BELLEVUE, Wash.-InfoSpace Inc. unveiled several implementations of its wireless Internet services platform by such companies as Nortel Networks, SBC Wireless, Virgin Mobile and Indian firm Tata.
Nortel and InfoSpace have teamed to jointly offer the InfoSpace platform with Nortel’s wireless network infrastructure to service providers. The partnership includes 2.5- and third-generation networks. They also will collaborate on developing new services specifically for 3G networks using their combined products.
“As carriers vie for licenses to build out third-generation networks, it is extremely important for them to deliver next-generation broadband services that enable not only faster and richer information, but that turn every mobile device into a true transaction device,” said Arun Sarin, chief executive officer of InfoSpace. “Info-Space services can be quickly rolled out under a carrier’s own brand and include commerce, communication and entertainment services.”
With its recently closed acquisition of Go2Net, InfoSpace can support broadband networks, too, he added.
SBC Wireless, an existing Info-Space customer for basic wireless Internet services, has expanded its relationship with the company to create additional mobile commerce services. The carrier said it hopes to offer customers the ability to locate and buy products and services from their wireless phones, as well as accept promotions from retailers. SBC described it as a way to monetize its subscriber base.
“The partnership is a strategic step toward providing the mobile commerce services that will turn our wireless Internet handsets into transaction devices,” said SBC Wireless CEO Stephen Carter.
Overseas, Virgin Mobile selected the platform to offer mobile data and transaction services in the United Kingdom, while Tata Consultancy Services in India has agreed to offer the platform to wireless carriers there.
Virgin Mobile is a mobile virtual network operator, reselling airtime from various wireless carriers. It plans to use the InfoSpace platform to provide access to its branded suite of entertainment, leisure and travel content. Uses include alerts of new music and film releases, as well as the ability to buy Virgin products from wireless devices.
Tata Consultancy is part of the Tata Group, which includes several wireless service providers, such as Tata Cellular.
