RealNetworks, a digital entertainment services company, announced that it has launched its emoticonSMS service to China Unicom's mobile subscribers.

RealNetworks said the service is now available to more than 10 million subscribers in the Sichuan and Chongqing regions. The new, advanced version of emoticonSMS -- branded xPressiveMMS by China Unicom -- incorporates graphics and photos into text messages, converting an SMS message into an MMS message automatically.

"Our subscribers continuously seek out the latest technologies and features, and we aim to stay one step ahead, offering them cutting-edge personalization options," said Li Weidong, general manager of VAS Department for Sichuan China Unicom. "We value RealNetworks' continuous innovation in mobile services, making them the obvious choice to work with us in launching this service."

Once a subscriber signs up for the service with China Unicom -- a mobile operator in China -- xPressive MMS will use keyword recognition technology to automatically enhance the SMS text messages by incorporating pictures, background images, background music or fonts, allowing subscribers to create messages for each of their contacts, every time.

"We are honored to be chosen to partner with China Unicom, helping them generate significant revenue while providing a fun, personalized mobile experience for its subscribers," said Jay Kim, VP, APAC & Music Business for RealNetworks Asia Pacific. "We look forward to further expanding our global market leadership into China by continuing to provide valuable services that are localized and customized to the various Chinese markets."

xPressive MMS subscribers can pay a flat fee for unlimited use or can pay as they go, the company noted in a release.

Source:ASCRIBE NEWS