Generation UMTS

18th November, 2003

Europe : THQ Inc and Vodafone announced an agreement for the distribution of Twentieth Century Fox's 'The Simpsons' branded mobile content exclusively to Vodafone customers throughout Europe, Australia and New Zealand. The first content scheduled for release under this agreement, including ringtones, animated picture messages, wallpapers and screen savers, will be available beginning this November, followed by games.

"I am delighted that we are able to launch The Simpsons on a global basis with Vodafone. This is one of the most exciting launches in mobile entertainment to date," said Adam Comiskey, General Manager, THQ WirelessTM. "Our decision to launch this range of content with Vodafone reflects on their ability to access a worldwide customer base. The Simpsons is set to become a leading favorite in mobile entertainment."

"The Simpsons, with its worldwide audience, is an important element of our global entertainment strategy," said Guy Laurence, Global Marketing Director Product and Content Services at Vodafone. "Vodafone will be first to market with the range of mobile entertainment content in Europe and Australiasia, giving our customers the first opportunity to enjoy the antics of The Simpsons through their mobile phones as well as on the television show."

"The Simpsons is a unique property given the breadth of its global audience and on-air longevity. On the other hand, the potential for mobile entertainment is revolutionary given the vast audiences that can be reached in a personalized and continual way," said Peter Byrne, Executive Vice President of Licensing and Merchandising at Fox. "The mobile entertainment category is a natural fit for our global brand strategy for The Simpsons and we are excited about the opportunity to reach and entertain fans of the show. We look forward to rolling out the content with Vodafone."

"The launch of The Simpsons will set a new standard for product-development collaboration and content quality for the mobile space," said Jim Beddows, Vice President of Wireless Entertainment at Fox. "The intent of the service is to have an ongoing publishing strategy that is story and character driven to provide excitement and anticipation to the fans. "