Telstra is adding functionality to its Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) rollout with SMS being implemented on the network. It is also working on a deal to add 'over the air handset activation capability'.
Telstra recently signed a contract with IT provider Aldiscon to deliver short messaging service (SMS) capability to the carrier's CDMA network by November 1999.
The CDMA SMS capability will 'mirror' the SMS available on Telstra's GSM network which Aldiscon also delivered, said Max Jennings, project manager, CDMA at Telstra.
Greg Young, product manager of CDMA, Telstra, said there were many advantages to having the same SMS service provider for both networks"It will be a lot easier to interconnect [Telstra's GSM and CDMA SMS] systems," he said.
Moreover, Telstra staff was familiar with the product, he said.
In addition, Telstra is currently negotiating a six-figure contract with IT services provider Sema Group for the provision of 'over the air handset activation capability', as part of the carrier's CDMA rollout.
'Over the air' technology allows carriers to upload information such as serial numbers to mobile phones through a telephone call from the handset to a customer service centre. The capability could also be used to upload applications to the phone.
Meanwhile, Telstra's CDMA rollout continues apace. The mobile network became operational in Melbourne and Sydney earlier this month. It was launched across Brisbane mid month, and will be switched on in Adelaide and Perth this week.