As mentioned in previous stories and our recent video report, Sony and DoCoMo have been busy setting up FeliCa Networks Inc. to develop the companies’ mobile FeliCa IC that will, we think, lead to the massive expansion of the mobile phone as a do-all contactless payment device. Sony announced today that it has firmed up the FeliCa Networks company organization with Takeshi Natsuno (“Mr. i-mode”) as one of the directors.

Sony said today that as previously announced, it has hived off a bunch of staff into creating FeliCa Networks on Jan. 7 and Sony and DoCoMo issued new shares to create FeliCa Networks as a JV company, effective Jan. 21 with a mandate to develop the device and OS technologies and drive the business platform. Please note that we have an upcoming exclusive program with Shusaku Maruko, Senior Manager of Sony’s FeliCa Business Center, currently scheduled for the end of Feb.

Related posts:

1. Sony and NTT DoCoMo Form Joint Venture Co. for FeliCa Business
2. DoCoMo Starts FeliCa i–mode Trial Service
3. FeliCa: Trashing the Leather Wallet
4. Mobile FeliCa Trial Launch: Video Report
5. NTT Boosts Challenge to DoCoMo FeliCa

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!