MILAN, Italy, February 23, 2004 - Cisco Systems today announced that its Cisco Mobile Exchange framework is being deployed by 3 in Italy for the delivery of third-generation mobile data services to both consumer and business users.

The Cisco Mobile Exchange gives 3 Italy leading edge service control, billing flexibility and scalability for the launch of Italy's "3 for Business Open", one of the first programs for the development of mobile applications that benefit from the potential offered by third generation technology (3G).

The Cisco Mobile Exchange allows an end customer to choose from a range of billing models depending on the services they use; and get a consistent standard of service regardless of where they are in the world and whether they are on a business, a consumer, post-paid or pre-paid contract with 3.

Edoardo Verduci, Marketing Director of H3G Italy's HQ, said: "Thanks to the Cisco solution, we can effectively deliver to our customers the World-Wide Web, mobile office and other products with a wide choice and flexibility in terms of value-based billing. Cisco also provided us with the ability of delivering reliable, scalable, cost-effective products in a simple and flexible way. In addition Cisco is committed to our success, not just as an equipment vendor but as a business partner, supporting us through the initial evolution of third-generation mobile technology, and taking active part into our innovative '3 for Business Open' programme"

"This joint-project is of high importance and value for Cisco as we see the shared collaboration and innovation developing this relationship into the future. By delivering flexible service control coupled with advanced charging capabilities, Cisco is able to help 3 bring their 3G vision to the market" said Massimo Migliuolo vice president of Cisco's Worldwide Mobile Operations. "Cisco is committed to delivering products with the required functionality, flexibility and performance to enable mobile operators to drive revenue from value-added data services."