BEIJING, May 31, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- China TechFaith Wireless Communication Technology Limited (NASDAQ: CNTF) ("TechFaith" or the "Company") today announced it will launch a new 4G, Intrinsically Safe Smartphone. The latest model is based on TechFaith's popular Model A-12. It is expected to start shipping in June, 2016, and will target higher volume opportunities in the global Oil and Gas Industry, that require the Ex ib IIC T5Gb IP68 standard.

The Intrinsically Safe, Android 5.1 based A-12 features a 4.5 inch HD LCD screen with 3rd generation Gorilla Glass, dual cameras, push to talk functionality, a quad core processor and a host of outdoor applications, including a barometer, compass, torch light and magnifying glass. Ex ib IIC T5Gb certification means the latest A-12 is an officially qualified Intrinsically Safe Smartphone that can be used in Zone 1 and Zone 2 areas, and alongside type IIC flammable gas.

Mr. Deyou Dong, CEO of TechFaith, said, "This is the latest example of TechFaith leveraging its design expertise to provide a tailored smartphone solution to an underserved market. We found that while the Oil and Gas Industry employs millions worldwide, communications was a challenge. With many professionals working in areas with high concentrations of flammable gases and dust, it is a life and death necessity to have all electronic devices to ensure the highest level of protection in order to avoid any unintentional ignitions. TechFaith has previously designed smartphones that could operate with lower voltages and reduced heat generation that were an ideal platform to develop our latest A-12. We think that by providing a safety compliant smartphone device that does not sacrifice the features people rely upon, with an attractive design, we will have another commercially successful product, with opportunities in both the Domestic China and International markets."

About TechFaith (NASDAQ:CNTF)

TechFaith (NASDAQ: CNTF) is a developer, owner and operator of commercial real estate properties across China as well as a China-based mobile solutions provider for the global mobile handsets market. TechFaith continues to maintain a team of professional engineers focused on the development of ruggedized smart devices for both its consumer and enterprise segments, although it started investing in the construction of buildings and facilities in 2009 as part of its growth and business diversification strategy, gradually shifting away from its traditional focus on the mobile solutions and handset markets. The Company currently focuses on developing office space that can serve as anchor bases in areas with developing economies, as it meets the needs of both established businesses and innovative start-up companies in China. For more information, please visit www.techfaithwireless.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "will," "expects," "anticipates," "future," "intends," "plans," "believes," "estimates," "confident," "outlook" and similar statements. Among other things, the business outlook and strategic and operational plans of TechFaith and management quotations contain forward-looking statements. TechFaith may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on Forms 20-F and 6-K, among others, and in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about TechFaith's beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. Potential risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, those risks outlined in TechFaith's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including its annual report on Form 20-F. TechFaith does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

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SOURCE China TechFaith Wireless Technology Limited