Date:05/01/2006 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2006/01/05/stories/2006010500781900.htm

Back Tata Indicom launches new wireless service in Kerala

Our Bureau

Kochi , Jan. 4

TATA Indicom today launched a new wireless service for home and small office users in Kerala, offering cheaper rates and more facilities.

Called `Indicom 10', the service will be available only in small towns and rural areas in the State, said Mr M.A. Madhusudan, Chief Operating Officer of Tata Teleservices — Tamil Nadu and Kerala circles.

Indicom 10 service comes with a wireless desktop phone that can be installed anywhere within the State where Tata Indicom network is available, Mr Madhusudan said.

The service has 10-digit numbers like in other mobile phone services.

This distinguishes the Indicom 10 services from other fixed wireless services offered by Reliance Infocomm, BSNL and Tata Indicom itself.

While other fixed wireless service phones are not to be carried around by the subscriber under the telecom rules, Indicom 10 can be taken around within the State, just like a normal mobile phone, Mr Madhusudan said.

"We are targeting home users and small offices that need a desktop phone," he said.

Across the State, users of Indicom 10 can make a call at 90 paise per minute.

The service is available only as prepaid connections. Initial charges comprise Rs 1,650 as activation charges and Rs 1,100 recharge coupon that is valid for 90 days.

The telephone has features such as polyphonic ring tones, speaker phone, SMS, caller line identification and phone book to store 300 numbers.

Mr Madhusudan said since Tata Indicom's launch in Kerala in January last, the company has achieved a subscriber base of 2.5 lakh in Kerala, including fixed wireless and mobile phone customers.