SMS SPEAK - A NEW LANGUAGE HITS THE STREETS

An entirely new language is being created as a result of the short message service (SMS) craze currently sweeping GSM mobile users around Australia.

Whether it is sending a simple text message like CU2Nite or a question to a friend such as WANT 2 CATCH UP 2MORO? - SMS speak is proving to be a hip, fun and easy way for GSM mobile users to stay in touch without having to make a voice call.

"With Optus SMS you can talk without talking. It's an easy and inexpensive way to keep in touch," said Finola Thompson, General Manager, Mobile Internet & Data, Cable & Wireless Optus.

"With SMS there is no need for phones to ring in movies or meetings. Nor do you have to take a call if you don't want to be heard. Now you can keep in touch on the quiet," she said.

Since the launch of SMS in the United Kingdom and Europe, young people have been spending an increasing amount of time not talking on their mobile phones. Rather, they have been sending amusing and clever SMS speak messages in a craze that has seen the number of text messages rise by 33 per cent each month.

"SMS messages are short and simple - and sometimes even sweet. They are great for business people who need to stay in touch while on the move or in meetings. Others use SMS to arrange their social life or send greetings to friends and family," she said.

Similar in style to the telegram talk of an earlier age, SMS speak has resulted in some clever verbal shorthand as users keep the length of messages to a minimum. SMS messages can be up to 160 characters in length.

Some of the most popular SMS speak messages sent by Optus mobile users include:

Sending an Optus SMS is free until 31 May 2000. From 1 June 2000, Optus SMS will be 20 cents per message sent. Optus has automatically given its GSM mobile customers, except pre-paid customers, the ability to send SMS. Optus pre-paid customers can receive but not send messages.

For more information or photography:
Amanda Galmes
Blackie McDonald
Phone: (02) 9929 0200

Louise Ingram
Cable & Wireless Optus
Phone: (02) 9342 5042