Video messaging via MMS launched

The Hub, Globe Telecom’s retail outlet, recently launched video messaging via SMS (Short Messaging Service). The system upgrades the software of existing Nokia MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service) handsets such as the 7650 and 3650 which are already able to take digital photographs and send and receive them via MMS – an advanced form of text messaging with photos and sound added to the transmission.

The updated software transforms the handsets into video cameras able to capture around 10 seconds of video that can be stored on the handset, transferred to a PC or sent as a message via MMS.

"With Globe video messaging, we are offering our subscribers an innovative product. It is now possible for the first time to record moving images using a mobile phone and to send them to friends or business colleagues directly," said Hub area manager Gracielu Khoe.

The Globe video messaging service is initially available to new G-Plan subscribers who will purchase a Nokia 7650 handset at the Hub. The phone will be loaded with a free Globe video messaging software, which will allow them to capture video and send it to others with the same software and handset, unlike other upgrade software that only allows video recording but not sending.

During the press launch, Globe Telecom senior product manager Justine Camacho demonstrated how to use the video messaging feature. Simply go to the main menu, look for the Video Cam icon, select options, and press record.

After recording, the video will appear on the main page of the Video Cam screen. Use the joystick to highlight the chosen video, select send, press MMS, and send to the number of the person for whom the video message is intended. A video message sent costs P5.

Recorded video messages can also be sent via e-mail. Recipients only need to visit the myGlobe website and download the Nokia video player application to view the message.

The Globe video messaging software comes free with a new G-Plan subscription and purchase of a Nokia 7650 at the Hub until March 31.

This video messaging feature brings GSM users closer to the capabilities of 3G handsets that can transmit audio and video through broadband speeds on the 3G networks. As more camera-integrated handsets become the norm, we should expect to see continuous interest in MMS and video messaging.

Right now, there are a few handsets out there that have the capability plus the file size for video, which would require more bandwidth and would take longer to send than text messages. As the technology improves, users can expect the bandwidth to also improve and be able to support this new feature.