Vodafone and Nantworks to Explore Global Mobile Data Services Development

First collaboration under newly launched Vodafone xone R&D centre in Silicon Valley

Partnership will initially focus on developing healthcare services over mobile networks

Vodafone today announced it has signed a memorandum of understanding with Los Angeles-based NantWorks LLC to explore mobile data services development with a particular focus on innovative mobile healthcare services to deliver patient care remotely.

NantWorks is one of the first companies signed through Vodafone’s new Vodafone xone technology R&D centre, based in Silicon Valley, which aims to identify and qualify innovative technologies from startups, R&D labs, universities and venture capital portfolios.

Vodafone xone will provide technical expertise, potential financial assistance, logistical support and facilities to help promising US technology companies gain a fast track into proof-of-concept trials across Vodafone’s global network.

NantWorks Chairman and CEO Patrick Soon-Shiong said: “Vodafone is the ideal partner for NantWorks as we develop technologies intended to bring the digital revolution into more aspects of people’s lives, including healthcare and education. I welcome the opening of Vodafone xone here in California and I look forward to a great partnership between our companies.”

Siavash Alamouti, Director of Vodafone Group R&D said: “NantWorks is an exciting and visionary company. We look forward to a fruitful collaboration as we explore options to bring new and transformative products and services to market.”

About Vodafone
Vodafone is one of the world's largest mobile communications companies by revenue with approximately 382 million customers in its controlled and jointly controlled markets as at 30 June 2011. Vodafone currently has equity interests in over 30 countries across five continents and more than 40 partner networks worldwide. For more information, please visit www.vodafone.com.

About NantWorks
NantWorks LLC is a company founded and led by Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong. Its mission is to converge semiconductor technology, supercomputing, advanced networks and augmented intelligence to transform how we work, play and live. Early applications will be in the fields including scientific research and healthcare. For more information, see www.nantworks.com

Media Enquiries:

Vodafone Group
Media Relations
Tel: +44 (0) 1635 664444

NantWorks
Jen Hodson
Tel: +1 310 405 7539