STMicroelectronics Extends Cooperation with ARM to Enhance Security Features of Nomadik Mobile Multimedia Processors

Latest ultra-low-power Nomadik multimedia processors embedding ST's leading security framework are the industry's first to include ARM1176JZF-S PrimeXsys Platform with TrustZone technology

Geneva, October 20, 2004 - STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM) today announced that it will incorporate the ARM1176JZF-S™ PrimeXsys® Platform with TrustZone™ technology into its Nomadik™ family of multimedia application processors. The result of a close cooperation with ARM and early access to advanced ARM® technology gives ST and its customers a head start in rolling out third-generation mobile multimedia terminals. The development also takes advantage of ST's advanced low-power 65-nm integrated-circuit (IC) fabrication technology* to boost performance and cut the power consumption of mobile multimedia consumer products.

Building on more than a decade of Smartcard system expertise, ST's leading-edge security framework ensures a reliable, secure environment for mobile transactions. As part of ST's global roadmap to secure the next generation of innovative multimedia terminals, this latest Nomadik open platform adds ARM TrustZone™ technology, a key element of the ARM1176JZF-S PrimeXsys Platform.

"Because ST was the lead partner with ARM on its ARM11™ PrimeXsys Platform, we had the advantage of making early use of ARM TrustZone technology in the ARM1176JZF-S core-based platform," said Guy Lauvergeon, general manager of STMicroelectronics' Multimedia Platform Unit. "As a result, and thanks to our own security features and state-of-the-art 65-nm process technology, our customers will enjoy a significant market advantage in rolling out high-performance, low-power, and secure third-generation mobile multimedia handsets."

ST's leading security and mobile multimedia expertise, combined with ARM TrustZone technology raises the standard for security performance in handheld devices. The trusted Nomadik platform lets mobile operators, consumers, content providers, and terminal manufacturers address evolving security threats, thus stimulating the growth of mobile transactions that carry sensitive multimedia content. In particular, the security level is more than adequate to maintain system integrity by, for example, protecting phone identity and preventing illegal upgrades and malicious or unauthorized attacks.

"This close cooperation between two technology leaders in the mobile handset market has been a natural and mutually beneficial move," said Mike Inglis, executive vice president of marketing for ARM. "Adding the ARM1176JZF-S PrimeXsys Platform with TrustZone technology to ST's family of Nomadik multimedia application processors brings to the market computationally powerful, low power-consumption devices that deliver high security and fast design roll outs."

TrustZone technology is a key enabling technology targeted specifically at securing consumer products such as mobile phones, portable digital assistants, and other systems running an open operating system. As a result, the marriage of TrustZone technology to Nomadik's existing security features, which benefit from STMicroelectronics' long experience with Smartcards, ensures a reliable secure environment for transactions.

TrustZone technology's high security prevents access to proprietary applications and circuitry, as well as protects passwords and copyrighted content. Because TrustZone technology is implemented within the ARM processor core, protection is an inherent feature at the heart of every device, including peripherals on and off chip, and is gained without adversely affecting core size or performance.

For further information please visit www.st.com/nomadik

About STMicroelectronics
STMicroelectronics is a global leader in developing and delivering semiconductor solutions across the spectrum of microelectronics applications. An unrivalled combination of silicon and system expertise, manufacturing strength, Intellectual Property (IP) portfolio and strategic partners positions the Company at the forefront of System-on-Chip (SoC) technology and its products play a key role in enabling today's convergence markets. The Company's shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange, on Euronext Paris and on the Milan Stock Exchange. In 2003, the Company's net revenues were $7.24 billion and net earnings were $253 million.