Mobile virtual network operator XE Mobile has worked out a distribution deal with Office Depot stores, aiming to land college-age customers as they shop for school supplies.
The company also said it is introducing the first-ever Sony Ericsson Walkman phone for the pay-as-you-go market. The mobile virtual network operator is offering the Sony Ericsson W300 Walkman for $100.
Office Depot
“We’re already seeing an increase in sales, proof positive that we have the right team in place and our partnership with [Office Depot] is being well received in the marketplace,” said Mark Ghermezian, president and CEO of XE Mobile.
XE’s phones and service are available at more than 3,500 retail stores, the company said, including Meijer and Trans World Entertainment locations. XE, which is touting itself as a sexy new brand, offers pay-as-you-go service starting at 10 cents per minute and includes membership in the XE Card Club, a youth discount program whose partners include Target.com, Urban Outfitters, Dell and other retailers. The company said it is in “prime position for aggressive growth in 2007.”
Walkman handset
The Sony Ericsson W300 supports both MP3 and AAC music files, has a built-in FM radio and comes with a removable 256MB Memory Stick Micro memory card, a stereo headset, USB cable and music management software. The Bluetooth-enabled device also has an integrated camera.
“XE Mobile is prepared to be at the forefront of the industry as we head into 2007 with the introduction of the first ever Walkman phone for the pay-as-you-go segment,” Ghermezian said. “Digital music is everywhere, and we believe that the XE member wants the ability to listen to music on their phone without the additional costs of downloading music from their service provider. The Walkman product line resonates well with our target market and this partnership with Sony Ericsson is another step forward for us as we continue to build our XE brand.”
“XE Mobile was quick to pick up on the popularity of music on the go and we’re honored that they turned to Sony Ericsson to bring the W300 to their members. It’s an ideal target market for us too,” said Paul Hamnett, vice president of sales for the phone manufacturer.”
The MVNO recently announced handsets from Nokia Corp. and Motorola Inc.
