In an effective snub to top handset maker Nokia, the Financial Times reported that Vodafone was negotiating exclusive deals with Japan’s Sanyo and Samsung of South Korea for its new range of upgraded Vodafone Live! multimedia phones. ‘Vodafone is trialling a number of handsets to support its 3G service, which will be available before March 2004,’ the group stated. ‘Vodafone cannot confirm at this stage which manufacturers will be exclusive providers for Vodafone’s 3G services.’

Sanyo already supplies Vodafone’s Japanese-based business J-Phone with handsets. The consumer electronics group said in Tokyo it was considering entering Europe’s 3G handset market but declined to comment on which carriers it might team up with. Vodafone has been testing a 3G handset from Samsung since March. Continue >>

Related posts:

1. Vodafone Hung Up on Nokia for 3G
2. Vodafone Launches 3G in Europe
3. Sanyo and Nokia to JV for U.S.
4. Vodafone K.K. Announces Nokia WLAN Handsets
5. Sanyo Selling 3G Overseas

Some sage advise when entering new turf; Stop, Look and Listen.. it’s also good to secure a local guide. Japan is the cradle of mobile civilization – we have been dedicated to this space since 2001 – trust our archives here offer some useful material.

Domestic activities continue to set the pace, and sharp players are looking at global markets. We have hard-earned industry expertise and trusted network of contacts with access to advanced intell. and potential deal flow. Need a lift.. Ok, buckle-up!