Lonely hearts get mobile dating service

QSoft Consulting plans to launch a mobile dating service via its Gaydar online dating and lifestyle portals.

The service will initially be launched in the UK to Gaydar's 1.1 million UK subscribers, with a view to rolling it out across Australia and Europe in 2007.

Following a two-year review, QSoft has appointed Mobestar as its mobile dating technology partner.

"Mobile dating is a natural extension for our online portal as a new means for our subscribers to stay in touch when on the move," said QSoft chairman Gary Frisch.

"And Mobestar can provide us with a service which is easy to use, secure and future proof."

Mobestar's mDate mobile dating technology platform has evolved from simple text and multi-media messaging to full interaction including anonymous live voice and video calling between consenting members.

All communication takes place in a secure and moderated environment. Live voice calling is available between members over 2.5G, but 3G allows users with 3G handsets to choose either voice or live video calling.

"Gaydar is one of the world's leading dating and lifestyle portals and will now be at the forefront of the mobile dating revolution," said Peter Richards, chief executive of Mobestar.

"Following the great success of online dating, consumers are now demanding additional services such as mobile dating to help them find friendship and partners anytime, anyplace and anywhere.

"We are looking forward to developing the first live mobile dating service in the UK for Gaydar."