SLA Mobile brings Direct Operator Billing to Microsoft’s Windows Phone Store for Zain customers

SLA Mobile, in partnership with Zain Group is pleased to announce the launch of Direct Operator Billing for Microsoft’s Windows Phone Store for Zain customers. Direct Operator Billing will allow Windows Phone users the ability to pay for digital goods and services by charging the transaction amount to their monthly phone bill or prepaid credit.

This represents an exciting opportunity for SLA Mobile and Zain to work with a global brand such as Microsoft to bring Direct Operator Billing to Zain’s Windows Phone users. Zain has launched Direct Operator Billing in partnership with SLA Mobile in Kuwait, Jordan and Bahrain with further rollout across the Zain Group to be completed within the coming months.

Nic Stirk, CEO at SLA Mobile commented,

“This is a great opportunity for us to work with a worldwide brand such as Microsoft to bring Direct Operator Billing to the Windows Phone Store for Zain’s customers. It sets in stone the demand for quick and secure digital payment solutions such as Direct Operator Billing.”

Scott Gegenheimer, Zain Group CEO said:

“The exciting world of mobile digital services is driving the mobile industry forward at the moment. By being one of the first telecom providers in the Middle East to launch a Direct Operator Billing service, this extension of agreement with SLA Mobile to include the Windows Phone Store reinforces our dedication to providing customers with the best digital purchasing experience on all major online stores in a safe and easy manner.”

With the rapid growth of e-commerce in Middle Eastern markets and the issue of fraud increasing, Direct Operator Billing gives users a secure alternative to pay for goods and services online without the need to enter debit or credit card details.

“The usage of apps on smartphones has completely transformed the world’s mobile landscape. While we offer a huge variety of free content on the Windows Phone Store, it is just as important for both developers and consumers to have quality paid-for content available as well. Microsoft has always worked towards making innovation affordable to everyone and with the partnership with Zain, we are elated to see our customers get to enjoy all the latest applications in a manner that is safe, secure and convenient.”

Said Jon French, Vice President – Middle East, Microsoft Devices.