It is currently  defined and specified as a standard for third generation mobile telecommunication and is  ultimately expected to become the preferred messaging  method  for mobile terminal users.

MMS  is  the  evolution of SMS, Short Message Service, which is  currently moving  toward the exciting Enhanced Message Service (EMS) for illustrated text  messages. 

MMS  can  transmit messages  containing  text,  graphics, photographic  images,  audio and even video clips between  mobile  devices using Wireless Application Protocol (WAP) as bearer technology and powered by the high-speed transmission technologies EDGE and GPRS.

Today's  enormously  popular SMS text messaging service  handles  some  15 billion character-based messages per month worldwide.

MMS-enabled phones will feature a built-in media editor that allows  users to  easily  create and edit the content of their multimedia  messages.  By using  a  built-in  or  attached camera, for example,  users  can  produce PowerPoint-style messages or digital postcards and send them to friends or associates. Ericsson will have products supporting MMS during the  end  of 2001.

According to Ericsson, the opportunities for network operators,  who  will gain  from  the increased air time and new tariff options, are tremendous, driving  expansion  in  that  area of the mobile  marketplace. 

Nokia and Ericsson's Multimedia Messaging will lead the way to profit and  appeal to  all  parts of  the  value  chain, by providing value-added services and  new  revenue streams for operators, content providers, and advertisers.