Apion, the Northern Ireland based provider of mobile Internet infrastructure software, has launched its first wireless application protocol (WAP) services in Finland. This is the first time the technology has been commercially deployed in a mobile network. Finnish mobile operator, Sonera, will be using short messaging service-based technologies to deliver information and mobile e-commerce services to its GSM customers.

Apion's Binnian product was selected by Sonera because it said its WAP gateway offered the best personalisation functionality, as well as superior billing and customer management features.

Speaking at the launch, Apion managing director, Mr Denis Murphy, said: "The launch has sent a strong message to operators worldwide who are considering introducing a mobile Internet dimension to their service offering. Apion have always said that the WAP microbrowser will do for the mobile Internet, what Netscape did for the Internet".