Vodafone, Microsoft Launch SMS Search

Vodafone, Microsoft Launch SMS Search

Techtree News Staff, Apr 29, 2008 1856 hrs IST

To avail "SMS Search", all that Vodafone subscribers need do is type in their query as an SMS text message on their mobile handset and send it to 55060.

Vodafone and Microsoft India today announced the launch of "SMS Search" for Vodafone customers in India, powered by Microsoft Live Search. Together, Microsoft India and Vodafone aim to provide users a compelling mobile Internet experience, and help customers stay connected and informed, always.

To avail "SMS Search", all that Vodafone subscribers need do is type in their query as an SMS text message on their mobile handset and send it to 55060. The mobile originating SMS will be charged 30 paise per query. Live Search on Vodafone mobile is claimed to offer a complete search experience, enabling users search: on-portal or deck content like ring tones, images, articles, etc; local or directory information like restaurants; mobile sites including WAP sites; and in general, the Internet.

Vodafone claims they're offering unique features including local results based on the user's city location, keeping track of the user's search session 24x7, and delivering results formatted to match the user's phone capabilities. Development work to embellish the Live Search platform to deliver search service via SMS was done at the Microsoft India Development Center (MSIDC).

Currently, local search/directory information is available in eight metros including Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Ahmedabad. Twenty-one more cities are expected to go live soon.