Qtel unveils agreement with bCODE to enable consumers to make payments

Through the new agreement, bCODE will provide a network of their innovative, interactive, 3G-enabled terminals across Qatar, with a special first phase installed in time to support a number of exciting events in Qatar from January 2011. Qtel is an active sponsor of a wide range of high-profile events, including the upcoming 2011 AFC Asian Cup, and has a strategy in place to deploy the latest communication capability to support visitors and fans.

The system uses convenient terminals to safely and swiftly scan mobile phone handsets to read specially-designed SMS codes, which will allow customers to access a wide range of services and to pay with Qtel's Mobile Money services.

Qtel's bCODE terminals aim to enable physical redemption of loyalty points, receipt of mobile tickets and coupons, management of payments, and to provide access to a range of interactive services. Its touch and visual interface has been designed to make it easy-to-use for those who are unfamiliar with the technology.

To provide enhanced support for Qatar's efforts to make upcoming international events the best yet, Qtel will also equip a range of terminals close to event zones with special features such as event alert services to aid consumer awareness, and specifically- tailored interactive services and promotions.

Delivering the service by regular SMS text message means that virtually anyone with a mobile device can instantly benefit from this new and innovative service. International visitors and customers of other mobile phone networks will also be able to use the network of Qtel terminals across the country.

Unlike other mobile programs that require picture messages such as a barcode, data plans, special chips and mobile devices or software downloads which restrict usage to those with the correct smart technology, the bCODE system has been designed to be universally compatible and inclusive of all consumer demographics.

The introduction of the patented bCODE system is part of Qtel's wider Mobile Money strategy, which aims to provide the widest choice and greatest value in the range of mobile interactive services available to people across Qatar. The terminals will serve to complement a broad range of mobile money services accessible via handsets for Qtel customers coming in 2010 and 2011.

As part of this strategy, Qtel was the first company in Qatar to introduce International Credit Transfer service for its customers. The new service is a safe, simple and fast way to transfer mobile credit to international numbers in India, the Philippines, Pakistan, Indonesia, Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka through an established airtime network.