ISP launches text service with a twist

SMS converted into voice messages

A New Zealand-based internet service provider has launched a service that will convert text into anonymous voice messages.

The t2v (text to voice) service from ihug can be used to send a message to a landline or mobile phone just about anywhere in the world.

Anyone with internet access can register free for the service on the www.t2v.net website. Users can choose from seven different voices - including a barking dog - to read out the message at the other end.

Tim Wood, a director at ihug, told vnunet.com that strict terms of use will stop the anonymous messages being abused.

"Message senders can identify themselves if they want, but abuse is one thing we are conscious of," he explained.

"There are strict terms of use in this area and, if we receive complaints, we will terminate the account of any person abusing the system."

The cost of sending a message is deducted from the user's credit card. A text to voice message to a landline in the UK would cost around 6p.

Although users can't yet send a message via SMS, ihug plans to roll out the service for use on mobile phones within weeks.

"We are due to release the SMS to voice service in November," said Wood. "Users will still have to register at the t2v.net site so we can bill their credit cards.

"Pricing will be the same, although the user will need to pay their mobile telecoms provider for the inbound text message they send via the t2v.net number."