UK operator O2 launched a public beta for a video messaging app which it claimed is the first OTT service offered by a mobile operator that is open to users regardless of the network they use.

In the UK this means subscribers to rival networks EE, Vodafone and 3 can also access O2’s trial service.

The trial will determine whether the operator goes ahead with a more widespread launch.

The service is called Clip It and is available to download for free for iOS and Android devices.

The service enables users to send short video messages of up to 63 seconds to a UK mobile number, email address or Facebook inbox.

O2 said, unlike other video messaging services, Clip It does not require receivers to have downloaded its app or even have a smartphone. They can still view video messages via a mobile-optimised website.

The service was developed by Six3, a start-up that graduated from O2 parent Telefonica’s own Wayra Academy in the UK.

“Research suggests there is a huge demand for video communications but people don’t want to be restricted to app-to-app or a specific device or platform,” said David Plumb, digital director at Telefonica UK.

“With O2 Clip It, we’re trialling a video messaging service with customers first to learn whether there is an appetite to develop the service longer term.”