email functionality -- 50 emails can be stored in up to 10 accounts
• Large color screen display with 176 by 220 pixels
• Sleek, compact form factor (height, 4.17", width, 1.73", depth, .75"; weight, 3.32 oz)
• Smart text input
• Talk time -- up to 5 hours GSM, 2 hours 802.11 wireless mode
• Messages -- up to 30 messages can be stored at 459 characters each
• Phonebook -- up to 300 contacts
• Data storage -- up to 24 megabytes for documents, images, music and video files.
• Tasks -- stores up to 100 entries
• Calendar -- up to 100 events, 160 letters per event
• Charging -- 3 hours, first time charge 8 hours
• Compact design with internal antenna
• Power-saving mode for maximum standby and talk time

D-Link V-CLICK phones will be a "pay-as-you-go" device, allowing users to purchase call time from service providers that will load up the phone's SIM card.

Pricing and Availability

D-Link's first V-CLICK dual-mode, tri-band mobile phone is scheduled to ship early next year through the company's network of value-added resellers, solution providers and distributors, and online at www.dlinkshop.com. Manufacturer's suggested retail price is expected to be $599.99. D-Link also plans to offer accessories for its new dual-mode phone products.