An instant messaging service that enables operators to launch branded messaging networks

Issued by Global Research Partners for MCI

Johannesburg, 07 Mar 2011

Cnectd (www.cnectd.com), a mobile messaging and social networking service provided by MCI Consultants (“MCI”), today announced the availability of a private label solution of its instant messaging service.

The customised solution enables carriers, MVNOs, handset manufacturers, service providers and ISVs to offer push-based messaging and social networking services within their own branded network to their customers. The solution is customised and branded according to client requirements and is fully managed and supported by Cnectd.

“The global increase in text messaging is attracting mobile operators and handset manufacturers to offer customers customised solutions,” commented Greg Bernard, Partner at MCI. “The demand for scalable, reliable and secure messaging has prompted Cnectd to offer operators the opportunity to leverage our unique offering and launch their own branded messaging network.”

“Cnectd's experience and investment in the mobile messaging space allows us to effectively launch messaging networks using best practices,” continued Bernard. “Our solution allows companies to quickly launch customised, highly scalable, cost-effective messaging networks which provide a direct communication channel with customers, ensuring reduced churn and increased customer loyalty. Additionally, the service provides a vehicle for creating additional revenue streams.”

“Cnectd also offers the ability for customers to leverage their own existing community of users from over 200 countries worldwide, or lets clients build their own network of users, thus allowing them to retain customer loyalty to their brand,” continued Bernard.

Cnectd's pricing is based on both service fees and usage, enabling a low barrier to entry for its clients. The solution can integrate into existing billing systems to enable operators to monetise their customers' requests to communicate with family, friends and correspondence groups.

For further information, please contact Greg Bernard, MCI: tel 011 454-3420, fax 011 454-3417, e-mail greg@mci.co.za.

Cnectd

Cnectd is a mobile messaging and social networking application for smartphones developed and operated by MCI Consultants. Cnectd lets you chat across most mobile devices and allows you to find new friends in your area, share media with your contacts, etc. Cnectd alerts users of new messages instantaneously, merging IM style chat with the benefits of SMS/texts, but with negligible costs.

Cnectd is powered by a highly robust and scalable purpose-built mobile messaging platform. The application has been designed for fast deployment to mobile devices across leading operating systems and manufacturers.

Cnectd's hosted network infrastructure can provide operators with a fully integrated carrier-grade commercial platform ready for the rapid deployment of social networking and messaging services, with a scalable user experience.

Cnectd's feature rich application goes beyond the traditional text messaging services and also includes:

* Easy sign up using your Facebook account and automatic contact importing;
* Push notifications that alert users to new messages instantaneously;
* Message delivery reports and read receipts;
* Personal profile management;
* The creation and management of groups;
* The ability of photo sharing media over the data network;
* Location-based services for location sharing with contacts;
* The ability to easily make new friends with advanced search options and LBS; and
* Advanced privacy controls.

MCI Consultants

MCI Consultants is a South African-based business information systems consulting firm specialising in providing software solutions to the business community.

MCI offers a complete solution, including network and communications services, business performance management solutions and accounting systems. MCI also provides bespoke developments, including software for the JSE Stock Brokers, including Trading and Portfolio systems that also incorporate e-commerce and mobile technologies.

Its approach is to continuously provide solutions to meet its clients' changing requirements. It prides itself in delivering excellent customer service and building long-lasting partnerships with its clients.

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