We think the existing voice portals can definitely make use of this, said Phone2Networks CEO Mike Bergelson. Their buddies will see them as logged on and available for instant messages. Users send messages by calling into the Phone2IM system, then recording audio messages for their online buddies. Buddies reply to Phone2IM messages as they would any other instant message. The replies are sent to the Phone2IM user as either synthesized speech or as text messages on a mobile phone or pager.
Users can broadcast messages to groups of buddies with one phone call.
Bergelson said Phone2Networks is currently negotiating a Series A round of financing, which he said should close next January. Copyright 2001 INT Media Group, Incorporated All Rights Reserved.