What is required to send messages via USSD?

Question

I'm trying to get started with USSD. I'm familiar with other forms of SMS. Ultimately i want to use USSD as part of a real-time payment platform.

Thanks.

Answer 1

I just Googled around and gathered info.

According to Unstructured Supplementary Services Data (USSD):

Unstructured Supplementary Services Data (USSD) allows for the transmission of information via a GSM network. Contrasting with SMS, it offers real time connection during a session. A USSD message can be upto 182 alphanumeric characters in length. Unstructured Supplementary Service Data allows interactive services between a MS and applications hosted by the Mobile Operator. These messages are composed of digits and the #, * keys, and allow users to easily and quickly get information/access services from the Operator.

USSD messages are simple to form and easy to send. User can directly enter the ussd string and press call to send the message. A typical USSD message starts with a * followed by digits which indicate an action to be performed or are parameters. Each group of numbers is separated by a *, and the message is terminated with a #. The USSD gateway in turn can interact with external applications based on the USSD command. This allows access to number of value added services via USSD.

• USSD works on all GSM handsets of Phase II or later.

However, if you are writing Java MIDlet on a Nokia device, it does not work.

Answer 2

Thanks for the very informative response i guess the next step is to aquire a network shortcode and setup a htp service to act as a bridge like you suggested. What forms of applications have you been able to develop using this technology? thanks.

Answer 3

There is plug-in for new Symbian phones (3rd edition FP2)

Answer 4

Application can be develop for the following purposes in USSD.

Querying the train, airliner and ship information Querying the finance and stock information Querying the foreign exchange transaction information Querying the match result Querying the ticket booking information of the cinema Querying the account information of the bank Querying the lottery information Querying the weather information And Menu Services.

Answer 5

How do you upload infromation via ussd for e.g call logs