Toshiba and O2 to pre-load TG01 with Nimbuzz mobile messenger

Mobile social messenger Nimbuzz announced today that it’s coming pre-loaded on TG01 devices in Germany. O2 subscribers with the new Toshiba device will be able to access Nimbuzz from the launch of the TG01 in mid June.

What does Nimbuzz do?

It’s a messenging hub, combining VoIP and IM communications across mobile, PC and mobile/on-line Internet. It combines contact lists and log-ins for services like Skype, MSN, AIM, Google Talk from one location.

The TG01 will feature an access icon to Nimbuzz directly on the home screen.

From the release:

Nimbuzz CEO Evert-Jaap Lugt: “Software enriches the value chain for the mobile ecosystem. Users, who are looking for a device that fits their lifestyle, operators, looking for new ARPU magnets, and handset manufacturers looking for a value add to differentiate, all profit from Nimbuzz’s mass market solution. Adding 900,000 new users a month, we welcome all O2 customers and TG01 users to Nimbuzz.”

Hiroyuki Goto, Technical Director, Toshiba Information Systems (UK) Ltd, Mobile Communications Division: “We chose the best of breed mobile content to accompany such a strategic handset for our business and are delighted to offer the TG01 with Nimbuzz as our social messaging partner for the launch of the device with O2 Germany.”

What we think?

It’s interesting that O2 would get so close to a service that uses VoIP and IM so liberally. Especially since the recent announcement about NeuStar IM services. Voice and SMS have traditionally been the major money-makers for operators, but that might be leaning towards data these days. I’m presuming that the Nimbuzz app on TG01 will have to be used via the O2 network. So O2 can make its money on the data charges for those services, at least. Or of course it could be a pure VAS offering to drive O2 subscriptions and TG01 unit sales.