The largest mobile operator in Russia and CIS, Mobile TeleSystems (MTS) has launched MTS Connect, a Rich Communications Services (RCS)-based OTT (over-the-top) service for making calls, sending messages and sharing files. MTS’s investments in the project, including the purchase of servers, development of the RCS app and enhancement of the equipment already installed on the operator’s network amounted to RUB 100 million, said the operator in a statement.
Starting next Monday, the MTS Connect app will be available for download free of charge for MTS customers in Moscow on iOS and Android smartphones. MTS plans to expand the service to other regions throughout Russia and the CIS next year. MTS notes that calls and messages on the MTS network via MTS connect will not be charged separately inside Russia or on international roaming, but instead will follow the existing data tariff plan.
RCS is a global platform that enables the delivery of communication experiences beyond voice and SMS, providing consumers with instant messaging or chat, live video and file sharing across various devices, on any network – 2G/3G/LTE or WiFi. By simply enabling RCS on their device, users can more broadly communicate with other RCS users through traditional mobile network products or via RCS.
