Spain’s three main mobile network operators - Movistar, Orange and Vodafone - have each launched Rich Communication Services (RCS) through the GSMA’s consumer-facing joyn brand. It means that Spain has become the first country to offer this type of cross-network rich communications solution to mobile phone users.
The three networks are currently offering joyn services via an Android app, with an iOS version due shortly. In addition, joyn-embedded handsets are expected to go on sale in Spain early next year.
joyn, which was launched at Mobile World Congress this year, lets customers send images or video during voice calls regardless of the user’s network or mobile device. It works on mobile and WiFi networks and will be capable of supporting voice over IP and video calls in near future.
Michael O’Hara, Chief Marketing Officer at the GSMA, said “The GSMA is delighted that joyn services are now available across Spain, giving customers a greater choice of communication possibilities without compromising the quality and security they have come to expect from their mobile operator. This initial implementation of a new technology clearly required a major effort and strong leadership in the alignment of the ecosystem of manufacturers, developers and integrators, and operators. Consumers across the world will benefit from the leading efforts of these three operators in Spain.”
Vodafone has already launched joyn on its network in Germany and MetroPCS has launched joyn in the USA.