DataWind Expands Retail Distribution in India With Iris Computers Partnership

DataWind Smartphones and Tablets to Be Distributed to Iris Computers' 2,500 Channel Partners Including Retail Locations in Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Chandigarh


MISSISSAUGA, ON--(Marketwired - Sep 9, 2015) - DataWind Inc. (TSX: DW), a leader in the delivery of internet access in emerging markets, has partnered with Iris Computers to distribute its Internet-enabled tablets and smartphones throughout Iris Computers' distribution network in India.

Through this partnership, DataWind's entire range of tablets and smartphones will be sold throughout Iris Computers' network of over 2,500 channel partners. The agreement expands DataWind's growing distribution network, which will total over 7,500 retail locations upon completion of the current phase.

Mr. Suneet Singh Tuli, President& CEO of DataWind Inc., said: "Partnering with Iris will enhance our retail distribution reach and contribute to increase productivity and business expansion for our channel partners. While the partnership is initially meant for Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Chandigarh, we expect our Internet-enabled smartphones and tablets to be distributed throughout Iris' Indian network in the near future."

Iris Computers' network consists of more than 2,500 channel partners, aggregators and regional distributors which sell a variety of technology products ranging from high-end technical products to passive networking solutions. Iris's core competencies include rapid logistics, well-supervised inventory administration and a strong marketing and distribution reach throughout India.

Mr. Vishal Sopory, CEO of Iris Computers Ltd., said: "Partnering with a strong company and well-recognized brand like DataWind will surely be valuable and positive for both companies. We have high expectations of this partnership are confident our strong distribution network can bring DataWind's low cost Internet-enabled products to the wider consumer market in India."

Mr. Tuli added: "Iris Computers has a wide knowledge, strong distribution network and an in-depth understanding of both the consumer and B2B technology market. We are confident that their rich industry experience and exceptional distribution reach will help us increase our market penetration. We look forward for a mutually rewarding strategic relationship with Iris Computers."

About Iris Computers Ltd.
Iris Computers Ltd, was founded in 1996 by Mr. Sanjiv Krishen along with Mrs. Kamini Talwar and Mr. Som Arya. Since inception Iris has been introducing new hardware products & technological solutions to its channel partners across India. Headquartered in New Delhi, Iris has more than 35 locations across the country which have full-fledged offices having sales, operations and finance team to support channel partners in fulfilling their customer orders.

Iris distributes more than 1,000 laptops & 400 desktops on an average per day to more than 2,500 partners across nation through its 35 locations. Currently, Iris' channel base consists of 2,500 channel partners, aggregators, regional distributors & large SI partners to whom are supplied high-end technological products to passive networking solutions.

About DataWind
DataWind is a leader in providing affordable mobile Internet connectivity in emerging markets. The company's patented, cloud-based technology reduces up to 97% the amount of data needed for web browsing, providing a broadband experience on any network -- even on legacy 2G networks that are still prevalent in developing countries. DataWind also provides economical smartphones and tablets that come bundled with one year of unlimited internet access, making it the largest tablet provider in India only behind Samsung. DataWind's unique solution offers broad social and economic benefits for the billions of people around the world for whom an Internet connection was previously out of reach. DataWind is traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (DW.TO). For more information visit www.datawind.com.

Contact Information:

Company Contact:
Dan Hilton
Chief Financial Officer
DataWind Inc.
+1(613) 277-3266


Investor Relations:
Michael Koehler
Liolios Group, Inc.
+1(949) 574-3860