Fixed Mobile Convergence

Emitac Mobile Solutions, a Dubai-based BlackBerry (News - Alert) device distributor for 33 countries, announced it has selected NAVTEQ as Tier One supplier for its Middle East operations.

NAVTEQ is a provider of maps, traffic and location data, location based services and mobile advertising. EMS has plans to provide value addition to BlackBerry smartphones by adding NAVTEQ (News - Alert) maps and Appello's online mobile navigation solution Wisepilot. Babar Khan, CEO of EMS has stated that their relationship with NAVTEQ is a confirmation of their commitment to provide more value to their customers and large network partners.

EMS has been providing BlackBerry end-to-end services to 40 operators in the region. It has incorporated a virtual preload agreement that permits additional over-the-air applications that can be activated by the consumer. When the user accepts the License Agreement and operates the 'download' button, the actual application gets installed.

NAVTEQ is well placed to support EMS in the wireless arena because of its broad experience in developing marketing programs that can promote navigation. Yiannis Moissidis, vice president, MEA sales at NAVTEQ stated that they will be able to help EMS to provide the benefits of their navigation solution to both operators and the retail users. It also gives an opportunity for NAVTEQ to reach a large number of mobile operators in association with EMS.

The navigation bundle on offer includes maps of Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and UAE and other worldwide maps are made available and can be purchased as required.

NAVTEQ is a Chicago-based company and has 203 offices in 45 countries. It provides digital location content that can be used in automotive navigation systems. It has other uses in portable and wireless devices and internet mapping applications.

EMS provides mobile operators implementation and technical support services for the BlackBerry wireless platform. EMS helps operators to increase value of their investment in mobile technology.