The Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) has today appointed Syniverse Technologies as the Centralised Database Administrator, to move the country towards True Number Portability. The True Number Portability solution, which is expected to be ready by the second quarter of 2008, will allow consumers to retain full use of their existing phone numbers, rather than having to update their contacts about a new one.
Singapore, 15 June 2007 | For Immediate Release
The Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) has today appointed Syniverse Technologies as the Centralised Database Administrator, to move the country towards True Number Portability1. The True Number Portability solution, which is expected to be ready by the second quarter of 2008, will allow consumers to retain full use of their existing phone numbers, rather than having to update their contacts about a new one. In this way, consumers will have fewer concerns when deciding their most suitable telecoms service providers, and thus enjoy greater service choices as mobile and fixed line operators are spurred to offer more attractive packages to retain and earn new customers.
From 1 January 2008, consumers who wish to port their fixed line numbers will also no longer need to pay monthly recurring porting fees, just like how it has been for the porting of mobile numbers since 2003.
IDA Deputy Chief Executive and Director-General (Telecoms) Leong Keng Thai said, "Once True Number Portability kicks off, Singapore's telecoms market should expect to see even greater competition among the mobile and the fixed line operators. The Centralised Database will also encourage new players and new business possibilities, developing even greater usability for our phone service. Consumers will be rewarded with greater choice and flexibility in mobile and fixed line services. Syniverse Technologies, being operator-neutral, will ensure open and non-discriminatory access to these central database services, and continue to support a playing field fair to all."
The appointment of Syniverse Technologies comes after the close of the Request For Proposal (RFP) in December 2006. Six companies had put forth proposals on how they would provide and implement a centralised database system to enable True Number Portability, based on the requirements detailed in the RFP document. Proposals were evaluated on their technical merits of the centralised database system, pricing and the company's expertise and track record.
As the Centralised Database Administrator, Syniverse Technologies will hold a Services-Based Operator licence, and will have to adhere to the Telecoms Competition Code which sets out rules of competition and protects consumers' interests.
Syniverse Technologies will now participate in the Number Portability Working Group, which was formed in August 2006, to oversee the implementation of the True Number Portability solution. For a start, it will work closely with the current working group members which comprise IDA and the fixed and mobile line operators, to develop the centralised database system that will inter-work with the operators' respective telecoms networks and backend systems.
Syniverse Technologies will be granted to operate the centralised database system for seven years starting with the launch of True Number Portability. Following its appointment, IDA will continue to monitor the roll-out of True Number Portability solution and work with Syniverse Technologies and the telecoms operators to facilitate implementation where necessary.
ISSUED BY CORPORATE & MARKETING COMMUNICATION DIVISION
INFOCOMM DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OF SINGAPORE
Notes to Editor:
| 1 | A Brief History of Number Portability in Singapore: | |
|---|---|---|
| April 1997: | Singapore was one of the first in the world to introduce Mobile Number Portability, via a Call Forwarding solution. | |
| April 2000: | Fixed-Number Portability introduced, along with full liberalisation of Singapore's telecoms market. | |
| June 2003: | IDA tells Mobile Operators to cease recurring monthly porting fees and to provide SMS portability. | |
| August 2006: | IDA issues decision to enhance Number Portability solution. With it, a subscriber who has switched operators need not update his contacts as they will now still see his existing number when he calls or SMSes. | |
| November 2006: | IDA calls for RFP for Centralised Database Administrator. | |
| June 2007: | IDA appoints Syniverse Technologies as the Centralised Database Administrator. | |
| 2nd Quarter of 2008: | Singapore to have True Number Portability solution. | |
About Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore
The Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) is committed to growing Singapore into a dynamic global infocomm hub. IDA uses an integrated approach to developing infocommunications in Singapore. This involves nurturing a competitive telecoms market as well as a conducive business environment with programmes and schemes for both local and international companies. For more news and information, visit https://www.imda.gov.sg/.
For media clarification, please contact:
Angeline Tan (Ms)
Assistant Manager, Corporate and Marketing Communication
Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore
Tel : +65 6211 0640
Fax : +65 6211 2227
Email : angeline_tan@imda.gov.sg
Ho Hwei Ling (Ms)
Assistant Director, Corporate and Marketing Communication
Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore
Tel : +65 6211 1996
Fax : +65 6211 2227
Email : ho_hwei_ling@imda.gov.sg
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