DoCoMo to Introduce P505iS: World’s First Auto-Focus Camera Phone

NTT DoCoMo, Inc. and its eight regional subsidiaries today announced the release of the mova P505iS, the world’s first camera phone equipped with auto focus, on November 12, 2003. The P505iS is the second handset model released in the new 505iS series, a series of five PDC (2G) i-mode-capable mobile phones featuring mega-pixel cameras. The model’s 1.28 mega-pixel CCD camera is equipped with auto-focus for sharp, clear photos.

The new handset has a 65,536-color TFT main LCD that doubles as a viewfinder, just like the viewfinder on a digital camera. The display-half of the body slides open (parallel to the lower body, like a jackknife), because the display is located on the outside of the body. When open, the display can also be rotated 180 degrees to face the same direction as the camera (for self-portraits, etc.).

The phone’s external storage slot accepts mini SD(tm) memory Cards. Still images saved on the card can be projected on to TV screens using devices compatible with the card, and users can watch recorded TV programs on the mini SD memory Card by inserting it into the handset. Moreover, the P505iS is also equipped with an audio record function and can store up to approximately 55 minutes of sound with a 16MB- mini SD memory Card in standard mode.

The P505iS cursor is moved with a “Roll Navi” trackball for easy navigation and quick scrolling. Another convenience is the phone’s help feature, which enables users to type in keywords to obtain instructions on how to use the phone.

The new model will be available through all DoCoMo sales channels and the price of the handset itself will be open (unfixed). The standard accessory kit, including battery pack, AC adaptor, and desktop holder will cost 5,500 yen**.

* Panasonic Mobile Communications Co., Ltd. investigation (as of November 10, 2003).
** Pricing may vary in markets of the eight regional subsidiaries. The price shown is applied to the Kanto-Koushinetsu Area.

Main Specifications of P505iSSize, when folded (H x W x T) 110 x 50 x 25 mm Weight Approx. 123 grams Continuous Stand-by Time Approx. 500 hours Continuous Talk Time Approx. 145 minutes Main LCD Approx. 2.4 inches (240 x 320 dots), 65,536 colors, TFT Sub LCD Approx. 0.9 inches (96 x 25 dots), monochrome, STN Data transmission speed Receiving: Max. 28.8 Kbps / Sending: Max. 9.6 Kbps Color Titanium silver, Velvety red or Velvety blue