Alliances: Nuance and ZTE, Novatel and Qualcomm

Novatel Wireless said it completed a technology transfer with Qualcomm Inc. consisting of two of Qualcomm’s Wearable Mobile Device module designs. Novatel said it will use the designs to expand its portfolio of embedded machine-to-machine and consumer electronic devices. Qualcomm’s 1x and 1x EV-DO Rev. A modules support integrated GPS, accelerometer and Bluetooth.
Nuance Communications said it formed a global strategic relationship with ZTE that calls for ZTE to ship the company’s Nuance VSuite and Nuance Vocalizer solutions on ZTE handsets. The deal allows ZTE to offer voice-based command and control features as well as text-to-speech capabilities on its phones. Nuance’s VSuite product is a pervasive speech software that allows users to control their phone with spoken commands. The Nuance Vocalizer offers text-to-speech functionality for text message readout and command confirmation, said the company.
MetroPCS and SA Studios Global said they have teamed up for a new custom designed mobile phone. The MOTO VE440 features artwork and pre-loaded digital content designed by tattoo and graphic artist Mister Cartoon. The phone also comes loaded with two exclusive music tracks from hip hop artist Snoop Dogg.
TeleCommunication Systems Inc. said it won a one-year contract, valued at $1.2 million, from the Defense Information Technology Contracting Office to provide the U.S. Army Central Command with space segment for its satellite operations.
Alvarion Ltd. and Saguna Networks Ltd., which provides mobile content delivery solutions, announced a partnership to collaborate on network optimization solutions. Saguna offers a carrier-grade system that reduces content transport bandwidth requirements on WiMAX networks. Alvarion will incorporate Saguna’s solution into its WiMAX product portfolio.