The GSM Association (GSMA) has revealed that the worlds first interoperable enhanced communication service, incorporating key elements of the GSMAs Rich Communication Suite (RCS) specifications, is now a live commercial service in S. Korea. The GSMAs RCS initiative is supported by some of the worlds leading handset vendors, core network vendors and mobile operators, including KT and SK Telecom, who joined the initiative to provide an interoperable service solution in S. Korea.
The services offered by the three S. Korean operators include KTs show moov, SK Telecoms Mobile Messenger and LG Telecoms OZ messenger. These services commercialise key features of RCS, such as phonebook-driven buddy lists; presence capability that includes taglines and status; and voice calls and messaging.
KTs show moov client application is available for mobile and PC platforms, enabling users to access RCS services from mobile and fixed terminals, which is a key feature of the RCS specifications developed by the GSMA. In addition, SK Telecom and KT are actively collaborating with fixed-line services. SK Telecom s mobile messenger, for example, is linked with one of Koreas most popular messenger services, Nate On Messenger.
We are delighted that three leading mobile operators in South Korea, KT, LG Telecom and SK Telecom, have together launched the worlds first commercial service incorporating key elements of the GSMA's Rich Communication Suite, ssays GSMA CMO, Michael OHara. We live in a world where users want to access and share information at any time, any place and from any device, and the GSMAs RCS initiative provides operators with the ability to launch a variety of new and enhanced communication services that fulfils this need.
The GSMA says its RCS initiative will provide an exciting, feature-rich portfolio of communication services that operators will be able to offer their customers. RCS unleashes the communities hidden in a users phone book and with one simple click, enabling the user to share lifestyle experiences and emotions using rich content such as images and video amongst their closest buddies.
Developed by the collaborative efforts of leading mobile operators, vendors and telecommunication companies, RCS service features for the end user include an Enhanced Address Book with presence and capability indications; Rich Call facilities to exchange different types of content during a call; and Rich Messaging that expands on traditional instant messaging.
SK Telecom and KT are active participants in the GSMAs RCS initiative. The GSMA says their interoperable commercial services in S. Korea will provide significant opportunities for feedback, which will assist the creation of new use , s the RCS specification focus moves into the PC-to-mobile domain.  
Further announcements on RCS trials and launched commercial services are expected around the world in the coming year.