Blyk, the new mobile network for 16 to 24 year olds today announced the launch of its UK service. Blyk is an invitation-only mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) that links young people with brands they like and gives them free texts and minutes every month.

Since its conception early last year, Blyk has been undertaking extensive research in the UK with user group studies and live user trials. These have helped to make the offering extremely compelling for young people and advertisers alike.

Speaking at the network’s launch in London today, CEO and Co-founder Pekka Ala-Pietilä said: "Our free offer is 217 texts and 43 minutes every month and this could mean no more phone bills for up to 4.5 million young people in the UK - with no contract. We have the brands that want to speak to them too, with more than 40 already signed up for the launch. This group represents almost every industry sector there is."

"It’s going to spread because, at the heart of it, it’s got a creative idea. A mobile phone network that's funded by advertising; that’s something you want to tell people about. Fundamentally it’s the interaction that young people do most on their mobile phone: receiving and responding to a message." says Antti Öhrling.