Airtel launches voice portal service in TN

Mobile service provider Airtel on Tuesday launched its voice portal ‘Airtel Ungal Choice’ in Tamil Nadu. The new service would enable customers to access and download value-added services including music. Airtel is also planning to launch its DTH service in Puducherry in the next two weeks.

Speaking to reporters after launching the service, Rajiv Rajgopal, chief executive officer – Tamil Nadu, Airtel, said the new service will allow users to download music, jokes, comedy, folksongs and news. Airtel has tied up with OnMobile Global Ltd to offer the service. The company is also planning to add new services include tips for women, recipes, Thirukkural and literature.

Currently, value-added service, including SMS, contributes 8-10 per cent to the company’s revenues, Rajgopal said.

Anirban Ghosh, chief operating officer (mobile services), Tamil Nadu, Airtel, said of the 67.5 million mobile users 34 per cent were youth. Of this, only 2 per cent or 7 million users possess highend mobiles, while 39 per cent or 117 million and 59 per cent or 175 million use mid-end and low-end mobiles respectively.

Airtel DTH is currently available in Chennai, Coimbatore, Tirupur, Madurai, Tiruchy, Salem and Erode in the state. By December end, the service will be launched in Puducherry, he added.