Alcatel-Lucent today announced plans to develop and distribute a prepaid option to operators in the wireless market for use with the BlackBerry platform.

Customized for BlackBerry smartphones, the real-time, volume-based charging solution will be hosted by Alcatel-Lucent and will integrate with operators' existing networks. This option will enable BlackBerry smartphone users to track the minutes and data they have used against the prepaid amount remaining in their account so they can easily refill their account as needed.

"In line with Alcatel-Lucent’s strategy to provide extensive expertise in managed communication services, we are proud to develop and provide customers with prepaid options for BlackBerry smartphones. We hope this solution will enable more operators in high-growth economies to greatly expand their business opportunity", said Michel Rahier, President of Alcatel-Lucent’s Carrier business.