Inktomi surges on wireless deals

Internet software maker Inktomi Corp. (Nasdaq: INKT) announced Tuesday six new wireless deals that will enable it to deliver infrastructure software to wireless network operators and Internet portals.

Inktomi shares were up 16 1/4 to 205 1/4, or 9 percent Tuesday morning. The stock also got a boost recently from some upgrades, and strong first quarter results.

"In the coming years we will invest significantly in this growth area, leveraging our leadership position in the Internet infrastructure to become the de-facto provider of core technology for the wireless Internet," said president and CEO David Peterschmidt in a press release.

The wireless effort comprised Inktomi's portal services and network products, and includes six new alliances:

AirFlash

Inktomi is taking an equity stake in AirFlash Inc. for mobile phone Internet services. AirFlash powered by Inktomi, the co-branded product will integrate the companies' technologies to deliver personalized content and commerce for mobile users

Portal Software and Cap Gemini

Inktomi will work with and Portal Software Inc. (Nasdaq: PRSF) to create a platform to support emerging wireless protocols, enabling operators to build high-speed data services. A complementary alliance with France's Cap Gemini Sogeti will allow it to deliver integration services based on the integrated Inktomi-Portal platform.

Hewlett-Packard

Inktomi is also joining forces with Hewlett-Packard Co. (NYSE: HWP) for its wireless hardware platform. As part of the alliance, Inktomi Traffic Server will become one of the core components of HP's Mobile E-services platform, an integrated set of hardware, software and services.

Sun Microsystems

Inktomi and Sun Microsystems Inc. (Nasdaq: SUNW) will build on their current relationship to create an iFORCE wireless infrastructure to enable the integration of Internet and wireless services.

Spyglass

The company also is forging links with Spyglass Inc. (Nasdaq: SPYG) for content transformation Spyglass's technology will be integrated with the Inktomi Traffic Server platform to give wireless Internet service providers, network service providers and content providers faster access to content.

Gwcom

Wireless Web firm GWcom also has a deal with Inktomi to enable advanced mobile commerce services. Its platform will incorporate the Inktomi Commerce Engine for online shopping on WAP-enabled mobile phones and PDAs.

Reuters contributed to this report.