Etisalat launches Push-To-Talk

The service has been available on a test basis since GITEX 2005, and since then more than 87,000 mobile users have signed up for the service. PTT is now available to any Etisalat mobile subscriber with a suitably-equipped Nokia mobile phone.

This service is of particular benefit to companies with field executives or those that need to coordinate between diverse locations. By the simple press of a button, a message can be transmitted between PTT-enabled Nokia mobile phones in a group, which will sound through the mobile phone's loudspeaker.

Mohammed Al Fahim, Executive Vice President- Marketing, Etisalat, said: "Push To Talk is internationally a new service, and we are happy to bring it to the UAE. Being one of the first operators in the region to launch this service required a significant amount of realtime testing, and we are pleased with the outcome. Customers and businesses can now benefit from the instant one-to-one and the one-to-many communication options now open."

The PTT service revolutionizes the use of the mobile phone for people to keep in touch with one or many people instantly. By simply pressing a button and speaking into the phone, the message is played through the loudspeaker of all the PTT enabled mobile phones on the sender's predefined list. In situations where there is a need to occasionally but repeatedly exchange short messages with the same people, PTT would serve as the most viable option.

Since this service is provided over the GSM/GPRS network, it is highly secure, and unlike other systems, this system assures privacy. The user is able to establish their list of contacts, and choose who would receive the message. The PTT service can be used wherever the GSM/GPRS network is available, and in the next phase of launch, will even be available when roaming.

Any active mobile account on the Etisalat network, with a suitably-equipped Nokia mobile phone, can sign up for this service. There are various packages available for business customers to choose from, based on their usage and requirements. Individual users can register for the service by calling 101, by sending SMS (r ptt to 1010) or by visiting any Etisalat Business Centre. Business customers will need to visit an Etisalat Business Centre to apply for or activate the service.