Comverse Partners with AOL Mobile for ICQ Access

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Comverse has announced an agreement with America Online to provide wireless carriers with access to the popular ICQ instant messaging service as part of its Mobile Instant Messaging (MIM) offering.

The offering comprises an end-to-end solution that includes certified mobile ICQ clients, authorised access to the ICQ network and Comverse's Mobile Instant Messaging server, including billing, reporting and management capabilities.

"In today's mobile environment, operators want an easy way to introduce popular services," said Benny Einhorn, chief marketing officer at Comverse. "Comverse is committed to providing end-to-end solutions that streamline this process."

Comverse's market-leading MIM solution complies with the Open Mobile Alliance's (OMA) Wireless Village standard and is interoperable with embedded ICQ clients from many handset manufacturers.

"This will make it easier for carriers and handset manufacturers to give consumers access to the mobile ICQ instant messaging service," said Himesh Bhise, vice-president and general manager, AOL Mobile, America Online. "As an approved reseller and member of our Mobile Developer Programme, Comverse can quickly develop and deliver certified ICQ clients worldwide."