SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 19, 2003--
"Cell Phone Zone" Offers Downloads, Authoritative Reviews, and News
CNET.com, a media property of CNET Networks, Inc. (Nasdaq: CNET),
the leading global media company informing and connecting the buyers,
users and sellers of technology, today announced that it has enhanced
its cell phone coverage with the launch of the "Cell Phone Zone" Web
site (http://cellphonezone.cnet.com). The Cell Phone Zone combines
CNET.com's unparalleled editorial product reviews and buying guidance
on today's vast selection of cell phone technologies and services,
with the ring tones, images and games that cell phone users need to
maximize the style and entertainment capacity of their portable
phones. As a bonus, the site offers exclusive Jimi Hendrix and Star
Trek downloads.
"There are many sites today that offer ring tones, games and other
bells and whistles for today's cell phones, but none that guide
consumers through the vast array of sophisticated devices and services
available, so they can be sure their investment is right from the
start," said Joni Blecher, a section editor for CNET.com and author of
the weekly column, Ask the Cell Phone Diva. "Our goal was to create an
authoritative starting point for people who are ready to upgrade to
today's advanced cell phones gadgets and services, guiding them to
choices that best fit their needs and interests. Once the critical
initial choices are made, they can stay with us to load up on the
latest software and games."
The trend towards purchasing and personalizing mobile phones
continues to rise. According to Gartner, mobile phone sales increased
to 112.7 million units in the first quarter of 2003, compared with
95.3 million in the year-ago period. According to the Arc Group, there
will be 551 million global ring tone users by 2006.
"For many people, cell phones are more than just a communications
device, they are a personality extension. Downloading ring tones and
images is one of the easiest, fastest and most inexpensive ways people
can give their mobile phone a distinct look and sound, so we're
excited to offer an enormous and fun selection of options," added
Blecher.
Powered by the Versaly ForFones platform (www.forfones.com), the
Cell Phone Zone lets users choose multiple digital color images,
polyphonic ring tones, and games for more than 50 phones. These
options can be downloaded and purchased directly through the Web site,
making customization quick and easy. Users can choose from select free
ring tones and images, or purchase polyphonic ring tones, color images
and games starting at $2.00.
CNET.com provides trusted product reviews for 14 main technology
categories, ranging from traditional tech products like desktop and
portable computers, to the most popular emerging consumer electronics
categories, such as Digital cameras, handhelds, camcorders,
peripherals, home audio and video, MP3 and digital music, and internet
services. The site's renowned editorial staff molds its product
coverage to meet user needs and interests, delivering information that
helps consumers find the products to meet their specific needs and
levels of expertise.
About CNET Networks Inc.
CNET Networks, Inc. (www.cnetnetworks.com) is the leading global
media company informing and connecting the buyers, users and sellers
of technology. By combining an in-depth knowledge of the technology
industry with the power of technology itself, the company offers the
most dynamic, relevant, and innovative media-based marketplace for
technology around the world. CNET Networks' product portfolio includes
top brands CNET, ZDNet, TechRepublic, Builder.com, News.com, GameSpot,
Download.com, and mySimon, as well as Computer Shopper magazine, and
CNET Channel. With a strong presence in the US, Asia and Europe, CNET
Networks has operations in 16 countries.
CONTACT: CNET Networks Inc.
Sarah Winterhalder, 415/344-2218
sarah.winterhalder@cnet.com
SOURCE: CNET Networks Inc.
