DUBLIN -- Mobile Tornado, one of the leading companies in 'push to talk' technology, has been bought out by an Irish led team of investors and has opened its international HQ in Dublin, Ireland.
In addition Mobile Tornado plans to open two R&D centres in Ireland.. This new Irish software company which bought out the Israeli firm, has raised some EUR10m through private investors, including Peter Wilkinson, multi millionaire founder of Freeserve, Planet Online and Sports Internet. Former head of new media at BskyB, John Swingewood has been appointed Chairman. Mobile Tornado will deploy a 'push-to-talk' application later this year in Asia.
Push To Talk technology allows users to connect directly to other mobile phone users by simply pressing a button on their phone. It is akin to a walkie-talkie, but without the boundaries. There is no need to dial a number. Users can be make calls to both individuals and talk groups with just a push of a key. It is unique since it uses existing infrastructure to deliver a new user experience.
"Push To Talk is likely to be the biggest development to hit the wireless industry in recent years," said Mark Horne (CEO, Mobile Tornado). "It further expands the utility of the mobile phone and opens up a new channel of communication. It benefits the value-conscious consumer as much as the corporate user. Mobile Operators are interested in the technology as it will boost ARPU."
Mobile Tornado Ltd.