Nokia Adds Voice Messages to SMS

Instead of tediously thumbing out a text message, consumers will soon be able to send short voice messages to fellow mobile users if Nokia has its way. With just a few clicks like standard SMS, "Nokia Xpress audio messaging" instantly records and sends a short message.

The company says the service adds a personal and creative touch to normal texting.

"For consumers, Nokia Xpress audio messaging combines ease of use, affordability, and adds a personal touch to greetings, congratulations, or allows to share a special moment like a grandchild's first words," said Juha Pinomaa, Nokia's vice president of mobile phones.

Although the new Xpress audio messaging utilizes a custom tailored user interface, Nokia says voice clips can be delivered to all MMS-enabled GSM handsets. The audio messages are stored on a phone like standard text messages, and can be replayed or shared at anytime.

"During studies, consumers perceived Nokia Xpress audio messaging as a quick and natural way of communication," said Pinomaa. "It was especially popular among young people as they were very creative when sharing audio messages with others."

For handsets that do not support Nokia's MMS standard, the company has designed a special gateway to transform Xpress audio into a format usable with legacy phones.

Nokia plans to introduce several new handsets with Xpress audio messaging later this year. However, the company has yet to sign up any wireless carriers to support the feature.