Special

To be precise, MSearch is the first Vietnamese mobile search service/tool with high completeness. One Search, provided by MobiFone in the past, was a foreign-based service from Yahoo! Some Vietnamese companies have previously released online services with search functionality, but they were only supportive in nature. However, MSearch is a dedicated mobile search service that supports various content. 

MobiFone subscribers can use MSearch via SMS to look up information about dictionaries, locations, classifieds without the need for registration or service installation. Users simply compose an SMS following the format TD [dictionary][term to search] and send it to the shortcode 9248 to receive quick responses. If users want to search for information about locations or classifieds, they can compose DD [query] or RV [query] and send it to 9248. Each SMS reply incurs a fee of only 500 VND. However, using SMS has limited support content, and users are required to remember the syntax.

On the other hand, if users utilize the application software, they can access support content in over a dozen fields, ranging from ringtones, images, albums, games to betting rates, lottery results, stock markets, news, and guides. To install the application software, users can compose an SMS with the keyword MS and send it to 9248 to download and install the application on their mobile devices. Alternatively, they can visit the wapsite http://MSearch.vn/wap to download and install the application. After successful installation, users simply need to launch the application, and the MSearch homepage will appear with a search box and 13 categories for users to enter their desired information. Additionally, 13 frequently searched information categories are displayed to assist users.

MSearch offers three package options through the application software: daily (24 hours), weekly (7 days), and monthly (30 days), with corresponding fees of 2,000 VND to 10,000 VND and 30,000 VND. Users can select a package by sending the corresponding keyword (MS1, MS7, or MS30) to the shortcode 999, or they can choose it through the main interface: go to "account," then select "menu," and proceed to "subscription package." After receiving a confirmation message from the service center, users need to reply with Y to confirm their subscription and successfully activate the new package. Once users confirm by sending Y to 999, their new subscription will be successfully activated. Users can freely search for information without worrying about data charges because data usage is free of charge.

The cost of using MSearch includes two types of fees: subscriber charges and content charges (ranging from 1,000 VND to 10,000 VND per download), without incurring data transmission charges, which is a common concern for users who enjoy browsing the web and using services on the 3G network. From this perspective, it is clear that the intention of the network provider is to promote 3G usage, as the data traffic has increased significantly in recent times, but the potential of 3G resources has yet to be fully exploited.

No data charges.

MSearch stands alone not because there is no other Vietnamese mobile search service available in the market. From a consumer's point of view, MSearch offers a certain level of convenience: It can be used via SMS without the need for registration or installation for certain content. For more diverse needs, users can download and install the application software. The flexible package options include

The outstanding feature of MSearch compared to other search services is its ability to search in Vietnamese, resulting in search results that are closer to Vietnamese users. Moreover, MSearch offers multiple package options and choices that are suitable for all customer segments. Free data charges are also an interesting advantage of this service. Not only that, MSearch has the advantage of being compatible with both 2G (GPRS/EDGE) and 3G network connections, as well as Wi-Fi. Therefore, whether customers are in city centers or remote areas, they can use the MSearch service on their mobile devices to fulfill their search needs.