Audiovox 2000 Annual Report Download - page 6

Philip Christopher
President & Chief Executive Officer,
Audiovox Communications Corp.
PHILIP CHRISTOPHER’SLETTER TO SHAREHOLDERS
Record-setting handset sales, expanded product lines, and continued U.S. leadership in the CDMA market sum up the year
2000 for Audiovox Communications Corp.
Handset sales grew to 8.9 million units and $1.4 billion in 2000, an increase of more than 47% and 55%, respectively, over 1999.
In 2000, Audiovox became the leading supplier of CDMA handsets in North America for the second quarter, according to Dataquest.
Leading the way in Audiovox sales was the CDM-9000, our first tri-mode, web-browsing handset and the cornerstone of our
CDMA product line for 2000. For 2001, we’ve introduced its successor—the CDM-9100. This tri-mode, web-browsing phone is
remarkably compact and lightweight, yet feature rich, and we believe it is destined to become our next flagship handset.
As CDMA further advances its position as the leading U.S. wireless technology, Audiovox’s strength in this sector is of grow-
ing significance. To that end, we’re continually expanding our line of CDMA handsets and incorporating the latest technological
developments and convenience features. Recently-introduced CDMA phones include both dual mode and tri-mode models sport-
ing advanced features such as web browsing and data capabilities, two-way short messaging service, T9 predictive text,
expanded LCD displays, interchangeable color faceplates and even a phone with a built-in MP-3 player.
For carriers that support 3G CDMA2000 1x systems, we are planning the introduction of a handset that will enable con-
sumers to maximize the increased speed and bandwidth of next generation networks, which should significantly enhance data,
video and text transmission and reception. Also scheduled for introduction during 2001 is an Audiovox personal digital assistant
phone (PDA). Using a CDMA platform, the PDA unit will follow the form of traditional PDAs and offer digital calling capabilities
through hands-free attachments. We expect the Audiovox PDA unit to be the personal communication tool that will enable con-
sumers to surf the ‘net, check contact lists and calendars, jot notes and make calls wirelessly.
Recognizing that the needs of domestic and international cellular carriers extend beyond CDMA, Audiovox also plans
to expand our TDMA and GSM handset offerings. Among the new phones planned is our first handset for the domes-
tic GSM market as well as tri-band global phones. The domestic GSM dual-band phone will also offer calling
capability through much of Europe. Planned TDMA offerings for 2001 will include a new tri-mode handset and a
unique fixed base, TDMA wireless phone.
As wireless communication technology continues to evolve, Audiovox Communications Corp. is uniquely
positioned to meet the ever-changing needs of consumers and service providers. While we take pride in our
accomplishments, our eyes are focused on the future, always looking for new ways to advance the interests of
the company and its many important constituents and stakeholders. I invite you to share our vision.