This just in – a DVD first – the official press release from Universal Studios Home Video Universal City, Calif., (November 29, 2001) – In a major first for the entertainment and telecommunications industries, Universal Studios Home Video (USHV) and Hop-On (OTC: HPON) have partnered to launch the first-of-its-kind, disposable cell phone in connection with the DVD/home video release of Jurassic Park III on December 11. The limited edition introductory phone, a specially-designed Jurassic Park Survival Cell Phone, employs the latest hands-free, voice-activated communications technology, and will be available only as an exclusive FREE offer via inserts in thousands of Jurassic Park III DVDs and videocassettes for a limited time. Cutting-Edge Telecommunications Technology The exclusive Jurassic Park Survival Cell Phones will offer 60 minutes of prepaid calling time without the requirement of a cellular service contract or monthly fee. Compact and lightweight in design as well as fully recyclable, the cell phones require only two buttons: CALL and END. Using mistake-proof, automated voice-recognition dialing, the cell phones include a hands-free earbud/microphone to provide safe and convenient communication. Once activated, the phones are supported by 24-hour operator assistance and last up to six months. The limited edition Jurassic Park Survival Cell Phone will also feature a branded Jurassic Park faceplate to enhance collectability. Hop-On plans to release a regular disposable cell phone in national retail outlets for $30 after the introductory promotion with Jurassic Park III. The Jurassic Park Survival Cell Phone combines the latest cutting edge communications product with one of the year’s biggest theatrical box-office successes in time to capitalize on heightened consumer awareness during the holiday shopping season surrounding the home video/DVD release. The cell phone offer will be communicated via on-pack stickers on all DVD and VHS copies of Jurassic Park III as well as through in-store merchandisers. “Because a cell phone played such a crucial role in Jurassic Park III, we were looking to find a unique telecommunications partner to help celebrate the film’s release on DVD,” said Ken Graffeo, senior vice president of marketing, Universal Studios Home Video. “Our partnership with Hop-On is ideal and we are thrilled to be bringing the next wave of cell phone technology to consumers.” “The Jurassic Park Survival Cell Phone is designed to give consumers easy access to help if they need it—anytime, anywhere,” said Peter Michaels, chairman and CEO, Hop-On. “As an entrepreneurial communications company we are extremely excited to be partnering with one of the most successful and dominant global media and communications organizations. Hop-On’s phones have the potential to revolutionize the communications industry and this launch is an important step toward that goal.\"
