Nokia, SingTel join to launch dual-mode telephony

Mumbai: SingTel customers can now call over GSM / CDMA and W-LAN using VoIP technology.

Nokia and SingTel have entered into a technology alliance which would bring together the best of two - 2G / 3G and WLAN (Wireless LAN) - in an integrated dual-mode telephony solution on Nokia E60, Nokia E61 and Nokia N80 internet edition.

SingTel's VoIP on mobile service combines the mobility of cellular and the cost-effectiveness of wireless broadband.

Selected SingTel Mobile subscribers will be invited for a service trial which will allow them to use voice and data services from home and on the move through SingNet wireless surf zones. The commercial launch of the service is expected to be later this year.

"Nokia is pleased to co-operate with SingTel on this industry leading initiative on our range of multi-radio mobile devices", said Chris Carr, general manager, customer market and operations, Nokia Singapore. "Consumers can now experience the power of mobility and benefit from accessing internet services and calls without being connected to a computer," he added.

"SingTel is proud to be one of the first operators globally working with Nokia to bring VoIP services over wireless LAN to our customers using Nokia devices. With SingTel's VoIP on mobile service, our customers can make local calls over the Internet with their VoIP handsets for a fixed monthly fee," said Vicki Brady, vice president (consumer marketing), SingTel.

Nokia E60, Nokia E61 and the Nokia N80 internet edition are the first Nokia devices that are able to support SIP-based voice over internet protocol (VoIP). All three devices work on 2G, 3G and W-LAN networks. The Nokia N80 internet edition is the first ever handset to enable seamless home media networking between compatible TVs, audio systems and PCs.

SingTel's VoIP on mobile service will be available to non-business customers on postpaid mobile plans, allowing them to make unlimited local calls using their SIP-enabled VoIP devices. The service can be accessed using the WiFi network at home or through more than 330 SingTel wireless hotspots across the island. The subscription fees for the service will be announced in due time.

Nokia, a world leader in mobile communications, offers easy-to-use and innovative products like mobile phones, devices and solutions for imaging, games, media and businesses. It also provides equipment, solutions and services for network operators and corporations.

SingTel is Asia's leading communications group with operations and investments around the world. With significant operations in Singapore and Australia (through wholly-owned subsidiary SingTel Optus), the group provides a comprehensive portfolio of services that include voice and data services over fixed, wireless and internet platforms.

SingTel has a network of 37 offices in 19 countries and territories throughout Asia Pacific, Europe and the United States.

The group also has major investments in Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, the Philippines and Thailand. Together with its regional partners, SingTel is Asia's largest multi-market mobile operator, serving 92 million customers in seven markets.

SingTel employs about 20,000 people worldwide and had a turnover of S$13.14 billion (US$8.12 billion) and net profit after tax of S$4.16 billion (US$2.57 billion) for the year ended 31 March 2006.