Phones ringing at iTouch

Wilson and Horton announces...

As handy as your nearest telephone is a range of audio information services unveiled this week by iTouch New Zealand.

The company, which is majority owned by Independent News and Media PLC, owners of media group Wilson and Horton which owns the New Zealand Herald, regards voice information delivery as the first stage in its growth.

Over the next fortnight, iTouch will add personalised text messaging to mobile telephones, followed by wireless applications which will enable users to complete transactions using their phones.

Declan O'Callaghan, business development manager of iTouch, says the services now available include pre-recorded horoscopes plus Daily Keno and Lotto results at a cost of $0.99 a minute plus GST.

"We are bringing out new products almost every day," he said. "For example, we now have information on common legal matters such as drink driving, hire-purchase, and boundary disputes, as well as live numerology, astrology and tarot readings for $3.50 per call plus GST."

By the beginning of next week, iTouch users will be able to check surf conditions, motor vehicle ownership data, and real estate sales histories.

Some of the services are identical to those previously offered by Telecom's 0900 Access Services, which iTouch now owns.

O'Callaghan says deals have been signed with content providers for many more information products, including fishing, ski and weather reports, share prices and up-to-the minute sports results.

"The possibilities are fantastic," says O'Callaghan. "For example, with their cell phones, people will be able to ring Bill Hohepa, our fishing guru, from their boats and find out where the big ones are biting at that moment."

Each service uses a unique 0900 number, which is being advertised widely. In addition, people can contact iTouch customer service at 373 6534 for a list of numbers.