SmartPay will extend utility payments to all mobile phone users in Shanghai by through close cooperation with Fufeitong and its partners as part of a broad strategic partnership.

Any mobile phone or PHS user in Shanghai can register for the service via participating bank hotlines or directly with SmartPay. Once registered, users can pay any utility bill as soon as it's received by sending the bill code by SMS to SmartPay. In addition, users can elect to receive monthly SMS alerts when bills are due, which can then be easily paid by simply replying to the alert. Payment is made by real time debit from the user's bank account to the utility. The service complements online and terminal-based utility bill payments currently offered by Fufeitong, and will shortly be extended to also function through WAP and k-JAVA interfaces over mobile networks.

"The practical application of this service is extremely unique," commented Greg Shen, SmartPay CEO. "As soon as a utility bill arrives, it can be paid instantly by sending a simple SMS from a mobile handset, eliminating the need to pay in person. Bills can also be delivered to customers via SMS as soon as the balance is due for instant payment. The level of convenience afforded to customers and the service's broad reach will clearly encourage rapid uptake in usage."