Microsoft and Qatar Telecom (Qtel) have entered into a strategic alliance to bring together integrated cloud-based services, software applications, mobile services and devices over Qtel’s converged network.
The alliance aims to expand Qtel’s service portfolio, to help redefine the digital work style and lifestyle of their subscribers. Under the alliance, the companies are also planning to engage in various work streams that include joint sales and marketing, solutions collaboration, and corporate citizenship initiatives. The companies plan for the first products to be introduced in the market by mid-2010.
In its first phase, Qtel and Microsoft plan to run mobile e-learning pilot projects in Kuwait, Qatar and Oman aimed at providing students and teachers with the ability to communicate, collaborate and access various educational services, using Windows Phone and the Windows Live platform. Other services contemplated under this alliance include the delivery of value-added services across the PC, phone, TV and gaming .
Nasser Marafih, chief executive officer of Qtel, said: This is an important alliance that will deliver world-leading services and applications from Microsoft over Qtel’s world-class networks to make a real difference in people’s lives – all made available through a seamless one-click, one-touch user experience. Qtel’s efforts will add a distinct element of mobility and connectivity to enrich the overall experience for people, to make the technology truly come alive.
For businesses, Qtel will deliver unified communications offerings – a combination of telephony, e-mail, mobility, conferencing, collaboration and tools like ‘presence’ – to fuel a sense of real possibility and potential across the region.
