WAP finds its way with AirFlash services

US-based AirFlash has signed two deals to bring location-based services to WAP users in Europe.

In a deal with Carphone Warehouse and AOL-owned portal mviva, WAP users will be able to get information relating to their position and use other facilities such as getting directions. Ken Hart, European CEO of AirFlash, said: "The mobile phone operator knows your location by which cell you are in. "What we do then is to offer you information about services, entertainment and transport, local to where you are." The service will be available in the UK before Christmas and will be operating in four or five other European countries by next year. In a similar deal, Orange subscribers are to be offered services over WAP phones that will enable them to find amenities such as cash machines, restaurants, pubs, hotels and emergency services. Directions for drivers will also be available. The service has been operating with 800 trial users since the summer and according to Hart was one of the most consistently used services. AirFlash was established by Rama Aysola in Saratoga in July 1998. Investors include Inktomi Corp. which is also a partner in developing search and commerce facilities for mobile users. By Geoffrey Davies