The mobile phone operators have long dreamed of having their mobile users pay for goods and services via their mobile phone account. For years just one or two operators in countries offered such a service, but now it is starting to happen world-wide.

In the UK
Netsize, a Gemalto company that specialises in consumer mobile micro-payments and messaging solutions, has announced that its direct billing platform for in-app purchasing of games, applications or videos is now connected to all five of the UK's major mobile network operators (MNOs) after Telefónica's O2 joined.

The Netsize service allows subscribers to use their existing phone bills or prepaid balances to purchase digital content, applications and services direct from their handsets. The service is particularly aimed at those who don't want to give their bank account details online but are happy to share mobile phone information.

Netsize is recognized as an Accredited Payment Intermediary by Payforit, the independent organization created by the UK's MNOs to support the fast-growing market for direct billing for games, apps, videos, transit ticketing and other online digital offerings. Vending machines and public car parks are also potential target markets.

"With support from the UK's network operators, Netsize has created a single, seamless payment and billing solution that embraces virtually all of the country's mobile subscribers," said Frédéric Deman, general manager, Netsize. "Mobile operator billing offers a compelling alternative for those who don't have – or don't want to give – their bank account details when purchasing online or with their mobile. For end users, this means unrivalled security and convenience whichever mobile network operator they use."

World-wide
Deployed by 160 MNOs worldwide, the Netsize direct billing platform aims to overcome the inflexibility and transaction limits typically associated with charging via premium SMS texts. Service providers can therefore tailor pricing and subscription strategies to customer requirements while maximising return on investment (RoI).

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