WebProNews

America Online has launched a service that will let cellphone users search the Web, and retrieve regular pages reformatted for the small screen.

Another big name in Internet services wants to extend its brand beyond the computer. AOL, which has been transforming itself from a rigidly enclosed subscription-based service to an advertiser-supported portal company, announced a test of AOL Mobile Search Services.

The test site can be accessed from Internet-capable mobile phones at mobile.aolsearch.com. According to Reuters, AOL has licensed technology from Israeli firm InfoGin Ltd that will reformat pages found through the search. That reformatting will enable regular web pages to fit on phones.

AOL has had a number of services available for mobile devices, such as AIM, YellowPages, and MapQuest. The company also sells ringtones and wallpapers.

Analysts' opinions in the Reuters article claim wireless operators have become frustrated by mobile phone users in the US. Other than making calls and sending text messages, users tend not to use their phones.

But carriers tend to price Internet services as add-ons to a cellular account. And basic plans for cellphone service tend to start in the $35 - $40 range. The extra cost of an Internet plan coupled with reading information on small screens doesn't add up to broad appeal.

David Utter is a staff writer for WebProNews covering technology and business. Email him here.