Boulder, Colo.-based Cellport Systems is taking its universal hands-free system and joining an equally universal movement to get mobile phone users to keep both hands on the wheel when driving and talking.
Cellport recently announced the general availability of its Cellport 3000 Universal Hands-Free System, which uses a patented docking station and phone-specific pocket adapter to accommodate different models and makes of phones. The system currently supports various Nokia Corp. and Motorola Inc. phones, including Motorola’s StarTac line.
The system also contains an external microphone, volume-adjustable speaker and external antenna connection. Several types of antennas are available, depending on the model of car, and must be purchased in addition to the system, which is priced at $200.
“The average consumer keeps his vehicle five to seven years, but the average wireless phone user changes his phone every 12 to 18 months. The Cellport 3000 solves the problem of fleets, corporate vehicles, auto manufacturers and wireless carriers who have been looking for a way to accommodate multiple people with different phone models in the same vehicle,” said Pat Kelly, founder and chief executive officer of Cellport.
“Our product lets them (fleet vehicle users) break out of that need to standardize” phones and calling plans, added Russ Minary, director of marketing for Cellport.
Cellport’s efforts have been greatly helped by recent and widespread media coverage of mobile phone use while driving. Several communities around the country are considering or already have enacted legislation that levies fines and possible jail time against those who talk on their mobile phone while driving without using a hands-free kit.
“The general landscape is tremendously positive for the introduction of our product,” Minary said.
In addition to the consumer market, Cellport said the Cellport 3000 is equally valuable to automotive manufacturers that are finding it impractical to design car phones into vehicle platforms. Auto manufacturers can install the universal docking station at the factory as part of an option group, or at the dealership via the service and parts department.
In conjunction with the general availability announcement, the company also revealed that Pep Boys, the national auto parts and service provider, will be an authorized installation partner at locations throughout the United States.
Those interested in purchasing a Cellport system must go to Cellport’s Web site or call Cellport to find the closest selling agent, but Minary said the company will be announcing some dealer/carrier partnerships in the next few weeks.
The Cellport 3000 VR, which incorporates voice recognition functions, should be available later this year, Cellport said.
