News Release

SANTA CLARA, Calif., Apr 28, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Applied Materials, Inc. announced today that it was named as one of the Business Ethics "100 Best Corporate Citizens" for 2006. Now in its seventh year, the annual survey focuses on corporate social responsibility performance of major U.S. companies and has gained national recognition as an indicator of best practices. Applied Materials was first named to the list in 2001.

"Applied Materials has a long history of recognizing the importance of social responsibility and the need to be a leader in the community," said Mike Splinter, president and CEO of Applied Materials. "I am proud of our employees for their significant contributions of time, energy and resources and for demonstrating the value of making a positive impact around the world."

Companies considered for the list are ranked in eight stakeholder categories: community, diversity, employees, environment, human rights governance, product and stockholders.

"Being a good corporate citizen requires focus, dedication, and hard work. The companies on our list are to be congratulated for their performance," said Michael Connor, Publisher and Executive Editor of Business Ethics.

To learn more about Applied Materials' corporate citizenship and community leadership, visit http://www.appliedmaterials.com/about/social_responsibility

Applied Materials, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMAT) is the global leader in nanomanufacturing technology(TM) solutions for the electronics industry with a broad portfolio of innovative equipment, service and software products. At Applied Materials, we apply nanomanufacturing technology to improve the way people live. Learn more at www.appliedmaterials.com.

SOURCE: Applied Materials, Inc.

Applied Materials, Inc.
Dave Miller, 408-563-9582 (editorial/media)
Randy Bane, 408-986-7916 (financial community)