3 in deals with Google and Skype to push mobile internet services

by Daniel Farey-Jones, Brand Republic 16-Nov-06, 12:00

LONDON - Mobile operator 3 has signed a range of deals with internet companies including Google, Skype and eBay in the hope of generating revenues from customers subscribing to use advanced mobile internet services.

3 said it will price the bundle of services in a flat fee structure like fixed line broadband, and they will be available on a new range of handsets called the X-Series to be introduced in the UK on December 1.

The services include Skype, allowing users to make and receive unlimited free voice over internet calls to Skype PC users and other Skype 3 mobile users around the world.

Windows Live Messenger and Yahoo Messenger are also in the package, allowing free text instant messages to other X-Series mobiles and PCs.

Tie-ups with two other companies provide the means to access home TVs, PVR and PC. Orb allows people to get into their home computer via the handset and Slingbox lets users who own a Slingbox see anything they can view on their home TV as well as programme their PVR via their handset.

3 has also signed a deal with eBay allowing X-Series owners to go on to the auction site and bid via their mobile.

Finally, Google search will be available not only on the X-Series, but to all 3 users. 3 agreed the same terms with Yahoo! search in June.

Canning Fok, the group managing director of 3 parent Hutchison Whampoa, said: "By partnering with the leaders of the internet and the leading handset makers, the X-Series from 3 will give everyone access to more of what they want, when they want it, and however much of it they want, all free when they use it."

The first X-Series handsets to be announced are the Nokia N73 and the Sony Ericsson W950i. X-Series handsets will be launched in 3's other markets, including Ireland and Italy, in early 2007.

Earlier this week, 3's rival Vodafone said it had agreed a deal with Yahoo! giving its network users the chance to receive ads on their phone in return for discounts.

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