Network operator T-Mobile has launched a new push email service for its consumers in the UK. Instant Email costs just £3.50 a month and offers T-Mobile customers direct access to their email account from their mobile phone.

The result of the service will be to create 'mobile inboxes', with consumers being able to access their personal web-based email accounts - like Google Mail or Hotmail - without the need for computer-access. Through Instant Email, messages are sent straight to the subscribing handset and users are notified when they receive a new email - a process similar to the text message alert system.

Users will also be able to access up to five separate email accounts using the system, so they'll be able to stay in touch with all aspects of their social life. Richard Warmsley, Head of Internet and Entertainment at T-Mobile, said: "Mobile email is nothing new for business customers, but we think everyone should have easy access to their inbox on the phone of their choice.

"All our customers want to be up to date and involved with what's going on, whether they be buying a house or organising a holiday with friends, and receiving and sending emails straight to your phone just makes life a little easier."

Instant Email capitalises on the success of smartphones like the BlackBerry range and the Apple iPhone, which have made mobile email access much more popular with consumers. The T-Mobile service will initially be available on selected Nokia handsets, and the £3.50 monthly charge will cover all email access and associated content.