UK mobile group plans expansion into Republic

British wireless company Mobilefuture will use some of the funds raised this week from its £4.7 million sterling (€8.04 million) flotation on the London Stock Exchange to expand its mobile wireless access technology into the Republic.

The company specialises in developing wireless Internet service provider (WISP) technology, which enables wireless users to connect to the Internet using WAP technology at high speeds. Mobilefuture chief executive Mr Andy Munro said the company's wireless Internet service network was now live in the Republic and the company would soon begin a marketing campaign.

"For most people to connect to ISPs, it takes 30 or 40 seconds using their WAP phones. We deliver a solution that can bring that down to 10 seconds," said Mr Munro. "This saves money and is less frustrating for the consumer."

Customers can access the technology by logging on to the company's website and logging into its systems. The company charges a £10 set-up fee and a £10 per month subscription fee for the service.

"It probably wouldn't be cost-effective for the individual consumer who doesn't use their WAP phone often, but business customers or heavy users can make considerable cost savings," said Mr Munro.

The company does not have to install equipment in the Republic and runs the entire network from Britain. However, Mobilefuture is considering setting up a technical support centre here.

The company has formed a partnership with Dublin-based Media Multinational, which will organise the firm's marketing campaign in Ireland.

Mobilefuture is developing a dial-in Internet service that will work with the technological enhancement to mobile phone networks. This technology will connect faster than existing platforms and will provide a base for the company to develop further applications and content for mobile phones.

Mobilefuture had originally intended to expand its technology and network throughout Europe, but had to revise its plans when it scaled back its flotation. The company will concentrate on developing its technology in Germany, Britain and Ireland.