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Value-added service
Value-added service
Value-added service
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A value-added service (VAS) is a popular telecommunications industry[1] term for non-core services, or, in short, all services beyond standard voice calls and fax transmissions. However, it can be used in any service industry, for services available at little or no cost, to promote their primary business. In the telecommunications industry, on a conceptual level, value-added services add value to the standard service offering, spurring subscribers to use their phone more and allowing the operator to drive up their average revenue per user. For mobile phones, technologies like SMS, MMS and data access were historically usually considered value-added services, but in recent years SMS, MMS and data access have more and more become core services, and VAS therefore has begun to exclude those services.

Mobile VAS services can be categorized into:

  • Consumer behavior VAS
  • Network VAS
  • Enterprise VAS

A distinction may also be made between standard (peer-to-peer) content and premium-charged content. These are called mobile value-added services (MVAS), which are often simply referred to as VAS.

Value-added services are supplied either in-house by the mobile network operator themselves or by a third-party value-added service provider, also known as a content provider such as All Headline News or Reuters.

Value-added service providers typically connect to the operator using protocols like Short message peer-to-peer protocol, connecting either directly to the short message service centre or, increasingly, to a messaging gateway that gives the operator better control of the content. Several other operators are approaching banking on possible revenue streams by building value-added services (VAS), which is generally available with rewards-based schemes.

Major value-added services

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References

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Value-added service

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from Grokipedia
A value-added service (VAS) in refers to any non-core service provided by network operators beyond basic offerings such as voice calls, short message service (), and data connectivity, which adds value through enhanced content, applications, or features typically incurring additional charges. These services leverage the underlying communication infrastructure to deliver supplementary functionalities that improve or generate new revenue streams for providers. VAS encompass a wide range of categories, including information services (e.g., news alerts and weather updates), (e.g., ringtones, gaming, and video streaming), and transactional services (e.g., mobile financial services and m-commerce). Other common examples include call management features like , , and , as well as location-based services and caller ring back tones. These services are often delivered via , special numbering ranges, or platforms, enabling rapid innovation and adaptation to technological advancements. The significance of VAS lies in their role in driving telecom operator profitability, with contributions to (ARPU) through diversified income beyond traditional connectivity fees. They enhance , facilitate brand differentiation, and support initiatives by expanding access to digital services in emerging markets. Regulatory oversight, such as licensing requirements for VAS providers, ensures compliance with standards for , , and network . As mobile penetration rates surpass population levels in many regions, VAS continue to evolve, integrating with advanced technologies such as , AI, and to offer more sophisticated applications.

Definition and Overview

Definition

A value-added service (VAS) is defined as a non-core offering that enhances the functionality or utility of a primary product or service by adding features such as , storage, or customization, thereby increasing its perceived worth to the . In the sector, where the term originated, VAS specifically involves services that alter the form or content of customer or facilitate its storage and retrieval, distinguishing them from basic transmission services like voice calls or data connectivity. These services are optional extras that go beyond essential offerings, such as standard product delivery in retail or fundamental financial transactions in banking, to provide supplementary benefits that improve . Key characteristics of VAS include their optional nature, potential for revenue generation through or bundling, high customizability to meet diverse user needs, and frequent integration with core services to create comprehensive packages. For instance, in business contexts, VAS can encompass loyalty programs, extended warranties, or personalized that augment standard sales or support, fostering without being integral to the base transaction. They are revenue-generating by design, often contributing to additional income streams—such as through subscription models or one-time fees—while enhancing overall satisfaction and encouraging greater engagement with the primary offering. The distinction between VAS and basic services lies in their scope: basic services fulfill core requirements, like voice telephony in telecom or simple payment processing in , whereas VAS provide enhancements that are not essential but add tangible value, such as content delivery or advisory tools. This separation ensures that VAS are promoted as upsell opportunities rather than standard inclusions, avoiding dilution of fundamental service expectations. Originally a telecommunications-specific concept emerging from regulatory frameworks in the late , the term VAS has evolved to apply broadly across industries including , retail, and , where it denotes any supplementary service that elevates the core proposition. This expansion reflects a shift toward service-oriented economies, where providers leverage VAS to differentiate offerings and capture incremental value.

Historical Development

The emergence of value-added services (VAS) in began in the 1980s alongside the rollout of first-generation () mobile networks. The launch of the first commercial cellular systems, such as the (AMPS) in the United States in 1983, introduced basic enhancements beyond voice calls, including and , which allowed operators to monetize additional features on analog networks. These early VAS were enabled by advancements in switching technology that supported supplementary services, marking the initial shift from pure connectivity to value-enhancing add-ons in mobile telecom. The 1990s brought substantial expansion of VAS, driven by the adoption of second-generation (2G) digital networks under the standard, which was developed by the European Conference of Postal and Administrations (CEPT) starting in 1982 and first commercially deployed in in 1991. A pivotal development was the , conceptualized in 1984 during GSM specification work and first successfully transmitted on December 3, 1992, from a computer to a , enabling as a low-cost, non-voice VAS that quickly gained popularity for person-to-person communication. By the mid-1990s, had become a core VAS offering across networks, with commercial services launching in and Asia, while the specification emerged in 1999, extending VAS to include images and video, further fueled by global standardization that facilitated interoperability and service scalability. In the early 2000s, VAS transitioned toward data-centric offerings, integrating with evolving network capabilities to support richer content delivery. The (WAP), released in June 1999 by the WAP Forum—a including , , and —provided a framework for browsing and simple data services, allowing users to access news, weather, and other content on compatible devices. This innovation spurred partnerships between telecom operators and content providers, who collaborated to develop and distribute VAS such as ringtones, games, and information services via WAP-enabled portals. By 2004, these developments had elevated VAS to a key revenue driver, comprising approximately 15% of total income for major operators like , reflecting the growing economic importance of non-voice services amid market saturation in basic .

Applications in Telecommunications

Core Features

Value-added services (VAS) in telecommunications are fundamentally integrated with the core network infrastructure to ensure seamless delivery without disrupting basic connectivity. This integration typically leverages established signaling protocols such as Signaling System No. 7 (SS7), which facilitates communication between network elements like the mobile switching center and intelligent network platforms, enabling VAS to overlay on existing voice, SMS, and data services. For instance, SS7's MAP (Mobile Application Part) and CAP (CAMEL Application Part) interfaces allow VAS platforms to query subscriber data and trigger service logic in real-time during call setups or message routing. This architecture supports hybrid environments from 2G to 5G cores, minimizing the need for separate infrastructures while maintaining compatibility with legacy systems. Billing mechanisms form a critical component of VAS, enabling flexible monetization models that align with diverse subscriber preferences. VAS are commonly integrated with both prepaid and postpaid billing systems, where real-time charging occurs through the operator's core billing platform to deduct fees during service usage. In prepaid scenarios, VAS charges are captured via gateways that interface with the real-time billing system, often involving micro-transactions for small-value services like content downloads or alerts, which are debited incrementally from the subscriber's balance. Postpaid integration similarly routes VAS usage to the billing mediator for consolidated invoicing, supporting usage-based or subscription models to enhance streams beyond core tariffs. User interaction in VAS emphasizes consent-driven and tailored experiences to comply with regulatory standards and improve engagement. Opt-in/opt-out models are standard, requiring explicit subscriber approval before activating services, such as through SMS confirmations or portal selections, while allowing easy deactivation to protect . Personalization is achieved via user profiles stored in the Home Location Register (HLR) or subscriber databases, enabling operators to deliver context-aware services based on preferences, location, or usage history without compromising . Performance metrics for VAS prioritize reliability and responsiveness to meet quality-of-service expectations in . Uptime requirements typically exceed 99.9%, ensuring minimal service interruptions through redundant architectures and monitoring, as directly impacts subscriber trust and revenue. For real-time VAS, such as location-based services, latency targets are typically under 50 ms in networks and under 10 ms end-to-end in URLLC to support interactive applications, achieved via optimized signaling paths and integration within the core network. These metrics are monitored using key performance indicators like and , aligning with international standards for network dependability.

Specific Examples

Messaging services represent a foundational category of value-added services (VAS) in telecommunications, where operators offer enhanced text communication options beyond basic plans. SMS bundles provide users with a fixed number of messages at a discounted rate, enabling cost-effective communication for high-volume users such as businesses or social groups, often integrated into prepaid or postpaid packages to boost subscriber retention. MMS extends this by allowing multimedia sharing, including photos, videos, and audio clips, which facilitates richer interactions like sending event highlights or family moments, with operators charging premium rates for the added data transmission. Content delivery services exemplify how VAS monetizes access, particularly through premium SMS mechanisms. Users can download ringtones and wallpapers by sending a via , instantly receiving the content while the operator bills a one-time , which has been a popular customization option in emerging markets to personalize devices without additional apps. Mobile games are similarly delivered, where premium unlocks downloads or in-game purchases, providing entertainment on feature phones and generating recurring revenue for operators through microtransactions. Location-based VAS leverage network data to deliver context-aware utilities, enhancing user safety and convenience. Emergency alerts, such as (WEA), broadcast critical notifications like weather warnings or alerts to devices within a geographic area, using technology to ensure rapid dissemination without user opt-in, thereby saving lives during crises. add-ons provide turn-by-turn directions or traffic updates as subscription-based services, integrating GPS with operator maps to offer real-time guidance for commuters, reducing travel time and fuel costs in urban settings. Entertainment VAS cater to leisure preferences, particularly in content-rich regions, by bundling media access with telecom plans. Streaming music and video packs allow unlimited or data-capped access to platforms like or OTT services, often included in festive recharges to attract subscribers during high-demand periods such as sports seasons. In , score updates via deliver live ball-by-ball commentary and match alerts, a highly subscribed service due to the sport's popularity, enabling fans to stay informed without constant data usage on basic handsets.

Applications in Business and Other Industries

Role in Product Enhancement

Value-added services (VAS) play a pivotal role in enhancing physical and digital products within and retail sectors by integrating supplementary features that elevate functionality, durability, and , thereby increasing the overall perceived value of the core offering. In , VAS transform standard products into comprehensive solutions that address post-purchase needs, fostering customer loyalty and differentiating brands in competitive markets. This augmentation is particularly evident in , where bundled services extend the product's lifecycle and mitigate risks associated with usage. Extended warranties and support services exemplify VAS in product enhancement, offering bundled maintenance plans that provide coverage beyond the standard manufacturer for such as smartphones, laptops, and home appliances. These plans typically include repair, replacement, or technical assistance for a defined period, often ranging from one to five years, and can cover accidental damage or theft in premium tiers. In the sector, the global market reached $48.65 billion in 2020 and is projected to grow to $198.99 billion by 2030, driven by rising device complexity and consumer demand for peace of mind. Retailers like and manufacturers such as frequently bundle these services at the point of sale, increasing product appeal and average transaction value. Customization options further enhance products through VAS like software updates and services, allowing consumers to tailor goods to individual preferences and ensuring long-term . For instance, software updates deliver security patches, performance improvements, and new features to devices like smartwatches or automobiles, extending usability without requiring hardware replacement. services, such as on jewelry or configurable software interfaces on laptops, enable users to modify or functionality, boosting satisfaction and perceived exclusivity. In retail, companies like Nike offer online tools for custom shoe designs, which not only increase but also command premium pricing. Loyalty programs serve as another key VAS, providing points-based add-ons that reward repeat purchases and encourage ongoing engagement with the product ecosystem in and retail. These programs accumulate points for transactions, redeemable for discounts, exclusive access, or complementary services, thereby increasing . In retail examples include ' rewards system, where points from app-based purchases unlock free items, driving repeat visits and integrating seamlessly with product to elevate the . A prominent is Apple's services, particularly iCloud storage, which significantly enhances hardware sales by creating a seamless, integrated environment that locks in users. iCloud provides cloud-based storage, , and across Apple devices like iPhones and Macs, starting at 50GB for $0.99 monthly, and has become a cornerstone of Apple's services , contributing to $85.2 billion in fiscal year 2023 services . This VAS boosts hardware perceived value by enabling effortless and feature continuity. By 2024, iCloud led Apple's services portfolio, accounting for a substantial portion of recurring and directly supporting iPhone sales, which represent approximately 50% of Apple's total . Similar to telecom VAS that bundle data plans with devices, Apple's approach amplifies product utility through digital augmentation. Emerging integrations, such as AI-driven personalization in iCloud features, continue to enhance VAS value as of .

Role in Service Industries

In service industries, value-added services (VAS) augment core offerings by integrating digital enhancements that improve , , and without altering the fundamental service delivery. These additions, often powered by , enable providers to differentiate themselves in competitive markets like , healthcare, and , fostering loyalty and . In , VAS such as real-time alerts and robo-advisory apps are bundled with traditional banking to provide proactive monitoring and tailored guidance. For instance, low-balance or transaction alerts delivered via mobile apps or help customers avoid fees and manage finances more effectively, with nearly 70% of major U.S. banks offering near real-time notifications as of 2013 to enhance account transparency. Similarly, AI-driven robo-advisors deliver personalized recommendations integrated into banking platforms, automating portfolio management and to make advisory services more accessible and cost-efficient for retail clients. Healthcare providers leverage VAS like telemedicine add-ons to extend basic consultations, enabling remote follow-ups and monitoring that complement in-person care. In plans, these services are offered voluntarily beyond standard coverage, such as audio-video check-ins or for chronic conditions, which reduce no-show rates and transportation costs while improving access for rural or underserved populations. thus acts as a hybrid enhancer, supporting up to 24% of routine visits through virtual formats that maintain continuity of care without requiring physical exams. In , VAS including app-based room upgrades and personalized features elevate guest stays by allowing customization of core accommodations. Mobile applications enable dynamic booking of preferences like higher floors or views, with 60% of users opting for AI-recommended options to streamline selections and boost satisfaction. Digital concierges, powered by AI chatbots, handle queries on amenities and requests with near-instant responses, processing up to 97% of interactions to provide empathetic, tailored support that mimics human service. Integration examples illustrate VAS in broader service ecosystems, such as 's ride-sharing platform, where premium safety features like real-time GPS tracking and on-trip phone support are added to standard rides for enhanced . These include professional drivers with high ratings and , plus guarantees like Uber Cash reimbursements for delays, ensuring reliability for travelers.

Categories and Types

Consumer-Oriented VAS

Consumer-oriented value-added services (VAS) are designed to enhance the individual end-user's experience by providing supplementary features that go beyond core offerings, emphasizing user-centric enhancements across various sectors such as , , and . These services prioritize direct consumer interaction, leveraging to deliver tailored value that fosters loyalty and satisfaction without requiring significant additional investment from the user. A key aspect of consumer-oriented VAS is , which utilizes user data to generate customized recommendations and content, such as tailored news feeds in mobile applications or streaming platforms. For instance, telecom providers employ algorithms to content based on browsing history and preferences, allowing users to receive relevant articles, videos, or promotions directly on their devices. This data-driven approach not only improves but also increases user engagement by aligning services with individual interests and behaviors. Accessibility is another cornerstone, achieved through low-cost or no-cost entry points like models, where basic features are offered for free to lower barriers to adoption. Examples include services providing initial free capacity, such as 2 GB from , or telecom VAS offering complimentary international data to attract casual users before premium tiers. These models democratize access, enabling a broad consumer base to experience without upfront financial commitment, thereby expanding market reach. Consumer-oriented VAS significantly boost engagement, with metrics showing retention rates improving by approximately 22% through gamified elements in applications. Gamified apps, such as those incorporating points, badges, and challenges, transform routine interactions into rewarding experiences, encouraging prolonged use and formation among individual users. This enhancement is particularly evident in mobile ecosystems where such features sustain daily . Representative examples illustrate these principles in action. stickers serve as a simple yet effective VAS, enabling users to personalize messages with expressive, branded digital graphics that enhance communication and foster community interaction on platforms like messaging apps. Similarly, fitness tracking integrations act as VAS by syncing wearable with consumer apps to provide personalized insights, goal tracking, and motivational feedback, seamlessly embedding wellness support into everyday digital routines.

Enterprise and Network VAS

Enterprise value-added services (VAS) are specialized offerings designed for business-to-business (B2B) environments, enabling enterprises to integrate telecommunications capabilities with their operational systems for enhanced efficiency. These services often include CRM integrations that synchronize customer interaction data across communication channels, allowing real-time updates and automated workflows. For instance, unified communication platforms can embed VoIP functionalities directly into CRM systems, facilitating seamless call logging and follow-ups. Additionally, API-based data analytics provide enterprises with actionable insights from telecom data, such as usage patterns and network performance metrics, to optimize decision-making and resource allocation. Network VAS focus on optimizing infrastructure for telecom operators, incorporating tools for and to ensure reliable service delivery at scale. Solutions like (DPI)-enabled QoS systems classify and prioritize traffic, such as favoring video conferencing over file downloads during peak loads, thereby preventing and maintaining service levels. These tools integrate with broader network functions to monitor bandwidth usage and enforce policies across user groups, supporting operators in managing diverse traffic types efficiently. Scalability is a core attribute of enterprise and network VAS, with -based deployments enabling large-scale deployments through elastic and automated scaling. Platforms deployed on standard hardware or allow operators to expand capacity without significant hardware overhauls, as demonstrated by implementations supporting thousands of networks globally. This approach reduces operational costs by 20-30% through and supports rapid service rollout for large-scale B2B applications. A prominent example is VoIP add-ons for corporate communications, which extend basic with features like cloud PBX for integrated voice, video, and messaging tailored to enterprise needs. These add-ons often include AI-driven for call transcription and integration with tools, enhancing for distributed teams. Telecom providers like those offering PortaPhone solutions leverage such VAS to deliver customizable B2B communication ecosystems.

Protocols and Standards

Value-added services (VAS) in rely on standardized protocols and specifications to ensure reliable delivery, across networks, and secure transmission of enhanced content such as SMS-based notifications or messaging. These technical frameworks enable seamless integration between service providers, mobile networks, and external applications, facilitating features like content and real-time billing. The (SMPP) protocol serves as a foundational standard for SMS routing in VAS, providing an open interface for exchanging short messages between external short messaging entities (ESMEs) and short message service centers (SMSCs). Defined as an industry-standard telecommunications protocol, SMPP supports high-volume delivery essential for VAS applications like alerts and marketing campaigns, with versions up to SMPP v5.0 enhancing efficiency through binary encoding and session management. In 4G and 5G networks, the Diameter protocol has become the primary signaling mechanism for VAS, evolving from RADIUS to handle authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA) functions in IP-based architectures. Diameter enables advanced VAS features such as policy control and roaming support by routing signaling messages across network elements like the Policy and Charging Rules Function (PCRF), ensuring interoperability in long-term evolution (LTE) and new radio (NR) environments. Standards bodies play a critical role in defining VAS interoperability. The 3rd Generation Partnership Project () outlines specifications like TS 23.142, which details interfaces and signaling flows for value-added services over (VAS4SMS), including requirements for enhancements and network integration. Complementing this, the GSM Association (GSMA) promotes guidelines through initiatives like OneAPI, a standardized framework co-developed with the (OMA) to expose network capabilities for third-party VAS development, ensuring consistent access to services across operators. Security in VAS delivery incorporates encryption standards to protect sensitive content during transmission. Transport Layer Security (TLS), as specified in RFC 8446, is widely adopted for securing HTTP-based VAS content delivery, such as over-the-air updates or streaming services, by providing end-to-end encryption and certificate-based authentication to prevent interception in mobile networks. The evolution of these protocols reflects the shift from circuit-switched to packet-based architectures in VAS support. Signaling System No. 7 (SS7), used in 2G networks for basic call and message routing, gave way to Diameter in 3G/4G for scalable IP signaling, addressing SS7's limitations in data mobility and security. In 5G, this progresses to a service-based architecture (SBA) defined in 3GPP Release 15 and beyond, where HTTP/2 and RESTful APIs replace traditional Diameter interfaces for greater flexibility in VAS orchestration, while maintaining backward compatibility via gateways.

Emerging Technologies

Artificial intelligence (AI) and (ML) are transforming value-added services (VAS) by enabling predictive and advanced customer service applications. In telecom VAS, AI algorithms analyze user data to deliver tailored content recommendations and dynamic service bundles, enhancing engagement and retention. For instance, ML-driven chatbots provide real-time support for billing inquiries or service upgrades, while improving scores. According to standards, AI-native networks facilitate novel VAS through real-time adaptation, allowing operators to create context-aware offerings like personalized streaming playlists or proactive network optimizations. The integration of the (IoT) into VAS ecosystems supports smart home bundles and comprehensive device management solutions. Telecom providers bundle IoT connectivity with VAS to offer remote monitoring for security systems, , and appliance control, creating seamless user experiences across connected devices. This approach has driven significant adoption, with the U.S. mobile VAS market, including smart home services, projected to expand from USD 223.39 billion in 2024 to USD 532.13 billion by 2033, fueled by IoT interoperability. Operators leverage IoT data to enable services, such as alerting users to potential device failures before they occur, thereby increasing service reliability and revenue from premium add-ons. Cloud and underpin scalable VAS delivery by minimizing latency and enhancing performance for data-intensive applications. processes VAS requests closer to the user, achieving latencies below 50 ms, which is critical for real-time services like video streaming or location-based alerts in telecom networks. Combined with , this enables operators to deploy elastic resources for VAS such as or collaborative tools without compromising quality. The -based VAS market, valued at USD 40 billion in , is expected to reach USD 100 billion by 2033, driven by edge integration that supports low-latency processing for IoT-enabled services. Blockchain technology enhances VAS security, particularly for micro-payments and transaction integrity in digital services. In telecom, blockchain enables decentralized ledgers for secure, tamper-proof micropayments in content delivery or VAS, reducing and settlement times from days to seconds. This supports innovative models like token-based access to premium features, with the global in telecom market projected to grow from USD 795.8 million in 2025 to USD 211,942.6 million by 2035 at a CAGR of 74.8%. By ensuring transparent billing, blockchain fosters trust in VAS ecosystems, such as pay-per-use data packages or NFT-linked services. 5G-enabled augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) experiences represent a frontier for immersive VAS, leveraging ultra-low latency and high bandwidth for interactive applications. Telecom operators deliver AR/VR VAS through networks, enabling virtual concerts, remote training simulations, or enhanced gaming without buffering, which boosts user immersion and subscription uptake. For example, supports cloud-rendered VR environments as VAS add-ons, with the mobile VAS market anticipating growth to USD 1,380.09 billion by 2032, partly due to these immersive services. This integration allows for dynamic content adaptation, such as AR overlays for real-world navigation tied to location-based VAS.

Economic and Strategic Impact

Revenue Models

Value-added services (VAS) in the primarily generate revenue through diverse structures that cater to varying consumer behaviors and preferences. Subscription models involve recurring fees for ongoing access to services such as premium content streaming or features, providing operators with predictable income streams. Pay-per-use charges users based on actual consumption, such as per-download fees for ringtones or per-query costs for services, allowing flexibility for occasional users. approaches offer basic VAS at no cost while monetizing advanced features through upgrades, effectively expanding user bases before converting them to paying customers. A key monetization technique involves revenue-sharing agreements between telecom operators and content providers or aggregators, where collected fees from subscribers are divided among value chain participants. These arrangements often feature equitable splits, such as 50/50 distributions, to incentivize partnerships and content development, particularly for and services. further facilitates this by enabling seamless payments through mobile accounts, with operators retaining a portion after shares to third parties like app developers. In 2023, the mobile VAS market was valued at around USD 995 billion. This segment's growth highlights its strategic importance, as operators leverage VAS to offset economic pressures like market saturation. Bundling strategies enhance revenue by packaging VAS with core services in tiered offerings, such as combining plans with or add-ons, which can increase (ARPU). For instance, personalized bundles tailored via AI encourage upgrades to higher tiers, boosting engagement and loyalty while maximizing profitability without proportional costs.

Challenges and Future Outlook

One major challenge for value-added services (VAS) lies in navigating stringent regulatory frameworks, particularly data privacy laws that restrict personalization efforts. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the imposes rigorous requirements on data handling, significantly affecting how telecom operators process information for tailored VAS offerings, such as location-based services or targeted content recommendations. These regulations increase compliance costs and necessitate robust security measures to protect user data, potentially limiting the scope of innovative, data-driven VAS while fostering greater consumer trust through transparency. Market saturation has further compounded these issues, especially with the decline in traditional SMS-based VAS revenues since the . In emerging markets like , SMS constituted around 60% of mobile VAS revenue in the early but was projected to fall to 25% by due to the rise of over-the-top (OTT) messaging apps and data-centric alternatives. This trend has persisted globally, with SMS revenues forecasted to shrink 28% from $66 billion in 2024 to $47 billion in 2029, driven by regulatory pressures, , and the shift toward IP-based communications that erode traditional VAS monetization. Looking ahead, the VAS market is poised for substantial growth. As of 2025, the global mobile value-added services market was estimated at USD 1,089.86 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 3,237.18 billion by 2033, growing at a (CAGR) of 13.2%, fueled by integrations with next-generation technologies. Advancements in networks will enable transformative VAS applications, including ultra-low-latency services for AI-driven and seamless connectivity across billions of devices, expanding the beyond current limitations. Similarly, integrations offer new avenues for immersive VAS, such as AI-powered avatars providing customized virtual experiences that enhance user engagement in digital economies. As of 2025, has driven VAS growth, with operators reporting increased ARPU from enhanced services like and IoT integrations, contributing to overall telecom revenue diversification (per GSMA Intelligence reports). emerges as a key future driver, with eco-friendly VAS gaining traction to address environmental concerns. These services include mobile carbon tracking applications that monitor and reduce users' footprints through on , use, and consumption, promoting broader of green practices. In and sectors, VAS solutions like emission analytics platforms support sustainable operations by optimizing routes and offsetting carbon impacts, aligning with global ESG goals.

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