Telecom regulator gives details on new SMS codes

The ODTR has announced details of a new and enhanced SMS service which will allow for a range of new mobile services to be offered by both mobile operators and service providers.

The ODTR is to open up dedicated 5-digit codes which will be available from mid February, 2002.

This framework will allocate an initial set of the new short codes to the operators and service providers, allowing the operator to provide the service more rapidly.

Initially, 4,100 codes will be offered with another 4,900 being available for opening as soon as the first are consumed.

The new services could include event driven content, travel information, ringtone downloads, gaming, competitions and other uses.

According to the regulator Etain Doyle: "These new services will initially be offered on existing SMS systems but are likely to advance into enhanced SMS services and then 2.5G and 3G systems.

"These new services will be accessible by dialling a short 5-digit code [e.g.59999]. The choice of what the operator is offering may be further refined by including a selected keyword at the start of the text message [e.g.World cup, the service offered by the operator could include match updates]."

According to the Regulator, Ireland is likely to be the first country in Europe with a fully comprehensive framework developed for the provision of such services.