Wmode Launches New Ringtone Service For BlackBerry Smartphones
Research In Motion has selected Calgary-based Wmode to deliver content and technology for a new ringtones channel on BlackBerry® App World™. Users can now browse through the latest ringtones, then pay for and download them just like any other app on BlackBerry App World.
Available under the Spintones brand, Wmode is sourcing and merchandising the best ringtones, wrapping the tones as apps, and delivering them to users on BlackBerry App World. Spintones is a global service currently offered in North America and will expand to additional markets over the coming year.
To secure quality authentic ringtones that users want, Wmode has collaborated with Zed, a global distributor of major label and independent label ringtones. The top music content that will be available on BlackBerry App World is supplied courtesy of the four major global music labels – Universal Music, Warner Music Group, and EMI.
As several parties are involved in the sale of every ringtone, Wmode’s Affiliate Commerce Exchange (ACE) platform is being used to track and handle settlement. For revenue collection from users there is also a tight integration with the BlackBerry® Payment Service including pay-per-download and in-app billing options. Just as with any other app on BlackBerry App World, users are able to conveniently pay for a ringtone through carrier billing, credit card or PayPal (payment methods vary by region).
“Launching on BlackBerry fits with our strategy of providing handset OEMs and the consumer electronics market with innovative services and solutions,” commented Emanuel Bertolin, Wmode CEO. “Selling ringtones on BlackBerry App World is a great example of where apps and digital media meet, and that’s our expertise. We are delighted that RIM has chosen us as their ringtones partner.”
Speaking about the launch, Ronjon Nag, RIM’s Vice President of App World & Intelligent Systems, said: “Users love the ability to customize their BlackBerry smartphones, and now they will have access to thousands of high quality ringtones to make their BlackBerry smartphone as unique as they are.”
