Airwide Solutions has unveiled a new version of its AirMessenger Router, which it says is the only open-standards-based, intelligent messaging router that enables mobile operators to safeguard subscribers from unwanted spam and viruses. AirMessenger Routers enhanced flexibility and security support the Airwide Fusion tiered architecture that allows operators to quickly and affordably launch new revenue-generating services to meet subscriber demand.
The Asian market is especially appealing to spammers because of the fact that Asian subscribers have access to unlimited data tariffs, and in many cases, subscribers phone numbers translate directly in a standard email address. The extent of the problem is underscored by new legislation such as Singapores Spam Control Act, which took effect on 15 June, in which the city-state seeks to control unsolicited advertising. Under terms of the Singapore legislation, marketers based in Singapore convicted of spamming can be fined up to S$1 million (330,000). Singapore joins other countries in the region, including Australia, South Korea and Japan, which have already implemented anti-spam legislation.
In response to this market need, AirMessenger Router leverages the common open policy service (COPS) protocol, which provides an industry-standard interface that operators can use to connect to high-performing third-party spam, content and virus filters, without having to spend time and money custom-coding the interface. AirMessenger Router gives operators the option of using built-in anti-fraud and anti-spam capabilities, or using third-party solutions that suit their specific needs.
Mobile operators can now use AirMessenger Router to block spam messages that, for example, could launch unwanted handset updates that could corrupt subscribers phones, requiring expensive repairs. Operators will also be able to protect subscribers from fraud schemes in which a fraudster impersonates a legitimate subscribers identity for the purposes of sending viruses or other destructive behavior.
AirMessenger Router also enables operators to deploy home network routing environments that streamline communication with third-party networks, ensuring subscribers can send and receive messages accurately, and with the preferences they have on their home networks. AirMessenger Router delivers user-defined spam filter settings and allows subscribers to continue to utilise other types of personalised ringtones and SMS services, even when roaming on another operators network. This unique combination of home network routing and COPS, as enabled by the new version of AirMessenger Router, allows operators to offer new value-added services to message recipients, protecting subscribers and reducing churn. This ability to add value and enhance user-defined control is a key element of Mobile Messaging 2.0, the emerging definition of next generation mobile messaging.
AirMessenger Router builds on Airwides Fusion architecture by giving operators the option of deploying an intelligent router that can deliver most messages on first attempt, without incurring costs and delays for unnecessary storage. The Fusion architecture breaks up monolithic messaging infrastructures into tiers, including storage, access and delivery, control, and applications. Airwides evolving product portfolio addresses each of these tiers through componentised offerings that provide unprecedented scalability and support multiple messaging types. In addition to AirMessenger Router, Airwides componentised offerings include AirMessenger Store and AirGate.
Customers want more control over their messaging services, including the ability to filter out spam, viruses and inappropriate content says Airwide Chief Technology Officer, Vince Kadar. Operators want to provide those services cost effectively and still increase average revenue per user. This version of AirMessenger Router lets operators use standards-based devices to capitalise on new revenue opportunities and strengthen their market position.