Freedom of Mobile multimedia Access (FOMA), a third-generation mobile
communication service, is the first in the world to practically employ the
IMT-2000 standard. NTT DoCoMo Inc has launched three handsets that are
compatible with its 3G FOMA service.
The handset models launched are: "FOMA N2001", "FOMA
P2101V" and "FOMA P2401". FOMA N2001is a standard-type handset
that realizes high-speed data communications and clear voice communications with
multi-access function. FOMA P2101V is a visual-type handset with camera
functions. Users can enjoy still and moving images on a relatively large-size
color screen. FOMA P2401 is an all-in-one type data-card terminal that realizes
high-speed packet communications with a maximum downlink speed of 384 Kbps. It
also provides for 64 Kbps data communications service that is suitable for
large-volume data transmission.
The features of FOMA terminals include sound quality equal to landline phones
(P2101V, N2001); 64 Kbps digital communications for real-time video (P2101V);
sending or receiving short text messages between FOMA handsets (N2001);
high-speed i-mode connections with a maximum of 384 Kbps downlink connection,
sending or receiving up to 10,000 letters i-mode mail with attached still
pictures (GIF, JPEG), music (MIDI), etc, select incoming e-mail (text, attached
file) by checking title (N2001, P2101V); built-in camera for video and still
photos (P2101V), etc.
Any Takers?
FOMA has been adopted by Takenaka Corporation, Japan’s leading construction
company, as the mobile network in a business solution field trial. The company
selected FOMA as the core tool of its mobile work (using its many advanced
features and technical superiority), to develop useful applications for the
company’s new business solution. During the trial, Takenaka employees, mainly
from Tokyo Headquarters, will use FOMA handsets for video streaming, taking and
transmitting still pictures, and real-time video monitoring.
Finally What?
It is believed that FOMA will propel mobile multimedia with i-mode,
videophone high-speed data communications and simultaneous voice or i-mode as
well as unprecedented voice clarity. Thus, the long awaited, future mobile
lifestyle will soon become a reality through FOMA. FOMA makes NTT DoCoMo’s
popular i-mode service even more practical, useful and fun.