MTS launches MTS Connect messenger

MTS announced the launch of MTS Connect app for calls and message exchange.

Vedomosti writes today that the app is based on RCS (Rich Communication Services) standard and can become an alternative to Skype and Viber.

From December 14, MTS app will be available for download for Moscow subscribers - owners of Android and iOS smartphones. With MTS Connect they will be able to make IP calls, exchange messages and files and take part in group chats.

J’son & Partners Consulting analysts assess annual losses of Russian mobile operators from mobile messengers at RUB 15-20bln or about 2% from the revenue. RCS service launch is one of the responses to the threat, they think.