September 11, 2006 at 3:07 pm · Authored by Ewan · Filed under Operators

Link: Springwise: Calling for a cause.

Belgian Ello Mobile is a new mobile operator that was established with the sole aim of giving away 100% of its profits. Ello is a mobile virtual network operator – it uses an existing network. Instead of offering bargain-basement cellphone plans, the company offers its customers the chance to contribute directly to a cause with every call they make, and every text message they send.

Well I like the concept. But I don’t buy it.

I want you, as an operator, to take your profits and invest them into making my service better. I want a better phone, cheaper and subsidised. I want cheaper services from you. I don’t want to pay you a premium so that you can give it to charity. I’ll give to charity on my own.

But then you never know, this might work for a lot of people.