Amp’d Mobile, a mobile virtual network operator that targets the youth market, has signed a letter of intent with Verizon Wireless to develop a fully integrated MVNO for youth and young adults using Verizon’s broadband EV-DO network.
The service is expected to launch during the third quarter with an entry-level handset from Kyocera and a higher-end model from Motorola Inc. Amp’d said it plans to target users in the 18 to35 age group with mobile entertainment content and both prepaid and postpaid payment options. The company said it will offer its products and services online and through select retail outlets.
“This age segment will be the first adopters of the content and services that only a 3G network can deliver-with music and videos on demand and original, pertinent content for this audience,” said Don McGuire, chief marketing officer at Amp’d Mobile. “It’s going to take more than a hip-hop ad and some cool packaging to serve this audience, and we’ll have the right experience and best technology to address this ever-changing market.”
In related news, Amp’d signed a definitive agreement with Qualcomm Inc. to offer downloadable wireless applications and services based on Qualcomm’s BREW solution. The company also announced an agreement to use Boston Communications Group Inc.’s mobile services platform.
In other MVNO news, Primus Telecommunications Inc. announced its entry into the U.S. MVNO market with a service aimed at customers who frequently make international calls. The company offers postpaid wireless calling with direct dial to more than 200 countries at competitive rates.
Telcordia Technologies Inc. launched a new hosted MVNO solution that allows operators to offer prepaid wireless services. Movida, which targets Hispanic users via a distribution relationship with Wal-Mart, is the first company to deploy Telcordia’s Hosted Solutions offering.
