NeuStar tests out mobile to fixed messaging for GSMA

The GSM Association has picked directory services vendor NeuStar to test out a carrier ENUM service, which the trade body says will make it easier to send IMs, MMS, emails, videos and any other IP content between mobiles and fixed line phones, as well as mobile-to-mobile transmissions.

The pilot of the service will start in 2008, with a view to going live with a full commercial service later on this year. The GSMA has said at least four operators will be involved in the trial: Bharti Airtel, mobilkom austria, Telekom Austria and Telenor.

Good news on the mobile-to-mobile front – making data services easier to use can’t be a bad thing – but I’m curious about how the mobile-to-fixed part of the ENUM service will work. Surely most people would be more likely to send videos and other content to an email address, rather than a fixed line phone?