Netherlands: Gemalto, the world leader in digital security, announces that INWI has rolled out LinqUs SIMessenger, the mobile instant messaging solution that enables users to keep in touch with their community while on the go. INWI is the dynamic new mobile operator in Morocco that has recorded strong growth since its inception in February 2010, signing up close to 4 million subscribers in one year. Gemalto’s LinqUs SIMessenger is the world’s first Microsoft-certified UICC-based application, enabling mobile chatting through any handset.

LinqUs SIMessenger offers an intuitive menu that allows subscribers – using any type of basic or smart handsets – to access their Windows Live Messenger environment with an experience similar to what they get when accessing it from a PC. Its user-friendly interface enables quick and easy navigation, so that users retrieve the messaging service they are familiar with while on the move. It requires no service education, thus guaranteeing high usage.

INWI’s rollout of LinqUs SIMessenger has met with huge success – the operator has already surpassed the 250,000 milestone for passes sold every month since commercial launch in February 2010. As a result INWI has been able to enhance its brand image as an innovative player thanks to this compelling service.

« Building on the growing usage of social networking in Morocco, INWI is answering a strong market demand with LinqUs SIMessenger,” commented Frédéric Debord, CEO of INWI. “Gemalto’s operated services have enabled us to reduce time to market, sign up a significant number of new subscribers, and received very positive feedback. Our customers do appreciate being able to chat from their mobile phone in a very simple way, regardless of their handset model.”

« As a new mobile operator growing in the Moroccan market, INWI aims to differentiate. Gemalto is committed to supporting INWI in offering value-added services to all of its customers, regardless of their handsets,” added Jean-François Schreiber, senior vice president, Software and Services with Gemalto. “INWI is first in Morocco to launch the LinqUs SIMessenger – the only solution that works on 100% of handsets – creating new revenue flow and contributing to customer loyalty for them.”