ORLANDO, Fla. (BUSINESS WIRE) -- FedEx Corp. and AT&T Wireless will implement next-generation wireless technology that will boost courier efficiency and access to FedEx shipping information and offer customers another convenient way to access that information. The agreement was announced today at the annual CTIA Wireless convention in Orlando.

As part of the five-year agreement, FedEx Express will integrate AT&T's high-speed wireless data networks with the FedEx information technology infrastructure, significantly increasing data capacity for FedEx and making FedEx shipping information available more quickly to couriers.

AT&T Wireless' next-generation network solutions and FedEx PowerPad, a new, state-of-the-art hand-held courier device, will help couriers send and receive real-time information when they are on the go and away from their delivery vans. Couriers will have the capacity to update customer-package information almost immediately and have online access to up-to-date shipping information, such as inclement weather advisories, customs-clearance information and shipping rates to assist customers with their shipping questions.

As leaders in their respective industries, this agreement reflects the joint commitment of both companies to continue pioneering innovative wireless technology. To begin development and testing of the new FedEx integrated network, AT&T Wireless has installed a base station at the FedEx World Technology Center in Collierville, TN.

FedEx pioneered the use of wireless technology for shipping more than 20 years ago when it began using Digital Assisted Dispatch System (DADS), one of the world's largest private radio networks and has continued its innovation with such advancements as wireless ring scanners and wireless tracking. Most recently, FedEx was the first transportation company to offer real-time package-tracking and drop-off location information via most types of PDAs and wireless phones.