OWNINGS MILLS, Md.-Aether Systems Inc. invested $20 million in wireless Internet solutions designer Novatel Wireless Inc., which is widely known for its Minstrel modem product line.
In separate news, Aether said it has agreed to wirelessly enable Vitria Technology Inc.’s e-business platform.
Novatel’s Minstrel V is a Cellular Digital Packet Data modem used to connect Palm V personal digital assistants to the Internet via OmniSky Corp., which Aether partly owns.
Novatel also makes modems for Windows CE devices, as well as wireless PC cards, serial modems and wireless embedded modules.
Aether’s agreement with Vitria will allow Vitria users to access enterprise applications on various wireless devices. Aether will become a preferred supplier of wireless software solutions and services to the Vitria Business Network, enabling VBN members to offer wireless access to their internal enterprise applications to mobile employees, customers, suppliers and partners.
Aether’s stock jumped $16.75 the morning of the announcement.
In addition, Aether announced support for Motient Corp.’s two-way packet data network via the Aether Intelligent Messaging platform, designed to extend corporate applications to wireless devices. This support includes an application programming interface for the Research In Motion Ltd. 850 pager, used on the Motient network.
