Mobile rivals unveil multimedia cellphones

UK mobile operators, One2One and Orange have simultaneously unveiled plans for multimedia phone services using hardware and software from Ericsson and Nokia respectively.

Orange will trial a range of information services using Nokia's WAP (Wireless Application Protocol) technology, which enables secure data transfer between Web servers, GSM, the Internet and intranets.

Orange said it will offer users instant access to news, banking and travel information via its handsets, with data appearing on phone screens in a simple menu format. A full rollout is scheduled for later in the year.

Content providers for Orange's service include ITN, NatWest, Associated News, ITIS (Integrated Traffic Information Service) and http://www.ThisisLondon.com. Flight information will be available from http://www.TheTrip.com and http://www.LastMinute.com; Orange said a full online booking service is in the pipeline.

One2One said it is teaming up with Ericsson to provide third-generation mobile multimedia services, including Internet access. The services will use General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) technology, and are due to launch next year. One2One said the deal is part of a £45m GPRS investment programme spread over three years.

Meanwhile, Orange announced plans to launch itself in Germany later this year, in association with sister company, Hutchison Telecom Germany.