Smart tests RP waters for all-in-one messaging service
By Erwin Oliva
INQUIRER.net
First Posted 09:29:00 07/08/2008
MANILA, Philippines -- Wireless service provider Smart Communications has started beta testing an all-in-one messaging service that intends to attract Internet-savvy users.
The new messaging service, Uzzap, will use Internet Protocol (IP) passing through mobile networks to let users zap instant or e-mail messages to other users.
Users can also join chat rooms, set up chat conferences and use so-called "extended messaging" to connect with other Uzzap users, Smart said.
"This will work well with those used to social networking," said Ramon Isberto, Smart head of public affairs, in an interview, as he explained that the service will require users to download a software application onto their handsets.
Uzzap requires handsets that run the Symbian operating system and those that support Java mobile applications, the company said.
A PC-based software can also be downloaded by users to their computers to allow them to send instant messages to users on their mobile handsets.
"This is a convergence of the mobile and the web world," said Isberto, adding that the company has been testing this service internally for a year.
Acknowledging the growing number of people sending e-mail and instant messages through their mobile handsets, it was logical for Smart to develop its own service, the executive said.
The beta phase will run from July 6 to 20, Smart said.
"SMART Buddy Uzzap is another service that will further enrich the mobile Internet experience of our subscribers. Through Uzzap, Smart has taken another step toward taking web-based applications such as instant messaging, file sharing, and social networking and making these accessible and easy to use on their mobile handsets," added Danilo Mojica, wireless consumer division head of Smart, in a statement.
Isberto said users can still use the service for free or until the beta phase ends.
Eventually, the company will be charging a flat-rate, the executive said. He declined to disclose the rates until the commercial launch.
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