3HK connects video communication to Vfone
February 23, 2004
3 Hong Kong, CK Communications and Hutchison Global Communications ("HGC") joined forces to connect video communications between 3 and Vfone in Hong Kong, marking a major technological breakthrough. This is a key milestone in video communications and is the first time in the world that a video phone has been successfully connected to a 3G video mobile phone. No IDD charges will be involved for 3 users to make video calls with overseas Vfone users. Plans are in place to extend this pioneering connection between 3 and Vfone to other countries, further establishing a global network and community extensively using video-based communications. To promote the benefits brought by this novel video connection, attractive special offers have been launched exclusively for 3 and Vfone customers.
3 is the first and the only 3G operator in Hong Kong to provide video mobile communications services, while Vfone is the a provider of broadband video communications services. The connection between 3 and Vfone ("3V connection") is poised to speed up the adoption of video communications. The "3V" connection brings great benefits and progress:
Visionary - : A technological breakthrough that facilitates the rapid development
of the global video communications network, as well as promotes
a new mode of living
Video - : Face to face communications bring people closer as geographical
barriers become insignificant
Value - : Enables cost and time savings; enhances the quality of
life and improve efficiency
The "3V" connection brings a number of major advantages for 3 and Vfone users:
- No IDD costs will be involved for video calls between 3 and overseas Vfone
users
- 3 users can conduct remote surveillance through Vfone anytime
and anywhere
- Vfone users can make video calls to 3 users whenever they like
Agnes Nardi, Managing Director of 3 Hong Kong said, "It is always our vision to bring everyone an uncommon lifestyle in the new video communications world in which people can stay connected to one another anytime anywhere through face to face video call, not just voice. The launch of this world-first video communications service between 3 video mobile phone and Vfone can further enhance the video communications frontier, enabling the mass public to video call 3 users in the most user-friendly way via a simple dial from the Vfone. We can envision that video calling will not only be a new mode of communication, but also fast become part of our everyday life."
"The convergence of video, voice and data communications is driving forward a new era in the way humans communicate with each other, whether from wired or wireless devices. Video communications is an emerging trend that is here to stay as people benefit from the ease and enjoyment of face to face interaction, without the geographical barriers. The '3V' connection allows our Vfone customers to make video calls to 3 users from the convenience of their homes, offices and beyond," said Gerald Ma, Director of CK Communications.
Peter Wong, Chief Executive Officer of HGC said, "We are honoured to join forces with 3 Hong Kong and CK Communications to climb new heights in the realm of video communications technology. The groundbreaking '3V' connection clearly evidences the flexibility and capability of our full fibre optic network. We are pleased to bring customers additional cost savings and benefits with this exciting new development".
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