Etisalat First in the Gulf to Provide Mobile Billing for Windows Phone Store purchases

Abu Dhabi, 30 November 2014

Customers can now pay for games and applications from Microsoft Windows Phone store using their Etisalat Mobile Account

Etisalat, the UAE's leading telecommunications operator, in partnership with Microsoft announced today carrier billing for the Windows Phone Store app, allowing its customers to charge their purchases directly to their monthly mobile bill or prepaid account.

Khaled ElKhouly, Chief Marketing Officer at Etisalat UAE, said, "Our customers live fast-paced and busy lives, and therefore seek simple and quick solutions when they use their mobile devices. We are excited to be first amongst gulf countries to collaborate with Microsoft for operator billing on Windows Phone Store. With this secure, easy and quick payment method, customers can just click to buy without having to enter their credit card details each time they purchase apps or games from the Window Phone Store."

Etisalat's mobile customers in the UAE can now enjoy this secure, convenient, and flexible payment option using their Etisalat accounts. To use this payment option, customers just need to choose the application that they want to buy from the Windows Phone Store. Thereafter, the 'Etisalat account' option will appear by default on the payment screen to continue with the transaction. The customer's Etisalat account will be automatically set as the default option for all future purchases of applications and games.

Commenting on the introduction of the direct billing facility, Vithesh Reddy General Manager Lower Gulf, Microsoft Devices said: "Today's smartphone users demand handsets and services that can respond to their everyday lifestyle requirements and keep up with their social and entertainment needs. Consequently, mobile applications are essential for mobile users whose handsets are more than just a phone, they are a lifestyle accessory. The new direct operator billing service with Etisalat makes it even easier and safer for our consumers to stay connected and enjoy all the latest applications, providing a valuable and convenient smartphone experience."

Microsoft's Windows Phone Store is the company's official application store for its smartphones and tablets. It makes software applications, and games available for purchase and download through the store. It allows users to purchase, download and install applications from third-party developers.

This simple and convenient payment option will be available to all Etisalat mobile post-paid and prepaid customers in the UAE. With this payment option in place, customers do not need to use a credit card to pay for applications and content on Windows Phone Store and can enjoy the one-stop convenience of having all of their application purchases consolidated into their mobile bill or prepaid account.

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