This new version of Messenger will have the same features as in a PC, such as viewing or blocking contacts, changing the status to on-line, off-line, absent or busy, and keeping several chat sessions open simultaneously. Each message sent to a contact using the service will cost 31 cents of a ‘real‘ (about 0.1 Euro). To experience Messenger over the mobile phone, there is no need to download an application or register for the service, users can access the Mundo Oi (Oi World) menu, select their type of user account and enter an address and password to make a connection. While the user is on-line on Messenger, it is still possible to make and receive calls as usual. Microsoft has over 39 million Windows Live Messenger users in Brazil, the largest base in the world. This innovation through Oi’s SIM card will create an additional channel, offering anytime, anywhere access. „“Oi is known for its value added services innovation based on SIM cards. This is one of the latest services we added to their SIM services portfolio““, stated Henry Trejgier, Latin America Marketing Director of Gemalto´s Telecom business unit. „“We´ve always believed in services capable of making our customers´ lives more convenient. They will access Windows Live Messenger in a simpler and faster manner, using the Oi Chip menu. Our partnership with Gemalto and Microsoft will provide a large scale service. This business has a great growth potential in Brazil, where 135 million people have mobile telephones, but only 44 million are connected to the internet““, says Gustavo Alvim, Oi VAS Director. remi.calvet@gemalto.com www.gemalto.com