LOS ANGELES-Amp’d Mobile Inc. has tapped Chicago-based mobile software developer Novarra to give its subscribers access to the entire Internet-rather than just WAP pages.
The mobile virtual network operator said it will use Novarra’s nWeb version 3.1, a micro-client that supports both Web and WAP 2.0 content. The offering, which will be integrated into all Amp’d handsets, automatically formats traditional Web pages for mobile phones.
Novarra’s nWeb works on BREW, Java, Palm and Symbian platforms. The announcement marks a big win for Novarra, which also has partnerships with Cingular Wireless L.L.C., Research In Motion Ltd. and U.S. Cellular Corp.
“With an open content strategy, Amp’d is focusing on choice and user experience to drive results,” said Novarra Chief Executive Officer Bruce Simpson. “Our commercial deployments show users tripling their usage over a six-month interval as they discover how much they can do on their mobile.”
Norwegian developer Opera Software also recently launched a browser that formats Web pages for mobile handsets. The company is selling its Java-based Opera Mini offering globally. Opera has relationships with several major handset manufacturers and carriers, but has yet to notch a deal with a U.S. operator. Instead of accessing the application through carriers, users can download Opera Mini for free from the company’s Web site.
