Alcatel-Lucent plans to offer a prepaid option for the BlackBerry platform for operators in the wireless market.
It said the real-time, volume-based charging option will be customized for RIM’s BlackBerry smartphones and will integrate with operators’ existing networks, which will allow users to track the minutes and data they have used against the prepaid amount remaining in their account.
Michel Rahier, president of Alcatel-Lucent’s carrier business said the move is in line with the company’s strategy to provide expertise in managed communication services, particularly in high-growth economies.
Jim Balsillie, RIM co-chief executive, said: We are proud of the work that has been done in partnership with Alcatel-Lucent to bring the BlackBerry solution to new markets and we look forward to expanding this relationship.
Alcatel-Lucent and RIM already have a partnership for BlackBerry distribution in several countries across Eastern Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, including China, the world’s largest wireless market.
