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11 March 2010 14:46

SMSFun becomes Australia's largest homegrown social network

SMSFun, Australia’s largest homegrown social networking site, has this month surpassed 250,000 active members who have now initiated over 33 million text messages through its free SMS service.

While SMSFun allows Australians to send free SMS and MMS to friends around the country, it also allows users to enjoy many social networking features such as profiles, status updates, photo sharing, competitions, and more. Members also earn points for increasing participation.

A unique customer retention model has ensured rapid growth for SMSFun, effectively integrating free SMS & MMS with a thriving social network.

Mark Ross-Smith, founder of SMSFun, said the growth in popularity shows Australians are fed up with the texting costs of traditional telecommunications providers.

“We have a large and loyal user base who not only appreciate being able to send free SMS to their friends and family, but also enjoy being actively involved in a thriving digital community."

“We’ve found a large portion of our huge member base becoming actively involved in the social networking side of SMSFun. They’re uploading photos, sharing updates, posting in our forums, and meeting new friends."

“Clearly there is room for growth outside of Facebook and Twitter in the social networking space. Our rapid growth to more than 250,000 active members proves that homegrown alternatives can work."

“Australians are enjoying the benefits of free SMS and MMS all the while being part of an active, fun social network."

“This large and active community makes us a real threat to telcos who are clearly charging far too much for SMS and MMS in Australia,” Mr Ross-Smith said.