Sierra Wireless first to support Telstra's dual-channel HSPA+ network with
new USB modem and expanded wireless module lineup

Telstra Ultimate^TM USB Modem by Sierra Wireless now available in Australia; new Sierra Wireless AirPrime^TM HSPA+ embedded wireless modules introduced to support device manufacturers

VANCOUVER, Aug. 30 /CNW/ - Sierra Wireless (NASDAQ: SWIR; TSX: SW) today announced that it is supporting the launch of Telstra's first-in-the-world dual-channel HSPA+ network in Australia with some of the fastest modems the company has ever produced. The Sierra Wireless AirCard(R) 312U wireless USB modem, first demonstrated at Mobile World Congress in February, is now commercially available in Australia, marketed as the Telstra Ultimate^TM USB modem. With it, Australians working at client locations, at airports, or on their commute home can access the Internet and online applications at speeds typically reserved for office environments.

Dual-channel HSPA+ doubles the speeds of current HSPA+ networks from a peak downlink of 21 megabits per second (Mbps) to 42 Mbps, at the same time improving network efficiency and providing a better experience for customers with more consistent network performance. Customers using a Telstra Ultimate USB modem in enabled coverage areas will experience real-world download speeds up to 20 Mbps.

"The new speeds have the potential to increase how and where our small and large business customers work - boosting productivity in the process," said Mike Wright, Executive Director, Telstra Networks & Access Technologies. "Our customers have told us that they want higher speed mobile broadband so they can work more flexibly outside of the office and we are delighted to offer them these new speeds."

In addition to announcing the commercial launch of the AirCard 312U, Sierra Wireless has introduced the AirPrime MC8801, as well as the AirPrime MC8704 and MC8705 intelligent embedded modules for HSPA+ networks, to support manufacturers incorporating wireless connectivity into a variety of devices, including notebook, netbook, and tablet computers; connected consumer electronics products like personal navigation devices; and home or enterprise-class routers.

"Once again, Telstra is leading the world in rolling out the latest HSPA+ technology, and we're thrilled to be the first to provide customers in Australia with products that enable them to take full advantage of the network's capabilities," said Jin Pak, Vice President of Sales, Asia Pacific, for Sierra Wireless. "Being first with wireless USB modems benefits our embedded customers as well. Manufacturers looking to provide the capabilities of the new AirCard 312U inside their devices can be confident that Sierra Wireless embedded modules deliver a tested, reliable solution for the best possible performance."

The Sierra Wireless AirPrime MC8801 intelligent embedded module is designed to support HSPA+ Dual Channel networks and peak network downlink speeds of 42 Mbps. To provide a more cost-effective alternative for manufacturers that don't require the top speed, the new AirPrime MC8704 and MC8705 offer HSPA+ single channel support, with peak network downlink speed of 21 Mbps. The AirPrime MC8704 offers voice calling capability, while the MC8705 is targeted for data-centric devices that do not require voice support.

Samples of the AirPrime MC8801 and MC8705 are now available to customers for testing, with commercial shipments expected in the fourth quarter of this year. Samples of the AirPrime MC8704 are expected to be available early in 2011. With a substantial track record of working with network operators and manufacturing customers to integrate new wireless technologies quickly and reliably, Sierra Wireless offers the experience and expertise to simplify wireless integration and optimize time-to-market.

For more information about the Sierra Wireless AirCard 312U, please visit http://www.sierrawireless.com/productsandservices/AirCard/USBModems/aircard_312u.aspx. For more information about Sierra Wireless AirPrime MC Series embedded wireless modules, please visit http://www.sierrawireless.com/productsandservices/AirPrime/Embedded_Modules/MC_Series.aspx. To contact the Sierra Wireless Sales Desk, call [phone] or email [email protected].

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About Sierra Wireless

Sierra Wireless (NASDAQ: SWIR -TSX: SW) is expanding the wireless world with a comprehensive offering of hardware, software, and connected services for mobile lifestyles and machine-to-machine communications. Our customers count on us to help them succeed with early access to new wireless technologies and innovative, reliable, high-performing solutions for a broad range of applications. For more information about Sierra Wireless, visit www.sierrawireless.com.

"AirCard" is a registered trademark of Sierra Wireless, and "AirPrime" is a trademark of Sierra Wireless. Other product or service names mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements relate to, among other things, plans and timing for the introduction or enhancement of our services and products, statements about future market conditions, supply conditions, channel and end customer demand conditions, revenues, gross margins, operating expenses, profits, and other expectations, intentions, and plans contained in this press release that are not historical fact. Our expectations regarding future revenues and earnings depend in part upon our ability to successfully develop, manufacture, and supply products that we do not produce today and that meet defined specifications. When used in this press release, the words "plan", "expect", "believe", and similar expressions generally identify forward-looking statements. These statements reflect our current expectations. They are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, changes in technology and changes in the wireless data communications market. In light of the many risks and uncertainties surrounding the wireless data communications market, you should understand that we cannot assure you that the forward-looking statements contained in this press release will be realized.

For further information:

Sharlene Myers
Sierra Wireless
Phone: [phone]
[email protected]