O2 Germany launches IM services from NeuStar

Telefónica O2 Germany has selected NeuStar’s Next Generation Messaging (NGM) services to power its mobile Instant Messaging (IM) service in Germany. The launch follows positive user feedback from a successful mobile IM trial carried out in 2008.
 
Specifically, O2 will deploy NeuStar’s industry-leading Mobile Messaging Gateway (MMG) to deliver mobile IM solutions to O2’s 14.7 million customers in Germany. Working closely with popular IM provider ICQ, NeuStar will enable O2‘s customers in Germany to communicate with ICQ’s 42 million IM users worldwide.
 
O2 subscribers in Germany will be able to access the ICQ mobile IM client instantly from their mobile handsets, enjoying similar functionality to the one they have come to expect with PC-based IM.
 
“Our aim is to meet our customers’ needs and to provide them with the very best mobile service,” said Oliver Schmitt, head of mobile Internet and content at Telefónica O2 Germany. “Following the successful results of the 2008 trial, it is clear that mobile IM is emerging as a popular service with our subscribers. We selected NeuStar for their extensive experience delivering IM; for their ability to build customized, compelling services; and for their willingness to work with us to ensure success.”
 
The service will be promoted nationwide to all subscribers, and is available at launch as a downloadable client on handsets including Nokia, Sony Ericsson and Samsung devices.
 
“The demand for mobile IM is growing dramatically as users want to stay connected while on the go,” said Ofer Oved, vice president of ICQ. “The partnership with NeuStar enables ICQ to offer users trusted mobile IM connectivity through their mobile devices. The collaboration with NeuStar through Telefónica O2 Germany is another step for ICQ towards building a loyal base of regular mobile IM users and providing them with all their communication needs.”
 
“Mobile IM is a core service that provides users with ‘anytime, anywhere’ access to their online contacts,” added Guenter Krauss, senior vice president and general manager of NeuStar Next Generation Messaging (NGM). “It is also an evolving service, as users increasingly want access to their IM contacts, social networks and other communities all from one central place on the handset. Telefónica O2 Germany’s investment in NeuStar’s solutions demonstrates its confidence not only in Mobile IM, but also in a whole host of next generation services.”