Nokia (NOK) has signed a contract for the delivery of the Nokia Connect eRefill solution to Chinese mobile operator Jiangxi Mobile Telecommunication Company.

The solution allows the operator to offer account top up via SMS and balance transfer for its subscribers. Nokia Connect eRefill solution will enable the operator to implement micro prepaid services for its subscribers allowing mobile users with tight budgets to recharge their accounts and call more often. The service will cover the Jiangxi province.

The contract between Nokia and Jiangxi MCC marks a new Nokia Connect eRefill reference for Nokia and the first delivery of the Connect eRefill solution to the Chinese market. The deal includes systems integration services as well as servers, software, comprehensive customization, and Nokia NetAct Network and Service Management System -related features to which the Connect eRefill solution will be connected.

As a new and innovative mobile communications service, SMS-based e-refill is different from traditional voucher-based prepaid card service. By supporting recharging of small values, it is a cost-effective and flexible mobile service solution. Mobile subscribers can recharge their mobile phone prepaid accounts via SMS through the authorized distributors of Jiangxi MCC: this adds convenience and makes prepaid recharging more affordable. With the balance transfer functionality, subscribers can also send prepaid top-ups to their friends and family.

The deliveries will begin in mid-September. The trial system has already been implemented and is in pre-commercial use at the moment. The new commercial system is estimated to be operational in December.

Cooperation between Nokia and Jiangxi MCC began in 1995. Nokia has supplied several GSM network expansions to the operator.