Business Times – 28 Apr 2008
SingTel enhances SMS service
SINGTEL is sprucing up its text-messaging service with a new suite of enhancements called SMS Plus. With the new offering, customers will be able to set and automatically send out-of-office responses when they receive a text message. In addition, subscribers will have the option of copying incoming and outgoing SMSes to five e-mail addresses or mobile numbers. A third service will allow users to divert all incoming messages to a specific e-mail or phone number. Customers can choose to pay $0.50 each time they activate one of these three features or pay a monthly $2 fee for unlimited activations. The company is currently offering a 50 per cent discount off mobile subscription for all users who sign up for its SMS Plus service. For details, go to http://www.singtel.com/smsplus.
StarHub offering to advertisers
STARHUB is giving advertisers the ability to pinpoint their target audience with its new island-wide, location-based advertising service. With the offering, marketers can push promotional text messages to consumers when they are within predefined zones such as a specific shopping mall. Subscribers will not be charged for receiving these SMSes. For more information, visit http://www.starhub.com.
Microsoft product makeover
MICROSOFT is giving consumers the option to stamp their individuality on staid computer accessories such as the mouse, under a new promotion. From now until the end of June, consumers who buy selected Microsoft computer mice will get a free cosmetic makeover for these products. They can choose between different multi-coloured skins that can be pasted on their new mice. In addition, customers will also receive CapitaLand shopping vouchers of up to $20 for some purchases. This offer is available at all authorised Microsoft hardware resellers in Singapore.
AT&T delivery service for Cisco
AT&T is seeking a first-mover advantage by being the first service provider to deliver Cisco System’s Telepresence videoconferencing solution globally. To be launched in the second half of this year in 23 countries including Singapore, the fully managed service will allow customers to collaborate via videoconferences in full 1080p high-definition video and enhanced audio. Customers will have the choice of installing a single screen or three displays and all equipment and necessary support services will be offered by AT&T. The solution also incorporates a concierge service for scheduling calls and a user-friendly phone interface so users can initiate a conference with the push of a button.
M1’s feedback facility for users
M1 has introduced a new service which allows moblie phone users to give feedback on mobile-related issues by sending a text message to 79777. They can also air their grievances through a questionnaire at http://www.youdeservebetter.sg. As part of this effort, M1 CEO Neil Montefiore and 40 employees even conducted a street survey with phone users along Orchard Road yesterday. This attempt to collect feedback comes ahead of the implementation of true mobile number portability in Singapore on June 13.
Compiled by WINSTON CHAI