Jurong Technologies is partnering Infineon Technologies (www.infineon.com) and TJAT Systems (www.tjat.com) to produce the world’s first ultra low-cost (ULC) mobile phone that incorporates email and web-based messaging functionalities. Also called the smart entry mobile phone, the handset will offer simultaneous access to all leading communication portals such as MSN, ICQ, Chikka or Yahoo.

The smart entry mobile phone will offer simultaneous access to all leading communication portals.

This will be the first time that consumers can have access to chat and email functions on low-cost mobiles, which currently only offer voice chat and short message service (SMS) functions.

Established in 1986, Jurong Technologies provides Electronics Manufacturing Services to original equipment manufacturers and original design manufacturers in the wireless communication, hard disk drive, networking, PC peripherals and industrial sectors.

Under the partnership, Infineon will develop the technology platform; TJAT Systems will enable all mobile messaging and integrated services; and Jurong Technologies will integrate Infineon's technology platform and other systems in the production of the smart entry phone.

Jurong Technologies has already implemented Web-based instant messaging services in its new range of ULC mobile phones, which were showcased at the recent Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain.

"We believe that this new feature will drive greater demand for ULC mobile phones, particularly in Asia, where Internet usage and wireless handset subscription are both at an all-time high," said Mr Cheang Chee Ming, President and Chief Executive Officer of Jurong Technologies.

The company is partnering Brightstar Corporation, a global leader in customised distribution and supply chain management, who will be distributing the new range of ULC mobile phones globally, starting from the Asia Pacific.

"With the support of Brightstar, we will focus our initial marketing efforts in the Asia Pacific and expect to break into other emerging markets in the near future," said Mr Cheang.