Nokia and Sonera, the largest mobile operator in Finland, announced today they have started piloting Multimedia Messaging (MMS) technology and services. The pilot Sonera is conducting with Nokia MMS products is one the very first in the world evaluating end-to-end MMS technology in the live network environment.
In the MMS pilot Sonera is using the Nokia Artuse (TM) MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service) Center, a high-capacity platform which enables new multimedia messaging services combining rich content, such as audio and video clips, photographs and images, with traditional text messaging. In addition, Nokia provides Sonera with the Nokia 9210 Communicators' special software which supports the MMS technology.
"Earlier this year Nokia introduced the world's first MMS solution for operators - the Nokia Artuse (TM) MMS Center. The multimedia messaging concept is built on the undisputed success of Short Message Service and will be one the key services leading the market to 3G," says Pekka Salonoja, Vice President, Mobile Internet Applications, Nokia Networks.
"We are pleased to further enhance our strong relationship with Sonera in this important pilot and to explore the full possibilities of the end-to-end MMS solution before the expected commercial roll-out of MMS next year", added Mr Salonoja.
Multimedia messaging is the industry-standardized 3G service and both companies have been actively contributing the standardization work both in WAP Forum and 3GPP.
Nokia is the world leader in mobile communications. Backed by its experience, innovation, user-friendliness and secure solutions, the company has become the leading supplier of mobile phones and a
leading supplier of mobile, fixed and IP networks. By adding mobility to the Internet Nokia creates new opportunities for companies and further enriches the daily lives of people. Nokia is a broadly held
company with listings on six major exchanges.
Sonera (HEX:SRA, NASDAQ: SNRA) is an international forerunner in mobile communications and mobile-based services and applications. By combining its expertise in mobile communications, the Internet and service provision, Sonera aims to develop into a global communications operator and provider of transaction and content services. The company also provides advanced data communications solutions to businesses, and fixed network voice services in Finland and its nearby areas. In 2000, Sonera's revenues amounted to EUR 2.05 billion, and profit before extraordinary items and taxes was EUR 1.86 billion. Sonera employs more than 11,200 people.
Further information:
Nokia Networks
Communications Department
Tel. + 358 7180 38193
Email nokia.networks@nokia.com
www.nokia.com
Sonera Mobile Operations
Martti Kosonen, Vice President
Tel. + 358 40 750 8829
Email martti.kosonen@sonera.com