The Augnet Platform - Using Internet Protocol as the SMS Data Communication System

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Augnet Ltd, founded by ex-Skype Senior Manager Daniel Gill, has developed a revolutionary data communication system to address the current challenges faced by the Application-to-Person (A2P) SMS industry. With a team of industry and technology expertise, Augnet has advanced this patent-pending technology, “Platform,” to an initial prototype, having demonstrated its functionality with one of the world’s largest SMS aggregators. The current A2P SMS market, valued at €55bn, enables app owners (banks, booking sites, airlines etc.) to communicate with consumers via SMS, with high message volumes handled through aggregators. SMSs are then sent through network operators such as Vodafone. However, there is deep industry distrust between SMS suppliers and operators due to lack of quality assurance, and in particular, growing controversy over ‘killed’ messages; whereby messages are not sent to users to increase operator profit margins. With the current delivery process unchanged in 20-years, the industry is ripe for innovation that will rebuild trust and improve service provision. The Augnet data communication system bypasses network operators and provides SMS suppliers with an auditable service at significantly reduced price point. Augnet’s Platform is a backend network that requires no end-user interaction, significantly enhancing scalability and integrating with existing infrastructure. A leading SMS traffic aggregator is already secured and advanced discussions with further organisations are set to generate further positive outcomes. The proposed feasibility study will extensively evaluate technical and commercial elements of the Augnet Platform, determining the probability and requirements for rapid market entry. Outputs will support the next stage of development, leading to full market launch; unlocking the substantial market opportunity that a trustworthy and significantly cheaper alternative to the current outdated and exploitive market provision provides.