[This portal brings email, scheduling tools, chat and other services. and currently runs SMS and currently in the bi-directional SMS format, and soon through WAP." ]

By Maura Ginty -- "Partner Communications and Israeli Internet player Walla! recently inked a deal to create the country's first portal specifically for cellular users.

"Partner (PTNR), which offers Orange cellular service in the region, and the popular portal will bring the content through the phone's screen. E-mail, scheduling tools, chat and other online features are expected to be part of the new portal.

"The portal can be access either from within Israel or outside of the country via the Orange network, using bi-directional Short Messaging Service (SMS) and SIM cards.

"The variety of these services will be made possible through a series of agreements currently in negotiation, the first of which is with Walla!," said Ya'akov Kedmi, Partner Communications' vice president of marketing. "These services will be provided within the framework of Orange Live, currently in the bi-directional SMS format, and soon through WAP."

"Walla! Communications' Managing Director Gadi Hadar said that the initial rollout will include cellular phones and handheld devices, which will soon allow users to access high-speed Internet and cable infrastructures.

"Partner, which launched its services this year, is the only GSM mobile telephone network operator in Israel. Walla! operates one of the country's leading portals and also runs an Internet consulting division.

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