ZER01 unlimited usage plan stalled upon launch
ZER01 has officially launched it’s all-in service package offering unlimited voice and data use for $70 a month. The only problem is that it’s not actually possible to sign up to the deal yet.
The system, which is initially limited to Windows Mobile devices, is designed to eliminate the need for a service contract. It’s a pre-paid monthly fee which covers all data usage and domestic calls. For an extra $10 a month customers will be able to make international calls as well.
There are two key points which allow the system to work. The first is that the company has signed interconnect deals with multiple networks, taking the gamble that the monthly subscriptions will outweigh the fees it has to pay the networks. The firm says these deals also mean its customers will have the best possible coverage across the country.
The second key to the system is that voice calls are routed through a data connection, similar to Skype. Unlike most such voice-over-internet-protocol systems, ZER01’s can work with GRPS and EDGE connections. Customers download an application to their phone upon signing up to the scheme and should be up and running within five minutes.
Thought ZER01 is selling a range of three handsets, it expects most customers will supply their own phones. It hopes to have the system available for BlackBerry, Android and iPhone devices soon.
Unfortunately anyone wanting to use the new service will have to wait. Although it has launched, ZER01 isn’t taking direct subscriptions. Instead today is the first day it is accepting partnerships which will allow mobile virtual network operators to resell the service. An MVNO is a company which sells mobile phone services but doesn’t operate its own network.
At the moment only one firm, Buzzirk Mobile, has signed up and it won’t be offering services until mid-August. The firm is charging $10 above the list price, which appears to be funding an affiliate scheme: Buzzkirk is offering ‘distributor’ positions in return for a $15 fee, with a commission of $10 a month for each new customer the distributor introduces to the firm.
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July 17th, 2009
can there technology actually work and be launched on a mass scale? So far no one has service yet.