Chinese firms ZTE and China Unicom are jointly launching a new online application service in Hong Kong. Entitled the “WoStore”, the service is a multi-device, multi-platform application store built by ZTE.
Already available in Shanghai, China, the WoStore service supports all open smartphone platforms - except for iPhone - as well as terminal devices such as tablet PCs and MIDs (mobile Internet devices). “Wo” is a 3G brand created by China Unicom to reach out to its mobile phone users.
The WoStore adopts mobile phone numbers as usernames and opens registration to all mobile phone users (including 2G or 3G users) of China Unicom's entire network. Upon successful registration, a user can browse, purchase, download, gift, recommend and add applications to their favourite folders on the WoStore portal.
The service leverages China Unicom’s range of 3G terminals and mobile applications, and is an important part of the company’s 3G portfolio. It follows on from the network operator’s Apple iPhone launch strategy this year.
“China Unicom is building an application store industry chain based on our mature WCDMA platform, bringing together developers, platform vendors and terminal vendors to provide all parties with rich content and applications,” said Mr. Lu Yimin, General Manager of China Unicom. “Our WoStore is created as a platform for innovation and sharing. We expect a great majority of developers and users to participate in the experience of China Unicom's WoStore.”
“With a unique advantageous WCDMA network, China Unicom is optimistic about the potential of its WoStore service,” said ZTE Vice President Yu Yifang.” ZTE is honoured to be the sole partner for the online service platform and to jointly promote this service with China Unicom in Hong Kong.”
Beside its inherent business value, the WoStore service is expected to grow China Unicom's 3G mobile Internet service penetration rate as well as cultivate more 3G user groups.
