MetroPCS and Kodiak Networks have jointly solicited press releases today announcing the launch of a new type of push to talk service.
Kodiak is well-known for its celluar-based push to talk solutions that serve AT&T, US Cellular, and Alltel as well as handset manufacturers. The new service completely dispenses with specialized hardware and software combinations and functions in line with a standard walkie-talkie regardless of handset, and is compared to instant messaging by Kodiak and as a social networking tool by MetroPCS.
The service functions by contacting other wireless or landline subscribers regardless of carrier and sending an invitation to participate in the conference, instructing the requested parties to begin speaking by pressing any key to begin, and releasing to hear the response, which is identical to a dedicated push to talk service.
It also features options similar to instant messaging services such as real-time status indicators and contact lists. The feature is now available from MetroPCS as ChatLINK and unlimited use of the service is $5 a month on top of standard service plan charges.
You might also like...
Looks like every carrier is getting in the ptt game, DOrA for Sprint and Vzw better step up. Kodiak works off network, doesn’t it?
Unlike iDEN and DirectTalk, both QChat and the new Kodiak ptt service require the service provider back end before the respective services can be used.
the kodiak PTT is actually not the first clientless push to talk application. Palringo (www.palringo.com) has been offering a mobile IM client that includes IM chat, push to talk and picture messaging. simply download the palringo client onto your device (ANY network), tell your friends to sign up a well (again, on ANY network) and you can instantly share messages, pictures and chat to them anytime
Yes, but it is the first carrier-endorsed PTT solution that is clientless. Anyone can make a “clientless” anything. Until it’s supported by a carrier, it’s not going to have a sustainable following.
Will the Kodiak solution be able to interact directly with the other ptt’s or is it making a backdoor thru the net?
The MetroPCS bridge only works with other Kodiak-based providers. As noted in the article, that includes AT&T, US Cellular, and Alltel.
I read the link can be made with land lines