Are they a Threat to Telecom Operators?

摘要

Quite often we come across this question: Are messaging applications a threat to telecom operators? And the answer to this is-it depends. Messaging apps are breaking traditional operator business models and will indeed be a threat to operators that don't adapt to them. However messaging apps can also be an opportunity for operators that adapt to the brave new world of smartphones and data. Historically, SMS has been the largest revenue-driver for operators, after voice. The key to the success of SMS has been its simplicity, reach, price, and reliability. SMS was simple to use, worked on every device, was well-integrated with the address book, and was reasonably inexpensive.