No need to feel shy this Valentine's Day: a survey conducted by Optus Mobile reveals that 37 per cent of people say they would be excited to receive an SMS asking them out on a date.

Just seven per cent revealed they would feel frustrated due to not knowing know how to reply using SMS.

Optus Mobile Marketing Director Stuart Tucker believes the younger generation would be more adventurous this Valentine's Day.

"In our ongoing market research we've found that many young people see SMS and MMS as an extension of conversation. The 16 - 21 year old age bracket tell us they are just as likely to ask someone out via SMS as they are to break up with them via SMS," he said.

Whether Valentine's Day hails the end or beginning of a relationship, Optus expects a busy day on its mobile network. It is one of the three busiest days for sending SMS behind Christmas Day and New Year's Eve.

"Given our subscriber base has expanded by 15 per cent since this time last year, and the fact that February 14 falls on a work day this year, we expect more than ten million MMS and SMS to be sent on Valentine's Day," Mr Tucker said.

For those who need inspiration, Optus Zoo has a range of Valentine's messages including wallpapers, romantic ring tones, mobile cards, sound FX, wallpapers, logos and animated screensavers ready to send to loved ones. Samples of the animated mobile Valentine's Day cards will be sent to Optus Zoo subscribers.

Singles can join the fun too as Optus has added RSVP, one of Australia's leading dating services, to its range of mobile content available on Optus Zoo (www.optuszoo.com.au). Optus Zoo subscribers can use their mobile phone to create and store their own RSVP profile and search for their ideal partner.

For more media information:
Sarah Blakers
Optus Corporate Affairs
Tel: 02 9342 7363