NTT DoCoMo just announced that Mobile TeleSystems OJSC (MTS), NTT DoCoMo’s partner in Russia, began offering i-mode services in the Moscow and St. Petersburg areas as of today. Services will eventually be expanded to other business areas of MTS. Russia’s i-mode is being offered via MTS’s GPRS network and represents the twelfth global market for i-mode, following Japan, Germany, the Netherlands, Taiwan, Belgium, France, Spain, Italy, Greece, Australia and Israel (in order of introduction). MTS is Russia’s leading mobile operator both in terms of subscribers and profitability, according to the DoCoMo press release.

The Japanese giant concluded an agreement in December 2004 to provide MTS with know-how, technologies and patents necessary to launch i-mode services and says it “will continue to work with its international partners to introduce i-mode services in other markets worldwide.” Full press text here.

Related posts:

1. Russia’s MTS to License i-mode
2. Wind Launches i-mode in Italy
3. Cellcom to Launch i-mode in Israel
4. DoCoMo and MTS Form Strategic i-mode Partnership
5. MTS Orders NEC i-mode Handsets

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!