The WAP specification defines protocol conversion between IP and cellular environments and this baseline function is supplied by a WAP gateway. Network operators, however, are not the wireless equivalent of an Internet Service Provider. They need more functionality in order to create differentiated service offers that enable the delivery of profitable, managed services to targeted user groups and this is exactly what CMGs WAP Service BrokerTM delivers.

The word broker indicates that network operators are able to take WAP content from a wide range of national and international suppliers and thereby create a service offer that matches the needs of their subscribers. This means that operators can better manage their service offer and are able to charge fees.

The new release also features tight but flexible integration with billing systems, over-the-air provisioning of services, operator definable user profiles, service directories targeted at specific user groups, and user-configurable home pages. All operator capabilities are Web enabled and subscribers can configure the content they require using any browser, e.g. a PC or a smart phone.

CMGs WAP unique solution also enables high-street shops and other sales outlets to provision services on the spot. They obtain a subscription number from the operator, which is sent to the subscriber as a short message. This enables immediate access to the information service offer and the individual services can then be selected via the phone or a PC. Once selected, a home page is generated and this is then displayed on the phone. This process contrasts sharply with the conventional method, which is not at all user-friendly.

Visitors to Cannes can visit CMGs stand (E4 in Hall 1) and have their mobile configured in order to access to a demonstration that replicates a WAP service offer. This clearly demonstrates the ease with which services are provisioned and it also illustrates that CMGs solution allows WAP content to be displayed on regular handsets. This function is not specified in Version 1.1 of the specification and as a result it is not provided by some gateway vendors.

"Operators have the unique opportunity to claim the wireless service brokerage role by taking ownership of their service offer", explains Peter Maathuis, CMGs Vice President Global Sales & Marketing. "Given their wireless market know-how, marketing channels and existing customer relation management, wireless operators are well positioned for this strategic role. The WAP Service BrokerTM provides them with the necessary business tool to be successful in the quest for the wireless user and thus safeguard new and profitable revenue streams and their strategic market position."

Geert Kolthof, Vice President Mobile Internet Products, adds: "We have taken great care to integrate the new service broker capability with the existing directory, billing, authentication and authorisation capabilities. In particular, we have preserved the WAP Service BrokerTMs unmatched performance, throughput, scaleability and up-time characteristics."

Background Information
CMG Telecommunications, is the leading global supplier of messaging and gateway solutions for the wireless telecom industry. CMG develops high-end solutions in close co-operation with network operators. To date, more than 100 of these quality solutions have been delivered to over 65 operators world wide. They are widely recognised to be the best around, combining minimum operator intervention with maximum performance and availability.

The product portfolio includes the WAP Service BrokerTM, Mobile E-mail, Short Message Service Centre and the Cell Broadcast System. More information about CMG Telecommunications can be found on the Internet at http://www.cmgtelecom.com.

CMG telecommunications is a division of CMG plc, a leading European IT services group, providing business information solutions around the world through consultancy, systems development, software applications and managed services. CMG is established in 1964 and nowadays employs over 8,000 employees. The Group is listed on the London and Amsterdam stock exchanges.

For more information please contact:

Renate van Berchum
Tel: +31 30 23 39 300
Fax: +31 30 23 39 490
E-mail: [email protected]