SMS TRAVELS TO 90 COUNTRIES WITH OPTUS

Optus today announced its text messaging service had extended its reach to mobile users in 90 countries around the world.

Allen Lew, Managing Director Optus Mobile, said the expansion of its international short message service (SMS) meant customers could stay in touch with more loved ones living or travelling abroad.

"International SMS is a simple, discreet and cost effective way for mobile users on Optus' network to stay in touch with their friends, relatives and colleagues overseas.

"Our customers can now exchange SMS with friends and family using 223 network operators in 90 countries around the world.

"The recent addition of 71 networks in North American countries - such as the United States and Canada - was particularly significant. It gives our customers the opportunity to reach millions of additional mobile users via SMS," Mr Lew said.

The extension of Optus' international SMS service to North America was supported by an inter-carrier messaging platform provided by United States based company, InphoMatch.

The platform enabled messages sent or received by Optus customers to be converted between its global system for mobile (GSM) network, and the code division multiple access (CDMA) networks common in North American countries.

For further information on Optus visit: www.optus.com.au

For more information:
Cathy Knezevic
Optus Corporate Affairs
Tel: (02) 9342 5302