Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNO) Made Easy Thanks to Sonopia

[Mike Temporale]

<div class='os_post_top_link'><a href='http://www.businessweek.com/technology/content/apr2007/tc20070402_894285.htm?chan=top+news_top+news+index_technology' target='_blank'>http://www.businessweek.com/technology/content/apr2007/tc20070402_894285.htm?chan=top+news_top+news+index_technology</a><br /><br /></div><i>"Sonopia, launched publicly on Apr. 2, promises to turn any group—be it a church, sports team, or nonprofit—into what's known in industry parlance as a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO). Setup is simple, says Christensen. Working through Sonopia, a group signs up online and can offer wireless service delivered via the Verizon Wireless network and can provide branded handsets and a wide selection of calling packages. Sonopia also lets operators offer personalized content and tailored social networking features such as blogging and photo-sharing."</i> <br /><br />This sounds like a great idea. I would like to see more carriers supported and not just Verizon, but it's a start. I imagine we'll be seeing a lot of local clubs and charity organizations picking up on this. We could even do a Smartphone Thoughts MVNO - Now that would be cool. :D

[edgar]

I suspect that as they expand they will look to other countries and other technologies. It only makes sense. But as a startup I bet it would be difficult to secure two MNO's in one country at launch? This isnt just selling a handset from what I see. I mean, they'd have to have enough business to placate the first, and attract the second wouldnt they?

We should start smartphonethoughts Sonopia - very cool! Another medium for Jason to conquer!