aql sponsors Hatfield Heath Festival
Not quite the o2 arena, but a great turnout and enjoyable local event. We're keen to get involved with community events of all sizes - please contact Melissa for more information.
04/07/2010 17:07:26
aql wholesale mobile - 3g coverage quick-checker
3g Data and voice resellers can now perform instant postcode coverage lookups via the aql website. The data returned includes coverage and also any congestion (such as may be experienced in busy metropolitan areas).
02/07/2010 17:39:42
aql powers bandwidth needs of Leeds Media Hub
In an article describing the ideology behind Manchesters Media City, John Nuttall (a key shaper of the Manchester music scene) describes aql's acheivements in Leeds, supplying true 100mb/s broadband links into leeds media and businesses. Click here for the full article.
28/06/2010 22:30:23
NeoWave’s MD Justin Blaine today announced a significant new step in the expansion of NeoWave with the availability of a non competing MVNO offering to its resellers powered by aql.
Justin Blaine commented “The increasing need to be more efficient in the use of telecoms and the growing recognition by customers of a true FMC style service means a huge opportunity for the independent telecoms dealer, however not all MVNO offers are alike, and the technology available varies enormously.”
Firstly Neowave is taking a very different stance with its partner resellers, not only does NeoWave not compete with its channel customers but with its MVNO offering all resellers will always retain ownership of their customers. This non competing attitude will help create long term recurring revenues for our partners and net capital value within their businesses, Blaine also added, “This provides a unique double dose of Reseller protection, something that is totally unusual within our market place.”
Other significant features of the offering from NeoWave are FSA standard call recording ‘in the cloud’, and the ability to have multiple numbers on your mobile handset including geographic and non geographic numbers. The ranges of services available from NeoWave all come with market leading value including the new NeoWave unique ‘tracker’ pricing. This means there is no longer a vulnerability to fixed term pricing with a NeoWave supply contract, It is all part of the NeoWave partnership approach to its re-seller partners.
Paul Greaves Sales Director at aql said, “We are pleased to be working with NeoWave ‘the combination of our technology and their re-seller support means the best outcome for everyone.”
25/05/2010 11:02:32
aql named amongst finalists at 2010 ISPA Awards
aql were lucky enough to win Best Internet Telephony Service provider in 2009. This year at the ISPA's, we've made it through to the final in the Access Innovation category for our wholesale mobile service. Similar to last year, we're up against stiff competition including Vodafone! We're also pleased to see many other agile companies in the finalists mix in other categories. Wish us luck for the awards ceremony on the 8th July!
ISPA 2010 Awards categories and finalists:
Best Consumer Fixed Broadband
Be Broadband
Karoo (Kingston Communications)
NewNet plc
O2
Virgin Media
Best Business Fixed Broadband
Claranet
Entanet International Ltd
Fluidata Ltd
NewNet plc
Timico
Urban Wimax Ltd
Best Mobile Broadband
FREEDOM4 WiFi
O2
Orange UK
Vodafone
Best Consumer Customer Service ISP
Be Broadband
Karoo Broadband
O2
Orange
Plusnet
Virgin Media
Best Business Customer Service ISP
C4L
Claranet
Eclipse Internet
Entanet
Exa Networks
Best Shared Hosting
123-reg
Namesco Limited
Netcetera
NewNet plc
Webfusion
Best Internet Telephony
Entanet International Ltd
Gradwell
iNet Telecoms Ltd (Voipfone)
Noble Solutions
Timico
Access Innovation
Aql
Cybermoor Ltd
South West Internet CIC
Truphone
Vodafone
Digital Inclusion
Bolton Literacy Trust
Kingston Communications (KC)
NHS Choices
South West Internet CIC
Westminster City Council
Internet Safety
BT Total Broadband
Childnet International
Nominet
Orange UK
Vispa
Corporate Social Responsibility
Kingston Communications
Orange UK
UKFast
Webfusion
22/05/2010 13:47:23
Dragon Boat Racing in aid of Leeds Community Foundation
On Saturday 26th June 2010, all staff from aql will be competing in a Dragon boat race set at Clarence Dock, Leeds in aid of a very good cause.
We have numerous 250 metre heats over the course of the day in a 40ft long boat that will be powered by a team of 16 aql paddlers (in fancy dress) and a drummer, with more than 100 races planned over the course of the day. It will be a great fun filled day competing against 40 other firms including Carlsberg, DLA Piper, Grant Thornton, Hammonds and KPMG. We know how competitive these lawyers are, so we've been training!
The Sponsorship money that we raise will go towards the Leeds Community Foundation, patrons of which include our MD, Dr Adam Beaumont. The Foundation supports more than 3,000 community groups and charities working in some of the most disadvantaged parts of Leeds and distributed over £9m in grants since it was established in 2005, sharing out more than £3.8m in the 2008/09 financial year alone. It should be a lot of fun too. See the youtube video from last years event.
It would be great if you could spare some change for this great cause and if you’re free come along and offer us some support on the day.... And, if you can, Please Please Please visit our Justgiving page.
Thanks
The aql team
14/05/2010 13:57:07
aql - Local News Coverage
aql are also in the news again this week. This time it's nothing to do with our MVNO-enabler service. Coverage in Yorkshire Evening Post describes our acquisition and renovation of our Grade II listed offices, saving an important Leeds landmark from falling into disrepair.
aql's Managing Director, Dr Adam Beaumont states "aql staff enjoy the unusual and historic working environment. We're trying hard to add a mixture of technology, whilst working in sympathy with the building".
To view one of the renovated corridors, click here (user aql, password guest).
14/05/2010 13:28:39
aql Launch Gteq MVNO at Partner event
Coverage in Mobile Today describes the successful partner launch of the Gteq MVNO on the 3 network.
aql are well on track to acheiving our quarterly launch targets, with partners coming on board at a pace. There was an excited reaction to the Gteq product and a keen demand by Gteq's resellers to bring the services online as quickly as possible.
Launched at the same event was MVNO Anvil Mobile aimed at Enterprise business, with features such as FSA compliant call and SMS recording via Anvils strategic partners CTI group.
14/05/2010 13:21:49
aql enable Telappliant MVNO
MVNO-Enablers aql have enabled Telappliant to launch an MVNO on the 3 network. Click here for full news article.
Telappliant, a leading supplier of flexible business telephony solutions can now offer their range of high-specification business communications options on a mobile platform. This will drive cost savings for businesses and allow mobile telephony with features such as call recording in the cloud. For more information - see the Telappliant website.
14/05/2010 12:57:56
aql Partner Workshop a Success Over 150 companies attended aql's offices on the 5th of may for a presentation and live demonstration of aql wholesale mobile. This included the real-time choosing of an aql landline number, assigning it to a SIM card, activating the card and making and receiving calls. A convergence demo was also shown, with group ringing across softphones, sip desktop handsets, aql 3g mobile, wifi voip devices and also low power gsm. A youtube clip of this live demo is available here.
aql's distribution partners, Data Select were present, along with many channel partners including Gteq and Anvil Mobile. The day was divided into two, three hour sessions, each for approximately 80 delegates, with standing-room-only in the second session, followed by the usual aql hospitality!
For pictures from the event click here. The next event is planned for the 20th May and is by invite only, interested parties please contact us
08/05/2010 08:41:12
aql Sponsors International Telecommunications Conference
April 14th 2010 : aql and 3 were the headline sponsors for our special interests Telecommunications conference held in Gatwick, London.
The conference spanned over two days, including four parallel sessions for the 300 delegates and speakers, including many from overseas.
aql, following on from sponsorship of last years event with a "Casino Royale" theme, this years theme was "Top Gear", including a 8-lane slotcar track, with heated competition and a range of "Top Gear" related prizes for the winners. No caravans or morris marinas were harmed during the event.
23/04/2010 12:48:29
aql hosts Leeds Interconnect
8th April 2010 - aql was host to the 5th "Leeds Interconnect", discussion, with delegates from Thales, Janet(UK), Zen, Geo, Globalcrossing, Exa, Ioko, and many other leading and influential operators. The "old billiard room", one of a suite of rooms within aql's recently restored Head office, provided a spacious meeting facility for round table discussion for the 30 delegates.
We're pleased to announce that the Summit was a success and aql intend to host the next event in approximately 3 months time.
If you're an aql channel partner and would like aql to co-host an event which has relevance to our sector, please contact Melissa Sherriff (01133 20 30 30). Our city centre site has parking for 60 and we can accomodate events for up to 70.
Fire in BT Paddington site
As you may have seen on the news over the last day, a fire at BT's Paddington site has knocked out access in that building. We're seeing mobile networks, landline and voip providers experiencing issues, as well as some online service providers reporting problems processing payments.
The main symptom of this outage is a busy or dead tone when trying to dial numbers. This will be caused by the call from one phone provider to another trying to pass through one of these unavailable routes. Although BT have been working hard to redirect calls through other sites, some calls are still experiencing this.
Initial estimates within BT suggest that this may take several days to fully assess and repair the damage caused, however we'll ensure to follow up with more as soon as it becomes available.
Update: April 6th 2010
BT have confirmed that following serious flooding in the North Paddington exchange, resulting in the serious failure of their network equipment there was a loss of service to a large number of end users in parts of North and West London and to a lesser extent throughout the UK.
Due to the severity of the flooding and the damage caused, there has been a major recovery operation, but we are pleased to confirm that BT engineers are now reporting they successfully restored all services to customers.
We have restored all our normal routes, and there will be no longer be any impact to our capacity as a result of this incident.
01/04/2010 10:00:00
aql wholesale mobile mast rollout - 3000 new sites by october
The aql wholesale mobile service operates on the 3 UK 3g network. 3 underwent an aggressive mast rollout, acheiving 10,000 3g masts earlier this year.
Following the t-mobile/orange merger, this has boosted the available network estate which 3 can leverage. A plan has been announced by 3 to roll out a further 3000 sites by 10th of October 2010 (10/10/10) bringing the total 3g estate to 13,000 masts. To find out if you have 3g coverage in your postcode area, or to integrate this into your order processes, please see our coverage API or text your postcode to 88588 (Free!).
03/03/2010 09:55:09
High Speed Internet in Leeds (and most other places).
22nd Feb - Leeds -
The service allows local companies access to 100mb/s connectivity, providing working efficiencies and cutting transfer time for large data users.
aql's plans for 2010 are to expand the service to 100's of additional businesses following a cookie-cutter model. If you're interested in the savings your business can make by not having to wait for downloads and emails - please get in touch. All we need to know is your address and postcode and we'll advise on availability and cost/options.
Click the links below to view the current press coverage :
aql is appointed as 3 m2m partner aql have been appointed by 3 as an m2m (machine to machine) MVNO (mobile virtual network operator) - Enabler (MVNE).
What does this mean? It means that aql can provide wholesale access to the 3 network to companies needing data for remote devices. aql can rebrand SIMS and allow the MVNO partner to own the customers.
It's been reported that there will be over 50 Billion connected devices on the planet by 2020. 3 have recognised aql's expertise and capability of building MVNO's on the 3 UK network.
aql intend to build 10 voice and 10 data MVNO's each quarter throughout 2010, through an unbundled approach (for more information see aql.com/mobile. This simple access approach allows aql to build more voice and data MVNO's quicker than any other operator partner in the UK.
3 mobiles can now be tracked via the aql location API
aql are pleased to announce we're the first mobile messaging aggregator to offer "mobile tracking" services on the 3 network. This service is available via our webservices API.
Location based tracking is ideal for putting a mobile user through to a local office, or checking which employee is nearest site. For more information or to arrange a trial, please contact us.
13/02/2010 12:48:05
aql - set for expansion - hiring account managers!
We're pleased to announce that the renovation of our offices and training rooms in our Grade II listed Leeds city centre location is now complete. We now need to fill them. We're looking for capable account managers and channel managers to help us roll out our new suite of 3G data services into our existing reseller and enterprise community. If you want to work for aql - please see our careers section.
18/01/2010 11:54:07
aql continues sponsorship of Leeds City Council webcam.
The webcam was installed by aql engineers back in 2000 and has operated fault-free for the last decade. The images are hosted in aql's secure datacentres and the camera itself is monitored every 30 seconds 24/7.
The cam overlooks millennium square in Leeds city centre, where you can currently see the construction of the temporary ice rink, which is built in the square each January.
aql are committed to many local projects and initiatives, including a quarterly local networking event for the electronic, media and creatives industries, hosted in our grade II listed landmark offices.
Please contact us to receive an invite to the next event or to find out how aql could use technology to change the way you work.
09/01/2010 17:30:55
Snow stops play? Use aql to bridge the gap.
Another record day for mobile messaging alerts! (school closures, train and bus cancellations).
If your business is likely to be affected by snow, why not try our E-Burst service. This allows you to set up a special aql number. When you text to this number, your text can be relayed to all your staff or customers - ideal to keep everyone informed.
To use either service, simply log into your aql.com account and follow the link. If you need any help, don't hesitate to give our friendly support a ring on 011 33 20 30 40.
05/01/2010 11:02:51
aql offers Encrypted SMS storage service
aql's high capacity messaging platforms have always offered the ability to perform historical message searches. However, to do this, means we need to store your data, which in some instances may be sensitive.
In addition to the option to delete data after sending, we now have the option to encrypt all data with your own cryptographic key. This means that we can archive historic messaging data using high strength encryption.
If you'd like to discuss the benefits of this service, please contact Mark Lodge (mark.lodge@uk.aql.com // 01133 20 19 18) - he'll be happy to advise.
18/12/2009 11:51:33
aql Christmas Party and Housewarming
Thanks to everyone who came to the aql Christmas Party and helped to make it a success!
This year the party was held in the newly restored "Billiard Room", within our Grade 2 listed Chapel.
Around 120 guests attended and many chose to take part in a torch-light guided tour around the unrestored parts of the buildings.
We were also pleased to be able to show prospective clients the progress on our datacentre build, which is now well underway.
The event was the first that has been held on the site for perhaps a decade, but which we hope marks the first of a series of monthly events which we'll be hosting in conjunction with our event partners at the opposite side of the river - the Leeds Design Innovation Centre, 46 The Calls. We'll also be alternating venues on a monthly basis.
17/12/2009 16:58:24
0844 Fax/Forwarding numbers are now free
aql 0844 numbers are now available with no setup or monthly fee.
Not only is the rental free, but you can forward them to any UK landline and certain other destinations without any per-minute charge.
Our 0844 numbers can also be used for fax to email services, again, completely free. Click here to order.
16/12/2009 12:06:01
aql launches free aql Twitter numbers
Texting your tweets to twitter has never been easier - aql has over 12 million text-in numbers. Because it's Christmas, we've decided to give away dedicated text-in Twitter numbers, free for life.
How it works - we provide you with a unique number that only your mobile number can text into. Get one now!
14/12/2009 13:49:28
On-hold advertising for The Asteroids Galaxy Tour
Sometimes its not about the money, but about doing something fun. aql provide a managed music on hold service which allows unsigned bands to provide a snip of music and to promote their new or soon-to-be released albums in partnership with ie:music
The current on-hold adverts include short snips of music from The Asteroids Galaxy Tour's forthcoming debut album, ‘Fruit’ along with a personal message from lead singer Mette Lindberg.
ie:music embraces unconventional approaches to promoting up and coming talent. The company’s reputation continues to grow as a forward-thinking and boundary-breaking music organisation, as does their long list of headline acts. ie:music manage an impressive array of talent, including; Sia, Ladyhawke, Passenger, The Asteroids Galaxy Tour, Robbie Williams and Archive among others.
Tim Clark, joint Managing Director of ie:music, commented: “We’re delighted to be working with a partner that helps us find new ways to reach the public. Thanks to aql, we can now reach thousands of potential new fans and are looking forward to getting our artists in front of new audiences.”
Dr Adam Beaumont, Founder and Managing Director of aql, added: “We are very excited to be working with ie:music, helping to promote bands through our enterprise. Anything that makes being on hold a more enjoyable experience can only be good!”
08/12/2009 10:17:33
aql offers Unbundled 3g Data Access
aql has a unique partnership with the 3 UK network allowing data to be transported into third party networks for onward routing. This is ideally suited to fixed line broadband access providers (see LINX article. The offering allows the fixed providers to offer a 3G mobile service under their own brand with wholesale real-time billing. For further information, please contact us and a specialist will call you at your convenience.
02/12/2009 12:03:22
International DDI's added to aql conference platform
By popular demand, we're pleased to announce a list of local DDI's which give access to aql's free conferencing platform.
To access aql conferencing services - simply log in via aql.com and choose the conference option.
Additional DDI's include many UK area codes and also the following International numbers :
Finland - Helsinki - 358942419020
Luxembourg - National number - 35220880575
Poland - Warsaw - 48223009181
Norway - Oslo - 4721547860
Slovakia - Bratislava - 421233006730
Slovenia - Ljubljana - 38616009345
Estonia - national number - 3726680302
Georgia - Tbilisi - 99532473825
Greece - Athens - 302311180218
Ireland - Dublin - 35319030094
Switzerland - Zurich - 41435080122
Austria - national number - 43720881548
Belgium - Brussels -3228085430
Croatia - Zagreb - 38517776327
Hungry - Budapest - 3618088380
Sweden - Stockholm - 46840309987
USA - New York City zone 1 - 16468103922
02/12/2009 11:21:20
aql creates the Salem Innovation Award
Earlier this year, aql expanded into a new and unusual city centre location - aql's office building dates back to 1791. The historic Salem Chapel has seen many events including the formation of Leeds United Football Club in 1918, Leeds Corinthians Rugby Union in 1956. We're pleased to have acquired the original communion cup which commemorated the opening of the original Salem Congregational Chapel, which seated over 1000 members.
We no longer hold communion at the aql offices (!) - but starting in 2010 the 220 year old cup will find a new lease of life as the aql innovation awards trophy.
02/12/2009 09:42:11
aql takes delivery of Half-Megawatt generator
It was a tense day in the aql office as the 200-tonne crane carried the 12-tonne generator over our grade II listed building in leeds city centre! The additional generator is part of our n+2 power solution in leeds city centre. Additional fibre is also being pulled through new dedicated ducting over the coming weeks.
The extra power resilience helps us underpin our services across multiple sites and maintain and exceed our SLA's. To see how we are different to many other messaging providers, please contact your account manager to arrange a facilities tour.
09/11/2009 22:44:27
aql peers with JA.net (Joint Academic Network)
aql are pleased to announce that we've completed the engineering works to peer with the JANET network. This network services all universities and many other academic institutions. By operating peering direct with the JANET network, academics wishing to take advantage of IP voice or streaming services can operate via the aql network with minimal latency and jitter (high quality of service).
Because the aql network also acts as a wholesale network for over 40 other UK telecommunications providers, it's possible for our partners to benefit directly from this increase in throughput and quality into the academic cloud.
29/09/2009 23:52:50
Port your number to aql
We've been really busy behind the scenes over the last few years. There's a lot of hard work that the customer doesn't see - we've got regulatory and affairs staff and also porting establishment staff. Their main job is to make sure we've got porting agreements with all of the main UK telecoms operators, so that if you want to move to aql, we can make it as easy as possible.
Following an announcement from Thus Plc that they intend to shelve their pipecall service, we're keen to ensure that customers maintain service. Please contact us and we'll do our best to ensure a smooth transition!
16/09/2009 08:09:03
aql selected as Finalist in BCS Awards
aql has been selected as a finalist in the "Mobile Product of the Year" industry awards, run by the British Computer Society.
Our entry will now go on to a final Judging panel. Fingers crossed! The nomination was for our Mobile Access service - sms-enabling the Public and Private Sectors to increase accessibility by the "text generation" and also by deaf and hard of hearing subscribers.
01/09/2009 16:26:10
aql builds resilient metropolitan fibre network in Leeds
As part of our ongoing expansion, aql are installing multiple gigabit connectivity via diverse routes into separate buildings within leeds city centre.
In addition, the buildings are linked by aql dark fibre and a private power network, which, when complete will ensure both leeds Points of Presence are N+3 for power (this means two separate generators and two separate power feeds).
If you are a business in Leeds and see an aql manhole cover nearby, it's likely we can provide future-proof, high capacity voice and data at surprising prices.
Please contact us with your postcode and we'll provide a no-obligation quotation for connectivity from 10mb/s up to 10Gb/s (where available).
28/08/2009 18:32:30
Are we heading for 0870 Black Monday ?
Way back in 2006, The UK Telecoms Regulator, Ofcom, made a rule change which affects the way that 0870 numbers work. These changes came into force on the 1st August. It’s expected that most businesses will not notice the results of these changes until 9am on Monday the 3rd of August, when many businesses and any other users of 0870 numbers may experience disruption.
In the past, 0870 numbers have been expensive to call. These charges are shared with the telecoms operator and are usually used to pay for the forwarding of the phone calls to a company’s landline number.
However, the new changes mean that the numbers are cheaper to call – this is good news for the public, but bad news for the companies operating 0870 numbers.
As a result of the changes, many telecommunications operators have moved from a position where 0870 numbers and forwarding are provided free of charge, to a model where each number is charged a rental and a per-minute fee to forward the calls.
There's a danger of disruption : Because the change in the model is so dramatic, many businesses who operate these numbers have lost touch with the original providers and are unaware of the changes. Many businesses will not have entered into any agreement with their telephone company to pay the forwarding charges or new rentals.
aql have run a substantial email campaign to keep customers informed and aware of the changes. However, we're still expecting the changes to be a shock to a significant number of customers. To minimise this impact, we're looking to migrate our services over to the new model over the coming week and ensure our customer services department is running at full speed to deal with any issues promptly and effectively.
Following our membership of LONAP aql have joined LINX - this is the main London INternet eXchange.
Membership of LINX allows aql to exchange traffic across a high quality interconnect at low cost. If you are planning any high bandwidth projects, aql's membership of LINX is another good reason to use aql colocation or network services.
In addition, aql's membership of LINX will allow aql to provide high quality IP telephony into LINX members.
01/08/2009 12:33:43
aql wins Best Internet Telephony Service Provider
We're pleased to announce we won the Best Internet Telephony Service Provider category at last nights ISPA Awards.
The ISPA's are the main and most prestigious awards within the internet industry. The judging criteria included voice quality, speed of set up, choice of numbers and also customer service.
Here's our happy smiling faces... Craig (Customer Support Manager) and Adam (Managing Director) presented with the award by the category sponsor.
It was also an opportunity to plug and congratulate some of the other industry leaders in the category, such as Telappliant, Enta.net, Inet, C4L and BT.
There would have been more of us present to accept the award, but several of the aql team were over in Manchester as finalists in the National Business Awards. We didn't win the NBA's but we're very pleased to carry a win at the ISPA's. It was also a pleasure to see so many familiar faces who were in at the start of the dot-com boom, still at the forefront, such as UK2.net winning the Best Dedicated Hosting category.
York Data Services sign 10,000 number deal with aql York Data Services are a technology company, providing fibre into Business and Science parks, with many blue chip clients. aql have recently interconnected the aql high speed network with York Data Services to provide 10,000 York business phone numbers, allowing delivery of IP voice services into their infrastructure. View full Press Release
01/07/2009 10:20:37
It is not exactly the Oscars but for the industry it is the nearest thing.
..quotes Techwatch. aql have been shortlisted as finalists in the 2009 ISPA awards. We're pleased to be listed amongst companies who we we hold in the highest regard - including enta.net, C4L, BT, Telappliant and Inet Telecoms. Techwatch calls this list "the usual suspects!". The awards ceremony is on the 9th of July at the Grosvenor Hotel, Mayfair. Wish us luck!
27/06/2009 15:15:57
Get ready for the unexpected - get an aql E-Burst(tm) number
Every company needs to plan for the unexpected. Part of that strategy is to be able to keep in touch with your workforce and keep them informed quickly and effectively.
Using your aql E-Burst(tm) number, you can send an SMS message from your phone and have this message relayed to hundreds or thousands of recipients in seconds. The service can be set up in minutes and will be there when you need it.
aql sponsors leeds BarCamp dinner BarCamp is a grassroots tech conference, where the programme is created and delivered by the attendees. The event was held over the 30th and 31st of may across several venues, with a strong turnout and representation from the telecoms, digital and creatives industries.
11/06/2009 20:17:19
Make sense of your marketing with aql Dashboard(tm)
Ray Kroc, founder of Macdonalds, once said "Early to bed, early to rise, advertise, advertise, advertise". However, it's well known that over half your money spent on marketing is wasted, but the skill is to know which half!
aql Dashboard(tm) is the solution for marketeers. Simply apply a different aql contact number to each marketing campaign or webpage. aql Dashboard(tm) will give you real-time statistics on which numbers have received the most calls or text messages, giving you at-a-glance feedback on which marketing campaigns are working best. A CSV service allows you to export the statistics to your own analysis software to perform all-important return-on-investment (ROI) calculations. Log on to your aql.com account and click here
aql Dashboard(tm) screenshot 1
aql Dashboard(tm) screenshot 2
08/06/2009 08:21:45
aql - FREE - conference bridge
We're pleased to announce the beta-launch of our new conference bridge service. (you need to be logged in to follow this link).
Why a beta launch? We'd like you to give as much feedback as possible so we can streamline the service over the coming weeks. At the moment it has sms-reminders, email invites and automatic conference recording. Please let us know what you think.
19/05/2009 19:22:07
aql finalists in the National Business Awards
aql has been shortlisted in two categories in the National Business Awards (sponsored by Orange).
The categories in which we've been nominated as finalists are "The Orange Best Use of Technology" and "The Business Innovation of the year" awards.
Both of these nominations are for our SMS relay service which we operate for the UK's fixed line industry (Currently supporting over 74 million numbers). Please wish us luck at the award ceremony on the 9th of July!
07/05/2009 14:18:14
Messaging to the USA - Increased Coverage
Messaging to the USA has been problematic and expensive for many technical and legal reasons, however, aql can now offer more robust messaging to the USA for any aql customer needing to send messaging to either its own opt-in lists or to its own employees. Many networks can be reached including Verizon, Cingular, Sprint, Nextel, T-Mobile and Alltel.
To enable this option on your account, please contact us and we'll be happy to assist.
26/04/2009 14:55:08
New RSS Newsfeed
aql news can now be accessed via RSS - to add this to your browser or integrate in other news portals, please go to http://www.aql.com/newsfeed.php.
20/04/2009 18:08:57
New features for software developers and systems integrators
These features are aimed at software developers needing to incorporate SMS or Voice functionality into their applications.
This API has been developed to allow Carriers to divert the SMS delivery on any Ofcom numbering which has been SMS-enabled via aql. To date, over 74 million numbers have been enabled by aql.
We hope these enhancements are of interest - please feel free to contact our developers team via phone or support interface.
17/04/2009 09:14:34
New SMS Enable tracker
The SMS Enable tracker operates in a similar way to the porting wizard. However, instead of porting the number to aql for SMS and voice services, the SMS Enable tracker allows customers to set up aql's award-winning SMS Enable product and route the inbound SMS on an existing landline number via aql, whilst leaving the voice services in place with your existing carrier.
To submit a number, simply log on via https://www.aql.com/account/smsenable/ or go to aql.com and choose the "text-in" >> "sms enable" option. Then simply follow the wizard.
Once a number has been submitted, aql will perform some network investigations and then (usually same day) confirm whether the number can be activated, timescales and costs.
17/04/2009 09:11:36
New number porting wizard
Porting has just got even easier for resellers. The porting wizard allows resellers to initiate the porting process with a complete audit trail, including at-a-glance submission and completion dates. Resellers can submit numbers on a "trusted" basis on behalf of subscribers.
This means that it's now possible for a reseller to handle hundreds of ports without losing track of which ports are due to go live and in which order. Again, we'd value your input and feedback - we're continually improving this interface and service.
17/04/2009 09:10:57
New Feature - RSS Feed for Support announcements
At the request of several of our resellers, aql have created a support announcements RSS feed. To access the secure RSSfeed simply point your RSS client at https://www.aql.com/account/service.php, and enter your username and password.
Please tell us what you think. We hope that this is a better system for sending out any maintenance alerts or systems information. Now that the aql network spans 6 different sites and consists of over 150 servers, we have a lot of maintenance announcements and we hope that RSS makes this more manageable for those who need to receive this information.
17/04/2009 09:10:08
aql network number lookup now even easier to use
The aql network number lookup is a free tool which lets you find out which network owns a mobile or fixed line number. You can even add it to your Firefox search bar in one click!
This is useful if you're wanting to port a number to aql or just want to find out which phone network someone uses.
aql can also provide information on ported numbers, although this is an advanced service charged at 1 credit per lookup. To use the free service, simply go to the aql network number lookup page, or to use the advanced service, go to the aql network number lookup page and log in with your aql account details.
29/03/2009 16:51:14
aql shortlisted for Best Application of Internet Technology
aql has won four awards since 2003 within the Yorkshire Digital Awards. aql has been shortlisted in a Yorkshire Forward sponsored category for our work in SMS-enabling telephone numbers within the public sector. This service increases accessibility and allows deaf and hard of hearing users to text-in enquiries to local councils from their mobile.
29/03/2009 16:14:46
aql at the Unified Comms Show 2009 11th-12th March 2009 -
Please come and find us on stand 316! We'll be providing more information on our range of products, including advice on FSA compliant call recording, SMS and voice audit trail via our text or call product.
aql acquires 30,000 sq ft leeds office
aql is pleased to announce the strategic acquisition of a new leeds city centre building.
The site, adjacent to the existing aql offices, will allow room for significant expansion. The £2M refurbishment will include office space, meeting rooms, over 10,000 sq ft of datacentre floor and also overnight accomodation for engineers.
26/02/2009 23:32:49
Call recording now available on all aql numbers
Whether you're using an aql number for centrex or for call forwarding, aql are offering our standard call recording service on all numbers free of charge. To enable the service, simply log in and goto "call settings" >> "call recording" or log in and click here. As soon as the call has finished, the audio file is available for download from our site or via email.
The service is ideal for users who need to enact call recording for compliance or legal purposes. For more information on the service or how it can be tailored to your requirements, please don't hesitate to contact your aql account manager.
26/02/2009 23:28:40
Text to an aql number -> Receive on Many Handsets
New feature - aql "text or call" numbers can now not only forward both SMS and voice to another number - It's also possible to forward the SMS part to several numbers at the same time. This means you can set up an aql number and when you text it, the text is relayed to multiple recipients. Ideal for creating a one-to-many service for clubs, organisations or for business emergency response purposes. Click here to set up an aql number. Note - only geographic numbers can be enabled to receive SMS. If you already have a number Click here to configure your aql number
10/02/2009 19:28:21
Record snowfalls spur Texting Blizzard
aql engineers noted huge throughput on our messaging platforms this morning as a result of many businesses choosing to use SMS to alert their workforce with weather related communications. Many major transport operators rely on aql in these circumstances. pdf of press coverage here.
SMS text messaging is an ideal way to communicate last minute information. Sending business alerts is simple - you can create your distribution list in advance (aql users - click here when logged in) and then simply send by logging onto the website, enter the message. With a single mouse-click you can alert tens of thousands of employees or customers within seconds.
02/02/2009 11:08:02
aql feature focus - sending vCard text messages
Sending a vCard or Business Card SMS text message to your customers can be a great way of making sure they always have your number to hand when they need it.
aql make it easy for you to do this - simply log on to the aql.com website and go to "send" >> "vcard" and enter your company details, contact numbers and the list of recipients you'd like to send to. Then simply click "send". If you're already logged into aql click here to send vCard messages now
Developers - this service is also available as an API - click here for more information.
31/01/2009 21:35:55
aql porting wizard
Subscribers migrating phone numbers to aql will now experience a smoother process via our new porting wizard. This system allows the initiation of a porting request and handles all of the paperwork and process tracking.
We're hoping this takes some of the admin out of this process for our customers. To use the process, please log into aql.com and click on "account" >> then "porting". Alternatively, if you are already logged in, then click here to access the porting system
31/01/2009 21:01:16
aql wins best innovation at the 2008 ITSPA awards (Dec 12th)
aql is a member of the ITSPA - Internet Telephony Service Providers Association. This organisation provides a code of practice and a voice for the industry. The packed-out award ceremony was held on Friday 12th December at the House of Commons Members' dining room, with speakers including Ian Taylor MP and representatives from Ofcom and Bletchley Park trust.
aql are pleased to announce that the "aql SMS Relay" service was voted Winner of Best Innovation. The aql SMS relay service has been used to "sms-enable" over 74 million numbers within the VoIP and fixed line telecoms industry, allowing telecoms providers to create innovative "text or call" services. We've plans to roll this service out across the entire industry before the end of 2009.
Users interested in numbering which can be used for both "text or call" please see our text or call information PDF. Or log on and go to the order page.
New telecoms control page
Users of aql numbers can now control inbound SMS routing, call forwarding, fax to email, voicemail, SIP trunking and many more features via one easy to use interface click here to view a screenshot. To use the interface, simply log into aql and click here.
05/12/2008 16:26:42
aql developers competition - Results announced
Thanks to all who entered our competition. We're pleased to announce the winners.
The competition has produced a variety of entries from highly technical Java frameworks to services aimed at saving consumers money - very important in the current climate.
The results are :
1st Place - Josh Buckley £1000 Grand Prize
Mobile Barcode Price Checker
Joint 2nd Place - £400 Prize Each
Aidan Samuel: SMS Facebook alerting application
John Hunsley: aql Web Service Query API
4th Place - David Precious £200 Prize
SMS::AQL Application
5th Place - Edward Jones £200 Prize
Orange HRM Plugin
6th Place - Steve Blears £200 Prize
RSS 2 SMS Converter
7th Place - Stuart Herbert £200 Prize
Twittex
28/11/2008 17:04:11
aql renews sponsorship of leedsmedia / leeds chamber
aql has renewed their sponsorship of the LeedsMedia/Leeds Chamber breakfast briefings and looks forward to another year of full attendance to the monthly events.
The events are likely to be much larger than previous years, with the new sponsorship deal also covering Leeds Chamber.
This renewal of sponsorship for the fifth year highlights aql's dedication to promoting and supporting Leeds and West Yorkshire based E-media business.
More information on leedsmedia can be found here.
28/11/2008 17:01:44
New aql telecoms user interface
aql voice services users can now configure inbound voice, fax, sms, voicemail, call forwarding from one simple interface. To view the new interface and configure settings, simply log onto aql.com and then click here.
14/11/2008 22:16:17
New Services and Features Wholesale text or call
aql has bundled its' wholesale voice and SMS numbering service as one offering under the name "aql text or call". This can be ordered and controlled either via API or our website. The specification PDF for this service can be downloaded here. The service allows you to give one number to your customers to receive both text messages and voice calls
Additional Systems features
We're constantly adding new features in response to customer requests. New services available to logged in customers include :
1) a search facility for looking through past support enquiries - log in and click here.
2) a search facility for finding particular fax to email numbers - log in ahd click here.
12/11/2008 12:13:29
The name's Bond..... 007 numbers - selling like hot cakes!
With the opening of the latest Bond film, Quantum of Solace, aql have seen a sharp rise in customers choosing phone numbers ending in the magic digits - 007 !
With over 12 million numbers and no extra charge for "007" numbers, aql makes the ideal choice for your follow-me, SMS, fax or voip number.
WYLUG summer social
aql were pleased to sponsor the bar and food for the WYLUG (or West Yorkshire Linux Users Group) summer meal this August.
Judging by the number of friendly emails we've got saying "thanks for the beer/food", guys (and girls) - you're most welcome - we'll be doing it again!
18/09/2008 09:56:01
aql celebrates 10th Anniversary with £3000 Developers Competition
To celebrate our 10th Birthday - we've launched a developer competition! This competition is free to enter - full terms can be seen here. The prize fund is £3,000 to be distributed in cash as follows:
* 1st Prize: £1,000
* 2nd Prize: £500
* 3rd Prize: £300
* 6 x runner up prizes of £200 each
The competition is to be judged by a panel consisting of :
* Dr. Mike Short - Vice President of R+D - Telefonica / PAST CHAIRMAN MOBILE DATA
* Jay Daley - Technical Director - Nominet UK
* Ewan MacLeod - Director and Lead Journalist - Mobile Industry Review
* Victor Keegan - Technology Writer - The Guardian
* Dr. Adam Beaumont - Managing Director - aql
Entrants will be judged on the best application which uses one or preferably more of our API's and creates either a standalone web application, or an SDK, or a plugin for a 3rd party application. Help your fellow coders - entrants community focus on helping fellow developers via our forum. We want you to help each other (but dont tell each other about your competition entry!).
To sign up for the competition, please create an account on our developer forum at http://developers.aql.com. All developers will be given access to some free SMS credits for testing and also a geographic inbound SMS number.
Keen to get started?
1) Join the forum at http://developers.aql.com - our moderators will set you up with all the test account access you need - including SMS credits and API user/passwords. aql have millions of inbound numbers capable of receiving SMS. You will get one of these to play with.
2) If you have any general questions relating to coding, API's etc, please post them via our forum in the relevant category.
3) While on our forum, if you find you can help anyone else - please do!
4) Please feel free to ask any of the moderators if you're unsure about anything or need to check you're doing the right thing! Good luck!
16/09/2008 17:00:10
Teachers texting Parents....
A recent article by the bbc, highlights the growing demand by parents to be kept up to date with their childrens' progress at school.
Text messaging is only just starting to become a mainstream growth area. This years' Mobile data association report confirms that text messaging has many years of life left as a technology, even in the face of alternative messaging technologies such as mobile based instant messaging.
12/09/2008 15:00:50
999 calling via the aql network
The most "frequently asked question" to aql at the moment is related to the Ofcom requirement for "VoIP" providers to offer 999 calling wherever possible. [see here].
aql is actively pursuing this aim. Like many wholesale telephony suppliers, we are looking to acheive 999 calling with a mechanism which is usable by our customerbase and is practical.
The problem (as many are aware) stems from the fact that "VoIP" handsets can move from one location to another. Because of this, aql needs to maintain an address database, which the customer (or reseller) must update and keep accurate. This information will be passed automatically, by aql, to the emergency services at time of dialling.
The scope for accidentally sending the emergency services to the wrong address is, we feel, more than significant and whilst we attempt to comply to Ofcom guidelines, aql are actively working with BT and other suppliers to streamline the process and apply diligence such that the risks relating to opening up 999 calling are minimised. Until aql feels that the process can be applied with levels of diligence that we feel are commensurate to the importance of this change, 999 calls will not be routed via the aql wholesale telecoms service.
04/09/2008 08:18:51
Feature update - Search distribution list tool.
By customer request - we've added a simple feature to search to check if a mobile number is in a distribution list.
To do this - simply log on to aql.com and goto "account" >> "search distribution list".
This feature is useful if you want to check that you've removed instances of opt-outs from particular lists, or to check overlap between lists.
We're always trying to make subtle improvements to the aql.com portal and are always pleased to hear of suggestions - please contact us if you have any feature requests.
03/09/2008 08:24:36
sms-enable your existing landline number
aql have developed a unique wholesale offering which allows aql to sms-enable any existing 01 or 02 geographic number and relay any inbound SMS from the major UK networks sent to that number to the number-owner either via email or via our programmatic API's.
This service allows end subscribers to be able to advertise existing landline numbers as "text or call" numbering.
Interested end subscribers or resellers, please contact us for more information
27/08/2008 15:52:22
aql join LONAP
As part of our strategy for increasing Voice over IP quality of service, aql have joined the LONAP peering point.
More information on LONAP can be found on the LONAP website.
14/08/2008 09:33:42
aql is ten years old! 1998 -> 2008
To celebrate - aql are offering the first 2000 subscribers the opportunity to sms-enable their existing landline number (where technically possible)..for free.
Any text messages received from the UK mobile networks to your office or home 01 or 02 number will be routed back to your aql.com account or email software for you to reply to!
For more information on this offer, please contact us via either our website or if logged in, via the support ticket system.
14/08/2008 08:38:52
Get a "repliable" sms number - £2 per month
If you need to be able to send SMS out and receive replies back. - click here and order an aql text-in number.
Note aql text-in numbers can also be configured to accept voice or as fax/voicemail lines. Choose from millions of numbers - grab a memorable number while you can.
20/04/2008 22:17:36
aql sms enable 20 million inbound numbers
aql have SMS enabled 20 million numbers for inbound sms from the big 5 UK networks.
This means that all aql geographic numbers will support 2 way sms text messaging, bringing the cost of UK interactive messaging within the small business price bracket.
If you are interested in individual SMS-enabled numbers, or in the aql wholesale relay service, please see this page.
16/04/2008 18:11:06
Unified Comms 2008 - aql launch SMS Relay Service
aql are once again exhibiting at this years Unified Communications Expo 08 and launching our Inbound SMS Relay Service
aql will be launching - "SMS Relay" - a service allowing users to receive inbound SMS on any aql number click here
If you would like to arrange to meet with us at either event, please contact us to arrange a mutually convenient time. Or for an informal chat, just turn up - we'll be pleased to see you.
*
Unified Communications, incorporating VoIP for Business:*
aql acquires coralbridge
aql has completed a strategic acquisition of coralbridge ltd this week.
The move aggregates telecommunications assets and adds several million phone numbers to the aql portfolio.
Further news will be released shortly which will highlight the benefits to aql customers which will follow the cash purchase of the private telecommunications company.
aql are looking to acquire other strategic assets within the telecommunications arena. Please contact us to initiate confidential discussion.
07/02/2008 18:49:16
aql acquires Quicktelecom
aql completed acquisition of the goodwill assets of Quicktelecom today.
Thousands of Quicktelecom customers will be able to migrate their services onto the aql platform and take advantage of additional features such as time-of-day forwarding, fax to email and email to fax.
Further news will be posted on this topic in the new year once migration has commenced.
20/12/2007 16:03:46
UK now sending over 1 billion SMS/week
MDA 2007 reports show messaging usage is still on the increase. MDA chairman, Mike Short, comments that some of this increase is attributable to increases in business messaging. Comments on the industry by Mike and also Adam Beaumont, Director of aql can be found here. A further article can be found here
28/11/2007 18:12:42
Breakfast Radio
At this months aql-sponsored Leeds Media breakfast briefing, Roger Cutsforth, Station Director at Galaxy Yorkshire, gave an insight into the role of radio and it's influence in the present day to a full house at the Leeds Radissson SAS.
Roger discussed the challenges faced with the emerging media channels of the Internet, Music TV and pod-cast generation, and how it retains it's influence and position amongst these.
As ever, the delegates, including many new faces, munched their way through the aql sponsored breakfast spread.
Melissa Sherriff (aql) and Roger Cutsforth (Galaxy Radio)
20/09/2007 13:58:43
Creating Communities : aql breakfast briefing
This months LeedsMedia breakfast briefing sponsored by aql was held at the historic Leeds Club.
A full house attended to hear Tom Bloxham MBE, joint founder and major shareholder of Urban Splash Group Ltd talk about their work in urban regeneration and the creation of their brand. Leeds-based customers interested in attending future events or speaking, please contact us.
26/07/2007 12:45:43
aql become RIPE LIR
aql are now a member of RIPE (Réseaux Internet Protocol Européens).
RIPE is the body responsible for the allocation of IP addresses within Europe. The aql network now spans over 6 different points of presence and over 10,000 customers. The move to become a local internet registry (LIR) was motivated by the rapid expansion by aql and the need to plan and design large networks with significant numbering.
If you have a network requirement or would like to interconnect with the aql messaging and voice network, please contact us.
10/07/2007 09:12:44
New Feature on aql.com site -> Content Based Reporting
Management information is vitally important in order to gain an understanding of how your SMS messaging is being used.
aql's content based reporting tool helps you analyse your message use online.
Simply log on to aql.com and goto "history" then "content based reporting".
Enter (one per line) the message content that you would like to view statistics on. eg :
alert
error
hello
and choose the period you would like to analyse. A graphical result will be displayed.
This is version 1 of the tool, further modifications are coming soon. If you have any suggestions, please let us know.
29/06/2007 17:47:50
aql win hat trick at Newsco Internet Awards
Immediately following 3 days at Internet World at Earls Court, the aql team were back in Leeds, accepting awards for Best Mobile Technology, Best Innovation and the "Grand Prix" prize for best of best.
Photo shows (left to right) Neil Bellamy, Mundia Miles, Melissa Sherriff (aql) and representative of DLA Piper, category sponsor.
Full press release can be downloaded as a pdf click here
Further coverage can be found here, here and here.
08/05/2007 11:25:16
aql at Olympia VoIP for Business
VoIP for business is now a viable proposition. This was highlighted by the extensive interest in the aql stand at the VoIP show at Olympia last month.
If you didn't get chance to make it along to see us, you can find us at the Internet World Show www.internetworld.co.uk on the 1st-->3rd May at Earls Court.
aql VoIP for Business, Earls Court, March 2007
10/04/2007 14:31:41
Fax to Email now possible on all 9 million aql numbers
Following investment in cisco(tm) fax routing technology, aql can now offer fax-to-email on all 9 million UK geographic numbers. Simply log in via our telecoms website and choose the fax to email option on the login portal page. Faxes will be delivered to the nominated email address in .tif format.
As with any new service, we'd welcome your feedback and comments for improvement.
05/04/2007 08:55:17
aql voip service - The Times Business Section
aql were centre comment on todays article in The Times with reference to the aql mobile VoIP service - the full article can be found here.
08/02/2007 12:05:20
aql partners with Fone Logistics for Nokia E-Series Service
aql have forged a unique parnership with Fone Logistics, one of the UK's largest Nokia Distributors. Fone Logistics are promoting the aql Nokia VoIP service directly through distribution and also through their retail channels. Press coverage can be found here, here and here.
23/11/2006 17:08:16
September Press Coverage - Mobile VoIP
This September, mobile VoIP has dominated our press coverage with over 20 separate articles in September alone.
Following aql's announcement of the launch of the first commercial Nokia E-series compatible VoIP service, the concept of using a conventional WiFi-enabled mobile such as the Nokia e60 for making and receiving VoIP calls has captured the imagination of the press.
aql
This months aql sponsored Leeds Media breakfast briefing featured Ann Pickering, Head of Customer Service and Retail for o2. Ann Spoke about the approach used to inspire and motivate all departments within o2, the steps implemented to help create both an interesting and exciting place to work and how this lead to maintaining and increasing customer satisfaction.
A full turnout and a lengthy round of questions by an interested audience paid testement to Ann's stimulating presentation. Next months briefing will be presented by Alan Hyde, Corporate Affairs Manager for GNER.
Image - Ann Pickering (o2) and Mundia Miles (aql).
03/10/2006 10:41:07
Text to Get Free VoIP on your mobile....
4th September 2006.
aql launches mobile VoIP for business. View release PDF. More info on the service can be found here
The service, targeted at Nokia ESeries users (E60, E61, E70) is enabled by texting "nokia" to 64446.
The user receives an over-the-air configuration message, enabling VoIP calling on the mobile handset. Users can make free VoIP-to-VoIP calls for life, with no subscription charges. Low cost calls can also be made abroad and to landlines.
08/09/2006 13:19:24
Sunday Times Feature on aql VoIP and Messaging Services
Following last months' press release, aql has had substantial press exposure - most notably in the Sunday Times and Times Online.
The article describes the usefulness of mobile VoIP as a method of making low cost calls whilst abroad. The full article can be found here.
Once you have VoIP on your mobile provides you with the choice wherever there is a compatible hotspot, to bypass the encumbent networks charges and make low cost calls over WiFi internet.
25/08/2006 20:54:21
The aql.com VoIP network is the UK's first VoIP network to support both voice and messaging without the requirement for third party software and plugins.
Like Voice over IP, Text over IP is free - the article describes the advantages to both the corporate and consumer marketplace.
This article highlights the useful reminder service launched by aql to remind registrants of their domain renewals.
25/08/2006 20:38:57
aql launches Text over "VoIP" service
Leeds 24th July 2006 - Telecoms and mobile messaging provider, aql, has today announced that it is the UK’s first VoIP infrastructure provider to allow customers to send and receive free text messages over it’s VoIP network and has opened up it’s network to receive text messages from other VoIP providers.
The new service allows free, unlimited calls and text messages to be sent and received over the Internet between message-enabled VoIP handsets, while outbound SMS or calls to GSM handsets are priced competitively.
24/07/2006 10:53:19 more ››
aql builds new resilient voice and data network
As part of our ongoing initiative to provide greater resilience and data capacity, aql are currently building a multi-homed BGP network, spread transparently over two of our London datacentres.
The network, which will span seamlessly between Harbour Exchange Square and Telehouse East will form a geographically redundant hub, underpinning our new voice and data services.
It also increases our data capacity by up to fifty times, enabling us to provide transit for any application, no matter how large or small. Other advantages will include a private peering arrangement for business critical customers (due online July 2006).
This network initiative will allow us to further reinforce our commitment to our 100% SLA to our corporate messaging clients.
11/02/2006 15:07:09
February Breakfast Briefing
As in 2005, Each month throughout 2006, aql will be sponsoring a breakfast briefing held at the leeds SAS Radisson.
This month is a study of the rebranding of one of Yorkshires largest Telco's. Although technically a competitor of aql, we welcome Kingstons' marketing manager, Richard Griffiths who we believe will provide an interesting angle on the public perception of telecoms companies during the necessary transition into providers of "converged services".
As a major Yorkshire PLC with 100 years of history, Kingston Communications is one of the region's most recognised brands.
However, a major acquisition by Kingston at the end of 2004 initiated a strategic shift and branding review of its national business. Launching a completely new identity faced significant resistance, both internally and externally, but Affiniti was unveiled to great acclaim in April 2005.
At this breakfast briefing, Richard will examine the rationale behind the rebrand and outline the ways that the in-house marketing team and its creative agencies worked together to create excitement and anticipation for the new identity.
11/02/2006 15:00:53
Local support this Christmas
This year, aql will be making a Christmas donation to local charity St Gemmas Hospice.
Late last month, aql also sponsored a winetasting held at LS7 cafe bar in Chapel Allerton, north leeds, also in aid of St Gemma's. The evening was a great success and was hosted by Harvey Nichols' resident wine buff Michael Dilworth. Michaels' down to earth style ensured the evening was both informative and laid-back. We'll be sponsoring another event early in 2006.
20/12/2005 16:05:32
aql launches email to speech service
In recognition of the fact that certain destinations (such as the Americas) are difficult to message to via SMS and also recognising the requirement to send SMS to non BT landlines, aql have launched an email to speech service.
The interface also features "delivery receipting" by an IVR acknowlegement function. Please click here for more info
22/11/2005 15:49:03
Stagecoach Group Plc use aql.com for new Transport site
Following the success of the megabus.com site, Stagecoach Group Plc have launched a new rail travel portal - megatrain.com. Both portals use aql.com for their reliable ticketless booking solution. Click here to download the press release as a pdf.
03/11/2005 12:29:17
Text to Speech API
aql is looking for early-adopters to provide feedback on its Text to Speech services, due for production launch in the coming weeks.
The system is designed as a second method of paging engineers or for reaching networks which do not support SMS text messaging.
The service is only available as an API at the moment, but several other options are to be rolled out over the coming weeks.
Please contact us if you would like a free trial of this system.
26/10/2005 18:10:08
Some of this months quotes.....
We had a call around some of our clients this week to find out what they think about us... Some of this months quotes are ..... "The service has been perfect." BSI Inspectorate ltd -- 12/9/05
"really really really useful. easy to use and reduces manpower."
Fortnums -- 12/9/05
"without a shadow of a doubt...excellent"
Ruella James Plc -- 12/9/05
"Have found the service to work well. Had a few teething problems, used support system, liked the fact that everything was written down"
Fortis commodity derivatives -- 12/9/05
15/09/2005 16:44:49
New aql shared shortcode service
aql now offer a shared shortcode service on one of the best shortcode numbers available - 64446
For £100 setup and £100 monthly (exc vat and subject to contract), you can have 10 keywords on our 64446 code. You can use the 64446 number purely for inbound texts (ie data gathering) or you can send back billing texts at £1. We share the revenue with you via our administration portal, offering excellent payouts.
There are several options for setting up billing messaging - you can define an automatic reply (which will cost the sender £1) or you can use our HTTP(s) POST API to send/receive messages (click here for more info).
Keywords are available on a first-come-first-served basis. To place your order and begin the application process, click here
29/08/2005 10:53:17
aql supports leedsmedia for 2005-2006
aql have just agreed to sponsor the leedsmedia breakfast briefings for a further 12 months.
Based on the success of previous briefings, aql are proud to be sponsors of the monthly event, now held at the SAS Radisson in Leeds town centre.
Watch this space for details of forthcoming events!
21/07/2005 15:07:28
A change from the norm - Breakfast talk on Lobbying!
Presented by Geoff Lawler, himself a former MP, founder of the Company which has worked on many issues covering anything from dog welfare to the licensing of stretch limos, and including major energy questions, diabetes treatment, the regulation of chiropractors and new laws affecting landlords.
The event and the bacon butties were both a success. We pride ourselves on hosting events which are a break from the normal "technology" topics.
01/07/2005 19:26:14
Latest aql sponsored talk - Full to capacity!
aql have been sponsoring breakfast briefings for LeedsMedia, a consortium of leeds based media and technology related companies. We've been dragging members out of bed at 8am on a Friday morning each month for a full breakfast and a short talk from a guest speaker.
Past speakers have included the MD of ITV yorkshire, representatives of Xscape, Marshall ward and others.
The briefings have been growing in popularity. This months' briefing was by S W A M P, a leeds based agency who talked about their creation of the new UMBRO website and was a sellout even at our new larger venue of the SAS Radisson.
Image shows Andrew Brown from S W A M P (left) and Adam Beaumont from aql.
25/05/2005 13:02:00
New Resources for Resellers
In response to numerous enquiries from resellers, aql has created a collection of scripts which form a simple SMS website which can be re-branded by resellers and hosted on their own servers. It allows users to sign up and also for an administrator to assign credits.
The script can be downloaded from here and is offered for free distribution. An aql.com account is required in order for the script to send SMS.
This is the first version of this script and as such, we welcome your feedback. Future plans include incorporating worldpay payment pages.
28/04/2005 13:29:14
Upgraded SMS Capacity
Following significant investment in additional infrastructure, aql® now has extra routes into the mobile networks to handle further traffic and offer greater per-network redundancy.
In addition, we now have failover routes available into Hutchinson 3 giving further PSMS resilience.
12/01/2005 14:49:44
WAP isn't that yesterdays news?
A recent publication in the mobile press by aql® highlights how WAP is not past-technology, but one of the few well-developed standards available to mobile and handset operators. If you've ever downloaded a polyphonic ringtone, you've used WAP-push, the "new" WAP. Click here to view the article as a pdf document.
08/12/2004 18:01:15
Free Broadband Phone Calls : Voice over IP (VoIP)
The aql® broadband telephony site is launched. Broadband telephony allows users to make free calls between broadband users, in addition to a host of other additional services. aql.com and sms2email.com site users should be able to log in with their existing usernames and passwords. To sign up or log in please click here. Signup is free!
04/11/2004 12:05:06
Identex rely on aql for timely alerts
Database management specialist, Identex, uses aql.com to provide alert messages to their engineers, allowing Identex to react more quickly should any of their business critical systems need attention. Click here to download the article as a pdf.
12/10/2004 20:05:01
Free Broadband Phone Calls : Voice over IP (VoIP)
(aq) is expanding its' telephony services to land services. In less than one month, (aq) will be launching its internet based broadband phone service.
Existing accountholders can preview this service which allows inbound and outbound pc based phonecalls.
Signing up gives you a unique 0870 number. Calls to this number can be routed to your pc (you need to install some pc phone software such as the x-lite software.
You can also make low cost calls to landlines and mobiles. If you want to do this, you need to pre-purchase some call credit (Which can be topped up at any time).
Features available on your VoIP number include voicemail, voicemail-to-email, call transfer and message forwarding.
We'll be adding more features as time goes on, including geographic numbers (eg 0208 0207 0113 etc). Please contact us if you would like to trial this service prior to rollout later this month.
04/10/2004 18:02:41
New site : aql.com
As part of our expansion into fixed line telephony, we have launched a new SMS portal site. All sms2email customers can log in using their account details. The aql.com site is faster to load and easier to use. To view the site please click here.
07/09/2004 16:52:43
(aq) sponsor Leeds Media Seminars
The following release announces (aq)s sponsorship of the 2004 to 2005 session of monthly breakfast briefings. Companies presenting a series of interesting casestudies this year include ITV Yorkshire, X-Leisure (castleford snowdome) and Yorkshire Water.
27/08/2004 11:41:59
SMS text messaging to BT landlines
Users of our Premium(uk) tariff should now be able to message to British Telecom (BT) UK landlines. This follows the release of a new service by BT which means that all BT landlines can receive texts, either via a display on a compatible handset, or, where the handset is not compatible, the recipient will receive a call with the sms text converted to speech.
Sending is the same as to mobiles - however, the numbers -must- be in international format eg :
0113 2582220 would be 441132582220.
Please contact us if you have any queries. (Note - you cannot use alpha originators - your originator must be a valid mobile number - eg +447778123456).
17/08/2004 18:07:16
" ...mobile phones, internet access, good coffee... essential business requirements..."
A short article highlighting (aq) gaining planning consent to open a high street internet cafe in the trendy Chapel Allerton area of Leeds. The cafe will, of course, have wireless access and great coffee! . To read the article click here.
21/07/2004 15:30:23
"fastest growing mobile messaging provider........"
This months INTERNET WORKS magazine kicks off a series of articles on mobile messaging. (aq) is quoted as "UK's fastest growing mobile messaging provider........".
The article advocates MMS and multimedia messaging. To read the article click here (large download).
10/06/2004 16:41:58
(aq) Sponsors Horde Project
The horde project create secure and reliable webmail portals for ISPs, schools and corporates.
(aq) is proud to be sponsoring a small development project to help the HORDE framework interface with our SMS gateways. For more information please click here.
17/05/2004 19:03:54
(aq) has been closely involved with leedsmedia since its startup, as both a regular advertiser and Event sponsor.
(aq) is proud to be sponsoring a series of 10 breakfast briefings throughout 2004/2005. For more information please click here.
09/04/2004 13:28:21
Nagios Server monitoring recommends sms2email.com
Nagios is one of the most comprehensive network monitoring solutions available. For more information on their network and environmental solutions, please click here
09/04/2004 12:55:59
Blogging is here!
Take a photo with your phone and send it to your sms2email.com blogging account. This allows you to display your latest images on your own website and to automatically share your images with your friends via email in real-time.
Every time you submit a new photo, your friends can log on and comment - it's a more personal way to keep in touch than simply texting.
To set up your blogging account click here
23/03/2004 18:05:32
Beep Beep ... Time to Pray....!
This is probably one of the most unusual applications of our scheduled message service that we've seen. It's captured the imagination of a few newspapers. Click here and here to view the story as a pdf document.
01/03/2004 07:54:25
Taxi Firm uses SMS to help the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
An article showing how our email to sms and sms to email systems can make it easy for busy companies such as Taxi firms to send and receive SMS. The article shows how the system lends itself perfectly to Taxi booking for the deaf and hard of hearing.
To view the article as a pdf, please click here
06/02/2004 06:55:00
Desktop SMS : Version 1.2.1 released !
Desktop SMS version 1.2.1 released :
We're ahead of schedule again. Version 1.2.1 of our desktop SMS
application is now available.
Thanks to our customers feedback, version 1.2.1 offers the following
new features :
o Send from address books and distribution lists
o Create/edit/delete Address books and distribution lists
o Proxy support - support for corporate internet access
o Message scheduling - queue messages for sending at a particular time
o synchronises with your sms2email.com settings
The above features are in addition to the original features (including
our secure 128 bit encrypted message transmission).
21/01/2004 12:49:08
SMS works for radio ads ..
SMS is the ideal medium for interaction with your radio audience. Our radio ad says it all....
A search on google will find some of our users. Simply search for our main gateway number - 07766 404142 or click here
18/12/2003 21:12:40
Desktop SMS : Version 1.1.1 released !
Our first release of our desktop SMS software for windows (tm) operating systems, allows easy messaging from your desktop. Click here to download [5.3MB] [md5 checksum b6a0510dd5f8ba28e9c79ab38f51cfaf].
The application connects to our SMS gateway via a secure 128-bit encrypted connection, protecting your messages from being intercepted.
Version 1.1.1 Features :
Secure messaging
Remembers your password (no logging in and out)
Synchronises with your online address book
We're looking for customer feedback so that we can improve upon the application for release 1.1.2 scheduled for mid to late January.
17/12/2003 17:01:21
in the press : "high tech links with tradition"
"high tech links with tradition". A trade journal feature - A case study of an unlikely candidate for SMS. To view this article as a pdf, please click here
08/12/2003 18:39:01
In the press : e-source article
"e-hq news". A local feature - An overview of SMS based services. To view this article as a pdf, please click here
08/12/2003 18:37:28
In the press : "out of office solutions"
"out of office solutions". An article on mobile communications and the relevance of SMS as a tool and not a toy!. To view this article as a pdf, please click here
04/12/2003 18:03:15
In the press :
"Text messaging success...". A local article aimed at company startups and how SMS texting can be used to save money and time. To View, please click here
04/12/2003 18:00:51
In the press :
"more SPAM anyone". An article on the usefulness of direct marketing and interactive services when used properly and responsibly. To view this article as a pdf, please click here
04/12/2003 17:55:25
(aq) sponsors Refuel 2003
(aq) - the company that brings you sms2email.com is one of the sponsors for the Refuel 2003 marketing and media conference.
Business Critical SMS Services
If you are a client relying on SMS for your business, please contact us regarding our range of support services.
SMS2email.com operates several backup systems which can route your SMS messages should the main systems not be contactable. If you are a client using our HTTP POST gateway, we can provide a further two redundant (backup) HTTP gateways, to help ensure you can always send SMS - Please contact us to discuss your requirements.
If you are an email to sms client, you will already benefit from the high level of mail routing redundancy offered by our geographically and physically redundant network of incoming mail servers.
17/10/2003 09:15:37
New Message history function.
In response to feedback from high-usage clients, we now offer a large-volume message history function.
This allows users to choose to download their entire message history (or part of it), even if they have millions of outgoing messages.
To use this, go to - history - and then to - download outgoing messages -
Note - requests are processed every hour - you will be notified when your request has been completed.
Technical info : This batch process runs on a replicated database which is synced with the live database every 5 seconds. By running the batch process on a non-live server, this helps to ensure that large batches can be processed without slowing down other essential functions.
30/09/2003 12:44:31
