Mobile virtual network operator O2 Wireless has inked a deal with Best Buy to offer the O2 Wireless Universal SIMCard and O2 Wireless airtime recharge cards in 1,150 Best Buy stores, Best Buy Mobile stores, Best Buy kiosks and online at BestBuy.com.

With this new O2 Wireless service, consumers who are cost-conscious can get rid of their mobile phone contracts and buy as much or as little airtime they want.

"The overall strategy is to open up additional national retailers with O2 Wireless' Universal SIMCard product," said Peter Grubb, vice president of sales at Locus Telecommunications, the parent company of O2, Englewood Cliffs, NJ.

Best Buy is one of the leading retailers nationwide of consumer electronics items.

The Universal SIMCard is targeted to international business travelers and tourists visiting the United States who want to keep in touch with family or business associated back home.

This new O2 Wireless service also allows consumers to recycle their old GSM phones and put them to good use.

As part of the recycling initiative, the O2 Wireless Universal SIMCard is packaged in an eco-friendly, recyclable "Green Box" which reminds consumers to consider the environment.

To use this service, all consumers must do is look for and buy the "Green Box" at their nearest Best Buy Store or at BestBuy.com, activate service on the O2 Wireless nationwide network, insert the new Universal SIMCard into their existing unlocked GSM phone and start making calls.

O2 Wireless is a national mobile virtual network operator offered by Locus Telecommunications, a provider and marketer of prepaid communication products and services which include pre- and post-paid wireless, long distance, point-of-sale and carrier services.

In addition to O2 Wireless, Locus provides communication services that allow end users to connect with family and friends around the globe.

O2 Wireless products can be found at more than 100,000 locations nationwide, including major national retailers, convenience stores and independent retailers.

"The relationship with Best Buy is a very important partnership for O2 Wireless," Mr. Grubb said.

"It provides access to our simple, flexible, carrier-grade service offering to millions of budget-conscious Americans who are looking for any way to save money in this difficult economy and provides a service that addresses the need of wireless consumers at all life-stages and income levels," he said.