Walt Disney Internet Group To Launch UK Family Mobile Service "

LONDON -(Dow Jones)- The Walt Disney Internet Group said Thursday that it is to create a mobile phone service in the UK specifically designed for families.

The service, called Disney Mobile, will use the O2 network and is expected to launch later this year.

The company said the move is in line with the Walt Disney Company's focus on growth through the application of technology to enhance its content and expand its distribution.

Disney Mobile plans to offer a family-package, which will include multiple handsets within the same subscription, allowing parents to tailor the service to meet the unique communications needs of their family.

The service will include product options that encourage improved family communication as well as family entertainment content. In addition, Disney Mobile will provide customisable tools to balance children's needs with controls that allow parents to manage family phone usage and help teach children responsible use, including the ability to control children's spending on their mobiles; limited Internet access and no access to chatrooms; and the ability to programme a restricted amount of numbers for voice calls and messaging.

Disney Mobile will use the O2 network on a wholesale basis and will be responsible for all aspects of the service, including product development, distribution, marketing, customer relations, billing and other business operations. Disney Mobile handsets will have a stylish, adult design and come with a hands-free kit.

Disney said that as part of its planning process, it commissioned independent research with Ipsos MORI to identify the needs and wants of families in Great Britain.

Almost two-thirds of parents with children aged 8-16 interviewed as part of this study said they would welcome a package designed with families in mind.

(END) Dow Jones Newswires "

Posted to the site on 27th April 2006