SOPRANO Announce Advanced Mobile Content Engine Combining the SIM Card and Network Value-Added Services with Gemplus


Soprano, a leading wireless solution provider, today announced an advanced mobile content solution for mobile operators that brings together the power of network based services and the ease of use of SIM card-based menus and applications.

Soprano Business Development Manager, Leow Soon Siong, said the new service would increase ARPU immediately by making SMS and USSD-based services much easier to use.


Soprano has developed the system jointly with Gemplus and it has been in use with a major Asian carrier since June 2001.


"Whilst many SMS and USSD-based services exist today, many consumer subscribers don't even know how to access them, or have trouble using them. This new solution has proven itself to dramatically increase usage by simply making any SMS or USSD-based application much more usable", Mr Leow said.


"The overall solution is much more than just a platform for simplifying the user interface. It is being used to deliver chat services, ringtones, graphics, games, and quizzes", Mr Leow said.


"In the wake of limited interest in WAP services, carrier attention has turned to more accessible and user-friendly services, like SMS and USSD. However, even these are not well suited to getting information, as subscribers must memorise strange code words and commands to obtain information.


"With this new platform, GemPlus and Soprano will be offering simple solutions that the average subscriber will use time and time again, because it is easy to access and use.


"Just like NTT Docomo's i-mode has an 'i' button which brings up a menu of premium content services, this new platform adds a new menu system to your mobile phone making information selection simple and quick.", Mr. Leow said.


Gemplus has a long and well-established relationship in advanced SIM service and SIM innovation and this announcement reflects our commitment to further advancing this technology," stated Mr. Ng Fook Seng, Business Solution Director, Gemplus. He continued, "By combining network based services and the simple but highly-functional SIM based menus, we ensure a solution that is adaptable, convenient and beneficial to both the carrier and more importantly the mobile consumer."


"Soprano's vision is to innovate mobile technology applications that enhance people's experiences with information and transactional management to location based services and provides real value to the mobile consumer." Soprano Managing Director, Mr Richard Favero said.


"This solution is another step in our strategy to bring together information, location and commerce using mobile technology and providing a compelling advantage for all involved. To be a leader in mobile technology applications requires advanced skills in all three areas", Mr Favero said.


Soprano Vice President Asia Pacific, Mr Rob Hellstrom, said the announcement is one of a number planned for the next quarter which will further demonstrate the real opportunities that exist for the much maligned mobile telecommunications sector.


"Soprano maintains an approach of providing appropriate mobile solutions and products within the confines of the capabilities of today's mobile phones. Mobile services can be easy and intuitive. We're showing how", Mr Hellstrom said.


"Soprano is readying more product and pilot announcements that use existing and the next generation of handsets", Mr Hellstrom said.

"Outside Australia, Soprano has opened offices in Asia and Europe and intends to continue to take capabilities and successes demonstrated in the local market into its growth markets", Mr Hellstrom said.