Alltel subscribers can send and receive mobile instant messages through two of the world’s most popular IM services, the carrier announced Thursday.
Alltel said it support AOL Instant Messenger and MSN Messenger through its new Axcess Instant Messaging plan. A basic package of 300 incoming or outgoing IM messages is offered at $6 per month. Larger packages are available.
The move marks Alltel’s first step into the consumer mobile IM arena, which has gained traction in recent months. A recent study by mobile application monitoring firm M:Metrics indicates more than 8 percent of wireless subscribers use mobile IM, with nearly 15 million users sending or receiving messages on their handsets in March.
“We are excited to be working with AOL and MSN to bring these services to our customers,” said Wade McGill, vice president of wireless marketing for Alltel.
The second-tier carrier also said Thursday that it had selected Qualcomm Inc.’s uiOne to deliver user interface technology for its handsets. The software, which can be delivered over the air, allows users to customize their phone displays with themes and graphics.
