Telenor launches audio books for mobile phones

"For a long time we have wanted to introduce books on mobile phones, and I am happy it is finally happening. I am sure Norwegian bookworms will also be pleased. Mobile phones will become an important channel for established and new authors," says Jon Erik Haug, Director for Mobile Private in Telenor.

For Piratforlaget the partnership with Telenor is a great opportunity to spread quality literature via a channel available to everyone. Audio books are increasingly popular, and the advantage of downloading them to a mobile phone is that we have our mobile with us wherever we go, whether it be on the beach, in the waiting room or on the train. We also believe that audio books can help attract a younger audience to literature. Paper books are doing well, in both hardback and paperback format. In the same way, we believe audio books can have a good life in "bound" form, traditionally in a CD cover, and as digitally downloadable files," says Tine Kjær, publisher at Piratforlaget.

"NRK is enthusiastic about the fact that great literature now is available on small mobile phones. This project gives us a unique opportunity to reach out to young users, and give them easy access to great audio books from NRK, says Sophia Fergus, Editor of Audio Books at NRK Aktivum.

Telenor already offers music, football, Microsoft Live Messenger and video conferencing via mobile telephones. "In addition you can now accompany Jules Verne "Around the World in 80 Days", or you can let Alexandre Dumas introduce you to "The Count of Monte Cristo". These are just a couple of the 210 titles that are now ready. We are at the beginning now and will build up a rich audio book selection for your mobile phone," says Haug.

Telenor's customers can now quit smoking using their mobile phone with Allen Carr's "Easy Way to Stop Smoking". And for children car journeys while on holiday can be more fun when they can listen to children's books on a mobile phone.

From now until 1 July Telenor offers free samples from the bookshop. These include children's adventures, listening games and three free classics - and 30 minute downloads of Jan Guillou, Liza Marklund and Anne Holt.

Audio books are priced per part. Besides the free offers in the introductory period, most books cost NOK 9-15 per part.

Telenor has chosen Paragallo Mobile AS as its exclusive partner and service supplier.



For further information, please contact:

Anders Krokan, Information Manager at Telenor
anders.krokan@telenor.com , (+47)95209037