Japanese wireless giant NTT DoCoMo Inc. released its latest line-up of advanced handsets for its FOMA third-generation network. The carrier’s new 901i series of mobile phones feature advanced video calling, increased memory and support for a variety of features. As usual, DoCoMo did not name the phone suppliers.
DoCoMo said the first phone in the series, the SH901iC, will be available this week and will feature a new surround-sound technology that will improve game play and ringtone quality. The phone also supports miniSD memory cards and sports a 2.2-inch color screen.
The new phone series will feature anti-virus technology from McAfee Inc., which the company said will protect users from potential mobile-phone software viruses.
DoCoMo’s phone releases are often noteworthy as the carrier sits on the leading edge of handset technology.
Also on the FOMA front, DoCoMo released what it describes as a common software platform for its third-generation FOMA devices. The carrier said the software platform-which works on either the Linux or Symbian operating system-will help its handset suppliers more quickly and cheaply develop phones for its 3G network.
The move is notable as it further solidifies DoCoMo’s deep role in developing mobile phones for its network, while also acknowledging the costly and complicated process of mobile-phone development. Most wireless carriers have a list of specifications that mobile-phone suppliers must meet, but few offer a complete software platform for the design of phones. DoCoMo has long taken a more active role in the development of its phones than most carriers.
DoCoMo’s software platform covers phone middleware, customized modules, sample device drivers, sample application software, a handset emulator for computer design and development, as well as documentation and guidelines for applications, drivers and other aspects.
DoCoMo said some of its new 901i series mobile phones will feature the platform, as well as other 3G devices released this year.
