Ufone

Infobox Company
company_name = Pakistan Telecommunciation Mobile Ltd. (PTML),
Ufone
company_
vector_
company_type = Private
genre = Subsidiary
foundation = January 29, 2001
founder = Pakistan Telecommunication Company Ltd
location_city = Islamabad
location_country = Pakistan
location =
13-B, F-7 Markaz
origins =
key_people = Abdul Aziz, CEO
area_served = 2336 cities of Pakistan, GT Road, Super Highway & Motorway
industry = Telecommunication
products = "Pre Pay", "Post Pay"
revenue = loss Rs.5.1 billion PKR (first quarter 2006-07). [http://telecompk.wordpress.com/2006/11/12/ufone-profile-and-outlook/ Ufone: Profile and Outlook - State of Telecom Industry in Pakistan - Sunday, November 12th, 2006] ]
operating_income =
net_income =
num_employees =
parent = PTCL flagicon|Pakistan Pakistan
subsid =
owner =
company_slogan = Tum hi to hooo !
homepage = [http://www.ufone.com www.ufone.com]
dissolved =
footnotes =

Ufone GSM is a Pakistani GSM cellular service provider. It is one of six GSM Mobile companies in Pakistan and is a subsidiary of Pakistan Telecommunication Company.

Introduction

The company commenced its operations under the brand name of Ufone from Islamabad on January 29 2001. Ufone expanded its coverage and has added new cities and highways to its coverage network. After the privatization of PTCL, Ufone is now owned by Etisalat.

Company Profile

PTML is a wholly owned subsidiary of PTCL. established to operate cellular telephony. The company commenced its operations, under the brand name of Ufone from Islamabad on January 29 2001.

During the year, as a consequence of PTCL’s privatization, 26% of its shares were acquired by Emirates Telecommunication Corporation (Etisalat). Being part of PTCL, the management of Ufone has also been handed over to Etisalat. During the year July 2005 to June 2006, Ufone continued on the path to success. The Company further expanded its coverage and has added new cities and highways. Ufone has network coverage in more than 750 cities, towns and across all major highways of the country.

During the year Ufone successfully completed the network expansion of Phase 4 in existing as well as in new cities and towns which amounted to more than US Dollar 170 million. As a result the asset base of the Company has increased from Rs. 20 billion to Rs. 27 billion.

During the year Ufone adopted the policy of simplified tariffs with no hidden charges, which resulted in positive impacts on the usage trends of subscribers as well as total subscriber base, which has increased from 2,579k in June 2005 to 7,487k in June 2006. Ufone currently caters for international roaming to more than 195 live operators across 119 countries and introduced International roaming facility for Prepaid subscribers in Saudi Arabia, United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, Singapore, Portugal and Kuwait with lowest rates, featuring no security deposit and activation charges. GPRS Roaming facility is available with more than 75 Live Operators across 59 countries.

The company has also been awarded a new License for providing cellular services in Azad Jammu & Kashmir and the Northern Areas.

Operating PerformanceUfone’s operational performance has been very encouraging. Despite the stiff competition in Pakistan telecom market which has led to reduction of prices to bare minimum level, due to its aggressive policies and exercising strict control over expenses the Company managed to improve its revenue and after-tax profit by 87% and 54% respectively, as compared to last year.

Future PlansKeeping in view the growth potential of the cellular industry there is no option but to be aggressive in order to remain a potent force in the cellular industry. In order to extend cellular network to new cities, towns and highways and enhance its current installed capacities in existing cities, Ufone has finalized a huge network expansion contract amounting to about USD 550 million, which will enhance the subscribers’ capacity by 10 million. This is the largest ever expansion project of Ufone.

A strong focus will be on maintaining high quality of service, which is always a benchmark of Ufone, increasing usage and exploring new revenue streams on value added services, market visibility through various market initiatives to fulfill subscribers’ satisfaction and demand and above all to increase the value of investment for the shareholders.

Network Upgradation

Under the agreement, Huawei will provide its future-oriented EnerG GSM solution to expand Ufone's network to cover over 2200 cities, towns, villages and all major highways in the country. The network also allows Ufone subscribers to enjoy high-speed wireless data service.

The GSM contract for Ufone also include Huawei's new generation GSM dual density BTS that feature high integrated and receiving sensitivity to improve the network performance and lower the cost of network construction and O&M expenditure. In addition, Huawei will provide Mobile Softswitch solution based on the advanced R4 architecture to satisfy Ufone's network expansion requirements, enables the telecom service provider to evolve into 3G smoothly.

Privatization

The growth of the cellular sector in Pakistan can also be attributable to good governance policies of the government of Pakistan and the Privatization Commission. In April 2006, Emirates Telecommunication Corporation, which is commonly known as Etisalat, has assumed management control of Pakistan Telecommunication Corporation Ltd – part of the $2.6bn deal to buy a 26% stake in PTCL. The successful privatization of PTCL, and consequently Ufone, is hailed as ushering in a new era for telecommunications in Pakistan.

Now, under the management of Etisalat, Ufone will concentrate on customer needs and benefits and is more determined than ever to be the leading cellular player in the market. Ufone has been known for providing superb propositions and quality service to its customers. With the new expected investment, Ufone can now aggressively expand its network coverage. [ [http://www.ptcl.com.pk/aboutusc.php?NID=95 Ufone Privatization] ]

Key Accomplishments

Ufone has played a limited but significant role in the development of the cellular market in Pakistan. Whilst it is not seen as a leading edge innovator in the market, it was first to launch the GPRS services and Multi-media Messaging Service (MMS) and prepaid roaming in Pakistan.

BlackBerry

UFONE, EMS and RIM Launch BlackBerry in Pakistan

August 31st 2007, Islamabad - UFONE, the second largest GSM operator in Pakistan, Research In Motion (RIM) (Nasdaq: RIMM; TSX: RIM), a global leader in wireless innovation and Emitac Mobile Solutions (EMS) LLC, a strategic channel partner of RIM in the region, today announced the successful completion of testing of BlackBerry solution on UFONE’s network. Soon UFONE customers will be able to enjoy the BlackBerry offerings. The BlackBerry solution is an ideal tool for work and life, allowing users to stay connected to customers and employees while away from the office as well as friends and family while on the go. UFONE customers can enjoy trusted and popular BlackBerry solution’s features including: wireless access to email, phone, text messaging, browser, organiser and other mobile data applications. “The BlackBerry solution has become a must-have for business and personal communication and is popular with millions of users across the globe. UFONE has a vast base of rapidly expanding customers and this initiative will significantly help its corporate and individual customers in Pakistan” said Mubashir Naqvi, President and CEO UFONE. “BlackBerry is a great tool for success, keeping users connected to the people and content that is important to them. It offers great personal productivity gains and flexibility. We are committed to extending the global availability of the BlackBerry solution and pleased to be launching today to UFONE customers” said Charmaine Eggberry, Vice President and Managing Director of EMEA at Research In Motion. “BlackBerry, including smartphone, software and services, is a unique and powerful solution that enables users to stay connected whilst on the go. We are honoured to be working with a progressive operator like UFONE.” said Mr. Babar Khan, CEO of Emitac Mobile Solutions LLC. Designed for corporate customers, the BlackBerry Enterprise Server software tightly integrates with IBM Lotus Domino, Microsoft Exchange and Novell GroupWise and works with existing enterprise systems to enable secure, push-based wireless access to email and other corporate data. For individual, the BlackBerry Internet Service enables users to manage up to ten supported corporate and personal email accounts including most popular ISP email accounts from a single device.

About EMSEmitac Mobile Solutions (EMS) is a Dubai based solutions and service provider and RIM strategic channel partner focused on the delivery, implementation and support of BlackBerry Solutions. Delivered by an experienced team of mobile professionals, EMS provides the mobile operator with sales, marketing, distribution, solution implementation and technical support services for the BlackBerry wireless platform from Research In Motion (RIM). For organizations using the BlackBerry wireless platform, EMS provides the ability to rapidly create, deploy and manage robust client-server wireless applications that reduce an organization's total cost of ownership and significantly increases the value of their mobile technology investment. EMS is the region’s first Mobile Virtual Solutions Provider (MVSP) whose services are delivered through partnerships that the company has with mobile operators in the Gulf, North Africa and Eastern Europe. For more information about EMS please visit the Company website at http://www.emsmobile.com About Research In Motion (RIM)Research In Motion is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of innovative wireless solutions for the worldwide mobile communications market. Through the development of integrated hardware, software and services that support multiple wireless network standards, RIM provides platforms and solutions for seamless access to time-sensitive information including email, phone, SMS messaging, Internet and intranet-based applications. RIM technology also enables a broad array of third party developers and manufacturers to enhance their products and services with wireless connectivity to data. RIM's portfolio of award-winning products, services and embedded technologies are used by thousands of organizations around the world and include the BlackBerry wireless platform, the RIM Wireless Handheld product line, software development tools, radio-modems and software/hardware licensing agreements. Founded in 1984 and based in Waterloo, Ontario, RIM operates offices in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. RIM is listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market (Nasdaq: RIMM) and the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: RIM). For more information, visit www.rim.com or www.blackberry.com.

Performance

As mobile users in the country have reached over 78 million at a very rapid pace, Ufone has maintained itself as the 2nd largest cellular operator in Pakistan with a subscriber base of around 16.5 million and a market share of nearly 25%. Ufone has seen a subscriber growth rate of over 200% in the last year, and since the start of 2005 Ufone added nearly 5 million subscribers onto its network. A remarkable achievement indeed, especially considering the fact that two new international players also entered into the market in 2005. Subsequently the growth in subscriber base caused a healthy trend in revenues which have doubled. [ [http://www.ptcl.com.pk/aboutusc.php?NID=95 Ufone Performance] ]

Brand

While keeping its tradition of being the trend setter in the industry, Ufone changed the image of mobile phones from a luxury only affordable by the elite, to a necessity affordable by the common man. Since its inception, Ufone has positioned its brand for masses. In keeping with the upcoming competition and market dynamics, Ufone increased its focus on the youth segment (which comprises 50% of the population), with the Prepay brand. By designing market focused products, Ufone’s brand team launched aggressive campaigns, which further increased the brand equity. The new brand image gained huge popularity amongst the targeted market. A recent marketing survey conducted by a prominent marketing research company showed that Ufone has considerably increased its brand visibility and image. Ufone’s Prepay brand is now considered to be one of the most favored brands by the youth market and is followed by other mobile operators launching their respective brands for the youth market.

International Coverage

Ufone provides International Roaming facility with more than 150 international operators across 79 countries. Ufone has GPRS roaming agreements with several international operators and also provides prepaid roaming facility to selective destinations.

Customer Service

Ufone is proud to have an efficient and friendly customer service through 21 company-owned Sales & Customer Service Centers and nearly 250 franchisees across the country. The outlets are able to service the customers with innovative solutions, and are empowered with Web based franchise management systems. Ufone is poised to face the ever increasing challenges of the market and is confident it will attract new customers. It has the ability to retain its existing customer base with a high level of customer satisfaction via optimum network service and a 24 hour call center facility.

Network Coverage

Ufone has always believed in a solid commitment to growth, security and reliability. Therefore, Ufone has always balanced its expansion efforts and quality of service. With a total current investment of $400 Million.Ufone has been instrumental in the growth of the cellular market in Pakistan. It is a company committed to excellence. Under the new vision of Etisalat and with the support and collaboration of its employees and vendors, Ufone aspires to be the best in the market by offering customer focused products and a quality service and sales network.

Prepaid Service

Ufone markets its prepaid services as "Prepay". Ufone Prepay is more affordable. Its primary market is intended towards teenagers and students.

Ufone Call Block Service

Now block all unwanted calls!

For the first time in Pakistan, Ufone introduces Call Block Service. Now enjoy the freedom of control that will enable U to block all those obnoxious callers that keep disturbing U in your daily routines.

Call Block Service for Prepaid: Simply dial 420 from your Ufone and follow the simple instructions to block all unwanted callers! How to use this service. Dial 420 from your Ufone Press 1 to view the list of blocked callers Press 2 to add number to your blocked list Press 3 to delete number from your blocked list Press 4 to deactivate the service

With this service you can block any number from any network or landline number in Pakistan. You can block a Maximum of 20 numbers at a time. Charges:Monthly Subscription = Rs. 9.99+Tax Call Block Service for Pospaid: Now Postpaid subscribers can also avail the facility of blocking all unwanted calls. To subscribe to this service, simply SMS ‘SUB’ to 420. You will receive a link via SMS to download the application. Once the application is downloaded in your handset, you can start blocking all unwanted calls as and when you wish. Add numbers with the proper prefix to block unwanted calls e.g, 0333xxxxxxx, 0300xxxxxxx, 051xxxxxx etc. Charging will be on a per month basis. To unsubscribe this service SMS ’UNSUB’ to 420.

To check if your handset is compatible with Call Block Service Click here. Charges: Monthly Subscription = Rs. 9.99+Tax SMS Charges to 420 = Rs. 0.50 + tax Now you have the freedom to be totally in control off all the calls that come your way.

Scratch Card

Now recharging your Prepay account is easier and simpler then before with the most pocket friendly & affordable scratch card denominations.
[ [http://www.ufone.com/prepay_recharge.aspx Ufone Recharge Options] ] Denominations of Rs.100 and Validity of this card is 6 months
Denominations of Rs.250 and Validity of this card is 6 months
Denominations of Rs.500 and Validity of this card is 1 year
Denominations of Rs.1000 and Validity of this card is 1 year

Recharge Options Recharge your Prepay anywhere, any time you want with ease & convenience.Ufone Prepay offers you just that. Now recharge your account with our U Topup, Scratch Cards,U Loan, U Share, Electronic Vouchers, ATM or SMS.

U Tunes

Utunes was launched on 4th Dec2007 under the leadership of Mr Aatif Jamal Qidwai as per the guidance of his guru Mr. Aamer Ejaz. Utunes has proven itself to be hit amongst youngsters. UTunes brings the one stop where you everyone can find their favorite songs.

Thanks to UTunes which will never be the one asking others for the latest hit; in fact everybody will have everyone shaking to the latest grooves from around the world.

Postpaid Service

Postpaid services are marketed by the name "Postpay". These services are mainly targeted towards the business community of the country.

VPN - Personal Network

VPN – Personal Network provides customized solutions in accordance with the needs of corporate clientele.

Now you can communicate more effectively and enjoy unmatched benefits like: Discounted calls Control on all incoming and outgoing calls Private numbering plan

Ufone VPN lets you define your own Closed User Groups (CUGs) within your company and also lets you assign a private numbering plan within your closed user group.

Closed User GroupsClosed User Group comprises the following features, Restricts the user's calls Define the numbers that can be called Define the numbers from which calls can be received Each user can be a part of up to 10 CUGs CUGs can also be made across cities CUG do not determine charging Call Waiting On Net Call: Calls from one VPN user to another VPN user in the same VPN.

These calls will be charged at a discounted rate Off Net Call: Calls from a VPN number to a non-VPN number.These calls will be charged at the normal VPN rate

Private Numbering Plan

Through this feature each user can also be reached via a shorter number or private number. Each company can have its own Private Numbering Plan. VPN Users dialing Private Numbers will be charged at a discounted Airtime rate for calling On- Net.

VPN Features Direct to Voice Mail Call Lists Hotline

For details relating to VPN please contact your key account manager or call 333 from your Ufone or 111–333–100 from any landline number.

Mobile OfficeMobility offers many business advantages for the organizations, increased freedom and efficiency for the business user. Top executive and Managers are faced with the ever increasing requirement for mobile voice as well as anytime, anywhere access to corporate resources, regardless of the access device. Ufone Mobile Office gives organizations / business professionals the power to meet that challenge.

For business communication, Ufone Mobile Office allows you to take your office anywhere. Providing end to end secure connectivity, you can access your Corporate LAN via GPRS from your Ufone GPRS handset.

Benefits Email Access - You can send / receive your emails without waiting to get to your office. Access Files Remotely – You can access your office files from anywhere with Ufone Mobile Office. Office Freedom – You can work the same way as you would work in your office.

No dialups, no delays and no busy tones at all.

Mobile Office can be used via Mobile • Mobile + Laptop• Using infrared link• Using data cable

Bluetooth Radio Card

Note: Song Dedication service is also available for VPN.For More Info Visit Http://www.PowerPakistan.Com

My Ufone Account Services

Wish to customize your web experience?Now you can create you very own account on Ufone’s website and get access to a host of web based products that let you send messages to your groups, schedule important meetings, access emails through SMS, or even create your own email address on www.ufone.com

Address Book:The Address Book gives you flexibility to maintain groups of addresses that let you send one message to a whole group of people.

How does Address Book work? To create a new group, click on ‘create group’. You can add or delete contacts in the group by clicking on the group name. Once you have typed your desired message you can send it to a whole group by pressing ‘Send’, or just to an individual in the group by clicking on the group name and selecting the individual contact.

Calendar:The Calendar lets you schedule your days by arranging your important meetings, and setting alerts to get reminded of your commitments no matter where you are.

Email Address:Ufone’s Email Address lets you create your very own e-mail account with Ufone. This email account has the same ID as your GSM number (for example: [e-mail]). Receive mails from friends directly to your Ufone account.

Note: This mailing address will work if customer is subscriber of our Info Services.

Subscriber Base

Ufone has a subscriber base of 17.19 million as of March 2008 and has network coverage in more than 3000 cities.

Footnotes

See also

*List of mobile phone companies in Pakistan
*Communications in Pakistan

External links

* [http://www.ufone.com Ufone]
* [http://www.pta.gov.pk Pakistan Telecommunication Authority]

References