New Tech & Services
New Tech & Services

New Tech & Services

Usen Plans Free Mobile Video

Usen Corp. plans to begin a free video distribution service for cellular phones on March 27, with the goal of attracting 3 million registered users in the initial year. Videos, each lasting no more than five minutes or so, will be transmitted to users of 3G-handsets that support video and high-speed data communications functions once they register their personal information, including ZIP codes, sex and email addresses. No fees will be charged, but four short commercials will be inserted into each programme.

Samsung 3G Handset in Japan

Vodafone Japan just announced that on 25 March 2006 it will commence nationwide sales of the Vodafone 804SS, a new 3G handset by Samsung Electronics. The V804SS represents Samsung’s first mobile phone for the Japanese market and is touted as the world’s thinnest clamshell 3G handset, measuring just 14.9mm and weighs only 98g. Users can view PDF, Microsoft Word and other file types on the handset, it also supports PC Link and has a full-fledged music player functions with external controls.

KDDI and TV Asahi Announce JV

KDDI and TV Asahi have just announced they will co-op on experimental television program synchronization services targeted for mobile digital broadcasting. TV Asahi has production and the broadcast distribution knowhow and KDDI has a large-scale interactive program with a well developed platform of mobile users. The companies established this new joint-venture to explore next generation applications, contents and services enabled by combining communication and broadcasting techologies.

UFJ and Visa Announce Mobile JV

UFJ Nicos, the core credit card division of UFJ Mitsubishi Financial Group and Visa International have agreed to offer mobile phone IC payment services. Under the deal announced UFJ will give Visa the right to use it’s “Smart Plus” settlement technology. The two companies will set up a new firm to oversee the service according to the report.

E-Paper Enters Practical Use

E-paper is being considered for use in not only a few announced applications, but in a wide range of perhaps less obvious applications. Examples of such applications include various cards, such as smart cards and electronic money, displays for devices like universal serial bus (USB) memory, advertising above windows or on hand straps in trains, rear displays on mobile phones, and mobile viewers. E-paper is also being eyed for possible use in products like home appliances and toys.

Kids' Mobile Device for Willcom?

Reports in the Japanese business press have suggested that publisher Bandai Namco is about to announce the launch of a new mobile gaming device, which would be aimed at the children’s market and launched with mobile network operator Willcom. The new service, Kids Mobile, would be co-launched by Bandai Namco and Willcom, a Japanese mobile operator which was spun out of major operator KDDI in mid-2004, and is now co-owned by Kyocera and the Carlyle Group.