Xpedite launches SMS service

smsREACH is a broadcast service that enables users to send personalised text messages to a large targeted audience instantly. "This innovative solution will compliment Xpedite's multimedia messaging capabilities and provides our clients with an additional service to be included as part of their communication mix." said Adam Taylor, Business Development Manager of Xpedite Middle East.

More than 50 Billion SMS (Short Message Service) text messages were sent over the world's GSM (TM) networks in the first three months of 2001 - reports the GSM Association. The latest figures confirm sustained global consumer interest in text communications with networks on track to exceed the Association's forecast of 200 billion global messages during 2001.

In just two years, the number of SMS messages sent worldwide has grown from 1 billion messages per month (April 1999) to an average of more than 16 Billion messages per month in Q1 2001, up fivefold on the same period last year, with no sign of slowdown. The GSM Association recently announced that there are now more than 500 million global GSM customers in the world (nearly 70 percent of the world's digital wireless market).

The service offered by Xpedite includes enhanced features such as high volume distribution, full personalisation and detailed delivery reporting. Customers use Xpedite to manage critical information distribution for transaction-based services such as bank statements, subscription renewals, promotional offers, purchase orders, newsletters, research reports, rate sheets and pricing/product announcements.