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dGlobe launches mobile-landline convergence service in CebuCEBU CITY, May 27, 2009 (Asia Pulse Data Source via COMTEX) -- ? Globe Telecom has launched in Cebu its mobile-landline convergence service called Globe Duo which combines the features of mobile and landline phones in one service which an executive described as the best phone for an entrepreneur. Manny Aligada, Globe consumer wireless business group-customer engagement head, said the Globe Duo allows the entrepreneur or any subscriber to reach and be accessible to customers and suppliers anytime and anywhere. ?But they won?t spend a lot on phone bills because the Duo allows unlimited calls to any landline of any service provider within the area code where he or she is registered,? he said. Catherine Palanca-Santamaria, Globe segment business group head, said that apart from the monthly payment subscription for postpaid subscribers, calls made by a Duo user to a landline and those between two Duo users are not imposed additional charges. Any landline can also call a Duo number free of charge. However, when the Duo user travels to another place and calls a landline number in the area where he is registered, the call will be charged regular mobile national direct dialing (NDO)rates. The Duo is initially available for Cebu and Manila only. At present, it is only offered to existing Globe postpaid subscribers, but Globe consumer wireless business chief Ferdinand dela Cruz said the prepaid Duo service will be made available first in Cebu starting Monday. Globe will introduce the service to Tagbilaran City, Bohol and Roxas soon and to other areas in the country within the year. ?It will become a benchmark service and even change the landscape of mobile service in the country,? said dela Cruz during the Duo?s launch in Cebu last Thursday. The Duo uses the same network being utilized by Globe?s wireless service. Dela Cruz said though Globe invested in upgrading the company?s existing network to be able to provide the service. Globe officials declined to state the amount of the investment. Nikko Acosta of Globe said the Duo is the first-of-its kind innovation in the country that signifies the convergence of mobile and landline services. Dela Cruz said mobile Internet usage will grow as cellular phones that allow such application are becoming cheaper. He is optimistic the Duo service will have high take-up in the market. |