My invention continues, three years later

My invention continues, three years later

I was part of making the Rescue Ring at Virgin, the most signature contribution I made since I really had a big part in the creation of the data services and specifically of the name of this thing. And I often like to say how you cannot read a piece of marketing crap from them without it mentioning Rescue Ring, even now, 3 years later. Well, see this excerpt from the latest press release, as they hit 3mm subs (about 1 month late, actually, when you consider it should have happened in Q4).

Virgin Mobile USA Attracts 3 Million Customers in 2.5 Years
Tuesday February 8, 8:09 am ET
Company Exceeds Customer Expectations and Drives Active Use of Data Services and Mobile Content Favored by Youth Market

WARREN, N.J., Feb. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- Virgin Mobile USA, one of the nation's fastest growing wireless providers, today announced that it has surpassed the three million net customers mark nearly six months ahead of its third anniversary. Launched on July 24, 2002, the company has rapidly built its youth-relevant brand by offering a Pay As You Go wireless service with no long-term contracts or hidden fees, and a unique suite of mobile content.
"Achieving a three million customer milestone in less than three years since our launch drives home Virgin Mobile's position as a Pay As You Go pioneer," said Dan Schulman, CEO of Virgin Mobile USA. "Our continued growth confirms that we're making a powerful connection with the youth market."

Posting Powerful Results for Entertainment Services

Mobile phones are fast becoming lifestyle accessories used for more than talking, especially for teens and young adults. As these metrics demonstrate, Virgin Mobile customers are doing a lot more than just flapping their lips:

* In 2004, over 70% of Virgin Mobile customers sent or received text
messages.

* In 2004, over 60% of Virgin Mobile users used non-voice data services
such as MTV's Pimp My Ride, THangman, Comedy Central's Joke of the Day,
SongID, and Rescue Ring.

* Over half of its customers downloaded ringtones last year and Virgin
Mobile represents approximately 8% of the total US ringtone market -- a
number disproportionately larger than its total wireless market share.

Stellar Customer Service

Virgin Mobile also continues to provide outstanding service that exceeds the expectations of its customer base. Over 90% of Virgin Mobile customers say they'd recommend the service to a friend -- while more than eight-in-ten (83%) already have recommended Virgin Mobile to a friend or family member (Source: MSI Survey of current customers, 4Q 2004).

In addition to high marks for customer referrals, Virgin Mobile also keeps its gold-star status for customer satisfaction. Recent independent research among current customers gave Virgin Mobile a 92% satisfaction rate. "Customer service is our most important measure of success," Schulman said.

About Virgin Mobile USA, LLC:

Launched nationally in July of 2002, Virgin Mobile USA, LLC has redefined and set the pace for the entire prepaid wireless category. More than three million wireless users have chosen Virgin Mobile's Pay As You Go service with no long-term contracts and no hidden fees. In addition, J.D. Power and Associates has recognized Virgin Mobile for providing "An Outstanding Customer Service Experience" under its Certified Call Center Program(SM).

The nation's first mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), Virgin Mobile is a joint venture between Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Group and Sprint, which operates one of the largest 100-percent digital, nationwide PCS wireless networks in the United States. It is the first wireless provider to focus exclusively on the needs and desires of the youth. All Virgin Mobile customers have access to VirginXtras -- a host of music, entertainment and fun lifestyle features, including exclusive content from strategic partner MTV: Music Television. Customers with 3G-enabled phones also have access to VirginXL -- the high-octane version of VirginXtras featuring picture messaging, downloadable games and more.

Virgin Mobile phones and Top-Up cards are available direct on the Web at http://www.virginmobileusa.com; at 888-322-1122; or, at more than 20,000 locations, including Amazon.com, Best Buy, Coconuts, CompUSA, F.Y.E., Media Play, RadioShack, Rite Aid, Safeway, Sam Goody, Sprint Stores, Strawberries, Target Stores, Wal*Mart, Virgin Megastores and select college bookstores. Top- Up cards are also available at more than 57,000 locations, including Circle K, CVS and 7-Eleven stores.