Telecommunication solutions developer KONA I said Wednesday that the company and mobile carrier KT will soon launch a new mobile service which allows mobile subscribers to use three distinctive phone numbers on one handset.

Different from dual-SIM phones fitted with two subscriber identification module card slots, the service for multiple phone numbers will be available through a new single SIM card with three different numbers, developed by the Seoul-headquartered KONA I.

“The new SIM for the so-called “triple number,” service will be more stable than other dual or triple SIMs as it would allow users to switch from one number to the other in a seamless manner thanks to its advanced solutions,” an official from KONA I said.

The official said the new type of SIM card will be compatible with most smartphone models running on Google’s Android operating system and Apple’s iOS.

It is anticipated other mobile carriers will likely follow suit, utilizing SIM cards that allow subscribers to use three numbers since the single SIM for multiple numbers will get rid of the nuisance of buying different SIMs.

KT has been making efforts to provide services catering to the needs of those who want different phone numbers for work and personal use.

The wireless carrier launched the Olleh Two Phone service recently in which a user could have two phone numbers for one mobile phone. It is a software solution to enable users to manage smartphone functions separately without having to have two SIM cards.

Users can simply change the numbers by initiating a mobile application for the dual number function.

By Kim Young-won  (wone0102@heraldcorp.com)