Prepaid BlackBerry solution forthcoming

pay-as-you-go phone providers do not offer BlackBerrys or other smartphones. Yes, some do, but it’s rare. This is because of issues with charging prepaid mobile data. Alcatel-Lucent is developing a solution. This is a solution for providers, which will allow them to distribute software to users. This will track their minutes and their data usage, and let them know how much they have left in their prepaid account. So instead of a prepaid flat rate, which to some defeats the purpose of pay-as-you-go, Alcatel-Lucent is looking to introduce a method whereby you only pay for the minutes and the data you actually use.

“In line with Alcatel-Lucent’s strategy to provide extensive expertise in managed communication services, we are proud to develop and provide customers with prepaid options for BlackBerry smartphones. We hope this solution will enable more operators in high-growth economies to greatly expand their business opportunity”, said Michel Rahier, President of Alcatel-Lucent’s Carrier business. “We are proud of the work that has been done in partnership with Alcatel-Lucent to bring the BlackBerry solution to new markets and we look forward to expanding this relationship,” said Jim Balsillie, Co-Chief Executive Officer at Research In Motion. “We believe a prepaid option enabled by Alcatel-Lucent will add significant value for our operator partners and further broaden customer interest in BlackBerry smartphones.”

Of course, the technology isn’t developed quite yet, so we have a ways to go before launch. You’ll be sure to find updates here. [Earthtimes.org]]]>